North Stradbroke Island Guide
North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), a sand island that just happens to be the world’s second-largest sand island, sits off the coast of Brisbane, with its miles of beaches, a sprinkling of freshwater lakes, and some pretty scenic coastal walks to get the heart rate up, not to mention a vibrant bunch of wildlife. Its three tiny townships – Dunwich, Amity Point and Point Lookout – are separated by miles of bushland and rugged coastline, which is just what the doctor ordered to give the island a bit of breathing space.
- Full Day
- 10 hours
- $ 149,00 AUD
- $ 129,00 AUD
Laid-Back Island Escape
As soon as you leave Dunwich, the island opens right up: native forest, freshwater lakes, headlands, and loads of sandy beaches; it’s all just there waiting to be explored. Point Lookout is where you’ll find beaches, walking tracks and wildlife all in close proximity; Amity Point is a bit more low-key, and it’s set right on the more tranquil waters of Moreton Bay.
Over on the eastern side, the Coral Sea meets the surf beaches — conditions are generally pretty rough. On the other side of the bay, the waters are usually a lot calmer. It makes for a great spot to get out into the water, whether it’s fishing, kayaking, bushwalking and surfing, camping or taking your 4WD on an adventure, though you will need a permit to drive in designated beach and recreation areas.
Accommodation options on the island tend to be on the smaller side – so think campgrounds, holiday houses and apartments and smaller properties rather than some of the big, fancy resorts you might find elsewhere. If you’re only there for a short visit, Point Lookout is probably your best bet – and it makes perfect sense if you want to focus on the coast and walking trails. Head to Amity Point if you want a more laid-back bayside vibe.
FAQ
Is North Stradbroke Island worth visiting?
Yeah, it’s worth a visit – you get surf beaches, freshwater lakes and the North Gorge Walk, Quandamooka culture and all sorts of wildlife all crammed into one tiny island called Minjerribah. Staying a bit longer lets you see more than just Point Lookout.
How do you get to North Stradbroke Island?
You can get to the island by water taxi or vehicle ferry from Toondah Harbour at Cleveland to Dunwich over Moreton Bay. Got a car? Then you gotta take the vehicle ferry; make sure you check the times & book ahead, and check about beach driving permits as well; don’t want to get into any trouble.
What is the best time to see whales from Point Lookout?
Humpback whales come through Minjerribah between June & November, generally speaking. The North Gorge Walk whale-watching viewpoint is a good spot to see whales, offering a great view across the Coral Sea, but I have to say sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Can you see koalas, kangaroos and marine wildlife?
You bet – kangaroos & wallabies are spotted pretty regularly around Point Lookout, while koalas are also around if you know where to look in the eucalypt trees. You might see dolphins, sea turtles & manta rays from the beach, while in the local dive spots you can catch a glimpse of a Grey Nurse Shark.
How many days do you need on North Stradbroke Island?
A day trip could cover Point Lookout & the Gorge Walk and maybe one or two other spots, but it’s pretty hectic. 2 or 3 days is a much more relaxed way to do it; you can check out Cylinder Beach, Frenchman’s Beach, Brown Lake and Amity Point, learn a bit about the Quandamooka culture and just take your time watching the wildlife.
Popular Places to Visit
Experience The Best Of Brisbane
The river is the natural place to start. Ferries and bridges connect the two banks, while riverside walking paths lead between gardens, restaurants and city views.
South Bank Parklands sits directly opposite the Brisbane CBD, bringing together around 15 hectares of parkland, Streets Beach and the Queensland Cultural Centre. Across the river, Queen Street Mall and the 18-hectare City Botanic Gardens offer a mix of busy city streets and quieter waterfront spaces.
Kangaroo Point has some of the best views of the Brisbane skyline and Story Bridge. Nearby, Howard Smith Wharves brings dining and riverside spaces beneath the bridge. New Farm, Fortitude Valley and West End add another mix of parkland, nightlife, leafy streets and charming cafés.
