North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) Brisbane
Discover Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), a stunning natural paradise near Brisbane with pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking c...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance to see whales
North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) Brisbane
Best Time
Best chance to see whales
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), a stunning natural paradise near Brisbane with pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking coastal walks.
"Jaw-droppingly beautiful with 99% silica sand beaches and incredible wildlife spotting opportunities!"
🚌 Island Bus Pass
Grab a $1 all-day bus pass on the island for easy access to major spots .
🌅 Sunset Views
Climb the rocks at Cylinder Beach headland for incredible sunset vistas .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Point Lookout Gorge Walk
Point Lookout
Stunning coastal walk with panoramic ocean views, ideal for spotting whales, dolphins, and turtles.
Cylinder Beach
Cylinder Beach
A picturesque beach known for its gentle waves, perfect for swimming and relaxing. Great sunset views from the headland.
Main Beach
Main Beach
Expansive beach with surf waves, offering a more adventurous swimming experience and beautiful coastal scenery.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to North Stradbroke Island
Island Exploration Without a Car
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚌 Island Bus Pass
Grab a $1 all-day bus pass on the island for easy access to major spots.
🌅 Sunset Views
Climb the rocks at Cylinder Beach headland for incredible sunset vistas.
🐳 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, and turtles from the Gorge Walk.
🍽️ Local Eats
Try Oasis on Straddie for Mexican or the classic fish and chips near Cylinder Beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚌 Island Bus Pass
Grab a $1 all-day bus pass on the island for easy access to major spots.
🌅 Sunset Views
Climb the rocks at Cylinder Beach headland for incredible sunset vistas.
🐳 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, and turtles from the Gorge Walk.
🍽️ Local Eats
Try Oasis on Straddie for Mexican or the classic fish and chips near Cylinder Beach.
🥽 Snorkeling
A cove near Main Beach is great for snorkeling, but check swell conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about North Stradbroke Island's breathtaking natural beauty, from its pristine white-sand beaches to the dramatic coastal cliffs. The opportunity to spot whales and other marine life is a major highlight, and the island offers a perfect escape for day-trippers and longer stays alike. Some find the ferry costs a bit high, and facilities at beach campsites could be improved.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train to Cleveland Station and then catch a bus to the ferry terminal. Both SeaLink and Stradbroke Flyers offer ferry services from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island. The Stradbroke Flyer is a passenger ferry, while SeaLink also offers a car ferry.
Stradbroke Flyer is a smaller, faster passenger ferry, while SeaLink offers both passenger and car ferry services. Both depart from the same location in Cleveland and are serviced by bus stops on the island.
Yes, you can comfortably travel around car-free. The local bus service meets the ferries and stops at major destinations like Point Lookout, Cylinder Beach, and Amity Point. A day pass is very affordable.+1
Taking your car offers more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore further afield or have a 4WD. However, buses are efficient for reaching main tourist spots, and parking is available in developed areas.
The ferry journey from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island typically takes around 25-40 minutes, depending on the service and conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry prices vary between SeaLink and Stradbroke Flyers and depend on whether you are a walk-on passenger or bringing a vehicle. It's best to check their respective websites for current pricing. The island bus service is very affordable, often around $1 for a day pass.
There are no general entrance fees to visit North Stradbroke Island itself. However, there may be fees for specific activities or tours, and camping permits are required for beach camping.
Attractions like the Gorge Walk are generally accessible at all times. Shops and cafes have varying hours, and it's advisable to check local listings, especially for Sunday operations which can be limited.
Booking ferry tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. This is particularly true for car ferries.
No, public transport on Straddie (North Stradbroke Island) does not take Go Cards. You will need to pay with cash or card directly on the bus.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Must-do activities include walking the Gorge Walk at Point Lookout for stunning views and wildlife spotting, relaxing at Cylinder Beach, and exploring Main Beach for surf. Many visitors also enjoy whale watching during the season.+1
Yes, North Stradbroke Island is an excellent destination for a day trip from Brisbane. You can easily access key areas like Point Lookout and Cylinder Beach via ferry and island bus services.
