Travellers guide to Brisbane’s Islands

Are you keen to head off on your annual summer road trip but feel like you’ve ticked off all the destinations you can? Think again fellow adventure folk, the islands surrounding Brisbane are well worth a visit for avid travellers who enjoy scenic views and a fun road trip that’s not far from home. And with so many vans located around Brisbane, it's the perfect weekend escape!

Let us break it down for you below…

Moreton Island

Moreton Island is the 3rd biggest sand island in the world and lies just 40km to the northeast of Brisbane. Accessible by ferry and 4WD, this island is well worth the trip! You’ll have to journey through Tangalooma to reach this beautiful sandy oasis. Families love heading to this remote island to spend time together, connecting while completely unplugged from the real world.

Best for: Adventure seekers. Those with 4WD experience who want to get off-road!

Where to Stay

There’s no better way to enjoy the beauty of Moreton Island than setting up your tent right on the beach. The island features five campgrounds that are run by the National Parks Authority; North Point, Blue Lagoon, Comboyuro, Ben-Ewa, and The Wrecks. Choose from campgrounds with toilets, showers, and options to light a campfire. Many are accessible by 4WD.

What to Do

This area is an excellent holiday destination for families where you can explore the ancient region featuring volcanic rock built up over 400,000+ years. Visit Mount Tempest, the highest coastal sand dune in the world. Climb all the way up to the top for panoramic views that will take your breath away.

Bribie Island

Bribie Island has everything you need for an epic family getaway right on your doorstep! Take your 4WD over the Pumicestone Passage Bridge, and you’ll end up in a stunning holiday destination that will make you feel like you’re on a faraway island, giving us the ultimate in Fiji vibes. From central Brisbane, it’ll take you just an hour to reach the island.

Best for: Families looking for an idyllic holiday escape.

Where to Stay

Big4 Sandstone Holiday Resort is an excellent choice of accommodation for families. They have numerous options to suit your budget and preferences, from camping sites to powered caravan sites through to a 4-bedroom villa with plenty of space to spread out and relax. They even have a kid’s water park your kids can enjoy splashing around in to cool off.

What to Do

Whether you’re a fishing fanatic, beach go-er, or love a surge of adrenaline, Bribie Island truly has it all. Hire a kayak for a trek into the sea or paddle around to the glistening waters of Moreton Bay. Head to the Bribie Seaside Museum to walk back through time or stretch your legs on the self-guided Bongaree ‘Walkabout’ Heritage Trail.

North Stradbroke Island

If you have some nature lovers in your family, they will be thrilled to holiday on North Stradbroke Island. From Brisbane, simply make the 40-minute drive to Cleveland, where you’ll be able to take your 4WD over on the vehicle ferry directly to North Stradbroke Island.

Best for: Weekend warriors looking for a quiet escape from the Monday-Friday hustle and bustle

Where to Stay

For a resort-style vacation, Point Lookout has plenty of luxurious options available. For those who love camping out under the stars with the sound of the ocean lulling them to sleep, you can camp on the beach at Flinders and Main Beaches. Or make your way over to the camping grounds at Cylinder Beach or Adder Rock if you want to camp with amenities close at hand.

What to Do

Take the kiddies and explore the island at your own pace by either bringing your own or hiring a 4WD. Zoom around the island, exploring the remote beaches to find the perfect spot to park up for the day. BYO picnic optional!

Don’t forget to make the journey to Blue Lake, an area that is especially significant to the local Quandamooka people. Located within the Naree Budjong Djara National Park, the 5.2km track through the Wallum Woodlands is worth it to see the gorgeous flora and fauna of the area.

Our Top Tips:

For most of these destinations, you’ll need to apply for a camping and 4WD permit before arriving on the island. With just a little organisation, you’ll be on your way to paradise in no time.

With so much to explore around the Brisbane area, it is time to look for the van you need.