9 Things To Do On Moreton Island
Moreton Island is an untouched natural park on the east coast of Australia. The bay is 80 km long with a 25-km breadth, and rests between the Brisbane River and the barriers of North and South Stradbroke. There are islands at the end of the South Stradbroke that end in channels and passages. The sandy white beaches and clear waters have earned it the name as being the gem of southeast Queensland. It is the perfect haven to unwind. If you are one of the adventure seekers, then there are many activities you can engage in on Moreton Island as highlighted below:
For more information on travelling in Brisbane check out our article on Brisbane for lone travellers to book transport in Brisbane for groups – click here
Camping
A permit is needed from the mainland for one to camp on Moreton Island. There are many sites that act as a good ground for camping such as the blue lagoon camping site which is 7 kilometres away from Cape Cliffs, a fresh water lagoon that makes it perfect for swimming. Amenities such as toilets and showers are available though shops are not allowed.
Another camping site is located on the west side of the island and it features the Wrecks. Besides the amenities provided, there is the additional barbeque for cooking. Then, there is the Comboyuro site which is next to Bulwar Town in the west which has a garage and a shop unlike the others, so you can shop for provisions or stock up on them. All the camping sites are marked by a totem.
Sightseeing
Spectacular views of the island can be enjoyed by sightseeing the rest of this physical feature right at the Cape Moreton Lighthouse. It stands on the ground devoid of sand and from it, breathtaking views of the island can be seen. Despite its old age, it still functions right especially for those who take it as a great destination. It was built in 1857 to assist sea vessels navigate around the bay and to minimize the wreckages that were piling up on the Moreton Island.
Another enchanting site to behold is the blue lagoon especially in the heat of summer. The crystal clear water in the lagoon encompassed by the dazzling white beach is definitely a must-do-spot to visit while on the Moreton Island. It came about as a result of the water table and the ground surface meeting after thousands of years as a water catchment area. The ocean is not too far away for those desiring more adventure. Whale watching is another popular activity to see. The rare Dugongs, loggerheads plus the green turtles are often sighted here at the Moreton Island. Specific boats have been designed particularly for this activity.
Fishing
The north point is famous for fishing. A variety of fishes such as the flat head, the bream, reef fish, the tailor and many more make it a fisherman’s dream spot. For those visiting and desire to engage in fishing activities, the fishing rods can be hired from the Tangaloo Reef Resort.
Sand tobogganing
This activity is especially loved by the daring and adventurous people. Massive sand dunes can be found all over the island. The hills of sand tower as high as 90 metres and the tallest of them all being Mount Tempest peaking at 285 metres above sea level. The sheer massiveness of the sand dunes makes sand boarding a trending sport.
Bird watching
In the months of April to September, the island is filled with birds from the migrating season. This is especially common for birds from the Tundra, eastern Siberia and the rest of the world. The sea eagle is just as popular to spot and so are the pelicans which prefer to adorn the Wharf. Wading birds are just as plenty and are seen around the mangroves.
Snorkelling
There are many wrecks courtesy of past mishaps around Tangalooma. Many people prefer to snorkel and scuba dive among these wreckages. There is also an abundance of reef fish and coral in the marine bay. All snorkelling gear and scuba diving wear can be hired at the Tangalooma Reef Resort.
Dolphin feeding
Feeding the dolphins is a popular activity with the children who delight themselves when feeding them. However, this activity has to be pre booked for afternoons between 3pm and 5pm so that they can be fed by 7pm. Photo sessions can be held concurrently whilst feeding the dolphins. Securing a seat at the pier will grant you a magnificent view. To book for a feeding session, call 07-3637-2000 (within Australia) or 1300-652-25.
Walking
The long expansive beaches and tracks are areas that many people walk along. Other popular areas include the 4 km loop of the desert, the Rous track which is 18 km all round and the Telegraph track at 6 km all round. Mount Tempest is also used by some at 1.5 km return. There is the Wrecks lookout that is a kilometre from the wrecks camp ground, and lastly the five hills which are a kilometre from the North Road.
4WD drives
If there are no sealed roads on Moreton island, then driving can only be comfortable in a 4WD.These vehicles can be hired easily, and a service permit which you affix to the windscreen should be there at all times. Permits are purchased from the Combie Trade Office. A drive around the island provides a fabulous experience and allows you to sightsee simultaneously. You can enjoy the sights of the blue lagoon, take a swim and have a beer at the local bush pub.
A lot of care should be exercised while driving as the roads can be quite treacherous. Avoid travelling at high tides as it may cause big problems, instead drive when the tide is low. Drive on firm, hard sand and not the soft type. Also ensure that you are at the right track at all times; do not wander off-road as you may get lost. The dunes are a no-go zone strictly, and some creeks are pretty deep so caution should be observed when crossing them. If you require assistance, the 4WD vehicles often come equipped with a radio.