Things to do at North Stradbroke Island/ Minjerribah
Sitting off the coast of Brisbane in Moreton Bay, North Stradbroke Island (known by the Traditional Owners as Minjerribah) is Australia’s second-largest sand island. To reach it, travellers can hop on the North Stradbroke Island ferry from Cleveland to Dunwich or run a shorter service from Toondah Harbour (if you’re taking car, it’s wise to book ahead!)
Once ashore, you’ll find an island of contrasts: rugged headlands, long white beaches, tranquil bays and soft sand tracks. Its coastal scenery is compelling, but Minjerribah’s deeper appeal lies in its Indigenous heritage: the Quandamooka people have lived here for thousands of years, and cultural stories remain woven through the land, sea and community.
This is an island best enjoyed in slow gear - walking, surfing, paddling, birdwatching - you’ll appreciate how natural rhythms replace cruise control.
Where to Eat
If you feel peckish arriving in Dunwich, the Little Ship Club sits on the sparkling waterfront by the marina. This establishment has been going since 1951, and these days offers pub-bistro style meals in a casual club environment. It’s a place to enjoy a hearty lunch or dinner after ferrying in, with options such as schnitzels, seafood, steaks and more.
Also located at Dunwich is the Straddie Brewing Company. This is more than just a brewery — they run a behind-the-tanks tour (about 45 minutes) followed by a tasting paddle of four core beers made using the island’s sand-filtered aquifer water. They also open at particular times for lunch, dinner and happy hour, excluding on Tuesdays and Wednesdays - check their website for the latest opening times.
Straddie Brewing Co. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Further around the northern coastline at Amity Point is the Amity Pavilion, a delightful walk-in famous for its “Amity Parmi” with a dash of seaside dining. Expect relaxed fare - fish, burgers, salads, all under $30 - in a breezy layout facing the water. It’s a great place for lunch or dinner after a swim or sunset walk.
Located at Point Lookout, Blue Room café offers a menu centred on simple Australian fare with healthy, seasonal touches: think grain bowls, salads, toasted sandwiches and gluten-free or vegan options. It sits across from the ocean, with a stunning vista on show from its open-air deck.
Blue Room Cafe. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
For a fancier meal, hightail it to Six Beaches restaurant (also at Point Lookout) which specialises in seafood and grill dishes, with upscale casual vibes. The menu offers both local seafood and more general fare, and the location gives a vantage on surf and ocean moods.
Where to Play
It may be a relatively small island, but there’s oodles of things to do at Minjerribah. There’s a number of cultural tours that offer a window into Quandamooka culture — guided bushwalks, storytelling, learning about traditional uses of flora and fauna. Their tours traverse coastal paths, freshwater springs and ceremonial sites.
Goompi Trail cultural ceremony. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Operated by local Indigenous guides, Yura Tours conduct cultural walks that often include bush medicine, art, songlines and local Dreaming stories. They can also tailor private group experiences. Delvene Cockatoo Collins also offers three personal experiences, inviting visitors to learn more about the local tukka and to make art pieces to take home a unique and personal souvenir.
Delvene Cockatoo Collins. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
From June to November, Minjerribah becomes one of Australia’s top spots for land-based whale watching, as more than 35,000 humpback whales migrate along the coast.
The North Gorge Walk at Point Lookout is the island’s best vantage point, but you’ll also catch spectacular views from Cylinder Beach, Frenchmans Beach and the cliffs near Deadman’s.
Cylinder Beach. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
For a fun twist, follow the Straddie Whale Trail — a 2025 initiative that pairs whale spotting with local stories and island adventures. Pick up a free trail booklet on the SeaLink ferry and collect stickers from participating stops as you explore.
If you’re setting out from Brisbane, My NRMA Rewards members can save on bookings for a number of tours.
One option is the North Stradbroke Island Day Tour, - a full-day venture from Brisbane including lunch, ferry transfers, highlights around the island, beach stops and a guide.
There’s also the Island Wildlife Adventure Tour, — which offers family-friendly fun with wildlife spotting (wallabies, kangaroos, birds) and a return on the ferry set against a beautiful sunset.
For those with a competitive bent (or just wanting a fun physical challenge) Straddies Salute, touted as the best weekend outside Brisbane, is a triathlon event that involves paddling, running or cycling across parts of the island. Not up for a full competitive athleticism? Do your own version, taking in the amazing surrounds that is Minjerribah.
Where to Shop
Though small, North Stradbroke has enough quirky shops dotted around the isle to empty your pocket in return for whimsical treats. Noreens at Point Lookout is a gift shop that stocks homewares, textiles and jewellery.
Down the road, Cloudfish offers everything from local artworks and art cards to books and marine-themed trinkets. Definitely as spot to visit if you’re after something unique. Located at Dunwich, Straddie T-shirts is a local clothing shop offering island-themed tees, hoodies and casual wear, featuring local place names, surf culture or marine life.
Where to Stay
For those keen to stay close to nature, the campsite facilities at Minjerribah Camping at Amity Point give you tent and caravan areas, some cabin options and camp kitchens plus beach access. It’s a back-to-basics option with direct proximity to water.
Anchorage on Straddie offers a more comfortable accommodation option: holiday units or houses with self-contained amenities. Centrally located, these are ideal for splitting time between beach, cafés and shops, and offer free wifi, kitchenettes and basic laundry facilities.
Frenchmans Beach. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
After something with a bit more high end? Check out Whale Watch Resort which offers resort-style accommodation near ocean beaches. It has more facilities like a pool, games room, gym and BBQ area, apartments with up to three bedrooms and is suited for visitors who want more comfort on their island stay.
