Brisbane city is a bustling metropolis well worth a visit, but sometimes you’re in the mood for something a little less highrise and a little more natural. That’s where our islands come in. The Moreton Bay Islands, North Stradbroke Island, and Moreton Island are all excellent destinations for those looking for a break from the city.
Today we’re going to take a look at how to get the most out of Brisbane. Let’s delve into short day trips from Brisbane – with an island twist!
Moreton Bay Islands
The Moreton Bay Islands are a unique and diverse cluster of four islands off the Queensland coast. The area is made up of Macleay Island, Karragarra Island, Russell Island, and Lamb Island.
Russell Island is the biggest of the four and features some stunning natural scenery. A turtle swamp and biologically diverse wetlands make the island a must for anyone interested in wildlife spotting. It’s also home to the South Moreton Bay Islands Museum, a fascinating institution that documents the life of the island’s early settlers.
Lamb Island is a great way to get back to nature. It’s home to a forest of Melaleuca quinquenervia trees – also called paperbark trees. This fascinating species is native to eastern Australia and is famous for its bark that peels off in thin layers.
Maclay Island is the second-biggest island in the area and home to a thriving arts scene. Painters, poets, potters, sculptors, and other creatives have all set up shop there, feeding local markets and galleries with their wares.
Karragarra Island is the smallest of the Bay Islands but it packs a lot of punch. It has a beautiful, white, sandy beach with a handy swimming enclosure that will keep the little ones safe on your day trip.
A day spent hopping the Moreton Bay Islands is a day well spent. For the ideal experience, you can hire a professional tour guide to teach you the wonders of the area.
North Stradbroke Island
North Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as the locals call it, is located in Moreton Bay just a short trip from Brisbane city. It’s a brilliantly diverse and beautiful island with a lot going for it. It’s little wonder people return to the area year in and year out.
The island is particularly famous for its wildlife. Visitors can expect to spot everything from whales to dolphins to turtles. Dugong and seals also call the island home and sighting them is exciting no matter your age.
Getting around North Stradbroke Island is a simple affair. You can explore the area on four wheels in a 4-wheel-drive or hire a scooter to zip around the island on two. The island is also crisscrossed with numerous paths, hikes, and boardwalks all offering stunning views of the natural landscape.
To make the most of a short day trip from Brisbane, it’s a good idea to book a guided tour. They’ll be able to show you all the best spots to go and give you some history on the area as you go.
Tangalooma and Moreton Island
Tangalooma Island Resort is a destination unto itself. Situated on Moreton Island, it’s fondly called “nature’s theme park”, offering visitors the chance to connect with the natural environment and wildlife of Moreton Island.
There is a slew of activities to make a day trip to Tangalooma worthwhile. You can hire a quad bike and explore the area on four wheels or take it to the sea with a diving or snorkelling tour. The highlight of any Tangalooma visit is the chance to hand feed one of the many wild bottlenose dolphins that pop into the shores each evening.
If you want to see the rest of the island, your best bet is to book one of the many Moreton Island guided tours. Each one will show you amazing landmarks and teach you vital history about the area.
Visit Brisbane
Brisbane is a lot bigger and more diverse than people think and a short day trip from Brisbane to the area is a great way to experience both city life and get back to nature.
