Moreton Island

Oceania

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Australia

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Moreton Island

Moreton Island, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, is a popular destination with several attractions that make it worth a visit. The island is home to the well-known Tangalooma Shipwrecks, a collection of ships intentionally destroyed to provide a breakwall for smaller boats. Visitors can explore the thriving marine life that has formed around the wrecks, offering great opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

The island boasts untouched beaches and pristine seas with turquoise colors, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Moreton Island is also rich in wildlife, including dolphins, turtles, and various bird species. At Tangalooma Resort, visitors can even hand-feed wild dolphins, creating a unique and memorable wildlife experience.

Moreover, Moreton Island is easily accessible from Brisbane, making it a convenient destination for day trips or longer stays. Regular ferries and barges operate between the mainland and the island.

Get to Know Moreton Island

Take a tour of this destination's highlights

Travel Tips for Moreton Island

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Moreton Island

A guide to Moreton Island's local transportation

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Vehicle

Bicycles

All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)

Boating

Walking

Having a four-wheel-drive vehicle provides the most flexibility when visiting Moreton Island, especially if you plan to access remote or challenging locations. The rental cost for a 4WD vehicle is AU$ 60 per day. Please note that a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to reach certain areas of the island, including beaches and inland tracks. Additionally, some areas may require a vehicle access permit, so make sure to obtain the necessary permits before exploring with a 4WD.

Practical Tips for Moreton Island

Things to prepare and best way to visit

How long does it take to travel around Moreton Island?

If you're short on time, you can experience some of Moreton Island's highlights on a day trip. Many tour operators offer day trips from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, allowing you to explore specific attractions like the Tangalooma wrecks and sand dunes, and enjoy water activities. However, to fully appreciate the diverse offerings of Moreton Island, including camping, hiking, and exploring remote areas, consider staying for 3 to 5 days. This duration allows you to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty, engage in various activities, and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Can you walk around Moreton Island?

Due to its size and various terrains, it is not possible to walk the entire island of Moreton. However, there are certain parts of the island that are walkable. The island is approximately 37 kilometers long and around 10 kilometers wide at its widest point, making it the third largest sand island in the world in terms of length and width.

Which area of Moreton Island offers the most natural wonders?

The lighthouse at Cape Moreton, located at the northernmost point of the island, is a well-known landmark with stunning views. The area features a variety of landscapes, including rocky shorelines, cliffs, and pristine beaches. Cape Moreton is an excellent spot for whale watching during the migration season, and the surrounding waterways are often home to dolphins and turtles.

When is the best time to visit Moreton Island?

Autumn, from March to May, is considered one of the best times to visit Moreton Island. The weather is generally mild, and the water temperatures are still warm, making it suitable for various water activities. The island is also less crowded compared to the peak summer season.

What is Moreton Island famous for?

One of the most iconic features of Moreton Island is the Tangalooma Wrecks, a collection of ships deliberately sunk to create a breakwall for small boats. The wrecks have become a popular snorkeling and diving site, attracting visitors with their vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.