Mudjimba Island (Old Woman Island)
Discover Mudjimba Island (Old Woman Island), a Sunshine Coast gem for snorkeling with turtles, surfing, and breathtaking sunrises.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Mudjimba Island (Old Woman Island)
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Mudjimba Island (Old Woman Island), a Sunshine Coast gem for snorkeling with turtles, surfing, and breathtaking sunrises.
"Great spot for a kayak. Bring a snorkel and a mask and you'll be able to see fish and coral at 4m depth."
Kayak to the Island
Inquire about ocean-kayak rentals for exploring Mudjimba Island's snorkeling spots.
Snorkel Gear Essential
Bring your snorkel and mask to see fish and coral at 4m depth.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snorkeling with Turtles
Southwestern side
Discover vibrant marine life and spot sea turtles resting in the shallows. A true underwater paradise!
Surfing Waves
Around the island
Catch some exciting left and right-hand breaks. Best for experienced surfers looking for a challenge.
Sunrise Views
Mudjimba Beach
Witness breathtaking sunrises over Old Woman Island from the mainland. A photographer's dream!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Access & Activities
Snorkeling & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak to the Island
Inquire about ocean-kayak rentals for exploring Mudjimba Island's snorkeling spots.
Snorkel Gear Essential
Bring your snorkel and mask to see fish and coral at 4m depth.
Beware of Sharp Edges
The island can have sharp edges, so tread carefully.
Surf's Up!
Good surfing spot with left and right breaks when conditions are right.
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak to the Island
Inquire about ocean-kayak rentals for exploring Mudjimba Island's snorkeling spots.
Snorkel Gear Essential
Bring your snorkel and mask to see fish and coral at 4m depth.
Beware of Sharp Edges
The island can have sharp edges, so tread carefully.
Surf's Up!
Good surfing spot with left and right breaks when conditions are right.
Pirate Adventures
Embrace your inner pirate and set sail for an island treasure hunt!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mudjimba Island for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, particularly the chance to see turtles, and its good surfing breaks for experienced riders. The island offers a sense of seclusion and natural beauty, making it a great day trip destination. However, some note that fishing can be inconsistent and caution is advised due to sharp edges on the island.
"I have not caught many fish here yet the snorkeling is okay on the south western side. If you surf you can get a few nice waves here yet it's not for beginners."
Andrew Dwight
"Good fishing and surfing spot. When pumping has a left and a right."
Steven Crawford
"Great day trip spot. Lots of tuturtles in the shallows if you're snorkeling on the southwest side of the island. Good surfing, fishing is hit and miss"
Toby Matthews
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mudjimba Island (Old Woman Island) is accessible by kayak or boat. While some kayak rentals are river-focused, look for operators offering ocean excursions. Boat tours from Mooloolaba are also a popular option.
Yes, kayaking is a great way to reach Mudjimba Island for snorkeling and exploring. Ensure your chosen rental company allows ocean trips, as some are limited to river use.
Absolutely! Boat tours, particularly from Mooloolaba, offer a convenient way to visit Mudjimba Island and often include commentary and opportunities to see marine life.
While the island itself may not be dog-friendly, nearby Mudjimba Beach and caravan parks are. Enjoy the island views with your furry friend nearby!
Kayaking allows for independent exploration and access to snorkeling spots. Boat tours provide a guided experience with expert commentary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entry fees for Mudjimba Island itself. However, you will need to arrange for kayak rental or a boat tour, which will have associated costs.
Mudjimba Island is a natural attraction and is accessible at any time. However, consider daylight hours and weather conditions for safety and enjoyment. Boat tours will have specific operating times.
Snorkeling at Mudjimba Island is free. You'll need to bring your own gear or rent it separately.
It's highly recommended to book snorkeling tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. 
Be mindful of the island's natural environment and any posted regulations. The island can have sharp edges, so exercise caution.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of fish and coral. Turtles are frequently spotted in the shallows on the southwestern side.
Yes, Mudjimba Island offers both left and right-hand breaks, making it a good spot for experienced surfers. It's generally not recommended for beginners.
The southwestern side of Mudjimba Island is renowned for its snorkeling opportunities, with calmer waters and abundant marine life.
Fishing is possible around Mudjimba Island, though success can be hit or miss. Some visitors have reported good catches.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, snorkeling gear, and a camera. If you plan to surf, bring your board.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunrises over the island from Mudjimba Beach, vibrant underwater scenes while snorkeling, and dynamic surf shots.
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for landscape photography. Midday can be great for underwater shots if the sun is high.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local aviation rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Mudjimba Island.
A waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for snorkeling. For landscapes and surf, a versatile DSLR or mirrorless camera with different lenses will be beneficial.
Mudjimba Beach provides excellent vantage points for capturing the island's silhouette. Underwater, the coral reefs offer unique photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the island itself might have some sharp edges, the nearby Mudjimba Beach is a great place for kids to play. If you're camping, you'll find dog-friendly caravan parks in the area, allowing the whole family, including pets, to enjoy the Sunshine Coast.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Beyond surfing, the island is a prime destination for kayaking and snorkeling. Renting a kayak and paddling out to explore the underwater world is a popular activity. Remember to bring your own snorkeling gear or arrange for rentals, and always prioritize safety when venturing out on the water.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
The marine life, including turtles and diverse fish species, presents incredible opportunities for underwater photography. Nature lovers will appreciate the seclusion and natural beauty of the island. The chance to observe marine life in its habitat is a significant draw. Remember to tread lightly and respect the environment to preserve its pristine condition for future visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Mudjimba Island by Water
For those seeking a more guided experience, boat tours departing from nearby Mooloolaba are readily available. These tours often provide entertaining and informative commentary from local skippers, highlighting the island's marine life and history. Some tours specifically cater to snorkeling and even offer opportunities to encounter turtles in their natural habitat.
When venturing out on the water, always be aware of tidal conditions and currents. While the island offers fantastic opportunities for adventure, it's important to prioritize safety. Experienced surfers can find enjoyable breaks around the island, but these are generally not suitable for beginners due to the challenging conditions.
Underwater Wonders: Snorkeling and Marine Life
A highlight for many is the frequent sighting of sea turtles resting in the shallows. These gentle creatures add a magical element to the snorkeling experience, making it a memorable encounter for all ages.
+1 To make the most of your underwater exploration, it's essential to bring your own snorkel and mask, or arrange for rentals. While the snorkeling is a major attraction, remember that the island's natural beauty also means being mindful of the environment. Respect the marine life and avoid touching or disturbing the coral. The seclusion of the island adds to its charm, but also means being prepared with all necessary gear.
Photography Opportunities at Mudjimba Island
For underwater photographers, the rich marine life provides endless subjects. Capturing the turtles and colorful fish in their natural habitat requires a good waterproof camera or action camera. The clarity of the water on the southwestern side is ideal for these shots.
Adventure seekers can also capture dynamic surf photography if conditions are right. The island's breaks can provide exciting action shots. For those interested in aerial perspectives, checking local drone regulations is advised before capturing any drone footage of the island.
Social
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