visit south stradbroke island

A complete guide to South Stradbroke Island

South Stradbroke Island is located a stone’s throw away from the Gold Coast. This narrow, long island is a peaceful break away from civilization with pristine beaches, natural vegetation and lots of wildlife. Although technically you can visit the island on a day trip, I strongly urge you to stay longer if you can. I spent two nights on the island, but my sister has travelled to the island on numerous occasions during the past decade. My tips and recommendations are based on my own experience, but also her insight. Here we go, everything you need to know about visiting South Stradbroke Island.

Accommodation on the island

When it comes to staying on South Stradbroke Island, there are three counsel campsites and one resort. The campsites are Tipplers, North Currigee and South Currigee. There’s one resort on the island called Couran Cove Island Resort. As the majority of the resort units are privately owned, you can book your accommodation through the following websites:

www.stayz.com.au (the best site according to my sister)

www.airbnb.com.au

www.courancove.com.au (the official website of the resort or other accommodation websites like booking.com)

The suggestions below are based on my stay at Couran Cove Island Resort, located on the western side, more or less in the middle of the island. Daytime visitors also have access to these facilities.

Things to do on South Stradbroke Island

The majority of activities on the island are in or around Couran Cove. The resort offers paid activities too like renting jet skis or segway tours, but below I’ll focus on the free (or almost free) things to do on the island.

Go to the beach

The best feature of South Stradbroke, for me, is the unspoiled beaches on the eastern side of the island. Kilometres and kilometres of white sandy dunes and beautiful blue water. If you do decide to go for a swim, just be mindful of the currents. The waves are great for surfing too.

Kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding

You can get a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for free and explore the waters of the shallow lake surrounding spa island. No doubt you’ll see a couple of fishes and perhaps a stingray.

Chill poolside

There are two swimming pools on spa island, a shallow children’s pool, and a lap swimming pool. The lap swimming pool has a couple of floaties and offers games, like water polo, to keep the young ones occupied.

With the exception of resort vehicles, South Stradbroke is car-free. The best way to get around the island is via bicycle. Now, you don’t need a bike, but I highly recommend it. A bike just makes getting around the island so much easier. For example, the beach is just over two kilometres from the resort which is definitely a walkable distance, but the trip is just so much faster and convenient on a bicycle.

Bushwalking

South Stradbroke Island is home to numerous hiking trails. The closest one to the resort is a forest walk among trees and swampy water. The walk isn’t particularly scenic and as you can imagine, the trail is full of mosquitos. But the tall trees are impressive!

Fishing is permitted in certain areas on the island. It’s best to bring your own bait along or gather pipis to use as bait during low tide.

Check out the local fauna

You can expect to see a lot of wildlife during your visit to South Stradbroke Island. It’s home to a number of bird, mammal, frog and reptile species. I loved the wallabies. They were everywhere, even on the beaches.

Watch the sunset at Sunset Beach

For the best sunset view, grab a drink and head on over to Sunset Beach. It’s located on the western part of the island. As the sun is setting, it bathes everything in orange and golden colours. You can head to the eastern part of the island too, but instead of the sunset, you’ll see beautiful soft blue and pink hues in the sky.

Dining on the island

Your options for dining on the island is confined to the eateries at Couran Cove, so I highly recommend that you bring your own food along and make the most of the self-catering facilities. If you’d rather eat out, you have three options.

Marlin Bar & Bistro

Located right next to the resort reception, Marlin Bar & Bistro is your fine-dining option on the island. It’s very pricey with mains starting at $40 (AUD). Also, it’s the only bar on the island that serves cocktails. I can’t speak to the quality of the food because I didn’t eat here.

Café Couran

Need a caffeine kick? Then Café Couran is your best option. Apart from drinks, the café also serves light meals and snacks.

Poolside Café

In my opinion, it’s the best affordable dining option on the island. The café serves mostly burgers and chips, a couple of salads and kids meals. The burgers were tasty and the chips were well seasoned and crispy. Burgers and chips go for around $20.

How to reach the island

When it comes to transport to South Stradbroke Island, you have a couple of options. If you have your own boat, just head on over. Those without access to a boat have two options: ferry or water taxi.

The ferry departs from Hope Harbour and a return ticket for an adult is $38. Note that you’ll be charged extra for surfboards and eskies (coolers), and bicycles are not allowed on the ferry. You have to book your tickets here in advance as space on the ferry is limited and it fills up quickly.

If you’re travelling with four or more people, I’ll strongly advise you to book a water taxi instead of taking the ferry. We used Steve’s Gold Coast Water Taxis & Tours , and I highly recommend this family-run business. A one-way trip from Marina Bay to South Stradbroke Island costs $80 and the boat can accommodate 12 people without luggage or 8 people with luggage. The ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

Insider tips for visiting South Stradbroke Island

• The best way to get around the island is via bicycle. Most of the privately owned apartments will have bikes, or else you can hire them from the bike shop.
• The island has a lot of mosquitos, so remember to bring mosquito repellent. You’ll definitely need it.
• Sunscreen is also a must. Obviously.
• Bring your own alcohol along too, because drinks on the island are expensive.
• Although the resort has a general store, the prices are, as expected, inflated and the variety is limited. It’s good for buying snacks, but not much else.
• Cell phone service on the island is very spotty. The strongest signal is at the reception desk. But the spotty cellphone service is also what makes the island great because you can take a break from technology
• The free WiFi at the pool and resort reception is decent.
• Because most of the apartments are privately owned, the resort never feels crowded, which is lovely.
• Staying on the island for 2 to 3 nights is perfect. Anything longer than that and you might run out of things to do, especially if you have teenagers with you.

