Moreton Island | Brisbane

Moreton Island is a stunning natural destination located off the coast of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is the third-largest sand island in the world and one of the most popular spots for outdoor adventures, offering a blend of pristine beaches, lush bushland, and a variety of water-based activities. Moreton Island is a haven for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Overview

Location: 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Size: Approximately 170 square kilometers (66 square miles)

Population: Very low, with only a small community of residents living on the island

Access: Moreton Island is accessible by ferry or boat from Brisbane, and there are no roads connecting the island to the mainland, so it’s a remote getaway.

History

Moreton Island was originally inhabited by the Turbans and Quandamooka peoples, the traditional custodians of the land. The island was used as a source of food and resources and held cultural significance. European settlers first arrived in the area in the early 19th century, and Moreton Island was eventually named after the Moreton Bay region.

During the Second World War, the island was used as a military training base, and several military structures remain on the island, including artillery emplacements and gun placements. Today, these remnants are part of the island’s unique heritage, and visitors can explore the historic sites as part of guided tours.

Natural Beauty and Features

Moreton Island is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, which include sand dunes, dense forests, and stunning beaches. Key natural features of the island include:

Tallest Sand Dune (Mount Tempest): At 280 meters (919 feet) above sea level, Mount Tempest is the highest sand dune on the island and one of the highest in the world. Visitors can climb to the summit for panoramic views of the island, the surrounding waters, and even the mainland.

Deserted Beaches: Moreton Island boasts some of the clearest waters and best beaches in Queensland, such as Tangalooma Beach, Blue Lagoon, and Kooringal Beach, perfect for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.

Flora and Fauna: The island is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life, including rainforests, woodlands, and mangroves. It also hosts various species of birds, kangaroos, and the occasional dolphin or whale (during migration seasons).

Popular Activities

Moreton Island offers a variety of activities to suit every type of visitor. Some of the most popular activities include:

1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Moreton Island is famous for its underwater experiences. The island’s crystal-clear waters make it a top spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Key highlights include:

The Tangalooma Wrecks: A series of sunken ships just off the coast of Tangalooma Island Resort. The wrecks are home to diverse marine life, including tropical fish, giant trevally, and sea turtles. It’s a popular site for both snorkeling and diving.

Marine Life: You can often see dolphins, manatees, whales (seasonal), and a variety of fish species while exploring the waters around the island.

2. Sandboarding and 4WD Adventures

The island’s massive sand dunes offer the perfect terrain for thrilling sandboarding adventures. Whether you're riding the dunes on a board or simply walking through them, they provide an adrenaline rush against the backdrop of the island’s natural beauty.

4WD Tours: Moreton Island is a 4WD paradise. With its vast sand dunes and rugged terrain, guided 4WD tours are a great way to explore the island. You’ll have the opportunity to travel along off-road tracks, visit hidden beaches, and even navigate around the island's historic sites.

3. Dolphin Feeding

One of Moreton Island’s most famous experiences is the Tangalooma Dolphin Feeding program, where visitors have the opportunity to hand-feed wild bottlenose dolphins in the wild. The experience typically takes place in the evening at Tangalooma Island Resort, where wild dolphins approach the shore and interact with people in the shallows.

4. Kayaking and Paddleboarding

The calm waters surrounding the island are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Whether you want to explore the shoreline or paddle in the waters of Moreton Bay, the island offers peaceful environments to enjoy these activities.

5. Whale Watching (Seasonal)

During the winter months (from June to October), Moreton Island is an excellent location for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate along the coast, and you can book a whale-watching tour to get a closer look at these majestic creatures as they pass through the waters around the island.

6. Fishing

With its abundant marine life, Moreton Island is also a great spot for fishing. Whether you want to fish from the beach, go on a deep-sea fishing charter, or cast a line from a boat, the waters around the island are teeming with fish species.

Accommodation

While Moreton Island remains relatively undeveloped in comparison to other Australian islands, there are several options for accommodation, including:

Tangalooma Island Resort: The most developed accommodation option on the island, offering a range of facilities from luxury rooms to self-contained apartments. The resort also provides various tours, dolphin feeding experiences, and activities for guests.

Camping: For a more rugged experience, visitors can camp in designated areas on the island. North Point, Ben-Ewa, and Comboyuro Point are popular camping spots, offering close proximity to the island’s natural attractions. Backcountry camping is also available, but permits are required.

Eco-lodges: For those who prefer eco-friendly accommodation, there are small, eco-conscious lodges that allow visitors to stay closer to nature without sacrificing comfort.

Getting There

The island is accessible by ferry, with regular services operating from the mainland to Moreton Island:

Tangalooma Ferry: A passenger ferry service runs from Victoria Point on the mainland to Tangalooma on the island. The trip typically takes about 75 minutes. Vehicles can also be transported to the island via the ferry, but booking in advance is essential.

Private Boat or Water Taxi: If you prefer a more private experience, you can also charter a boat or hire a water taxi from Brisbane to Moreton Island.

Things to Keep in Mind

Weather: The weather on Moreton Island can be quite variable, with hot summers and mild winters. It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for outdoor activities.

Wildlife: Moreton Island is home to several species of native wildlife, including koalas, wallabies, and a variety of bird species. While it’s a beautiful environment, visitors should be aware of the island's wildlife and observe them from a safe distance.

Conservation: The island is part of the Moreton Island National Park, and visitors should respect the natural environment by sticking to marked trails, disposing of trash properly, and avoiding disturbing the wildlife.

Nearby Attractions

Moreton Bay Marine Park: Surrounding Moreton Island, this marine park is home to diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, and offers additional opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife viewing.

North Stradbroke Island: Just a short boat ride away, North Stradbroke Island (also known as Straddie) offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s another great destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Brisbane City: Located on the mainland, Brisbane is a vibrant metropolis offering cultural attractions, shopping, dining, and historical sites.

Conclusion

Moreton Island is an idyllic destination for anyone looking to experience Australia’s natural beauty. Whether you’re into adventure sports, marine life exploration, or simply relaxing on beautiful beaches, Moreton Island offers a wealth of activities in a stunning, remote setting. Its natural charm, diverse wildlife, and tranquil environment make it an unforgettable getaway for both locals and tourists.