Things To Do in North Stradbroke Island

The metropolis of Brisbane is graced with a multitude of splendid isles in its proximity.
North Stradbroke Island ranks as a premier travel spot near Moreton Bay. It’s an ideal place for a brief tour or an extended family holiday, boasting a variety of pursuits on things to do Stradbroke Island.

Visit North Stradbroke Island for endless activities

North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), known as the world’s second-largest sandy isle, hosts an array of sights for the entire household. It features tranquil lakes, awe-inspiring scenic lookouts, invigorating trails along cliffs, and peaceful shorelines, as well as a rich array of fauna, authentic cultural encounters, and a hospitable local populace. ‘Straddie’ affords a richly rewarding escapade for each visitor.
For those desiring a tranquil retreat, make your way to Point Lookout, the vibrant hub of the isle, where you’re treated to soothing spa sessions, delectable eateries, arresting panoramas, and unspoiled sands. Alternatively, escort your offspring to Dunwich to delve into the verdant woodlands and still waters, all while scouting for the isle’s diverse avian and creature inhabitants.
Suppose your quest is for juvenile-oriented pastimes on North Stradbroke Island. In that case, you’re lucky with various aquatic endeavours, such as surf-riding, paddleboarding while standing, angling, subaquatic diving, and sighting dolphins or whales. There’s also a suite of athletic activities like lawn tennis, links golf, and lawn bowling, plus the thrill of all-terrain motoring for those who crave adventure.
With such an extensive selection, it might take time to pinpoint where to kick off your adventure. Hence, we’ve assembled a catalogue of the finest experiences on Stradbroke Island.

Terra Bulla Leumeah Conservation Area protects habitats

Spanning over 1.5 hectares, The Terra Bulla Leumeah Conservation Area safeguards a swath of native bushland, offering insights into the cultural lineage of Stradbroke Island. This land holds historical weight as the site of the erstwhile Myora Mission. Indigenous Aboriginal leaders impart tales of their forebears here, a traditional congregational ground. Visitors can discover a native edible plant garden and follow a trail. This area also serves as a venue for cultural exchanges, featuring informative sessions and traditional dance displays.

Brown Lake

Due to the surrounding tea trees, Brown Lake is a favoured stop on North Stradbroke Island, distinguished by its brown tint. The layer of leaves blanketing the bottom of the lake ensures water retention, even though the lake is situated on a sandy isle.
This tranquil spot is perfect for swimming and also offers paddleboard rentals for those looking to explore further. In the spring, the area becomes a tapestry of wildflowers encircling the lake. Situated merely 10 minutes from Dunwich, Brown Lake has picnic facilities and BBQ spots.

Cylinder Beach

Cylinder Beach, found on North Stradbroke Island, is sought after for its swimming and angling opportunities. One can unwind in the refreshing waters or savour the scenic panoramas from the adjacent elevation. Additionally, the area has campsites, angling locales, convenience shops, and marketplaces to enhance your stay.

The Gorge Walk

At Point Lookout, The Gorge Walk is a must-see for tourists visiting North Stradbroke Island. The trail provides breathtaking cliffside vistas and panoramic views over the ocean. The path meanders to the opposite end of the Gorge, where visitors encounter distinctive geological structures and the ‘Blow Hole‘, circling back conveniently close to where it begins.
The trail is well-marked and predominantly consists of a boardwalk. Keep an eye out for dolphins, marine turtles, and whales within the Gorge. You may also catch a glimpse of a kangaroo. Pack a hat, sunblock, and water for this excursion.

Flinders Beach

Nestled on North Stradbroke Island, Flinders Beach presents campgrounds right by the ocean amidst natural surroundings. You can reach this locale via bush paths or the sandy shore at low tide, where a pet-friendly environment awaits. Visitors can engage in angling, stroll through nature, and spot whales.

Point Lookout

At Stradbroke Island’s Point Lookout, tranquillity and community convene, boasting various facilities. On offer are dining establishments, diverse lodging choices, wellness spas, shorelines, marketplaces, general shops, campgrounds, and more. Point Lookout is celebrated for its breathtaking cliff-edge vistas and the renowned Gorge Walk. Its strategic positioning, scenic splendour, and comprehensive amenities regularly draw guests back to Point Lookout.

Activities to enjoy on Stradbroke Island

Stradbroke Island boasts a variety of terrains and points of interest that cater to the whole family, with our compilation pointing you towards the prime locations.

