Queensland locals have always loved an island getaway – and why wouldn’t they? With everything from family-friendly sand islands to tiny outcrops just half a kilometre wide, the islands that sit off Brisbane’s coast are as diverse as they are beautiful.
Take your pick of stunning islands just a boat away from Brisbane.
Moreton Island
Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island, Queensland © Tourism Australia
Though Moreton Island can be reached on a day trip from Brisbane, this adventure playground deserves an overnight trip. Sunken ships offer incredible snorkelling opportunities, and golden sand dunes welcome four-wheel driving and tobogganing. Hand-feed wild dolphins straight from shore before tucking in for the night at Tangalooma Island Resort.
Tangalooma Island Resort
Apartments, Holiday Houses, Hotels, Resorts • Swimming Pool • 4 Stars
From AU$199
Bribie Island
Bribie Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
The only Moreton Bay island you can drive to (shuttles operate from Brisbane Airport, or take a bus from Caboolture train station), Bribie Island is all about the simple things. Kayak through clear water (and try to spot a few dugongs along the way), explore the white-sand beach and bunkers by four-wheel drive or simply grab your towel and spend the day beach hopping. A sunset cruise will give you a magical end to your Bribie getaway.
Ferryman Cruises Bribie Island
Experiences • Adventure and Outdoors Tours, Cruises, Sailing and Water Tours, Cultural and Theme Tours, Nature and wildlife, Sightseeing Tours, Half Day or Less, Customised
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North Stradbroke Island
North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
When to go
Humpback whales migrate past North Stradbroke Island from late May to early October. Bring your binoculars on a walk along the headlands to catch them swimming by.
North Stradbroke Island is a favourite for its laid-back vibe and island scenery. Take the North Gorge Walk for epic coastal views, or simply soak up the sun on Frenchman’s Beach. The island’s freshwater lakes are not to be missed. Brown Lake, or Lake Bummiera, is filled entirely by rainwater tinged brown by native tea trees. Blue Lake, or Karboora (meaning ‘deep silent pool’) is a stunning, calm lake sacred to the Quandamooka people.
SeaLink North Queensland
Ferry Services • Transfers
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K’gari
K’gari, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
A six-hour drive north of Brisbane will bring you to K’gari (formerly Fraser Island), the world’s largest sand island. Nature and wildlife are central to a holiday here, offering everything from camping (and even driving) on the beach to guided dingo walks. Make your first stop Lake Mackenzie, where you’ll find some of the island’s most magnificent waters. Book a stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort and make a weekend of it.
Kingfisher Bay Resort
Holiday Houses, Hotels, Resorts • Swimming Pool
From AU$229
Southern Moreton Bay Islands
Coochiemudlo Island, near Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
The Southern Moreton Bay Islands includes Coochiemudlo, Russell, Macleay, Karragarra and Lamb Island. Ferries to Coochiemudlo – famous for its family-friendly activities – leave from Victoria Point in Brisbane. The remaining islands can be reached via TRANSLink ferry from Redland Bay Marina. Each island has its own personality, from the aqua bikes and kayaks of ‘Coochie’ to the fishing and solitude of Lamb Island. Visit the Redlands Coast website to find out which island you should discover next.