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Moreton Island Hotels & Accommodation

Accommodation on Moreton Island is limited, low-key, and closely tied to the island’s natural setting. Instead of large hotel zones, you’ll find a mix of resort-style stays and small township accommodation, each offering a different way to experience the island.

The main options for visitors are Castaways Moreton Island, a dedicated resort accommodation, and the township areas of Kooringal and Bulwer, which suit travelers looking for a quieter, more independent stay.

Quick overview: Where to stay on Moreton Island

  • Best all-in-one resort stay: Castaways Moreton Island
  • Quiet, nature-focused base: Kooringal
  • Most convenient location: Bulwer
  • Best for first-time visitors: Bulwer or Castaways

Best for longer, slower stays: Kooringal

Types of accommodation on Moreton Island

Moreton Island accommodation generally falls into three categories:

Resort accommodation

Managed stays with on-site facilities and organised activities

Township accommodation

Small lodges and holiday-style stays in local settlements

Independent stays

Simple island lodges or self-managed properties

Each option offers access to beaches and outdoor experiences, but differs in convenience, services, and how activities are booked.

Castaways Moreton Island

Castaways Moreton Island is a resort-style accommodation, not a separate part of the island. It offers a structured stay with beachfront access, guided activities, and coordinated transfers, making it one of the most convenient ways to spend the night on Moreton Island.

What is Castaways Moreton Island?

  • Purpose-built island resort accommodation
  • Located directly on the beachfront
  • On-site facilities and organised experiences
  • Designed for guests who want accommodation and activities in one place

Castaways is well-suited to:

  • Families looking for safe, guided activities
  • Couples want a relaxed island escape.

Travelers who prefer packaged experiences over independent planning

  • Snorkeling trips to the Tangalooma Wrecks
  • Kayaking in calm bay waters
  • Sandboarding on Moreton Island’s dunes
  • Eco walks and marine-based activities
  • Accessed by ferry or boat from the mainland
  • Most departures leave from Brisbane-area ports
  • Transfers are often arranged by the resort or included with tours
  • Schedules align with check-in and planned activities
  • Castaways Moreton Island Resort – $$$
  • Castaways Ocean View Rooms – $$$
  • Castaways Family Rooms – $$$
  • Castaways Beachfront Villas – $$$

Budget

  • $$$ (Upper range)
  • Includes beachfront location, resort facilities, and organised activities
  • Best value when booked with tours or transfer packages

Kooringal (Quiet Township Stay)

Kooringal is a small, peaceful township on the western side of Moreton Island. It’s known for calm waters, open beaches, and a slower pace, making it popular with travelers seeking a more independent island stay.

What is Kooringal?

  • Small coastal settlement with minimal development
  • Calm bay-side location with sunset views
  • Community-style accommodation rather than resort facilities

Kooringal suits:

  • Couples and solo travelers
  • Nature-focused visitors
  • Longer stays where a slower pace is preferred

Staying in Kooringal allows easy access to relaxed, nature-led activities:

  • Kayaking in sheltered waters
  • Beach walks and shoreline fishing
  • Dolphin and birdlife spotting
  • Join guided snorkeling and island tours
  • Kooringal is accessed by ferry or private boat from the mainland
  • Some guided tours operating on the western side of Moreton Island include drop-offs or nearby access points
  • Kooringal House – $$
  • Kooringal Beach House – $$
  • Kooringal Retreat – $–$$
  • Kooringal Bay Holiday Home – $$

Budget

  • $–$$ (Lower to mid-range)
  • More affordable for longer stays
  • Self-catered, with tours and transport booked separately

Bulwer (Convenient Township Stay)

Bulwer is one of the main arrival points on Moreton Island and offers a practical base for exploring the island. It combines township accommodation with proximity to ferry services and popular activity areas.

What is Bulwer?

  • One of the island’s primary ferry arrival hubs
  • Central location with easy access to beaches
  • A mix of simple lodges and holiday-style accommodation

Bulwer is a good choice for:

  • Families wanting easy logistics
  • First-time visitors to Moreton Island
  • Short stays or overnight add-ons to day tours

Bulwer offers convenient access to a range of island experiences:

  • Snorkeling in nearby shallow waters
  • Beach swimming and coastal walks
  • Fishing from shore
  • Joining full-day or half-day Moreton Island tours
  • Most ferry services from the mainland arrive at or near Bulwer, making it one of the easiest areas to reach without additional transfers.
  • Bulwer Lodge – $$
  • Bulwer Beach House – $$
  • Bulwer Island Guesthouse – $$
  • Bulwer Holiday Cabins – $–$$

Budget

  • $$ (Mid-range)
  • Priced for ferry access and central location
  • Ideal for short stays and first-time visitors

Best time to book accommodation on Moreton Island

  • Spring to early autumn (Sep–Apr): Best weather for swimming and snorkeling
  • Winter (May–Aug): Cooler, quieter, good for walking and wildlife spotting
  • School holidays & long weekends: Accommodation sells out early

Because options are limited, booking well in advance is recommended, especially if pairing accommodation with tours.

Frequently asked questions about Moreton Island hotels and accommodation

Are there hotels on Moreton Island?

Moreton Island has limited hotel-style accommodation. Castaways Moreton Island is the main resort option, alongside smaller township stays.

Is Castaways the only resort on Moreton Island?

Yes. Castaways is the primary purpose-built resort accommodation on the island.

Which area is best to stay in on Moreton Island without a car?

Bulwer and Castaways are the most convenient, as they’re close to ferry arrivals and organised transfers.

Is Bulwer or Kooringal better for first-time visitors?

Bulwer is generally easier for first-time visitors due to ferry access and proximity to tours.

Can I visit Castaways without staying overnight?

Some day tours include limited access to Castaways' facilities, even without an overnight stay.

How far in advance should I book accommodation?

Booking several weeks to months ahead is recommended, especially during peak periods.

Are tours available if I stay in Kooringal or Bulwer?

Yes. Many guided tours operate across the island and can be joined from township areas.

Is Moreton Island accommodation family-friendly?

Yes. Castaways and Bulwer, in particular, are well-suited for families.