My overall impression

The resort has so much potential, but unfortunately, a lot of the facilities have been neglected. Don’t get me wrong, I love South Stradbroke Island, but the resort itself needs some serious TLC! For example, the tennis, basketball and volleyball courts are all dilapidated. The sports complex used to have table tennis facilities, but it no longer does. Also, the forest walking trail has an impressive lookout tower, but at the time of my visit, the tower couldn’t be climbed.

It’s the little things that can make a huge difference. The general store didn’t sell bait. More dining options would be great, or just more variety.

I wouldn’t describe the resort as luxurious though, and if that is what you’re looking for, perhaps this isn’t the place for you. But if you’re looking for a quiet, comfortable retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast (and a break from technology) with lovely beaches, this is the place for you. South Stradbroke Island is beautiful and definitely worth a visit.

I’m a travel fanatic, nature lover, geek, metalhead, and writer. My promise to you: transparency, depth, and passion. Keep it real and stay weird everybody!

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A Quick Guide to South Stradbroke Island

You may have read our previous post on North Stradbroke Island . Well, we recently had a chance to visit its little sister, South Stradbroke Island. Like North Stradbroke, South Stradbroke Island is a sand island, located to the south of North Stradbroke in the Moreton Bay.

South Stradbroke Island or “South Straddie” is (like many of the Moreton Bay Islands) a great place for Brisbanites or holiday makers on the Gold Coast to spend a day or a weekend. South Stradbroke Island is a fair bit smaller than North Stradbroke, but it doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. Like North Stradbroke, it’s home to spectacular beaches, lots of wildlife and it’s a great spot to relax and unwind.

South Stradbroke Island is only 21 kilometres long and 2.5 kilometres at its widest point. It’s not a huge island but there’s no shortage of things to do there. Here is everything you need to know for a great trip to South Straddie.

How to get to South Stradbroke Island?

South Stradbroke Island is just offshore from Sanctuary Cove on the Gold Coast. Getting to South Stradbroke Island is by water transfer only because, although it is very close to the mainland, there is no bridge to access it. The short but very enjoyable ride (the views are awesome) can be done by water taxi, ferry, or private boat.

Couran Cove Ferry

Couran Cove (the only resort on the island) runs a daily ferry a few times a day. The ferry is usable by both guests and non-guests and drops passengers at the resort. The departure terminal on the mainland is located at Mariner’s Cove (60-70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach) on the Gold Coast. If coming from Brisbane that’s about an hour’s drive or less depending on the traffic. The boat journey is short but sweet as you relax cruising along the Broadwater. You can book your ferry online through the resort’s webpage. The cost is $19 per adult one way.

If the times of the ferry don’t suit or if there are a few of you, a water taxi is also an option. The Gold Coast has many water taxi operators who regularly bring guests to the island.

Some that were recommended by the resort were:

Cove Water Taxi – 0419 724 630

Steve Water Taxi – 0404 905 970

By Private Boat

Well, if you are lucky enough to own a boat or know someone that does, you can get to the island by private boat. You can even book a berth at the Couran Cove Resort if you’d like to stay for the night.

How to get around the island?

There are no public vehicle barge to take your car to the island so the best way to get around is on foot, bike or boat. You can hire a bike from the Couran Cove Resort and check out as much as you can on the bike trails that take you through the interior. If however, you are very keen to bring your 4WD onto the island, you will have to hire a private vehicle barge. There are a few in the area but it is obviously not a cheap affair.

What to do on South Stradbroke Island

Take a long walk on the beach!

The ocean beaches of South Straddie are stunning but sadly they are not the best swimming spots as they can be rough, and it is not patrolled. Sharks have also been known to hang around sometimes. However, there is no better place to take a long walk. You can walk for ages on the long sandy beaches and listen to the sounds of the crashing waves.

Explore the island’s interior

Once you’re done with the beach, there are also many walking trails on the island to tackle, ranging from 20 minutes to 90 minutes in length. The rainforest boardwalk at the back of the resort is a short but very enjoyable walk.

Look out for wildlife

Wherever you are on the island, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. The island has a myriad of birdlife as well as many wallabies, kangaroos, koalas and more. We spotted kangaroos on the beach!

Water sports time!

If you are a water sports fan, then South Stradbroke Island is your kind of island! Take your pick of kitesurfing, sea kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, parasailing, or snorkelling.

Go for a swim

As mentioned above, the ocean side is not best for swimming, but the water is calm on the inner side facing the mainland. So, hop in and enjoy it!

Go on a 4WD tour

The Couran Cove Resort runs 4WD tours. They cost $150 per trip and last an hour and a half. During your trip you will either explore the surf beaches at the southern tip near the Gold Coast Seaway or enjoy a leisurely drive up to Jumpinpin Bar, where the North and South Stradbroke islands meet.

Watch the sunset

Watching the sunset is one of our favourite holiday activities. On South Straddie, we headed to the sunset bar at the Couran Cove resort and enjoyed a drink, sitting back on the long chairs. Nearby, a kangaroo was grazing – a perfect way to end the day!

Relax with a view!

Wherever you look on South Straddie, you have the best views. So, pick a spot and enjoy some peace and quiet for a little or a long while.

Where to stay in South Stradbroke Island?

There aren’t a lot of options on the island. Camping or the only resort, the Couran Cove resort.

I’m sure Couran Cove was amazing in its prime. Sadly, it is in massive need of renovation. The grounds are looking so tired, the rooms also. However, if you get a room with a view on the marina like we did, you will more than likely want to spend a lot of time there still. That view is amazing. Wildlife even comes to your doorstep!

It is the only resort on the island, so if you don’t want to camp, you don’t have any other choice. Bear in mind that the restaurants are nothing to rave about, are quite pricey and they charge you to bring your own esky if you decide to cook in your accommodation.

