Categories > Guides and Tips
We visited Moreton Bay and found a hidden coastal gem! Here’s what we discovered
Brisbane’s secret playground lies just less than an hour north. And don’t be fooled by its name, as Moreton Bay offers a wealth of experiences beyond its sparkling waters.
Sure, swimming with playful dolphins, diving amongst vibrant coral reefs, and saying “hey, dude!” to a friendly sea turtle are top contenders. But Moreton Bay is a treasure trove waiting to be unearthed.
Cruise down sand dunes, explore a shipwreck, hike through a rainforest then dive into a water hole. Venturing inland will be a whole new adventure taking you to lush hinterlands and charming towns steeped in history.
And my favorite part… There’s a foodie adventure waiting at every corner with plenty of culinary gems to explore! So what are you waiting for? Dive into our guide on the top things to do in Moreton Bay!
Location
Moreton Bay is a region north of Brisbane, just a 30-minute to an hour’s drive from the CBD depending on your destination.
The region has a land area of over 2,000 square kilometers consisting of mountain ranges, coastal wetlands, forests, national parks, towns, and urban hubs.
In case you’re wondering, it’s different from Moreton Island, and to lessen the confusion further – yes, Moreton Island is located within the Moreton Bay region.
Top Things to Do in Moreton Bay
If you’re craving for adventure, relaxation, and a taste of something new, Moreton Bay has it all! An unforgettable escape awaits you to pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, abundant wildlife and marine life, and so much more.
Get ready to uncover the treasures of Moreton Bay. Here are the top things to do to get you started on your adventure!
1. Explore the Islands
Moreton Bay boasts a collection of islands just off its shores, each offering a unique experience. Here’s a glimpse into some of the region’s must-visit islands.
Moreton Island, the jewel of the bay, is a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Explore the world’s third largest sand island on a 4WD adventure, tackling sand dunes and discovering hidden freshwater lakes.
Snorkel or dive the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks, a haven for vibrant marine life. At night, witness the magical spectacle of hand-feeding wild bottlenose dolphins.
Bribie Island is just a short drive from Brisbane and is accessible by land, offering a relaxed retreat perfect for a quick, laid-back island getaway. Its waters are also ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, fishing, and surfing for beginners.
You can explore the island’s diverse landscape and marine life. Kayak through the Pumicestone Passage and witness the plethora of marine and birdlife that makes the waterway one of the most important marine and bird habitats on Australia’s east coast.
An island steeped in history, St. Helena Island offers a glimpse into Queensland’s colonial past. During the late 1800s to early 1900s, the island served as a high-security prison and quarantine facility.
While soaking up the island sun, you can take a historic walk to see the ruins of the prison, quarantine station, cemetery, convict hospital, and superintendent’s quarters.
Peel Island is a tranquil gem ideal for those seeking a secluded escape. The island’s Horseshoe Bay and Platypus Bay are perfect spots for swimming and snorkeling – keep an eye out for dolphins, dugongs, and turtles!
Despite being small compared to its neighbors, the island is home to diverse marine and bird life as well as a rich history. Over the last centuries, it has been a home to an asylum, leper colony, quarantine station, and sisal farm.
Minjerribah or North Stradbroke Island (“Straddie”), lies south of Moreton Island and is the second largest sand island in the world (the largest being K’gari up north).
Straddie is one of the most must-visit islands in Moreton Bay and it’ll only take a 30-minute ferry ride to get there from Cleveland.
As you step into this island paradise, there’s plenty to explore, from pristine beaches, magical lakes, and scenic walks, to the best dive sites, surf spots, and foodie spots.
You can even spot dolphins, turtles, and manta rays from the cliffs, and even humpback whales during migration season!
Other islands worth visiting are Coochiemudlo Island that has lots of activities for the whole family and King Island. You can walk to King Island from Wellington Point through a one-kilometer long sand pathway that appears at low tide.
2. Have a Splashing Good Time
Moreton Bay offers thrilling adventures for water enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping action or a serene paddle in calm waters, there’s something here for you!
Swimming
The region boasts calm and inviting waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. Popular swimming spots include the sheltered bays of Bribie Island like Bongaree, Sylvan, and Woorim Beach, ideal for families with young children.