Camping is available on North Stradbroke Island

Camping ranks as a favoured activity for families visiting North Stradbroke Island, with the advantage of being near the island’s renowned, pristine beaches.
While enjoying the natural beauty of North Stradbroke Island’s campgrounds, campers are urged to treat the environment respectfully. The island sustains a diverse array of wildlife and flora, and any careless handling of waste or interference with the habitat can inflict significant harm.
Campers should ensure they remove all rubbish, preserve the site in its found state, and avoid collecting plants or animals as keepsakes, acknowledging their vital role in the ecosystem. Adhering to these practices helps maintain the untouched beauty of North Stradbroke Island.

Blue Lake

Situated within the confines of Naree Budjong Djara National Park, Blue Lake embodies significant cultural value for the Quandamooka people. It is often described as the ‘deep silent pool’, presenting a more hidden retreat than Brown Lake.
A 5.2 km trek (return journey) through dense bush, flanked by towering eucalyptus and vivid undergrowth, leads to the lake. Arriving there, visitors can savour the coolness of the shade and the clarity of the water. Out of respect for the Quandamooka people, guests must abstain from swimming in these waters.
For enhanced comfort and safety during the hike, it is wise to don suitable trekking footwear, carry a generous amount of water, wear head protection, and use sunblock, given that the path is primarily sandy underfoot.

Navigating North Stradbroke Island

Travelling around North Stradbroke Island is straightforward. Paved roads connect the three main towns: Amity Point, Dunwich, and Point Lookout. Transport options include bringing your vehicle via ferry or utilising the local bus network. Travel across the island is quick and unhindered by traffic lights.
Buses operate daily, linking Dunwich to Point Lookout with an intermediary stop at Amity Point. The cost for a single adult ticket varies between $2.30 and $4.80, with reduced fares for eligible concessions. The buses depart hourly from both Dunwich and Point Lookout, providing 11 services per day.
For a direct transit service, Stradbroke Cab Service offers an alternative, typically at a higher cost than the bus but with quicker transit times. Reservations can be made via telephone.
Adventure seekers can explore the island’s 4WD tracks, but it’s important to remember that permits are required.

Frenchman's Beach

Gazing down from Point Lookout, one discovers Frenchman’s Beach. This undisturbed haven reveals a 500-meter expanse of sand, embraced by towering cliffs and lush greenery. A descent via steps cutting through the foliage from the main road leads you to this secluded spot. At the base, visitors can bask on the sands, inspect the tidal pools, and revel in the cliffside scenery.
Swimming at Frenchman’s Beach is generally discouraged due to the unattended shores, frequent robust swells, and consistent rip currents by the dune stones. Nonetheless, the beach provides a serene setting for lounging on the sands.

Neembeeba Lookout

For those who ascend the 6 km path to Neembeeba Lookout, panoramic views of Blue Lake await amidst a journey adorned with vibrant, lush flora and intermittent ocean views.
Upon reaching the lookout, visitors are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Gold Coast skyline. The ascent is gentle, typically requiring 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete. Adequate fitness levels are advisable, along with sturdy hiking shoes, a hat, sun protection, and a sufficient water supply, particularly in the warmer months.

Quandamooka Festival

Celebrated from June through August on North Stradbroke Island, the Quandamooka Festival is a seasonal event honouring the profound heritage and customs of the Quandamooka People from South East Queensland.
The festival is a showcase of the Nughi, Nunukul, and Gorenpul tribes of the Quandamooka, featuring an array of activities, including music concerts, dance renditions, marketplaces, time-honoured rituals, narrations, and cultural excursions. It’s a perfect destination for a winter day out, offering a rich cultural experience.

Directions for travelling from Brisbane to North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island is positioned approximately 30 kilometres southeast of Brisbane. Daily water ferries set out from Cleveland throughout the week, every day of the year, thus granting easy entry to the island for both vehicles and foot passengers. Ticket counters are available on Emmett Drive.
Ferry services operate from Monday to Sunday, with expanded schedules from Friday to Sunday. The voyage spans 45 to 50 minutes, with the comfort of air-conditioned spaces and onboard cafes. The complete ferry schedule can be viewed on the Stradbroke Island website. For a faster transfer, consider parking your car in Cleveland and hopping on the water taxi.

A guide to accommodations on Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island presents a diverse array of lodging possibilities to suit various preferences, including budget constraints, group sizes, and the type of experience sought.
Point Lookout hosts the majority of accommodation choices on the island, offering a convenient base for vacationers with a mix of resorts, hotels, holiday houses, and apartments.
For a more serene setting, Amity Point offers a good alternative. Although accommodation options are more limited, charming holiday homes and bungalows are on hand, along with several campsites for those seeking a more rustic stay.