Point Lookout Gorge Walk - Image 1
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Point Lookout Gorge Walk Brisbane

4.6
·491k reviews·Point Lookout, Australia

A breathtaking coastal walk on North Stradbroke Island, offering spectacular ocean views and abundant wildlife, including whales.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June - November mornings

Peak whale migration season

CrowdMedium
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Point Lookout Gorge Walk - Image 1

Point Lookout Gorge Walk Brisbane

Best Time

June - November mornings

Peak whale migration season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking coastal walk on North Stradbroke Island, offering spectacular ocean views and abundant wildlife, including whales.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This island gem offers unparalleled whale watching and stunning coastal trails, easily accessible from Brisbane."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Ferry & Bus Access

Take the ferry from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island, then catch the 880 bus to Point Lookout.

🔭 Bring Binoculars

Essential for spotting whales, dolphins, and other marine life from shore.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

North Gorge Walk

North Gorge Walk

Point Lookout, North Stradbroke Island

A scenic 1.2km loop with breathtaking ocean views, perfect for spotting whales, dolphins, and turtles.

Whale Watching

Whale Watching

Lookout points along the Gorge Walk

Prime location for observing humpback whale migrations from June to November.

Cylinder Beach

Cylinder Beach

Near Point Lookout

A beautiful, sheltered beach ideal for swimming and relaxing after your walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Island Escape from Brisbane

Point Lookout Gorge Walk is a stunning coastal trail on North Stradbroke Island, easily accessible from Brisbane. Plan for a ferry ride and bus transfer to reach the trailhead. It's a perfect day trip or overnight stay for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Whale Watching Hotspot

During migration season (June-November), Point Lookout is a prime spot for shore-based whale watching. Bring binoculars and be patient; sightings of humpback whales are common. The walk offers incredible vantage points for this natural spectacle.

Best Times

When
June - November mornings
Why
Peak whale migration season
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of my favourite sunset spots im the city 🌇✨ #brisbane #PlacesToVisit #thingstodo #sunset #brisbane_australia
@pieterjohnsen
21.6K likes • 357.8K views

🚗 Ferry & Bus Access

Take the ferry from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island, then catch the 880 bus to Point Lookout. Instagram

🔭 Bring Binoculars

Essential for spotting whales, dolphins, and other marine life from shore. Reddit

Don’t skip this sunset spot in Brisbane - 📍 Kangaroo Point cliffs 💛 #brisbane #sunsets #brisbanethingstodo #australia @VisitBrisbane
@oliviamae18
10K likes • 109.5K views
📌 Save this for your Dream Lap of Australia! One of the BEST spots to see whales on the east coast 🐋🌊 An easy 1.2km walk + front-row views of the migration = bucket list tick ✅ 📍North Gorge Walk at Point Lookout, North Stradbroke Island, QLD . . . #humpbackwhale #lapofaustralia #northstraddie #stradbrokeisland #thisisaustralia #visitqueensland #travelaustralia #queensland #whalemigration
sarahandkeelan.travels
534 likes • 0 views

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The gorge walk is well-maintained but requires sturdy footwear. [:athletic_shoe:]

☀️ Sun Protection

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses; the sun can be intense. [:sunwithface:]

[ℹ️Info Below👇] How aren’t more people talking about this amazing island?! From its stunning beaches, to insane wildlife and adventure opportunities, Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island, or “Straddie”) is a perfect weekend away or day trip! The best thing - it’s right next to Brisbane and doable by public transport! 🎬Hope you enjoy my new series of day trips /weekends from Brisbane just by publi...
danhaywoodtravels
187 likes • 6.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Ferry & Bus Access

Take the ferry from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island, then catch the 880 bus to Point Lookout. Instagram

🔭 Bring Binoculars

Essential for spotting whales, dolphins, and other marine life from shore. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The gorge walk is well-maintained but requires sturdy footwear. [:athletic_shoe:]

☀️ Sun Protection

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses; the sun can be intense. [:sunwithface:]

🐢 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, turtles, and dolphins along the walk. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning coastal scenery and abundant wildlife, particularly the whale and dolphin sightings from the Gorge Walk. The accessibility from Brisbane via public transport is a major plus, making it a perfect day trip. Some note that dining options can be limited, especially for dinner, and advise planning ahead.

