Did you know that Moreton Island is the world’s third-largest sand island, with 98% of its landmass composed entirely of sand? This natural paradise, known as Mulgumpin to the Indigenous Quandamooka’s Ngugi people, sits just 40km from Brisbane yet feels worlds away from city life. With no sealed roads and pristine beaches stretching for miles, it’s a 4WD enthusiast’s dream and a nature lover’s haven.
Whether you’re planning to snorkel among colorful shipwrecks, toboggan down massive sand dunes, or simply unwind on untouched beaches, Moreton Island offers adventures that can’t be found anywhere else in Queensland. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan your perfect island getaway.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching Moreton Island requires a bit of planning, but the journey is part of the adventure. The island is accessible only by ferry or boat from Brisbane.
Ferry Options
Vehicle Ferry (MICAT)
If you have a 4WD vehicle, the MICAT vehicle ferry departs from the Port of Brisbane. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes, and it’s essential to book well in advance, especially during peak periods and weekends.
Remember that you’ll need to purchase a vehicle access permit before arrival, which can be obtained online.
Passenger Ferry
If you don’t have a 4WD, the Tangalooma passenger ferry operates daily from Holt Street Wharf in Brisbane. The journey takes about 75 minutes, and you can choose between day trips or longer stays at Tangalooma Island Resort.
Day passes typically include return ferry transfers and access to some resort facilities.
Planning Tip: Book your ferry at least 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season (December-February) and school holidays to secure your spot. The vehicle ferry has limited capacity and sells out quickly!
For those flying into Brisbane, you can easily reach the ferry terminals from Brisbane Airport.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Seasonal Guide
- Summer (December-February): Perfect for swimming and snorkeling with water temperatures around 26°C. This is peak season with more visitors and higher prices.
- Autumn (March-May): Considered the best overall time to visit with mild temperatures (20-25°C), fewer crowds, and great conditions for all activities.
- Winter (June-August): Cooler but still pleasant (17-22°C) with the bonus of whale watching season. Excellent for hiking and 4WD adventures.
- Spring (September-November): Warming up with increasing marine activity and nesting turtles. Great for wildlife enthusiasts.
Wildlife Calendar
- Dolphins: Year-round at Tangalooma Resort
- Humpback Whales: June to November (peak in August)
- Turtles: Active September to March, nesting from November
- Dugongs: Often spotted in protected waters
- Migratory Birds: Peak in spring and summer months
Weather Tip: Pack sun protection year-round as the Queensland sun is intense even on cloudy days. A light jacket is recommended for evenings, especially in winter months.
Getting Around Locally
Moreton Island has no sealed roads – just sand tracks and beaches. This makes getting around part of the adventure, but requires some preparation.
4WD Requirements
A 4WD vehicle is essential for exploring Moreton Island independently. If you’re bringing your own or renting one, remember these key points:
- Lower your tire pressure upon arrival (usually to 15-18 PSI) for better traction on sand
- Purchase your vehicle access permit before arrival
- Check tide times daily – beach driving is best at low tide
- Carry recovery equipment including traction boards, shovel, and tire pressure gauge
- Stay on designated tracks to protect the environment
Without a 4WD
Don’t have a 4WD? You can still enjoy Moreton Island through these options:
- Join guided 4WD tours from Tangalooma Resort
- Book activity-specific tours (sandboarding, snorkeling, etc.)
- Rent a 4WD on the island (limited availability, book ahead)
- Stay at Tangalooma Resort and use their shuttle services
Ready for your 4WD adventure?
Secure your rental vehicle now to ensure availability for your Moreton Island trip.
Where to Stay (Lodging Options)
Resort Accommodation
Tangalooma Island Resort offers the island’s only full-service accommodation with various room types, restaurants, and activities. Perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience.
Price range: $$$-$$$$
Camping
Experience the true island spirit at one of five campgrounds or five camping zones. Popular spots include The Wrecks, North Point, and Blue Lagoon. Permits required and must be booked in advance.
Price range: $-$$
Holiday Homes
A limited number of holiday homes and beach houses are available at Bulwer and Kooringal villages. These self-contained options are ideal for families or groups.
Price range: $$-$$$
Find Your Perfect Island Stay
From luxury resorts to beachfront camping, book your Moreton Island accommodation now.
Camping Tip: All camping permits must be purchased before arrival on the island. There is no self-registration available on-site. Display your camping tag at all times and remember that fires are only permitted in designated fire rings.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Dining options on Moreton Island are limited but focus on fresh seafood and Australian favorites. Planning ahead for meals is essential, especially if camping.
Restaurant Options
- Tangalooma Resort Restaurants: Multiple dining venues offering buffets, à la carte meals, and casual options
- The Gutter Bar (Kooringal): Famous for fresh oysters and seafood in a rustic setting
- Castaways Store & Café (Bulwer): Basic supplies and casual meals
Self-Catering Tips
Most visitors bring their own food supplies, especially if camping. Remember:
- Bring a good cooler with plenty of ice
- Pack non-perishable items and easy-to-cook meals
- Bring a portable gas stove and cooking equipment
- Limited grocery supplies are available at Tangalooma Resort and Bulwer, but prices are higher
- Fishing is popular – catch your own dinner!
Local Specialty: Don’t miss trying Moreton Bay bugs (a type of flathead lobster) if they’re available at island restaurants. They’re a delicious regional specialty!