The calm Pumicestone Passage is another excellent choice, offering a protected environment for a leisurely swim. If you’re in Moreton Island, don’t miss a relaxing dip in the beautiful Blue Lagoon.
Similar to Streets Beach in South Brisbane, Moreton Bay also has a man-made lagoon in Redcliffe called Settlement Cove Lagoon with gorgeous views of the bay. Suttons Beach is also a popular swimming spot in Redcliffe.
Moreton Bay also boasts water holes that are perfect for a swim and splash. These include Rocky Hole at Mt. Mee and Stony Creek in Bellthorpe.
Snorkeling and Diving
For underwater enthusiasts, Moreton Bay is a wonderland. Explore the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks near Moreton Island, teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks, while manta rays and dugongs can also be spotted in the deeper waters.
The Manta Bommie in Minjerribah is considered one of the best dive sites in Australia as it attracts diverse marine life with the star of the show being the majestic manta rays.
Flinders Reef is a protected marine sanctuary near Moreton Island and is the closest coral reef from Brisbane. The reef is home to diverse species of corals and fish, and you can also spot turtles, stingrays, invertebrates, wobbegong sharks, and manta rays.
Surfing
For those looking to ride some waves, you can find consistent swells which are also ideal for beginners at Woorim Beach in Bribie Island.
North Stradbroke Island also has several surf spots for the more experienced wave riders. These include Main Beach, Cylinder Beach, and Frenchmans Beach.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
If you want to just gently row on by, kayaking is a relaxing way to exercise those arm muscles while soaking in the scenery and even spotting wildlife! You can start your paddle adventures at Bongaree Beach and Pumicestone Passage in Bribie Island.
Test your balance with SUP or stand up paddle boarding! You can try it at Scarborough Beach, Hays Inlet, North Pine River, Hays Inlet, and Lake Kurwongbah.
You can also try SUP at the Pumicestone Passage, Minjerribah, Moreton Island, Caboolture River, Raby Bay, Wellington Point, and Coochiemudlo Island.
3. Discover Nature and Wildlife
Moreton Bay is teeming with marine and wildlife and is home to the Moreton Bay Marine Park where you can find some of Australia’s premier wetlands.
Over a thousand species of fish dwell in this area, three species of dolphins, six out of the seven species of turtles in the world, as well as dugongs, rays, sharks, and more.
There are operators that offer tours around the marine park such as Tangalooma Island Resort, Dolphin Wild, and River to Bay.
That’s just the tip of Moreton Bay’s diverse ecosystem iceberg as it’s also home to a wide array of birdlife and flora and fauna. To learn more, you can visit environmental centers such as Kumbartcho Sanctuary and Osprey House.
Lake Eden in North Lakes is also a great place to relax amidst nature with plenty of activities for kids as well as wildlife watching.
Contrary to what its name suggests, Moreton Bay isn’t all about the coastal life as the region is also home to lush hinterlands.
You can visit Dayboro to get a taste of that country charm, Samford for a relaxing nature retreat, or head to Woodford and explore Bellthorpe National Park.
D’Aguilar National Park offers a perfect hinterland escape with refreshing swimming holes, bushwalking trails, and challenging mountain climbs for the adventurous.
4. Unwind at the Beach
With a plethora of relaxing beach destinations around Moreton Bay, all you have to do is find your own perfect spot under the sun!
The Redcliffe Peninsula boasts several family-friendly beaches where you can take a stroll, ride a bike, or simply just take in the scenery. You can head to Suttons Beach, Redcliffe Beach, Scarborough Beach, and Queens Beach.
There are pathways by the beach ideal for walking, running, and cycling. Plus, some also have playgrounds for the kids to enjoy.
Of course, you can have plenty of beach time at the Moreton Bay islands. On Bribie Island, unwind at Woorim, Sylvan, and Bongaree Beach, which are all ideal for swimming.
On Moreton Island, Tangalooma Beach is a perfect place to unwind and you can also order some drinks and snacks at Tangalooma Island Resort.
Coochiemudlo Island offers a great island escape if you’re looking for a quick getaway as the ferry crossing from Victoria Point only takes 10 minutes.
