North Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as the locals call it, is the second-largest sand island in the world. It is located right off the coast of Brisbane and a real hidden gem. North Stradbroke Island has vast wildlife, an incredible landscape and a very picturesque coast. If you are looking for a relaxing and fun day trip Straddie should be on your list.
To Get To the island
You can either drive and park at the sealink ferry terminal which is around a 40 minute drive from Brisbane city. Or it is possible to catch public transport from Brisbane to the ferry. To get to the island head to Cleveland which is around 40 minute drive from the city. From there you catch the 25 minute ferry to the island. There is a passenger ferry or you can take over your car. Tickets for passengers return start from $21 return. Which you can bring your bike along to for no additional fee. The car ferry starts from $79 per car one way. Click Here to find more information about the ferry. If you dont bring your car there is a public bus which can take you to the major spots on the island.
Places to Visit on the Island
Point Lookout
You will find some small shops here with cafes, fish n chips and an ice-cream shop. The prices are much more expensive on the island. If your on a budget We would suggest to bring your own lunch and have a picnic with the ocean views. The main attraction here and is defiantly a must do while on the island is visiting North Gorge walk, It’s a 1.5 km walk going past beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs of the Gorge.
Main Beach
Main Beach is more than 30 km long and a popular swimming and surf beach. You can drive at the beach with your four-wheel drive after getting a vehicle access permit. Click Here to get your pass starting from $57. You can view the main beach from the boardwalk at point lookout.
Brown Lake
Another famous spot that you can visit on a day trip to North Stradbroke Island is Brown Lake. Unfortunately, it’s not accessible via public transport. Brown Lake is a natural freshwater lake that has its colour from tea trees. It’s a popular swimming spot and offers picnic facilities.
Blue Lake via the Kaboora Track
Located about 10 minute drive from Dunwich. There is a small car park where you can park to begin the walk. The return trip is around 6km and will take around 1 hour to get to the blue lake viewing platform. From the blue lake you can return the same way or head up the stairs to Neembeeba Lookout.
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