To check the current Couran Cove prices click here .

If you decide to camp, there are a few campgrounds on the island. Tipplers Campground is walking distance to the resort and has a cafe on site. There are also the North Currigee and South Currigee campgrounds to the south of the resort. You need to book your site before arrival. You can book it here .

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Northern Gold Coast

Australia’s theme park capital and home to an awe-inspiring stretch of beach, Gold Coast’s northern region is an absolute must.

Central Gold Coast

Home to cute cafes, craft breweries, modern shopping centres and marketplaces, plus some of the best live music venues on the Coast.

Escape the seaside and head to our lush hinterland. Unearth a piece of the city that’s as magical as the sandy coastline that made it famous.

Southern Gold Coast

With a world famous point break, sprawling beaches, the Southern Gold Coast’s laidback vibes is renowned for its casual coastal culture.

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South Stradbroke Island

South Stradbroke Island South Stradbroke Island, Queensland 4184

Step aside Gilligan. Should you ever find yourself stranded on South Stradbroke Island or 'South Straddie' as the locals like to call her, then you can count your lucky stars. For you are visiting a Gold Coast destination as pretty as Ginger and as down-to-earth as Mary Ann. Not that you are too far away from civilisation on this sand island near Southport which is only 200 metres from the northern end of the Spit. This makes it a great day trip for those who travel by private boat, charter boat, ferry or water taxi from several departure points along the Gold Coast. There is a cafe as well as three council campsites on the island for those who wish to extend their stay. And who wouldn't? South Straddie offers superb surfing, swimming and bushwalking. There's loads of native wildlife among this 1,800-hectare conservation park which is ideal for hiking, rock climbing and ocean fishing. Becoming stranded never looked so good.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Destination Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.    We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland. 

THE 5 BEST South Stradbroke Island Tours & Excursions

Tours in south stradbroke island.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 1.5 hr Jet Ski Safari tour to South Stradbroke Island!

2. Ultimate 10 Hour Jetski Adventure from Gold Coast to Tangalooma

3. Surfers Paradise to South Stradbroke Island 4 Hour Private Cruise

4. Early Bird Jet Boat Adventure Ride

5. Private Sailing Charter for two adults on Gold Coast Broadwater

6. Surfers Paradise to Wavebreak Island Pelican Cruise + Picnic

7. 1.5hr Jetski Tour with island stopover - SELF DRIVE - NO LICENCE NEEDED

8. Jet Ski Safaris - 30 Minute Jet Ski Hire

9. Sunset On The Broadwater Cruise with Spirit Of Gold Coast

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard) frm Brisbane or Gold Coast

2.5hr Gold Coast Kayaking & snorkelling tour

Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast Jet Boat Ride: 55 Minutes

Natural Bridge & Springbrook Waterfalls Tour

Gold Coast 1.5-Hour Sightseeing River Cruise from Surfers Paradise

Gold Coast Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise

Evening Rainforest & Glow Worm Experience - Small Group Tour

Learn to Surf at Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast

Buffet Lunch Sightseeing Cruise

Gold Coast Parasailing - Tandem, Triple

Sunset Sailing Cruise includes snacks & drinks

Aquaduck Gold Coast 1 hour City and River Tour

Wave Break Island Scuba Diving on the Gold Coast

2 Hours Dolphin Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour on the Broadwater

Gold Coast Quack'rDuck Amphibious Tour from Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise Sunset Cruise

Full-day Springbrook National Park Tour from the Gold Coast

Infinity Attraction - Admission

Lamington National Park, O'Reilly's & Vineyard Tour

Croc Express to Australia Zoo from Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise Sunset Kayak Tour

What travellers are saying.

• 1.5 hr Jet Ski Safari tour to South Stradbroke Island!
• Ultimate 10 Hour Jetski Adventure from Gold Coast to Tangalooma
• Early Bird Jet Boat Adventure Ride
• Surfers Paradise to South Stradbroke Island 4 Hour Private Cruise
• Private Sailing Charter on Gold Coast Broadwater

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South stradbroke island.

Visit South Stradbroke Island

Where to stay in south stradbroke island.

Main Beach is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Marina Mirage Shopping Centre and Doug Jennings Park.

Runaway Bay

Visitors to Runaway Bay enjoy its shopping, and if you want to do some exploring, Pine Ridge Conservation Park is worth a stop.

Biggera Waters

Beaches, shopping, and spas highlight some of the notable features of Biggera Waters. Make a stop by Harbour Town while you're exploring.

Paradise Point

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Paradise Point and surrounding area, you can visit Sanctuary Cove Marina and Harbour Town.

Theme parks and waterfront are just a few things travelers like about Hollywell. A stop by Pine Ridge Conservation Park is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.

• South Stradbroke Island Hotel Deals
• Vacation Rentals in South Stradbroke Island

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Check South Stradbroke Island hotel availability

Popular places to visit.

• Warner Bros. Movie World

Watch stunt shows, get on superhero rides, enter the Ice Age 4D Experience and take a splash in the Wild West at Australia’s theme park version of Hollywood.

• Cavill Avenue

Bustling nightlife, great shopping and a legendary surfing beach make this avenue the exciting centre of Surfer’s Paradise on the Gold Coast.

Australia’s biggest amusement park features exciting themed areas with everything from tigers and thrilling rides to vintage V8 super cars and TV characters.

Who doesn’t dream of staying overnight in a water park where you can see Jet Ski stunts, life-sized Nickelodeon stars, plus dolphins, sea lions and polar bears?

• Surfers Paradise Beach

This stretch of beach is known for its regular sets of rolling waves, with high-rise hotels and bustling nightlife along the sandy shore.

