With its sandy beaches, scenic headlands and sparkling freshwater lakes, North Stradbroke Island is one of Queensland's dreamiest destinations. Known by locals as “North Straddie,” the island is also home to world-class surf breaks and a fantastic farm-to-table dining scene.
Things to do in North Stradbroke Island
Most of the action is centred in Point Lookout, the island's lively main township. It’s home to a handful of laid-back cafes and seafood restaurants, as well as the famous Straddie Hotel. You can also stroll to sun-drenched Main Beach, which stretches for 38 kilometres along the eastern side of the island.
Visit North Stradbroke Island between June and November, when hundreds of humpback whales cruise along its coast on their annual migration. Chartered cruises are also a great way to spot dolphins, turtles and manta rays. If you'd rather stay on dry land, Point Lookout just happens to be one of the best land-based whale-watching sites in the world.
North Stradbroke Island is also a great place to spot land mammals. Family-friendly North Gorge walk showcases beautiful bush scenery and is a fantastic place to see grazing kangaroos and sleepy koalas.
The Indigenous Quandamooka people are the traditional owners of North Stradbroke Island, so why not sign up for a cultural guided walk? Along the way you'll learn about local traditions, time-tested hunting methods, native plant medicine and the art of Australian bush tucker.
Getting around North Stradbroke Island
Point Lookout is compact and easy to get around on foot, though if you want to explore the rest of the island, you'll need to hire a car. A 4WD is best, as North Stradbroke Island is laced with challenging tracks that wind their way along its beaches, sand dunes and lakes. From Brisbane, the drive to Point Lookout takes less than one hour.