Essential Experiences on Stradbroke Island

A trip to stunning Stradbroke Island is a must for anyone wanting to experience the laidback vibe of a Queensland coastal island in close proximity to the convenience of Brisbane and the Gold Coast. While it might just be a ferry ride away, the holiday vibe will have you feeling as though you’re miles from anywhere. North Stradbroke Island is the more popular of the two islands, with more facilities for tourists, but wherever you go on Stradbroke there are a few essential experiences that you must have. Here’s a brief guide to get you started with your planning…

Whale Watching

From June to November each year, majestic humpback whales make their way across the North Gorge Headland on their way to their calving grounds in the Great Barrier Reef. This incredible journey starts out in the waters of Antarctica, and draws thousands of tourists each year as the spectacle of Mother Nature at her best reaffirms the way things are supposed to be in the wild. Stradbroke Island is the perfect vantage point from which to grab a front row seat and watch a part of these whales’ stories unfold.

4WDing

Four-wheel-driving is something that Stradbroke Island is also famous for, and if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous on your beachside holiday, then make sure you get in on the action. Either take a 4WD tour or brave the wild yourself and test your skills behind the wheel. The sand dunes, bush land and scenery are best experienced off the beaten track, and when it comes to getting back to nature, Straddie is one of the best places in the country to do it.

Camping

While there are countless accommodation options on Stradbroke Island, sometimes the best way to relax and get away from it all is with nothing but yourself, a sleeping bag and a sturdy tent to see you through the night. There are plenty of world class camp sites on Stradbroke, and even if roughing it isn’t really your thing, spending at least a night in the great outdoors, waking up to the sound of the waves and the smell of bacon on an open fire is an essential experience for visitors to the island. Let’s just see if the beautiful scenery can change your mind about camping once and for all, shall we?

Snorkeling and Fishing

Whether you’re hoping to come face to face with a fish or you’d rather come fork to face with one, Stradbroke Island is the place to do it. Teeming with life, the waters surrounding Straddie are perfect for dropping a line or strapping on a snorkel and scoping out the underwater action. Chartering a fishing boat is very easy, and with a little bit of luck you’ll come home with dinner—because after all, everyone knows that fish always tastes better when you’ve caught it yourself!