• Wet'n'Wild Gold Coast

Get an adrenaline kick gliding through caves and tunnels or plunging down a giant water slide, or simply float and splash in a relaxing pool.

Things to do

1.5 hr jet ski safari tour to south stradbroke island, gold coast: natural bridge glow worm night tour, surfers paradise: guided gold coast amphibious bus tour.

• Cities near South Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island

• Places of interest
• The Star Gold Coast
• Pacific Fair Shopping Centre
• Kirra Beach
• Robina Town Centre
• Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
• Springbrook National Park
• Broadwater Parklands
• Coolangatta Beach
• SkyPoint Observation Deck
• Burleigh Beach
• Harbour Town
• Currumbin Beach
• Snapper Rocks
• Sirromet Wines
• Greenmount Beach
• Royal Pines Resort Golf Course
• Nobby Beach
• Marina Mirage Shopping Centre
• Twin Towns Services Club
• Thunderbird Park
• Bond University

• How to book?
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Gold Coast-South Stradbroke

From: € 19.00

Let's Go!

The ferry to South Stradbroke Island sails to the Couran Cove resort and is also operated by this resort. Departure is from Gold Coast. A possible alternative to this ferry is a local water taxi.

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Ferry to  South Stradbroke and Gold Coast

The ferry to South Stradbroke is run by the resort on the island, Couran Cove. Both hotel guests and people who are not staying at the hotel can use this ferry. The boat journey is a short relaxing ferry cruise along the Broadwater.

• The ferry departure terminal is located at Mariner’s Cove, 60-70 Seaworld Drive Main Beach on the Gold Coast.
• The ferry costs A$29 per adult – Ages 3-12 cost A$14.50
• No Bikes & Scooters are permitted
• Guests are permitted to bring 1 suitcase or bag max 20kg per person
• Daytrippers are permitted to bring 1 small backpack, per person

Wondering where this crossing is? Check it out on our handy ferry map.

To ensure availability it is wise to buy your ferry tickets long before the departure date. Some crossings are very popular and prices rise when the boats fill up.

• Tickets can be purchased in advance on the Couran Cove website.

Availability & Tickets

Which ferry companies sail on this crossing?

How long does the gold coast - south stradbroke crossing take, how often does the gold coast - south stradbroke ferry sail, what is the distance between gold coast and couran cove.

Ferry to Stradbroke

Get to stradbroke island by ferry.

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Alternative crossings

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Alternative routes.

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Stradbroke Island

🗓 Best Time To Visit: April to November, with whale watching season between June and October.

⏰ Open Hours: Open 24 hours, year-round.

🎒 Things To Do: Whale watching, hiking, surfing, wildlife spotting, swimming, fishing, exploring historical sites.

💰 Budget: Ferry costs around $80 for a return trip, accommodation and activities vary.

🧳 Traveller Types: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, families, photographers, bird watchers.

🏞 Known For: Stunning beaches, diverse wildlife (including kangaroos and koalas), North Gorge Walk, Brown Lake, and Point Lookout.

🚉 Distances: Approximately 2 hours drive from Brisbane Airport, 1 hour drive from Gold Coast, and 30 minutes ferry ride from Cleveland.

🏖 Unique Aspects: Home to significant indigenous history and two of Queensland's most popular surf breaks.

🐳 Wildlife: Dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and humpback whales can be spotted in the surrounding waters.

📌 Accessibility: Accessible by ferry, with bus services and taxis available on the island.

🚫 Restrictions: Pets are not allowed in national parks and some beaches. Always check local regulations.

Imagine an island where you can swim with dolphins, walk with kangaroos, and watch whales from the shore. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it's not. It's Stradbroke Island , one of Australia's most beautiful and diverse islands.

Stradbroke Island, or Minjerribah as it is known by its traditional owners, the Quandamooka people, is located just off the coast of Brisbane, Queensland. It's the second-largest sand island in the world, and it's home to stunning natural features, rich Aboriginal culture, and a range of activities and attractions for all ages and interests.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway, a thrilling adventure, or a cultural immersion, Stradbroke Island has something for you. In this guide, we'll show you everything you need to know about this paradise island, including the best things to do, places to stay, how to get there, and more.

So, what are you waiting for? Let's explore Stradbroke Island!

Things to Do on Stradbroke Island

Stradbroke Island is a playground for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. There's so much to see and do on the island, you'll never get bored. Here are some of the top things to do on Stradbroke Island:

Snorkel or Dive at the Shipwrecks

One of the most popular and exciting activities on Stradbroke Island is snorkeling or diving at the shipwrecks. The island has several shipwrecks that have become artificial reefs, teeming with marine life. You can see colourful corals, fish, turtles, rays, and even sharks. The most famous shipwreck is the Tangalooma, which sank in 1937 and is now a protected marine park. You can snorkel or dive at the shipwrecks with a guided tour or on your own, depending on your experience and preference.

Surf at the Best Spots

Stradbroke Island is a surfer's paradise, with some of the best waves in Australia. The island has several surf spots, suitable for beginners to experts. Some of the most popular spots are Cylinder Beach, Main Beach, and Point Lookout. You can bring your own board or rent one from the local surf shops. You can also take surfing lessons from the friendly and experienced instructors. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a newbie, you'll have a blast riding the waves on Stradbroke Island.

Hike to the Blue Lake

If you love hiking, you'll love Stradbroke Island. The island has many trails that lead you to scenic views, wildlife, and historical sites. One of the most rewarding hikes is the Blue Lake walk, which takes you to a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by native bushland. The lake is also known as Karboora , which means "deep silent pool" in the Quandamooka language. The lake is sacred to the Aboriginal people, and it's a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Watch Whales from the Shore

Stradbroke Island is one of the best places in Australia to watch whales from the shore. Every year, between June and November, thousands of humpback whales migrate past the island, putting on a spectacular show. You can see them breaching, splashing, and blowing from various vantage points on the island, such as Point Lookout, North Gorge, and Flinders Beach. You can also join a whale watching cruise or a kayak tour for a closer encounter with these majestic creatures.

