Just off the Sunshine Coast, 75 minutes by ferry from Brisbane, lies one of Queensland's lesser-known natural wonders: Moreton Island National Park. Pristine beaches, clear waters full of marine life, mangroves full of critters and towering sand dunes combine to make this 37 kilometre-long, vegetated sand island a major tourist draw. People come to fish in Moreton Bay’s bountiful waters, tramp the island's trails and explore its ship wrecks.The Ngugi people were the earliest known inhabitants of the island, which they called Moorgumpin, a few thousand years ago. Reminders of their presence here can be found scattered across the island in middens – or dumping grounds – that contain oyster, whelk, periwinkle and cockle shells. Head to Spitfire Creek to find some examples. Other points of historical interest are the colonial and World War II relics on the island such as the fort that you can reach via the 9.8-kilometre Rous Battery Track.The trails along this wedge-shaped island are a key part of its allure and lead visitors to many of the national park’s most impressive features. The Mount Tempest Trail winds 280 metres to the top of the world’s highest coastal sand dune for stunning views. The Desert Track is the one to take to spot some of the island’s abundant wildlife, such as crabs and sea birds, while the Cape Morton Circuit will bring you to Queensland’s oldest lighthouse, constructed by convicts in 1857.Another big attraction for visitors is the chance of spotting wildlife. Dolphins, whales, dugongs, sharks and schools of colorful fish swim along the island’s coastline. Humpback whales can be seen from the shore from June to November. You might also catch sight of freshwater frogs and fish in the inland Blue Lagoon.Moreton Island is best accessible by ferry, because there are no public boat ramps on the island. Barges depart daily from Lytton, in Brisbane's port, where you can park for a fee. It is recommended to rent an SUV to traverse the sandy terrain, as that is the only way to explore the island if you don't want to hike far. You do need a license from the Queensland Department of National Parks to drive and camp on the island. Angling is only allowed in certain areas and there are strict catch size regulations, which you can find on the department’s website.Bring your own supplies, because most of the island is a National Park and facilities are limited.
Moreton Island National Park Tours and Activities
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Morgan Suites
South Brisbane
per person
26 Jun - 30 Jun
Return direct flight included
Wellington (WLG) to Brisbane (BNE)
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,833 reviews)
Expensive for what it is, should be impeccable for the price. Odd lay out with couch in a position blocking the fridge from openning. No reception in unit and no privacy when window open at all, other units staring straight in.
Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Rydges South Bank
South Brisbane
per person
26 Jun - 30 Jun
Return direct flight included
Wellington (WLG) to Brisbane (BNE)
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
Love staying at Rydges, very close to South Bank pools, bars and restaurants, only a few mins walk across the road. This is our 4th stay within the last 6 months!
Reviewed on 5 May 2024
Popular places to visit
Blue Lagoon
4/5(10 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Blue Lagoon, a lovely green space in Moreton Island. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.
Tangalooma Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Tangalooma Beach during your trip to Brisbane?
Tangalooma Wrecks
5/5(24 reviews)
Enjoy an outing to Tangalooma Wrecks during your stay in Brisbane. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.
Braydon Beach
Explore the great outdoors at Braydon Beach, a lovely green space in Brisbane.
Bulwer Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Bulwer Beach during your trip to Brisbane?
Comboyuro Point
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Comboyuro Point during your trip to Brisbane?
Top Moreton Island National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals
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Tangalooma Island Resort
Moreton Island, Off Brisbane, Tangalooma, Moreton Island, QLD
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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