You have a good chance of seeing whales (especially during migration season), dolphins, and turtles from the cliffs at Point Lookout. Kangaroos are also common on the island.+1
The Gorge Walk at Point Lookout is a highlight, offering spectacular coastal scenery. There are also tracks to Blue Lake and Brown Lake for those with more energy.
Main Beach is a surf beach and can have strong waves, so it's important to swim between the flags and be aware of conditions. A cove near Main Beach is also good for snorkeling, but conditions can vary.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular dining spots include the classic fish and chip shop near Cylinder Beach, Oasis on Straddie for Mexican food, and the Surf Club at Main Beach which offers drinks with an incredible view.
Yes, options like Oasis on Straddie offer good dinner choices. Some places might have limited hours on Sundays, so it's worth checking in advance.
There are convenience stores and small supermarkets on the island, particularly in Dunwich and Point Lookout, where you can purchase groceries for self-catering or camping.
Yes, there is a brewery on the island that's a good spot for a drink. A wine bar has also opened in Dunwich with nice water views.
Casual dining is plentiful, with fish and chip shops and cafes being popular choices. The Surf Club at Main Beach is also a great spot for a relaxed meal with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The Gorge Walk at Point Lookout offers dramatic coastal cliffs and ocean vistas. Cylinder Beach at sunset and the expansive Main Beach are also highly photogenic.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant blues of the ocean are still stunning.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. It's essential to check current rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone to ensure compliance with local laws and to respect wildlife and other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A polarizing filter can enhance ocean and sky colors.
Don't miss the chance to capture the dramatic cliffs and ocean views from the Gorge Walk, the serene beauty of Cylinder Beach, and the vastness of Main Beach. Wildlife sightings also make for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the chance to spot wildlife; the Gorge Walk at Point Lookout offers incredible views and is generally manageable with children, though supervision is key. While Main Beach has surf, it's still enjoyable to visit and build sandcastles. Consider packing beach toys and a picnic to make the most of the beautiful sandy shores.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to save on dining costs, as there are convenience stores for supplies. Many of the island's best attractions, like the Gorge Walk and the beaches, are free to enjoy. Camping is also a very affordable accommodation option if you have the gear.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider joining a local tour if you're interested in specific activities like whale watching or guided walks, which can also be a good way to meet other travelers. The island has a relaxed vibe, making it comfortable to dine alone or simply soak in the scenery. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or fellow visitors; the island community is generally friendly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring North Stradbroke Island by Public Transport
While the bus system covers the main tourist hubs, it's important to be aware of the timetable, especially if you plan to visit on a Sunday, as services can be more limited. For those who prefer a bit more independence, consider bike hire, though be prepared for some hilly terrain. The bus routes are designed to connect you to the most scenic spots, including the famous Gorge Walk at Point Lookout and the beautiful Cylinder Beach, ensuring you don't miss out on the island's highlights even without your own vehicle.
For a slightly different experience, water taxis can also be an option, offering scenic views as you travel. However, for general island exploration and reaching the most popular beaches and lookouts, the bus service is the most practical and widely recommended method for car-free visitors.
The Natural Wonders of Minjerribah
The island is also a prime location for wildlife encounters. During the whale migration season, from May to October, the Point Lookout Gorge Walk becomes a prime vantage point for spotting humpback whales as they travel along the coast. You might also be lucky enough to see dolphins and turtles swimming in the clear waters below.
Beyond the beaches and lookouts, the island's diverse ecosystems support a variety of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for kangaroos grazing in the open areas and a range of birdlife. The natural environment is a significant part of the island's appeal, offering a true escape into nature. Remember to respect the environment by taking your rubbish with you and staying on marked paths to preserve its beauty for future visitors.
Camping on North Stradbroke Island
Beach camping requires a permit, and facilities can vary. While some campers have noted a decline in facilities since management changed, it remains a rewarding experience for many. The convenience of being right on the beach, with toilets available, adds to the appeal for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the coastal environment.
When planning your camping trip, consider the type of experience you're after. Flinders Beach offers a good balance of access and surf, while Adder Rock provides a more sheltered and amenity-rich experience. Regardless of your choice, camping on Minjerribah allows you to fully embrace the island's natural beauty and tranquility.
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