Learn from the Quandamooka People

Stradbroke Island is not only a natural wonder, but also a cultural treasure. The island has been inhabited by the Quandamooka people for thousands of years, and they have a rich and vibrant culture and heritage. You can learn from the Quandamooka people by joining a cultural tour, visiting a museum or art gallery, or attending a festival or event. You can also experience their traditional food, music, dance, and stories. By learning from the Quandamooka people, you'll gain a deeper appreciation and respect for the island and its people.

Places to Stay on Stradbroke Island

Stradbroke Island has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you're looking for a cozy camping spot, a comfortable hotel, a luxurious resort, or a spacious holiday home, you'll find it on the island. Here are some of the best places to stay on Stradbroke Island:

If you want to experience the island's natural beauty and simplicity, camping is a great option. Stradbroke Island has several camping grounds, some of which are right on the beach. You can choose from powered or unpowered sites, cabins, or glamping tents. Some of the most popular camping grounds are Adder Rock, Amity Point, and Cylinder Beach. You can book your camping spot online or at the island's visitor information centre.

If you prefer more comfort and convenience, hotels are a good option. Stradbroke Island has a few hotels that offer clean and cozy rooms, friendly service, and amenities such as pools, restaurants, and bars. Some of the best hotels are Allure Stradbroke Resort, Pandanus Palms Resort, and Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel. You can book your hotel online or through a travel agent.

If you want to treat yourself to some luxury and pampering, resorts are a perfect option. Stradbroke Island has a couple of resorts that offer elegant and spacious rooms, stunning views, and facilities such as spas, gyms, and golf courses. Some of the best resorts are Couran Cove Island Resort, Minjerribah Camping Resort, and Samarinda Jewel by the Sea. You can book your resort online or through a travel agent.

Holiday Homes

If you want to feel at home on the island, holiday homes are an ideal option. Stradbroke Island has many holiday homes that you can rent for a short or long term. You can choose from different sizes, styles, and locations, depending on your needs and preferences. Some of the best holiday homes are Dolphin Holiday Accommodation, Ray White North Stradbroke Island, and Straddie Sales and Rentals. You can book your holiday home online or through a local agent.

How to Get to Stradbroke Island

Stradbroke Island is easy and convenient to get to from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. There are several transport options to choose from, depending on your budget and preference. Here are some of the best ways to get to Stradbroke Island:

The most common and affordable way to get to Stradbroke Island is by ferry. There are two ferry operators that service the island: Stradbroke Ferries and Gold Cats Stradbroke Flyer. Both offer passenger and vehicle ferries, as well as water taxis. The ferries depart from Cleveland, which is about 40 minutes drive from Brisbane. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes to Dunwich, which is the main town on the island. You can book your ferry ticket online or at the terminal.

Another way to get to Stradbroke Island is by bus. There are several bus companies that offer direct or connecting services to the island, such as Greyhound, TransLink, and Stradbroke Island Buses. The buses depart from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and stop at Cleveland, where you can catch a ferry to the island. The bus ride takes about an hour to Cleveland, depending on the traffic and the route. You can book your bus ticket online or at the station.

If you have your own car, you can also drive to Stradbroke Island. You can take the Pacific Motorway (M1) from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, and follow the signs to Cleveland. There, you can park your car and catch a ferry to the island, or take your car on the ferry if you want to explore the island by road. The drive takes about an hour to Cleveland, depending on the traffic and the road conditions. You can book your car ferry ticket online or at the terminal.

Stradbroke Island is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. It's one of Australia's most beautiful and diverse islands, and it's waiting for you to discover it. Whether you want to relax, explore, or learn, Stradbroke Island has something for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your Stradbroke Island adventure today and experience the magic of this island. You won't regret it!

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North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Guide to North Stradbroke Island

Aboriginal name:  Minjerribah (pronounced Min-jeri-bah)

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• Getting to North Stradbroke Island
• When to visit

Head to North Stradbroke Island, the world’s second-largest sand island, to relax and enjoy the laid-back local lifestyle.

North Stradbroke Island ('Straddie' to locals) has a retro, laid-back vibe. Hit the beach, delve into the island’s fascinating history and hike to whale-watching lookouts. And with kangaroos hopping around the island, this is a true Aussie adventure.

The Quandamooka people are the Traditional Owners of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah. They identify themselves as people of the sand and the water and together, make up a collection of three clans from Moreton Island/Mulgumpin and Minjerribah. Discover the Quandamooka people’s rich culture with these Aboriginal experiences .

• Traditional name: Minjerribah (pronounced Min-jeri-bah)
• Indigenous Peoples: The Quandamooka people
• Traditional languages: There are three traditional languages on Minjerribah. Quandamooka, Durubalic and Janda language.
• How to say g’day: Maroomba biggee (pronounced: Mah-room-bah big-ee)

North Stradbroke Island is just a short  ferry  or  water taxi  from Toondah Harbour, which is a 30km (19mi) drive from Brisbane.

• Brisbane Airport (BNE) is serviced by international and domestic flights
• Car hire is available at the airport

Once you are on the island, getting around is easy with reliable private transport, bike hire, taxi service and car hire options available. We suggest planning and booking ahead of your arrival.

The months between May and November are the most idyllic times to visit North Stradbroke Island. During this time the sun is shining and the activities on offer are in full swing. You will also spot whales migrating north to breed.

