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We went on a terrific Tangalooma Island Adventure and here are the deets!

Did you know Tangalooma’s pristine shores are included in Lonely Planet’s 100 Best Beaches of the World? (Factoring in the cuteness of resident dolphins, of course, which we absolutely adore.)  

If you’re searching for an unforgettable adventure in Brisbane but don’t have the time to squeeze in a multi-day trip, then we’ve got you covered! 

We’ll be your guide as you snorkel shipwrecks teeming with fish and sandboarding down epic dunes (think “Mad Max” with SPF 50). Then you can end the day by feeding wild dolphins! 

So pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, and don’t forget your waterproof camera – Tangalooma Island awaits! 

Where is Tangalooma Island Resort?

Tangalooma Island Resort is nestled on the western coast of Moreton Island (a.k.a. Mulgumpin), easily accessible via a 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane. This makes it a great destination for a quick island getaway near the Sunshine State capital.

Getting to Tangalooma Island Resort

tangalooma-island-resort

Several departures are offered throughout the day starting from 7:30am with the last ferry leaving Tangalooma at around 7pm after the dolphin feeding activity. 

Take note that ferry bookings should be made at least 24 hours prior to your trip. You can book through this link or call 1300 652 250. 

If you don’t want to think about your itinerary for the day, you can book a day cruise that includes transfers, meals, and a set of activities. The resort and other tour operators offer day cruises to Tangalooma and Moreton Island (see more below). 

Things to Do at Tangalooma Island

The main attraction, Moreton Island’s Tangalooma Wrecks, is a snorkeler’s dream! It’s an underwater wonderland teeming with life amidst a fascinating shipwreck graveyard. 

The 15 vessels were deliberately sunk in the 1960s to 1980s to provide boats a safe place to anchor. Over time, the cluster of wrecks transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, home to over 200 species of fish and other marine life. 

There are several tour options that you can join that cater to all experience levels.  These guided tours provide expert commentary and ensure a safe exploration of the wrecks.  

Snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks offers an unforgettable glimpse into a thriving underwater world. With its rich history and diverse marine life, this underwater metropolis is a must-visit for any ocean enthusiast!

Just keep in mind that the Tangalooma Wrecks are a protected marine environment. Remember to be a respectful visitor, avoid touching the coral or marine life, and dispose of any waste properly.

Moreton Island boasts more than just stunning beaches. Challenge yourself with an exhilarating adventure – sandboarding (a.ka. sand tobogganing) down the island’s massive sand dunes!  

The “Tangalooma Desert” on Moreton Island is the perfect spot to try sandboarding. There are tours available that provide transport to the dunes and professional instruction for a safe and unforgettable experience.

You can book a Desert Safari and Sand Tobogganing tour here.

Experience an unforgettable encounter with the friendly dolphins! Tangalooma Island Resort has a nightly wild dolphin-feeding program where guests can have the unique opportunity to hand-feed these majestic creatures alongside marine experts. 

The program prioritizes the dolphins’ well-being and only a small portion of their daily diet is provided, ensuring that they continue to hunt naturally. This activity is strictly regulated for a safe and respectful encounter for both humans and dolphins.

You can learn more about these playful and intelligent creatures at The Eco Centre which also showcases Moreton Bay’s diverse marine life and conservation efforts. 

To elevate your island experience further, you can take a scenic flight from Brisbane to Moreton Island through a helicopter tour! You can book the Sea to Sky Day Cruise from Tangalooma Island Resort. 

These flights offer unparalleled panoramic views of the island’s diverse landscape. Soar above the turquoise waters while sipping a cocktail, get an amazing view of the sand dunes, spot some sea creatures, and get a bird’s eye view of the Tangalooma Wrecks! 

The helicopter tour is also combined with other activities, meals, ferry transfers, and other resort perks. You can book your tour here

Daytrippers in Tangalooma can spend some downtime between activities enjoying the resort amenities. When you avail of any of the tours, you’ll also get a day pass to the resort giving you access to the pool, bar, showers, and lounge areas. 

After some exhilarating activities, just sit back and enjoy the sunshine and scenery, cocktail in hand. And don’t forget to snap a photo on Tangalooma’s leaning palm tree! 

