Gheebulum Kunungai (Moreton Island)
Queensland
With its miles of sun-bleached sandy beaches, towering dunes, shimmering lagoons, and pockets of wild bushland, Gheebulum Kunungai (Moreton Island) feels a world away from nearby Brisbane. A national park and among the largest sand island in the world, Moreton Island makes for a perfect day trip when you want to get in touch with nature.
Reachable by ferry from Brisbane, Moreton Island National Park is a popular weekend retreat for travelers and city dwellers, and it’s easy to take in the highlights on a day trip. For the best experience, book a tour to soak up the scenery while spotting whales and dolphins on a cruise around Moreton Bay; swim or snorkel at Tangalooma beach; zip along the sand tracks and dunes on all-terrain vehicles; or get your adrenaline fix with activities like sand tobogganing, parasailing, paddleboarding, riding a glass-bottom boat, or kayaking.
Temperatures can reach upwards of 86°F (30°C) in summer, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as well as a swimsuit and towel.
Bring picnic supplies and bottled water with you from the mainland, as there is only one shop on Moreton Island.
Moreton Island is a sand island, so trails and beaches are only accessible by 4WD vehicles. A vehicle permit is also required.
The Tangalooma Island Resort is wheelchair-accessible and offers beach wheelchairs, but not all island activities are fully accessible to those with limited mobility.
Moreton Island is located about 36 miles (58 kilometers) northeast of Brisbane on the southeast coast of Queensland and is reachable only by boat or private plane. Daily ferries leave from the Port of Brisbane and Eagle Farm and reach the island in about 75 minutes. Tours typically depart from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, or the Sunshine Coast.
Water temperatures rarely drop below 70°F (21°C), making the island a comfortable swimming destination year-round. The summer months from November to February are the warmest and busiest. Visiting out of season can mean cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and better deals on tours and accommodations. Wildlife enthusiasts may want to visit during the whale-watching season from June to October.
Snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks and feeding wild dolphins are popular activities, but there are island adventures to be had off the beaten track. Climb the Mount Tempest dune for an unforgettable coastal view; visit the historic Cape Moreton Lighthouse; take a dip in the Blue Lagoon or the Champagne Pools; or hike among World War II ruins along the Rous Battery track.
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