North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah:
Things to do
For those who can lure themselves away from the beaches and prime swimming spots on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah, there’s a world of culture, adventure, and experiences to discover beyond the sand. Here’s some ideas of what to do on this magnificent island that include more than sitting on the white sandy beaches.
Local artist - Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah
Art, culture, & food experiences
Acclaimed Quandamooka artist Delvene Cockatoo-Collins’ Studio and store is a short stroll from the Dunwich ferry terminal, and a must-visit on the island. Here, you can pick up a piece of Delvene’s striking work – from wearable works such as handprinted clothing and beautiful earrings, to unique pieces for your home. Each of Delvene’s artworks beautifully demonstrate her connection to the lands and waters of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah. If you are interested in cultural and art focussed tours, you can book with Delvene as she takes you on a journey from beginning to end.
Those who’d like to dive deeper into the cultural significance and rich history of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah can also book into a guided tour of the island with Yura Tours. Your guide, Quandamooka woman Elisha, is incredibly knowledgeable and well-connected to the land, offering insights and sharing stories of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah along the way. Discover significant cultural sites, learn about bush foods, hear stories of the island’s earliest inhabitants and leave with a deeper understanding of First Nations culture, told by a captivating storyteller.
If you prefer to design your own tour, you’ll want to stop at some of the best places to eat and drink along the way. Grab your morning coffee and a bite to eat at The Blue Room Café which is open from 7am every day. For lunch, get the best view at Point Lookout with fish and chips from Fishes on the Point and finish of with delicious gelato from Oceanic Gelato and Coffee Bar. If your staying for dinner, head to Oasis on Straddie for delicious Mexican dishes or Straddie Brewing Co. for views and fresh pours.
Sports, water, and outdoor adventures
Consider yourself a restless traveller? Perhaps it’s time to take a plunge and visit Manta Lodge and Scuba Centre at Point Lookout. Gain access to one of Australia’s top dive sites, Manta Bommie, and the Moreton Bay Marine Park – with a scuba diving company touted as the best in Brisbane.
Prefer to keep your head above water (mostly)? Learn how to glide over the waves of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah with North Stradbroke Island Surf School. Over 30 years of surfing accredited experience in teaching groups and individuals how to surf on the island means you are in safe hands! All equipment is supplied so you only need yourself, swimmers and a little bit of confidence.
Back on dry land, you can swing the day away at North Stradbroke Island Golf Club. The course has some seriously scenic views across the island and out to the ocean, you won’t ever be bored. The club is also home to Bistro Seymour, for those looking to refuel after a day of golf.
Day trips
Beginning in Brisbane, hop aboard a Stradbroke Island Day Trip with River to Bay. Experience all that this island has to offer, including Cylinder Bay, Point Lookout and North Gorge Walk, Humpback Whale spotting (June to November) and the wildlife of Amity Point. Experienced guides, a satisfying lunch, and on-island transport are all part of the package.
Kiff and Culture offer two different full day tours of North Stradbroke Island departing from Brisbane. The first will engross you into the Minjerribah culture, food and wildlife inclusive of a 4WD beach drive and beach picnic. The second package adds on a heli-tour of the magnificent island. It’s the perfect way to see North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah through the eyes of a local.
Go on an adventure for one-day or two-days (with an overnight stay) with Shakas Tours. You’ll get the chance to see the best of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah, its beaches and wildlife on an express visit to the island. Designed to be convenient and affordable, Shakas Tours are ideal for weekend visits.
For a memorable and immersive day trip, Sealink offers flexible experiences, including its cultural tours with Matthew Burns. Matthew, who passionately builds his own artifacts, is equal parts informative, funny and engaging – and he shares his culture with thousands of people a year on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah. Learn to paint and throw a boomerang, dance and play the digeridoo, watch a smoking ceremony, or enjoy a walking tour.
If you’re hoping to spend as much time outdoors as possible, Straddie Kingfisher Tours offer a large range of activities – from the low key to the adrenaline fuelled. You can choose your own adventure and go whale watching, bush walking and bird watching, enjoy fishing trips, kayaking adventures, 4WD eco adventures, and sand boarding, there’s something to be enjoyed by all outdoor enthusiasts.
