Moreton Island – South East Queensland

Without a doubt, Moreton Island is our favourite local island within the Brisbane City limits. It has everything Adventure Seekers like us look for in a quick weekend getaway or an action packed 5-day trip. There is a solid mix of four-wheel drive tracks, secluded campsites, hiking trails to explore, marine life experiences and plenty of beaches to throw a line in or kick back and ‘unwind’ on.   If you talk to any keen off-roader, they’ll tell you that one of the biggest appeals to owning a four-wheel drive vehicle is the ability to access destinations that other vehicles can’t. This is true for Moreton, and we love it! Day-trippers can catch the ferry over from Brisbane or Redcliffe, but since the whole island is made up of sand tracks, unless they book a tour, they don’t have the luxury like us off-roaders do. We loved our time exploring Moreton Island and have decided that this will be one Queensland island destination we will continue to return to over and over again.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVING
As four-wheel drive enthusiasts we’d rather explore by laying fresh tracks, and luckily Moreton Island offers over 420kms of unsealed roads with a variety of inland tracks, and long beach runs on both the West and East Coast.  Track conditions aren’t difficult, but if you’re a novice it’s important to understand your capabilities, the need for correct tyre pressure, don’t forget to pack recovery gear and plan correctly! Most importantly, check tide times before you starting exploring!

Hint: They have four air hoses onboard the MICAT to assist your preparation. Air down early ready to get rolling once you hit the island.

CAMPING
Every campsite on Moreton is a cracker! Whether you’re towing a camper trailer or sleeping in a tent, the campsite options on the island cater for all outdoor set-ups. No matter what way the wind is blowing you can escape it, if you prefer secluded sites, then you’ll find them, and if toilets and showers are an essential, you’ll be relieved. Campfires are permitted so make sure you bring your own timber as taking it from the island is prohibited!

Our two favourite campsites, due to the secluded layout were at the Comboyuro Point site on the West Coast and just South of Rous Battery on the East Coast. Campsite bookings are essential through QLD Parks.

EXPLORING
Holidays are for relaxing but don’t waste too much time lazing around soaking up the sun. If you have a sandboard, pack it, if you’re a keen fisherman, get set to hook a few and if you don’t mind hiking then dust off your boots! We’d recommend a visit to Champagne Pools, the Cape Moreton Lighthouse, the WW11 remnants at Rous Battery and if you’d like to get your heart rate up, hike Mount Tempest for a 360 – degree view of the island and beyond. Whether you’re on foot, in a boat or traversing in your four-wheel drive, there is so much to experience on Moreton Island.

MORETON ISLAND V FRASER ISLAND
Moreton Island is often overlooked by those who are chasing the allure of Fraser, but in all honesty, as much as we love Fraser Island we would choose to return to Moreton Island before visiting Fraser again. It’s appealing because it’s smaller and easier to drive around, there are fewer reckless young drivers flogging their trucks, the beaches are a lot nicer, and the fact that campfires are still permitted is a major pull!!

FERRY TRANSFERS & PERMITS
MICAT Booking Information for Pedestrian and Vehicle transport – www.moretonislandadventures.com.au
Tangalooma Passenger Launch for Pedestrians only – www.tangalooma.com
Passenger Only Ferry on the Redcliffe 2 Moreton Express – www.visitmoretonbayregion.com.au

OUR 5 TOP LOCATIONS
1. Tangalooma Wreck
Spend a few hours snorkelling and swimming the famous wrecks for a look at stunning marine life. When you’re waterlogged, kick back on the beach with a picnic and soak up the view.
2. Moreton Bay Rock Oysters
If you love indulging in Oysters, then make time to stop in at the Moreton Bay Rock Oyster Farm. We picked up one dozen for $15, and they were delicious. www.moretonbayrockoysters.com.au
3. Mount Tempest
For a different perspective of the island, hike up Mount Tempest, the highest sand dune on the island and enjoy the 360-degree view. On a clear day, you’ll see the Glasshouse Mountains.
4. Rous Battery
Explore the remnants of a World War II Fort at Rous Battery on the East side of the island.
5. The Gutter Bar
Enjoy an icy cold beer at the Gutter Bar at the Southern and quieter end of the Island.