• High season: Summer (December to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: Island Vibe Festival (October)

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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• South Stradbroke Island Conservation Park

South Stradbroke Island Conservation Park Gold Coast

Fragile foredunes hem miles of secluded beaches. Photo credit: Cheryn Kelly © Queensland Government

About South Stradbroke Island Conservation Park

Humpback whale breaching.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

White-bellied sea eagles are stunning from any vantage point.

Park features

South Stradbroke Island Conservation Park features 22km of pristine white surf beach on the eastern side of the island. The calm waterways of The Broadwater on the western side are perfect for paddling and other water sports.

The island is the most southern sand island in Moreton Bay and its tip is the southern boundary of Moreton Bay Marine Park . Together with North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Island, it forms the eastern boundary of Moreton Bay.

The island’s vegetation consists mainly of coastal dunes, remnant livistona (cabbage palm) rainforest, melaleuca wetlands, and coastal forests and woodlands. The intertidal areas boast an array of mangroves, salt marshes and mudflats.

The striking golden swamp wallaby, endemic to North and South Stradbroke islands, and the agile wallaby, once common to the region, are often seen on the island.

The park offers spectacular views of the Gold Coast and vantage points to catch glimpses of humpback whales on their annual migration between July and October.

Looking after the park

Minimise your impact. Terrestrial, and marine, plants and animals depend on us to keep land, ocean and estuarine areas clean.

• Everything in the park is protected; leave everything as you found it.
• Leave pets at home; domestic animals are not permitted in the conservation park.
• Take rubbish home; bins are not provided in the park to avoid scavenging by wildlife.
• Toilets are not provided in the park; bury human waste and toilet paper at least 15cm deep and 100m from any water bodies to guard against pollution and the spread of disease.
• Avoid the spread of weeds; regularly check footwear and clothing for seeds and remove all seeds, wrap them and place in your rubbish container to bin later.
• The use of firearms is not permitted in conservation parks.
• Fires are not permitted in the park. Pack a fuel stove for cooking.

See the guidelines on caring for parks for more information about protecting our environment and heritage in parks.

Park management

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) manages South Stradbroke Island Conservation Park to conserve its natural and cultural resources. Gazetted in 1993, the conservation park covers 1,444ha of the island and is protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 .

Tourism information links

Gold Coast Tourist Parks (Gold Coast City Council) www.goldcoasttouristparks.com.au

Surfers Paradise Visitor Information Centre www.visitgoldcoast.com 2 Cavil Ave (Cavill Mall) Surfers Paradise Qld 4217 Phone: 1300 309 440 Email: [email protected]

Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre www.visitredlandscoast.com.au Redlands IndigiScapes Centre 17 Runnymede Road Capalaba Qld 4157 Phone: 1300 667 386 Email: [email protected]

For tourism information for all regions in Queensland see  Queensland Holidays

20 Tips for Visiting North Stradbroke Island, Australia

North Stradbroke Island is a beautiful sandy island located just an hour and a half east of Brisbane, Australia. It’s a perfect a weekend getaway from Brisbane, and can even be visited as a day-trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast. North Stradbroke Island is known for its incredible natural landscapes including cliffs, beaches, and forests, and of course for its Aussie wildlife. 

The island’s small size and remoteness means it’s best to keep a few of these tips for visiting North Stradbroke Island in mind when you plan your next visit. The island is often referred to by its aboriginal name of Minjerribah, or also “Straddie” by the locals. Because you’ll hear all three when conversing with locals in Australia, I’ll use them interchangeably throughout this post of 20 tips for visiting Straddie.

Here are my tips for visiting North Stradbroke Island in Queensland!

1. Wake up for every sunrise

Since North Stradbroke island is located off the east coast of Queensland, it boasts incredible sunset views each day. Whether you’re spending two nights on Straddie or ten, it is nearly a necessity to get up for the sunrise!

Not only is the natural beauty of the island during this Golden Hour impeccable, but it’s also the perfect time to spot wildlife on North Stradbroke Island.

My favorite sunrise spots are at Point Lookout across from the Blue Room Cafe (below), and looking over South Gorge Beach (above)

2. Drive a car to Straddie instead of relying on busses

Two main methods of transportation are available on North Stradbroke Island: bus and personal vehicle. 

Although a public bus can take passengers around Straddie, relying on the bus system means its basically impossible to reach the far edges of the island. it also means you’ll be glued to the infrequent bus schedule during your two-day itinerary to Straddie. 

I highly recommend paying the extra ferry fees in order to get to Straddie from Brisbane by car. In order to fully experience my two-day Stradbroke Island itinerary (coming soon), you’ll need a car as well. 

3. If riding busses, bring exact change and be mindful of the limited schedule

The public busses on Straddie are few and far in between, so if your North Stradbroke Island itinerary is going to rely on busses to get around, be mindful of the limited schedule. 

The busses also only take cash, my tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island is to bring exact change – $5 per person, per ride, or $10 for a day-pass. This will help the bus driver out immensely!

Check out the latest bus schedule on the  Stradbroke Island busses website .

4. Bring a 4WD if you have one

A number of roads and beaches on Straddie are only accessible by 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles. 

This includes driving on the Main Beach, a vast sandy beach that stretches along the eastern coast of North Stradbroke Island, which is where many Straddie campsites are located. Due to the depth and texture of the sand, only 4-wheel drives are allowed on the sand on Main Beach. To make the most of your Straddie itinerary, my tip is to take or rent a 4WD to island!

5. Check out inland Straddie, not just the beaches

Some of the most gorgeous Aussie scenery on North Stradbroke Island is located inland. Many visitors might start and end their Straddie itinerary on the coastline at the beaches which is understandable, but my tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island is to check out the inland lakes, sand dunes, and forests as well.

