North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) or Straddie as locals like to call it is in Moreton Bay, just one hour ferry from Brisbane. If you grew up in South East Queensland, it’s quite possible that North Stradbroke Island would be your backyard. And for the rest, North Stradbroke Island is a must-visit destination on their bucket list. Whether you are a first timer or a Straddie expert, these are some of the must-see, must-do experiences on the island.
North Gorge Walk
Straddie’s impressive headland walk called the North Gorge walk is located at the northwestern end of Point Lookout and is the best vantage point on the island to watch the whales and marine life pass right before your eyes.
The walk encompasses the best of both worlds, with its raw and jagged headland on one side, and natural bushland on the other. Known for offering the best viewing experience of migrating humpback whales, the Gorge Walk also has a unique rock formation called the ‘Blow Hole’, which makes a noise like that of the Humpback whale. The Gorge Walk is a North Stradbroke Island icon and reveals just how pristine and unspoiled the island truly is.
Access to the Gorge Walk is on Mooloomba Road at Point Lookout, opposite Fishes Cafe and the Oceanic Gelati Shop.
Brown Lake (Bummiera)
As you may have already guessed, the lake gets its name from its colour. The tea trees surrounding the lake lend it a brown tinge and it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing swim. Brown lake is located just 3.5km from Dunwich. The lake is of cultural significance to the aboriginal community of North Stradbroke Island as they possess a spiritual and physical relationship with the ecosystem.
Whale watching
North Stradbroke Island is probably the only place in the country where you can watch the majestic whales without leaving the shore. From June to November, you can experience the whale migration from several vantage points on the shores of the island. Find a spot on top of the cliffs over Cylinder Beach to North Gorge and keep an eye out for these beautiful creatures.
Scuba diving
Straddie has some of the best diving sites in Southeast Queensland. With an average visibility of 15-2 m and up to 30 m in summer, scuba diving is a must-do activity on Stradbroke Island. And you can even get qualified with Manta Lodge & Scuba centre.
Salt Water Murris' Art Gallery
Learn about the local art and culture at the Salt Water Murris’ Art Gallery. This Aboriginal Art Gallery is operated by local traditional owner artists. Authentic Aboriginal contemporary arts and craft.
Up to 80 members of the Indigenous community continue to actively participate in Salt Water Murris’ Quandamooka practising their air in the community learning centre, exhibiting the SWMQ gallery as well as participating in art commissions, dancing and cultural projects.
The Dunwich Cemetery
The Dunwich Cemetery is the second oldest cemetery in Queensland. A walk through provides an insight into the different people that have stepped on the shores of North Stradbroke Island and have made it their final resting place. The Dunwich Cemetery is a10-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum on Minjerribah
The museum provides people with an opportunity to learn about the vast history of North Stradbroke Island. North Stradbroke Island is not just a beautiful paradise; it also has an amazing history which the museum showcases. The museum provides people with an opportunity to learn about the history of North Stradbroke Island, from its Aboriginal history to its shipwrecks during the 1800s and its current mineral sand mining industry. The museum is a 10 minute walk from the ferry terminal.
Point Lookout Markets
Head to the Point Lookout Markets at the Point Lookout Bowls club on East Coast Road. You can find a wide range of local handicrafts, art and locally made food products. Check the Point Lookout Markets Facebook page for market dates.