Tangalooma Island Adventure Day Trip Itinerary

Joining a cruise or tour would take the hassle out of your trip planning and help you maximize your island experience. 

Tangalooma Island Resort offers several day trip tours featuring an array of island activities. To give you an idea, here are some sample itineraries for a fun-filled day trip to Tangalooma Island Resort! 

If you’re looking to simply relax and spend the whole day just lazing around on the beach (no judgments here!), then this is the perfect itinerary for you! 

Enjoy a scenic cruise from Brisbane to Tangalooma, then soak up the sunshine while you lay on the powder white sand. Hang out by the pool, grab a drink, take a dip, or choose to snorkel at the wrecks if you wish. 

7:00 am – Arrive and check in at Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba, Brisbane. 

7:30 am – Depart from Holt Street Wharf. You can grab a complimentary coffee, tea, or soda onboard if you have a voucher. 

9:00 am – Arrive at the beautiful Tangalooma Island Resort.

9:15 am – 3:15 pm – It’s your island time! You can choose to do whatever you please – whether it’s just unwinding by the beach or maybe exploring the island and searching for adventure at your own pace.
 
You can choose to snorkel at the wrecks, witness the pelican feeding near the jetty, cool off in the resort pools, or try a variety of water or land-based activities. 

There’s a restaurant and bar if you’re feeling peckish and you can use your lunch voucher from your tour/cruise to avail of a meal.  

3:30 pm – Time to head back! Check-in opens, and you can grab your boat ticket from the ticket hut.

4:00 pm – Board the return ferry from Tangalooma Jetty and enjoy the scenic cruise back to Brisbane.

5:15 pm – Arrive back at Holt Street Wharf.

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure unlike any other, then don’t miss the chance to cruise down a massive sand dune at the “Tangalooma Desert!”

You’ll start your journey by going on a 4WD bus tour to the dunes, then climb your way to the top of the dunes, and the only way down is to slide! Sand boarding or sand tobogganing is a thrilling experience which can let you reach speeds of up to 40km/h! 

Here’s what you can expect if you choose a day trip to the sand dunes:

7:30 am – Depart from Holt Street Wharf. 

9:00 am – Arrive at the beautiful Tangalooma Island Resort.

9:15 am – 12 nn – Your Desert Safari Adventure begins! Hop on the 4WD tour bus to the Tangalooma Desert, explore the vast sand dune in the heart of Moreton Island, then cruise down the dunes and feel the rush of adrenaline as you race down the slopes!

12:30 pm – Arrive back at the resort and have lunch. 

1:30 – 3:15 pm – Unwind by the poolside or at the beach. Explore the Tangalooma shores, take a dip, and try other activities like stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, etc. 

You can choose to head back to Brisbane on the 4:30 pm ferry. But if you wish to stay, there’s more in store as the sun sets! 

4:00 – 5:30 pm – Enjoy the scenery and stay for some sunset cocktails. 

5:30 – 6:30 pm – Say hello to the dolphins! You can choose to join the wild dolphin feeding activity to experience a unique encounter with these friendly marine mammals. 

7:00 pm – Board the ferry back to Brisbane. 

This itinerary is packed with all the quintessential Tangalooma Island experiences. From snorkeling shipwrecks and surfing on sand dunes, to feeding wild dolphins! 

If you want to make the most out of your trip (with some cocktails in between), then this is the perfect itinerary for you! 

7:30 am – Hop on the first ferry to Tangalooma. 

9:00 am – Arrive at the beautiful Tangalooma Island Resort.

9:15 – 11:30 am – Discover the underwater world teeming with marine life! Explore the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, a shipwreck haven teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and other fascinating creatures.

12:00 pm – Arrive back at the resort and have lunch. 

1:00 pm – Get ready for your next adventure! This time, we’re heading to the sand dunes!

1:30 – 3:15 pm – Hop on the 4WD tour bus to the Tangalooma Desert! You know the drill: when you’re on top of the sand dunes, the only way down is to slide! 

4:00 – 5:30 pm – Back at the resort. Freshen up, have some snacks, enjoy the scenery, and stay for some sunset cocktails. 

5:30 – 6:30 pm – Say hello to the dolphins! You can choose to join the wild dolphin feeding activity to experience a unique encounter with these friendly marine mammals. 

7:00 pm – Board the ferry back to Brisbane. 
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