Two of the most famous attractions to visit in inland Straddie are the Brown Lake and Blue Lake, which are two massive freshwater lakes in the heart of the island. Both lakes can be reached by car (no bus routes go to either), and Blue Lake is reached via a further 2km walk through the eucalyptus forests.

Read about the Karboora (Blue Lake) hike on my guide here . 

6. Avoid visiting Straddie on holidays and long weekends

The busiest time to visit North Stradbroke Island is during the school holidays in Brisbane and Queensland, or three-day weekends. Ferries and accommodation will book out quickly, and you might expect a wait at cafes and restaurants during mealtimes. 

Not only will you be navigating crowds, the prices for accommodation around Stradbroke Island shoot up around this time as well.

7. Pack snorkeling gear and binoculars

Minjerribah has a number of amazing snorkeling spots and wildlife viewing opportunities. A snorkel and binoculars help you get up close to them! 

The waters on the west coast of the island are often calm and clear, perfect for seeing fish and stingrays that call the shallow island shores home.  Snorkeling gear can be brought from home but also purchased at the Amity Point general store, which is one of the most common places to go snorkeling on North Stradbroke Island.

In order to see wildlife from a distance, I also recommend bringing some binoculars on your trip. Although its tempting to get up-and-close to animals in the wild, checking them out from a distance is safer for both humans and our furry and feathered friends. 

8. Book your Sealink ferry tickets ahead of time

Once you’ve locked in your travel dates to North Stradbroke Island, book your Sealink ferry tickets! Both a passenger-only ferry and a vehicle ferry operate between Straddie and the Cleveland suburb every day.

Especially during busy tourist seasons, some of the peak-hour ferries to Stradbroke Island may sell out. These include Friday afternoon and Saturday morning ferries heading to Straddie, and Sunday evening ferries heading back towards Brisbane. 

9. Book accommodation ahead of time

Accommodation options on Stradbroke Island are not too plentiful, and can book out well in advance. Most accommodation is in the form of apartment rentals or holiday homes, with very few resort-like hotels on the island. While you’re researching your next trip to Minjerribah, be sure to secure accommodation for the nights you plan to stay. 

My favorite place to stay on the island which is perfect for budget travelers is the Manta Lodge hostel , which is part of the Australia Youth Hostel Association (YHA). It has both dorm rooms and private rooms, an on-site dive center, a massive kitchen, two common areas, and is located steps from the beach and ocean! 

Here are some other tips for where to stay on Stradbroke Island: 

• Budget – Manta Lodge Hostel
• Mid-range – Samarinda Jewel by the Sea apartment rentals
• Mid-range – The Islander resort (one of few resort-style accommodation on Straddie) 
• Luxury – Saltwater 5 three-bedroom apartment rental

10. Know the limits of your vehicle

North Stradbroke Island’s main towns and points of interest are connected by paved roads. However to get to inland destinations like Brown Lake, or to head to Main Beach, visitors to Minjerribah will have to drive on dirt, rock, potholed, and sandy roads.

Just like my tip for visiting Kangaroo Island , when booking a rental car or van, or bringing your own to Straddie, be sure to know the limits of what the vehicle can do. 

I visited Minjerribah after a bout of rain, and found the paved road to Main Beach flooded nearly up to my knees in some sections. Since I was driving a smaller, 2-wheel drive vehicle, I decided not to risk it and walked the rest of the way to the beach.

11. Support Straddie Locals and go Shopping in Dunwich

If you’re like me and no vacation is complete without doing a bit of shopping, or at least some window shopping, Dunwich is a great place to check out. It has a number of shops for local handicrafts, artwork, and a snack and a coffee too. You’re sure to find a Straddie keepsake from one of these Dunwich shops.

Tip: The ferry terminal in Cleveland has a small Straddie souvenir shop too – pick up an I <3 Straddie sticker from here!

12. Experience a cultural activity

Minjerribah is the aboriginal name for North Stradbroke Island, the spiritual home to the Quandamooka People. One option for visitors to learn more about the culture of the traditional owners of Minjerribah is by joining a cultural tour or experience.

Quandamooka Coast is an indigenous tourism business based on the island, which posts tours, ceremonies, festivals, and other events  on their website  if available. 

Another option for experiencing the traditional culture of the island is joining a tour with  Yura Tours . With cultural walking tours around key island landmarks and even a whale-watching tour, visitors will learn about bush tucker and aboriginal creation stories with a highly-rated Quandamooka guide.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by QYAC (@quandamooka)

13. Spot dolphins at Amity Point

Here’s another tip of where to spot Aussie wildlife on North Stradbroke Island – Amity Point Jetty! This 70 meter jetty on the west side of the island is a favorite fishing spot for locals and visitors to Straddie. It’s located right by the boat ramp parking lot and the Amity Point campground.

Hang out at the end of the jetty where the fishermen wait for their catch (and local kids swim in the deep water) and you’re sure to see a few dolphin fins popping up out of the water. These local animals hang out around these shores looking for a meal, just like us humans!

14. Spot kangaroos at Lookout Point

North Stradbroke Island is one of the best places in Queensland to spot kangaroos in the wild. It’s tied for my favorite place (with Emerald Beach between Brisbane and Sydney) to admire these gentle creatures. 

Across Lookout Point, the north section of Straddie, families of kangaroos hang out and munch on the dewy coastline grass. I love visiting the coastline, just in front of the Blue Room Cafe, at sunrise. Photos below are proof! 

You’re also bound to see ‘roos at the top section of Main Beach, just south of the Point Lookout Life Saving Club. 

15. Visit Straddie on a Day-Trip Tour from Brisbane

This popular day-trip tour from Brisbane to Stradbroke Island lets you sit back, relax, and enjoy the ferry cruise, bus rides, and more while you visit some of the most popular sites of the island. 

