Exploring North Stradbroke Island by 4x4

BEING the second largest sand island in the world, Minjerribah, as it is known by the traditional owners, the Quandamooka people, lies within Moreton Bay and is situated off the coast of Redland City, southeast of Brisbane. It’s colloquially known as ‘Straddie’.

A storm in the late 19th century caused the island to be split into two, forming North and South Stradbroke Islands, which are separated by the Jumpinpin Channel.

Main Beach runs down the east coast of the island, for 32km of beach frontage and an abundance of foreshore campsites to choose from. Who can’t pass up the opportunity to have pristine waterfront accommodation?

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The campsites on Main Beach are scattered all along the dunes and you can find them by entering any of the track entrances directly from the beach. These are clearly sign written, and the choice is yours when it comes to selecting a site. There are heaps to choose from, either right on the dunes or farther back out of the wind, and keep an eye out for the perfect spot to erect a hammock for those lazy days.

BRISBANE ESCAPES: North Straddie

Common sense also prevails when beach driving, like anywhere really: let the tyres down, have recovery gear on hand, and don’t drive on the beach two hours either side of high tide.

For the keen fisherman, the best spot to wet a line is right down the southern end of Main Beach at a spot called Jumpinpin Channel, or ‘The Pin’ to locals. This bar is every boaties ticket to the open waters of Moreton Bay; although, it is driven by high tides and strong currents and isn’t the best spot for swimming – for land-based fishing from the beach, though, this is the spot you need to be.

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With a clear view south, you can see the buildings on the Gold Coast and it’s the ultimate spot to crack a cold one, wet a line, catch some dinner and watch the sun go down ... there really isn’t anything more you could ask for.

After watching the sunset on the point, head back to camp and get that fire cranking and whack a casserole in the crock pot. The darkness lit up by the flames of the fire, eating cooked marshmallows off a stick and the sound of the waves crashing on the beach with the salty air surrounding you is everyone’s explanation of serenity.

Nothing beats going to sleep to the sound of the waves … well maybe one thing ... if you’re an early riser, you will be in awe every morning as you catch the sunrise over the water. It certainly is a showstopper and be sure not to miss a single sunrise, it’s Mother Nature at her best.

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There are other camping areas on the island to choose from as well and they are situated on the northern part of the island. Flinders Beach offers sheltered, dog-friendly, beachfront-facilitated campsites, plus camping areas available at Amity Point, Cylinder Beach and Home Beach, to name a few.

QLD TRIP: Moreton & Straddie

For those that aren’t keen on roughing it, there are other accommodation options at Adder Rock Campground, which offers powered and unpowered caravan, trailer and tent sites, as well as glamping eco tents and cabins.

There are two townships on the island which have shops, bars, restaurants and cafes, providing options for restocking of supplies, fuel, water and air. You’ll find these at Dunwich and Point Lookout.

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POINT LOOKOUT

THE North Gorge Walk at Point Lookout is a must-do when you visit Straddie, it provides superb views out to sea and a great way to spot some whales between June to October, so don’t forget the camera!

While out and about, you can’t go past Brown Lake. Known for its colour which is caused by the tannin in the water, Brown Lake is a freshwater lake with picnic areas that make for a good day trip and a great spot for lunch and a dip.

TOP 5: Best beach drives in Oz

Not far from Brown Lake, there is Blue Lake, known as ‘Kaboora’ by the Quandamooka people, meaning ‘deep silent pool’. There’s a 5.2km walking track to get to the lake, so bring your walking shoes as you’ll have to earn the swim at this one.

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Straddie is truly spectacular, and while you have to do a little exploration to be able to see the special spots, there is an abundance of things to see and do that will keep the whole family entertained. Bring the kids, bring the dog, pack the fourbie and hop on that ferry, you don’t know what you’re missing out on, and once you make it to Straddie, you’ll be coming back for more.

There is so much to see and do that you may not get a chance to do it all in one trip, so it makes for a perfect excuse to return.

WHERE

Main Beach, North Stradbroke Island

CAMPING

Unfacilitated beachfront camping on the dunes.

CONTACTS & INFORMATION

Stradbroke Ferries: www.sealinkseq.com.au
Camping: www.minjerribahcamping.com.au

RESTRICTIONS & PERMITS

Vehicle access permits are required to drive on the beach.
Camping Permits are also required.

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