Overview of your Moreton Island Day Tour

Explore Moreton Island’s white sand beaches, towering dunes, and clear waters. Day trips typically include ferry transfers, guided tours, and optional activities like snorkeling, sandboarding, or dolphin feeding. Planning helps you make the most of your day.

Travel logistics

Most visitors arrive via ferry from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, with shuttles, 4WDs, and walking tracks connecting key spots. Peak season (Dec–Feb) can be busy, so early departures are best. Guided tours simplify logistics, provide expert tips, equipment, and sometimes lunch, while self-guided trips offer flexibility. For ferry schedules and tour options → [See Moreton Island Transport].

Plan your day

Quick visit (2-3 hrs): Main Beach walk, sand dune lookout & quick snorkel at designated area.
Half day (4-5 hrs): Ferry transfer, guided tour of Tangalooma Wrecks or coastal highlights, short sandboarding session & refreshments at a beachside café.
Full day (6+ hrs): Full guided trip with snorkeling or diving, sandboarding, optional wildlife encounters, and leisure time at Main Beach or picnic.

Handy tips

Tickets: Book ferries or guided tours in advance, especially in peak season.
Best times: Depart early morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds; late afternoon for golden-hour photography.
Rules: Wear closed shoes on dunes, carry sun protection, and respect wildlife.
Pro tip: Combine a ferry with a guided 4WD tour for seamless transfers and insider route knowledge.
Respect: Avoid littering, follow designated paths, and maintain distance from wildlife.

Must-see places on Moreton Island

Tangalooma Wrecks

The island’s signature attraction for snorkeling and diving, teeming with vibrant marine life.

Main Beach

Key hub stretching for kilometers, perfect for walks, sunrise views, and as a base for activities.

Sand dunes

Adventure highlight for sandboarding and panoramic views across the island.

Blue Lagoon

Freshwater lake ideal for swimming, relaxing, and soaking in nature, best in warmer months.

Beachside cafés & picnic spots

Grab refreshments or enjoy a casual picnic with scenic views.

Walking trails & lookouts

Short trails and viewpoints offering seasonal wildflowers and breathtaking panoramas.

Book Moreton Island Day Tours

Moreton Island: Adventure Day Pass and Return Ferry

Book now, pay later

8 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

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Check availability

Moreton Island: Tangalooma Wrecks Snorkel, Clear Kayak, & 4WD Desert Tour with Lunch

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

13 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Meals included

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Check availability

Moreton Island: Dolphin Eco-Cruise & Tangalooma Wrecks Snorkel Tour

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

8 hr. - 9 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Meals included

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Check availability

Moreton Island Adventure Activities Package with Return Ferry

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

8 hr.

Transfers included

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Check availability

Getting to Moreton Island

Hassle-free tours with ferry transfers, activities, and expert guides. Ideal for first-timers or families wanting stress-free logistics.

Time: 8-10 hrs round trip
Cost: AUD 150-250
Pros: All-in-one, guided, skip lines
Cons: Fixed schedule
Best for: First-timers, families

Direct ferries from Brisbane or Gold Coast terminals. Scenic and ideal for independent travelers.

Time: 75–90 min one way
Cost: AUD 45–70
Pros: Scenic, independent
Cons: Weather-dependent
Best for: Day trippers

Train to ferry terminals, then ferry across. Requires coordination with schedules.

Time: 1–2 hrs train + 75–90 min ferry
Cost: AUD 15–30 train + AUD 45–70 ferry
Pros: Budget-friendly
Cons: Multiple transfers
Best for: Independent travelers

Bus to ferry terminal plus ferry. Affordable option, slightly slower in traffic.

Time: 1–1.5 hrs bus + 75–90 min ferry
Cost: AUD 10–25 bus + AUD 45–70 ferry
Pros: Affordable
Cons: Slower, crowded
Best for: Solo travelers

Drive to the ferry terminal for flexible timing. Best for groups or multi-stop trips.

Time: 30–90 min drive + 75–90 min ferry
Cost: Fuel + AUD 45–70 ferry + parking
Pros: Flexible
Cons: Parking, ferry limits
Best for: Groups, multi-stop trips

How to get around on Moreton Island

Walking

Most beaches and nearby highlights are walkable.

Time: 10–30 mins between key spots
Cost: Free
Best for: Casual exploration
Cons: Heat exposure, soft sand

Shuttle/4WD tours

Connects beaches, dunes, and activity areas.

Time: 10-45 mins between zones
Cost: Included in guided tours or AUD10– AUD20 per shuttle
Pros: Covers long distances, includes commentary
Cons: Crowded in peak season

Bike/Scooter rental

Good for exploring inland trails and lagoons.

Time: Flexible
Cost: AUD 25- AUD50/day
Pros: Independent, active experience
Cons: Limited coverage on dunes, must be fit

Where to eat on Moreton Island

Tangalooma Island Resort Café

Cuisine: Australian/Café; breakfast, lunch, and casual dining
Don't miss: Fresh seafood platter, grilled barramundi

Beachfront BBQ Kiosk

Cuisine: Light bites / Fast food; snacks and drinks
Don't miss: Fish & chips, prawns on the barbie

Sand Dunes Café

Cuisine: Café / Light meals; coffee, wraps, pastries
Don't miss: Chicken wraps, iced coffee

Blue Lagoon Picnic Area

Cuisine: Self-catered / Takeaway; packed lunches and snacks
Don't miss: Picnic sandwiches, fresh fruit

Sunset Bar & Grill

Cuisine: Seafood / Grill; dinner with ocean views
Don't miss: Grilled prawns, sunset cocktails

Where to shop on Moreton Island

Resort Gift Shop

Souvenirs, local crafts, apparel, and beach accessories located within Tangalooma Island Resort. Perfect for keepsakes or last-minute essentials.

Tangalooma General Store

Stocks daily necessities, snacks, sunscreen, and casual beachwear. Convenient stop for travelers staying near the main resort area.

Beach Markets (Seasonal)

Pop-up stalls along Main Beach offering handmade jewelry, crafts, and local treats. Great for picking up unique island gifts.

Eco Center Shop

Small boutique selling eco-friendly products, marine-life souvenirs, and conservation merchandise. Ideal for sustainable shoppers.

Local pop-up food stands

Found near ferry terminals on weekends, selling fresh coconuts, drinks, and island snacks before departure.

Tips from locals

Take the first ferry: Beat the heat and morning crowds for a calmer start.
Combine walking with 4WD shuttles: See more without tiring yourself out.
Bring water and sun protection: Shade is limited across most beaches.
Try sandboarding early: The dunes get hot by midday.
Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance from dolphins, turtles, and seabirds.
Check tide timings: Low tide offers the best snorkeling visibility at the wrecks.
Book ahead: Tours, rentals, and ferries fill up fast in peak season.
Pack snacks: Limited dining options outside Tangalooma Resort.

Frequently asked questions about planning your visit to Moreton Island

How do I get to Moreton Island?

Take a passenger or vehicle ferry from Brisbane or the Gold Coast.

Can I visit Moreton Island without a 4WD?

Yes — you can explore Tangalooma and nearby beaches on foot or on tours.

Are there restaurants or shops on the island?

Limited options are available near Tangalooma Resort — plan ahead.

When is the best time to visit?

Autumn and spring offer mild weather and calm seas for snorkeling.

Can I feed the dolphins?

Yes — only during the official evening feeding session at Tangalooma Resort.

Information

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