16. Spot a koala at Amity Point

Stradbroke Island is the only place where I’ve seen a koala in the wild during my time in Australia! Although these creatures are commonly seen (and held) in places like the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and the Australia Zoo, there’s something different about seeing them in the wild.

Here’s where I went to see a koala on Straddie: Drive or walk north from the main Amity Point boat ramp until the main road veers to the right. There’s a narrow road called Ballot Street that turns into a dirt road, and turns up towards a northern beach. 

A small carpark here is surrounded by tall gum trees – this area is where I’ve seen a koala (twice!) in the wild on Straddie.

Here’s another tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island: bring your binoculars!

17. Fill up on gas and groceries ahead of visiting

North Stradbroke Island has a handful of gas or petrol stations and grocery stores, including a small Foodwords and a Spar in Dunwich and another Foodworks and a Cellarbrations liquor store at Point Lookout. Expect to pay island prices though – everything to be purchased here was shipped over on a boat from Brisbane!

Gas prices are the cheapest around the fringes of Brisbane city (before reaching Cleveland where it gets expensive again). You may use a half-tank of gas on Minjerribah, so fill up ahead of time! 

If you’re cooking food at the  Manta Lodge Hostel  or other self-contained accommodation, plan ahead and fill up a cooler with cooking ingredients and drinks before embarking on your trip to Straddie. 

18. Plan your dinners ahead of time

Minjerribah is home to a number of nice restaurants and cafes, perfect for enjoying a meal out. (Check out Sealevel21 ) An important tip for visiting Stradbroke Island though, is to plan when you’ll have dinners, and make reservations if you need to, because most restaurants and shops close early. Between 7:00 pm-8:30 pm is when the kitchens close and lights go out in most restaurants.

One location that stays open later than most is the humble  Stradbroke Island Bowls Club . With a kitchen that closes later than most places, and beer on tap as well, many locals and visitors may find themselves here after-hours.

19. Paid campsites are available on Straddie

Stradbroke Island is home to a number of campsites, including at Amity Point, Point Lookout, Flinders Beach, and around Dunwich. One entity owns and operates all campsites, which include caravan spots and some cabins:  Minjerribah Camping . 

Surprisingly, camping on Straddie is also not the most economical option for island accommodation, especially if you’re traveling solo. For one or two people visiting Stradbroke Island, it’s cheaper to stay in a bed at  Manta Lodge YHA . For larger groups and families all sharing one campsite or caravan spot, Minjerribah camping is a great budget accommodation option on Straddie.

Minjerribah Camping is an Aboriginal-owned company. When I visited the island in early 2022, the campsites had stricter vaccination rules compared to the rest of Queensland. Call ahead to check campsite availability and other requirements for your next visit. 

20. During the months of May-November, see Humpback Whales off the coast

The East coast of Australia hosts an incredible migration of humpback whales between the months of May to November. The most popular activity during this time to see these massive creatures is to join a whale-watching tour .

There are so many whales though, when they breach out of the water or spray water from their blowholes, they can be spotted from shore! 

Minjerribah has a designated whale-watching platform at Point Lookout, perfect for seeing whales from a great vantage point on the island. 

BONUS: Go Slow and enjoy the island life!

Whether you’re enjoying island life on Koh Lanta, Thailand  or  Korcula, Croatia  or  Caye Caulker, Belize , or North Stradbroke Island, Australia, remember to enjoy the slow, island life.

The incredible natural beauty of Stradbroke Island, including its expansive beaches and inland hikes, make it the perfect place to unwind. Grab a wine or coffee with an ocean view, kick back, and relax on North Stradbroke Island!

Pin these Straddie tips for later!

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Welcome to Straddie...

Where a trip becomes tradition, explore straddie.

There's so much to explore and experience here on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah). From endless summer adventures to amazing whale watching winters. Straddie is the perfect place to make your trip a tradition.

Weekend Getaway

Reconnect with loved ones and explore our weekend offerings.

Family Activities

Take a trip the kids will remember, explore what we offer families.

Educational Tours

There are lots of places to experience the rich culture of the Quandamooka people.

For those who like a little bit of action, explore our day tours.

Straddie has the closest surf to Brisbane City, explore our amazing coastlines.

Dunwich Township

Dunwich is the gateway to the island by ferry and water taxi and has a range of cafes, shops and services.

Amity Point

Amity is great for kayaking or, if you love fishing, “putting the tinny in”, or perhaps throwing a line in from jetty.

Point Lookout Township

Point Lookout is popular for its magnificent surf beaches, land-based whale watching from the headland, beautiful North Gorge walk.

Experiences & Events

There is no better time to visit Straddie than right now! We have handpicked some great deals and discounts for you to make that trip even sweeter. Check out these incredible offers and get booking today.

Island Vibe

3 day music festival born of reggae, dub and island vibes

Lines in the Sand

NATURE ART CONNECT invites you to learn about island ecology, island culture and immerse yourself in making nature art.

Nikki Michail Photography & Events

Connecting Indigenous, earth-based wisdoms and emerging sustainable practices through projects.

Point Lookout Markets

There’s a great range of Island vendors coming together to create the vibrant markets. Find toys, ladies beach fashion, organic Island honey, homemade soaps, gifts, food, jewellery and much more

Quandamooka Festival

The Quandamooka Festival aims to provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance for people to learn about the Nughi, Nunukul, and Goenpul clans.

Stradbroke Chamber Music Festival

The Stradbroke Chamber Music Festival is a series of six concerts held over three days at intimate venues in stunning Island settings.

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Getaway Ideas

Camping Checklist & Guide To Camping On Stradbroke Island

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