5. Immerse Yourself in Moreton Bay Culture and History
This coastal region also brims with historic and cultural gems. Dive into Moreton Bay’s rich heritage at Redcliffe Museum and Pine Rivers Heritage Museum and explore the region’s indigenous heritage, dating back before the European settlement.
At Old Petrie Town, you can step into a living museum where history comes alive! Explore recreated colonial-era buildings, watch blacksmithing demonstrations, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of early Queensland life.
When in Bribie Island, the Bribie Island Seaside Museum is a must-visit! You can dive into the island’s indigenous heritage, European settlement stories, and natural environment.
But Moreton Bay’s cultural offerings go beyond the local. At the Abbey Museum of Art & Archaeology, you can marvel at a unique collection of Roman, medieval, and ancient Egyptian artifacts, including illuminated manuscripts, stained glass, and Roman pottery.
If you want to get a dose of history while getting your steps in, you can follow the Moreton Bay heritage trails.
6. Treat Your Tastebuds
Not only is it a haven for adventurers, Moreton Bay is also a foodie’s paradise with its delectable selection of culinary gems. Here are some of our local faves!
- Pitstop Cafe – Take a scenic drive along Mt. Mee Road and stop at this motor-themed cafe with breathtaking views! Fuel yourself with affordable breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and browse some local crafts and souvenirs.
- The Komo – A refreshing spot by the water at Redcliffe, The Komo serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a bright and relaxing atmosphere.
- The Rustic Olive – Treat yourself to authentic Italian cuisine at The Rustic Olive. Located on Redcliffe Parade, enjoy some pizza, pastas, risotto, seafood, steak, and salad along with stunning bay vistas.
- Tempest Restaurant – This award-winning seafood teppanyaki restaurant is one of our go-to local gems. Savor the freshest seafood, enjoy a drink, and just soak up the laid-back coastal vibe.
- The Dayboro Drop – Dayboro’s hidden gem, this restaurant offers creative dishes using the freshest and locally sourced produce from the charming town.
Planning Your Moreton Bay Trip
- Consider the season – Moreton Bay enjoys a subtropical climate with warm to hot summers and mild winters. If you crave sunshine and outdoor adventures, plan your trip between September and April.
For cool and pleasant weather and fewer crowds, you can choose to visit from May to August.
- Decide your activities – Do you dream of exploring pristine islands, diving into vibrant coral reefs, or unwinding on secluded beaches? Moreton Bay caters to a range of interests, so do your research and factor them into your itinerary.
- Book activities and tours in advance – Certain tours and activities can fill up quickly. Secure your spot by booking dolphin feeding experiences, snorkeling trips, or 4WD adventures well in advance, especially during peak season.
Getting to Moreton Bay
Brisbane serves as your convenient launchpad to explore the wonders of Moreton Bay. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, a relaxing cruise, or a budget-friendly option, you have several transportation choices at your disposal.
For a classic road trip experience, hit the M1 motorway and enjoy the coastal scenery. You’ll reach the coastal suburbs of Moreton Bay in approximately 45 minutes.
When it comes to public transport, buses operated by TransLink offer an affordable alternative, connecting Brisbane to various Moreton Bay destinations.
The Queensland Rail City network provides another option, connecting Brisbane to key Moreton Bay towns like Caboolture and Northgate. You can then hail a taxi to get you to your chosen destination.
If you prefer a more relaxed journey, consider a ferry ride. Departing from the Brisbane CBD, ferries transport you directly to Moreton Island, allowing you to soak up the stunning water views.
Where to Stay
Here are our recommended accommodations in Moreton Bay depending on your location:
- North Lakes Hotel, North Lakes
- On the Bay Apartments, Bongaree, Bribie Island
- On the Beach Resort, Bribie Island
- The Sebel Brisbane Margate Beach, Redcliffe
- Oaks Redcliffe Mon Komo Suites, Redcliffe
- Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island
- Mulgumpin Camping, Moreton Island
- Caboolture Riverlakes Motel, Caboolture
- Anchorage on Straddie, North Stradbroke Island
- Minjerribah Camping, North Stradbroke Island