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Top 5 Must-Do Activities
1. Snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks
Explore the 15 deliberately sunken ships that create an artificial reef teeming with marine life. The clear waters offer visibility of colorful fish, coral formations, and occasional turtles and dolphins.
2. Sandboarding at The Desert
Experience the thrill of sliding down massive sand dunes at speeds up to 60km/h. The Desert, Little Sand Hills, and Big Sand Hills offer dunes of varying heights for all experience levels.
3. Cape Moreton Lighthouse
Visit Queensland’s oldest lighthouse (built 1857) for spectacular 360-degree views of the island and ocean. During whale season (June-November), this is one of the best whale-watching spots in Australia.
4. Champagne Pools
Relax in these natural rock pools where ocean waves crash over volcanic rock formations, creating a bubbly “champagne” effect. A perfect natural spa experience with stunning ocean views.
5. Blue Lagoon
Swim in this tea tree-infused freshwater lake surrounded by white sand. The water’s natural oils are said to have therapeutic properties, making it both refreshing and rejuvenating.
6. Wild Dolphin Feeding
Experience the magic of hand-feeding wild bottlenose dolphins that visit Tangalooma Resort’s shores each evening. This carefully managed program is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Experience Moreton Island’s Best Activities
Book guided tours for sandboarding, snorkeling, and more to make the most of your island adventure.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Moreton Island is primarily known for natural attractions, there are several cultural and historical sites worth exploring.
Historical Sites
- Cape Moreton Lighthouse Museum: Small museum inside Queensland’s oldest lighthouse with exhibits on maritime history and lighthouse keeping
- Rous Battery: WWII artillery installations with informative signage about the island’s military history
- Desert Storm Festival: Annual music and arts festival held on the island (check dates as they vary)
Indigenous Culture
Moreton Island (Mulgumpin) has been home to the Quandamooka’s Ngugi people for over 2,000 years. While formal cultural tours are limited, you can learn about the island’s Indigenous heritage through:
- Interpretive signage at key locations around the island
- Occasional cultural programs at Tangalooma Resort
- Guided walks during peak season (subject to availability)
Cultural Tip: The name Mulgumpin means “place of sandhills” in the language of the Traditional Owners. Showing respect for the cultural significance of sites around the island is an important part of responsible tourism.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Water Activities
- Fishing: The island offers excellent beach and offshore fishing. Popular catches include whiting, bream, flathead, and tailor
- Kayaking: Paddle around the Tangalooma Wrecks or along the calmer western beaches
- Surfing: The eastern beaches offer good surf breaks, with North Point being the most popular spot
- Whale Watching: Join specialized tours during migration season (June-November) or watch from Cape Moreton
Land Adventures
- 4WD Trails: Over 420km of sand tracks and beach driving
- Hiking: Try the challenging Mt. Tempest climb (285m) for spectacular 360° views
- Bird Watching: Over 180 bird species can be spotted on the island
- Stargazing: Minimal light pollution makes for incredible night sky viewing
Ready for Adventure?
Book specialized outdoor activities and guided nature experiences.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Safety Tips
- Always check tide times before beach driving – avoid driving 2 hours either side of high tide
- Carry plenty of drinking water (minimum 4 liters per person per day)
- Apply sunscreen regularly – the Queensland sun is extremely strong
- Be dingo-aware – secure food, never feed wildlife, and supervise children
- Carry a first aid kit and know emergency contact procedures
- Ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for sand driving
Environmental Etiquette
- Take all rubbish with you – there are limited waste facilities
- Stay on designated tracks to protect vegetation
- Use biodegradable soaps and detergents
- Observe wildlife from a distance – never touch or feed animals
- Respect no-fishing zones and size/bag limits when fishing
- Use established fire rings only and fully extinguish fires
Emergency Information: Cell phone coverage is limited on parts of the island. In emergencies, call 000 or 112. The Tangalooma Resort has medical facilities during operating hours.
Practical Travel Tips
Essential Packing List
For Everyone
- High SPF sunscreen and hat
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- First aid kit
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear and towel
- Light jacket for evenings
For 4WD Travelers
- Tire pressure gauge
- Recovery tracks/boards
- Shovel and tow rope
- Extra fuel in proper containers
- Paper maps (don’t rely on GPS)
- Printed tide charts
- Basic vehicle tools
For Campers
- Tent and sleeping gear
- Portable gas stove
- Cooking equipment
- Cooler with ice
- Headlamp or torch
- Garbage bags
- Toilet paper
Money & Connectivity
- There are no ATMs on the island except at Tangalooma Resort
- Mobile reception is patchy – Telstra has the best coverage
- Download maps, guides, and entertainment before arrival
- Most businesses at Tangalooma accept credit cards, but smaller vendors may be cash-only
Ready for Your Moreton Island Adventure?
Moreton Island offers a rare combination of pristine natural beauty and exciting adventures that make it one of Queensland’s most special destinations. From the thrill of sandboarding down towering dunes to the tranquil experience of snorkeling among shipwrecks teeming with marine life, this island paradise has something for everyone.
Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or an extended stay, the island’s unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique attractions promise memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your sense of adventure, respect the natural environment, and prepare to discover why Moreton Island is considered one of Australia’s best-kept secrets.
Start Planning Your Trip Today
Book your transportation, accommodation, and activities now to secure the best options for your Moreton Island adventure.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
