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Plan Your Visit to Moreton Island

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

Shipwrecks in turquoise waters near Moreton Island shoreline.

Tangalooma Wrecks

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

Yellow boat on sandy beach at low tide, Moreton Island, Queensland.

Main Beach

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

Sand dunes on Moreton Island with surrounding forest and coastline.

Sand dunes

Adventure highlight for sandboarding and panoramic views across the island.

Aerial view of Moreton Island coastline with turquoise waters and lush greenery, Queensland, Australia.

Blue Lagoon

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

Picnic setup with drinks and fruit on Moreton Island beach.

Beachside cafés & picnic spots

Grab refreshments or enjoy a casual picnic with scenic views.

Jet skis near rocky coastline of Moreton Island, Australia.

Walking trails & lookouts

Short trails and viewpoints offering seasonal wildflowers and breathtaking panoramas.

​Moreton Island Map

Getting to Moreton Island

​Moreton Island Ferry

Tour guide explaining boat controls to a visitor at 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
Tourists on a boat enjoying Moreton Island Marine Discovery Cruise.

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
Man boarding a train at a sunny platform with a backpack.

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
Young woman smiling while riding a bus, looking out the window.

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
Businessman in car using smartphone.

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

Couple walking hand in hand along a sandy beach.

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
4WD vehicle navigating sandy trail through forest on Moreton Island, Australia.

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
Man driving red quad bike on sandy track with ocean view on Moreton Island.

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

More things to do in Moreton Island

Bottlenose dolphin leaping from ocean in Tenerife.
Female paddleboarding at sunrise on Moreton Island, Australia.
Man hiking along a sandy path near the ocean with greenery on both sides.
Champagne Pools on Moreton Island with clear water and rocky shoreline.
Croissant sandwich and drinks on a beach picnic setup.
Sunset over Tangalooma Island shipwrecks with a person sitting on Moreton Island beach.
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Dolphin feeding at Tangalooma

Enjoy a unique wildlife encounter at sunset, getting up close with dolphins in their natural habitat—perfect for animal lovers.

Kayaking or Paddleboarding

Explore calm bays and lagoons at your own pace, ideal for gentle exercise and spotting marine life along the way.

Hiking trails

Short walks through scenic bushland and along beaches, offering panoramic views and a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty.

Photography spots

Capture sweeping dune lookouts and pristine beaches, great for landscape shots or memorable holiday photos.

Beach picnics

Relax on quieter stretches of sand with packed snacks or a casual meal, perfect for a leisurely afternoon away from crowds.

Sunset viewing points

Head to elevated dunes or Main Beach to watch the sun set over the water—a simple but unforgettable experience.

Where to eat on Moreton Island

Tropical lunch buffet with pasta and seafood on Moreton Island beach.

Tangalooma Island Resort Café

  • Cuisine: Australian/Café; breakfast, lunch, and casual dining
  • Don't miss: Fresh seafood platter, grilled barramundi
Fried cod with spinach and capers in saffron sauce on a wooden table.

Beachfront BBQ Kiosk

  • Cuisine: Light bites / Fast food; snacks and drinks
  • Don't miss:  Fish & chips, prawns on the barbie
Barista pouring milk into coffee cup at a coffee shop.

Sand Dunes Café

  • Cuisine: Café / Light meals; coffee, wraps, pastries
  • Don't miss: Chicken wraps, iced coffee
Beach picnic setup with baskets, salads, drinks, and fruit by the water.

Blue Lagoon Picnic Area

  • Cuisine: Self-catered / Takeaway; packed lunches and snacks
  • Don't miss: Picnic sandwiches, fresh fruit
Cocktails with garnishes at Melbourne Skydeck bar.

Sunset Bar & Grill

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

Where to shop on Moreton Island

Child exploring colorful bracelets at Museum of Illusions Madrid gift shop.

Resort Gift Shop

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

Shopper browsing beauty products

Tangalooma General Store

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

Woman browsing bracelets at a beach market stall with woven baskets.

Beach Markets (Seasonal)

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

Seashells and starfish on sandy beach, ocean-themed souvenir.

Eco Center Shop

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

Man slicing a coconut on a wooden table.

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.

Do I need a permit to visit Moreton Island?

Yes, a permit is required for all visitors, including self-drive 4WDs and campers. Tour operators usually handle permits for guests.

Can I drive my own 4WD on the island?

Yes, with a suitable vehicle, 4WD permit, and knowledge of sand driving. Guided 4WD tours are recommended for first-time visitors.

Are there facilities on the island?

Basic facilities are available at some locations, including picnic areas, toilets, and limited cafes. Resorts and eco-lodges provide full amenities.

What activities can I do on Moreton Island?

Popular activities include 4WD tours, snorkeling, sandboarding, kayaking, hiking, dolphin feeding at Tangalooma, and wildlife spotting.

More reads

Clear kayaks on Moreton Island beach with shipwrecks in the background.

Things to do at Moreton Island

Moreton Island beach with shipwrecks, kayaks, and 4WD vehicles along the shore.

Moreton Island Ferry

4WD vehicle on Moreton Island beach with Sunrover Tours logo.

4WD Tours

Tourists seated inside a bus touring

Gold coast to Moreton Island