What People Like

Incredible whale watching
Beautiful coastal walk
Easy public transport access

What People Dislike

Limited dinner options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach the Point Lookout Gorge Walk from Brisbane, you'll need to take a ferry from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah). From the ferry terminal, catch the 880 bus directly to Point Lookout. The journey is well-served by public transport and is a popular day trip option. Instagram

Yes, you can drive your car onto the ferry to North Stradbroke Island. The roads to Point Lookout village are sealed, and there is parking available. However, a 4WD is not necessary for accessing the main village and the gorge walk. Reddit

The ferry ride from Cleveland to North Stradbroke Island takes approximately 45-60 minutes. Factor in travel time to Cleveland and waiting for the ferry. Instagram

Absolutely! Point Lookout Gorge Walk is a fantastic day trip from Brisbane. The ferry and bus system makes it very accessible for a full day of exploring the island's natural beauty. Instagram

Yes, several tour operators offer day trips from Brisbane to North Stradbroke Island, often including the Point Lookout Gorge Walk and whale watching opportunities. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Point Lookout Gorge Walk is a public access area and does not have an entry fee. You only need to pay for the ferry to North Stradbroke Island and potentially bus fares. Instagram

The Point Lookout Gorge Walk is open 24/7 as it's an outdoor natural attraction. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and optimal wildlife viewing. TikTok

It's recommended to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling with a vehicle or during peak seasons, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. Instagram

No permits are required for general access to North Stradbroke Island or the Point Lookout Gorge Walk. Permits are only needed for specific activities like 4WD beach driving. Reddit

Most establishments on North Stradbroke Island accept credit/debit cards. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case of any connectivity issues. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The North Gorge Walk is a relatively short loop, approximately 1.2 km, and typically takes about 30-60 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace, allowing time for photos and wildlife spotting. Instagram

You have a great chance of spotting humpback whales (during migration season), dolphins, turtles, and various seabirds. Kangaroos are also often seen grazing near the walking paths. InstagramReddit

Yes, Cylinder Beach is located very close to the Gorge Walk and is a popular, sheltered spot for swimming. There are also other beautiful beaches along the eastern edge of the island. Instagram

The Gorge Walk is generally suitable for families. The path is well-maintained, though there are some stairs and uneven sections. It's a manageable length for most children. Instagram

Point Lookout has public toilets, picnic areas, and a few cafes and shops. There are also lookout platforms and information boards along the Gorge Walk. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. However, the views are stunning throughout the day, especially for capturing wildlife. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. For wildlife, a telephoto lens will be beneficial. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance ocean colors and reduce glare. [:camerawithflash:]

The various lookout points along the loop offer unique perspectives. The rocky outcrops and the sweeping views of the ocean are particularly photogenic. Look for areas where kangaroos are grazing for a classic Straddie shot. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules and restrictions from the relevant authorities before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance. Instagram

Focus on the ocean for whales, dolphins, and turtles. Keep an eye on the grassy areas for kangaroos. Early mornings and late afternoons often yield the best light and animal activity. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Point Lookout Gorge Walk is a fantastic outing for families. The 1.2km loop is manageable for most children, and the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and turtles is incredibly exciting. Instagram Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider a picnic at one of the nearby beaches like Cylinder Beach. The walk offers stunning views without being too strenuous, making it an enjoyable experience for all ages. Remember to bring sun protection and keep a close eye on children near the cliff edges. Instagram

🚶 Budget Travelers

Point Lookout Gorge Walk is an excellent budget-friendly activity. The walk itself is free, and the main cost is the ferry ticket to North Stradbroke Island. Instagram Utilizing the public bus system (880 route) from the ferry terminal to Point Lookout further minimizes expenses. Instagram Pack your own food and drinks to avoid expensive cafe purchases, and enjoy the incredible natural beauty without breaking the bank. Consider camping or staying in budget-friendly accommodation if you decide to extend your visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Wildlife Encounters at Point Lookout

Point Lookout is renowned for its abundant marine and terrestrial wildlife, making it a highlight for many visitors. During the winter months, the North Gorge Walk becomes a prime location for shore-based whale watching. Humpback whales migrate along the coast, and their playful breaches and tail slaps can often be seen from the clifftop lookouts. InstagramReddit Visitors also frequently report sightings of dolphins playing in the surf and sea turtles swimming close to shore, especially in the calmer waters near Cylinder Beach. Instagram

Beyond the ocean, the island's headlands and grassy areas are home to a healthy population of kangaroos, which are often seen grazing peacefully near the walking paths. Keep an eye out for koalas in the eucalyptus trees, though they can be more elusive. The diverse ecosystem ensures that almost every visit offers a chance for a memorable wildlife encounter. Instagram

Navigating North Stradbroke Island

Getting to and around North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) is part of the adventure. The most common way to reach the island from Brisbane is via the passenger and vehicle ferry service from Cleveland. This ferry ride offers scenic views and is a pleasant start to your island exploration. Instagram

Once on the island, public transport is quite efficient. The 880 bus route connects the main ferry terminal at Dunwich with key locations like Amity Point and Point Lookout. This bus is the primary mode of transport for visitors without a car, making the Gorge Walk easily accessible. Instagram For those with a vehicle, driving on the island is straightforward on the sealed roads leading to the main villages. However, accessing many of the pristine beaches requires a 4WD vehicle and a permit, so plan accordingly if beach driving is your goal. Reddit

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