North Stradbroke Island – all you need to know
Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world located within Moreton Bay, also known as Quandamooka by the Indigenous land owners, but more affectionately known as "Straddie" by the locals. You will be quickly immersed into the local culture and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of small village life.
The island's wetlands have been world listed under RAMSAR which means they have been recognised for their significant environmental value and must be protected for future generations to enjoy.
The area is surrounded by long white beaches perfect for swimming, surfing and fishing. The sub-tropical climate can be enjoyed all year round and is the ideal location for all types of holidays, from a relaxing romantic getaway, to a fun-filled family trip.
Stradbroke Island can cater to all accommodation needs and budgets. There is ample opportunity to enjoy breathtaking waterfront accommodation with plenty of houses and units available. Looking for a romantic cottage or a luxury home with water views? You will find it here.
Not even your four legged friend needs to miss out on the Straddie experience! Pet friendly accommodation is also available. Pet-friendly houses will generally have a fenced yard or enclosure, and offer all the amenities that discerning couples and families are looking for. Look through the delightful homes and units on our HOLIDAY page for more details on your options.
History
The area is rich in culture and has been home to the Goenpul, Ngugi and Noonuccal tribes for about 22,000 years. These skilled fishermen have been known for their generosity throughout history. Matthew Flinders even wrote about them offering his crew water when they landed at Point Lookout in the early nineteenth century. History buffs will want to visit the local museum to find out more about Straddie's facinating history.
The Quandamooka women were famous for their weaving and those traditional skills are still practiced today.
North Stradbroke Island is one of Queensland's best-kept secrets. It's a gorgeous natural paradise that's perfect for anyone seeking year-round sunshine, perfect beaches, wildlife and stunning natural scenery. Couples, families and adventure-seekers alike will find there are plenty of things to do on Straddie.
Straddie
Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as the locals call it, is located in Moreton Bay, within an hour's drive from both Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It's a short ferry ride from the pretty coastal village of Cleveland to the island. It's well serviced by bus or train if you come by public transport. Or, for those who are bringing the car, there's a vehicle ferry - so you can simply drive on, and drive off, to start your holiday.
Stradbroke Island is one of the world's largest sand islands. The gentle waters of Moreton Bay lap against sandy inlets along the mangrove-fringed west coast. And along the east coast, you'll find a series of stunning surf beaches. It's the perfect spot for swimming and surfing, or you might try your hand at sailing, snorkelling or even sea kayaking. The island's interior is dotted with lakes and lagoons that together make up one of the world's most ecologically important wetlands areas.
Townships
North Stradbroke Island has three main villages, each located around 20km apart, and each with unique features worth exploring. Dunwich is the main gateway to the island, and where most of the locals live. You'll find it welcoming and friendly, and it's a great option for those looking for a relaxed camping trip, and calm waters for swimming or fishing.
On the northern tip of the island, you'll find Amity in the west and Point Lookout in the east. Amity is a relaxed village and the ideal spot for those wanting to try their hand at snorkelling.
Nature lovers - and children - will have a great time meeting the local koala colony and the pod of dolphins that swims close to the jetty each afternoon. It's the perfect picture opportunity! Visit the seafood store to buy the freshest catches and cook up a storm.
Head to Point Lookout for some of the best surf beaches in Queensland. Point Lookout is the place to head for some great whale watching, and you might also see turtles and manta rays. The island is also home to a stunning array of birdlife.
Point Lookout, Amity and Dunwich boast shops to browse through, and cafes and restaurants for those times when you don't feel like cooking your own island feast.
Activities
While swimming or lazing by the water under an umbrella are always recommended, those seeking more active pursuits will not be disappointed. Straddie is a fantastic spot for fishing, surfing, four-wheel driving, kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling. There are plenty of tour operators who can guide you for a half-day or full day of active pursuits. How about an ocean cruise, or even game fishing?
Bushwalking and bird watching are also recommended. Head inland to the wetlands area, which is protected under the global RAMSAR convention, and you'll discover walking trails around Brown Lake, Blue Lake (Kaboora Trail) and the Key Holes freshwater lakes.
Cultural Pursuits
The natural beauty is Straddie's star element, but certainly not its only attraction. The North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum is an award-winning small museum, where you can unearth some of the local history. Or you can discover some of the fascinating Indigenous history in a range of cultural tours and presentations, including boomerang painting and throwing, and guided bush tucker walks. There are also a number of art galleries to wander around.
We at Straddie Sales Rentals offer a range of quality accommodation options for couples, families and groups of friends. So if you're in need of a getaway, why not have a look at a selection of our North Stradbroke Island accommodation.