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COME SNORKELLING WITH MANTA LODGE & SCUBA CENTRE

North Stradbroke Island boasts some fantastic snorkelling sites a short ride from Point Lookout. With no experience required, Manta Lodge & Scuba Centre’s snorkelling trips can get you up close and personal with some of the amazing marine life that call the island home.

  •  Depending on the season, you can expect to see manta rays, humpback whales, turtles, colourful fish, and much, much more!
  • No experience necessary
  • All snorkelling equipment provided
  • Experienced snorkel guides
  • Snacks and drinks provided on the boat
  • Warm towels and hot showers available at our dive centre on return

Why come snorkelling with us?

We are the only snorkel tour provider on North Stradbroke Island with access to local offshore sites, which means you get to experience the beauty and magic of the Moreton Bay Marine Park as the local marine life do.

We provide all gear, morning/afternoon tea on the boat, and experienced, trained guides to ensure you and your family have a fun, safe and exciting underwater adventure that you won’t forget!

What to expect on your snorkel tour:

Our snorkel tours run for around 3 to 3 ½ hours. On arrival at the dive centre, you’ll fill out the necessary paperwork, be personally fitted for wetsuits and equipment, and briefed on the experience ahead by your guide. We also have GoPro cameras for hire (at an additional cost), so you can capture the magic of your underwater experience!

You’ll then enjoy a short boat ride to one of our local snorkelling sites, followed by guided snorkelling sessions at two different locations, with refreshments provided in between. You will then return to the dive centre for hot showers, warm towels, and a chance to download your GoPro footage from the trip!

* Please note that weather conditions can change without notice and due to the nature of snorkel tours, trips can may be cancelled with minimum notice if boat captains deem the conditions unsuitable.  In the event of trip cancellation a full refund of trip cost will be offered but unfortunately Manta Lodge is unable to cover any costs incurred getting to North Stradbroke Island for the tour.  Please take this into account when booking.

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Prerequisites:

  • You must be at least 12 years old to participate. Anyone under the age of 18 requires consent from a parent or guardian.
  • You must be able to swim.
  • You must complete a  liability waiver before this tour. Please contact reception if you have any questions about this.

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Dive Into The Sunshine Coast’s Best Snorkelling Spots

By Urban List Writers

22nd Dec 2023

snorkel tours stradbroke island

We don’t know about you, but sometimes we at Urban List feel like all we do is eat, drink, sleep and repeat. So it’s time to mix it up. Let’s make the most of the great outdoors, especially in a place as naturally beautiful as the Sunshine Coast/Gubbi Gubbi country. Instead of a brunch date this weekend, how about a spot of snorkelling?

Snorkelling and exploring the marine life of the deep is not just breathtaking, but arguably the best stress therapy going around. Just bubbles, splashes, and the greatest sound of all: silence. Dive into the best snorkelling spots on the Sunshine Coast.

Fancy a swim with the gentle giants of the sea? Dive and snorkel company Sunreef takes you up close and personal with whales just 15 minutes off Mooloolaba, and those who are lucky enough to experience and encounter them claim it’s “life changing”.

Easily some of the best snorkelling on the Sunshine Coast, Sunreef provides all the required wetsuits and snorkel gear and say the winter months are best, when the big fellas are migrating. Once a whale is sighted, swimmers can jump into the water while holding onto a floatation line attached to the boat. 

North Stradbroke Island

snorkel tours stradbroke island

Drifting through the calm waters of Amity Point will make for some fun, chilled snorkel time, but for serious sea-life explorers, you might want to make a bee-line to Point Lookout where all the marine action is. Want to take things to the next level and get cuddly with some manta rays?

Manta Lodge & Scuba Centre  runs boats out to Manta Bommie—ranked in Australia’s top ten dive sites—and is a cleaning station for the migratory rays. There’s even octopus, lionfish, and leopard and babboo sharks. Not to mention the guitar sharks.

Mudjimba Island

Home to an abundance of marine life including dolphins, turtles, stingrays, crayfish, wobbegongs, eel, and starfish, the best snorkelling is on the western side of Mudjimba Island (also known as Old Woman Island) where there’s a massive ledge of vibrant coral and large schools of fish reside.

Don't have a boat to get you across to the island? No need to worry—Sunreef Mooloolaba have just launched a Snorkel Mudjimba Island package ($99) which includes the 15-minute boat ride each way, along with all of the snorkelling gear you need (think: mask, wetsuit, fins and snorkel).

Lake McKenzie

Image Credit: Fraser Island | TEQ

Famous for its sand as white as your mother’s crisp sheets, Lake McKenzie  on K'gari is like a giant, luxury resort swimming pool plonked in the middle of wild and rugged forest, only far more naturally beautiful.

The silica sand acts as a filter giving the water its purity, and while the lake can’t support too much life, you will still find a few sneaky schools of fish. If you’re desperate to get face down into those endless shades of pristine blues and greens, with the sun kissing your back, then be sure to get your glide on here.

Point Arkwright

Needing your cute turtle fix? Hightail it straight to Point Arkwright in Coolum where there’s a shallow reef just off the cliff’s shore which is home to the gentle giants and many other marine life.

The only slight difficulty here, is the reef is quite tricky to get to being at the base of the point’s cliffs and the currents can get a little strong, so we’re reserving this one for the more advanced snorkellers.  When the seas are calm, snorkelling during winter is very popular but we recommend packing your wettie.

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Moreton Island

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Just an hour from Brisbane, the Tangalooma Wrecks offer some of the best and most popular snorkelling in South-East Queensland. There are 15 wrecks which were deliberately sunk a few years back, creating a man-made reef; a pretty decent idea considering the thriving ocean life these wrecks have adopted.

Expect turtles, wobbegongs, dugongs, and of course, fish galore. Chasing pretty coral? Flinders Reef is five kilometres northwest of the island and features around 100 species of coral and 200 fish species. Pack your underwater camera 'cause you'll snap  some epic pictures to pimp your Insta.  

Raper Shoal

A popular fishing spot, Raper Shoal is about 500 metres off Currimundi Beach, and offers a large rocky formation surrounded by plenty of sand. The rock is covered in some great coral with plenty of creatures to explore around the edges of the drop-off.

So while you’re out in your tinny getting the catch of the day, don’t forget your snorkel gear, too. Oh, and with plenty of dolphins out that way you might even get a wave from Flipper. Without a doubt, one of the best snorkelling spots on the Sunshine Coast.

Looking for more? Check out:

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  • The Sunshine Coast's Best Camping Spots
  • The Best Things To Do With Kids

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North Stradbroke Island Day Tour

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  • Book This Tour

Ferry cruise Moreton Bay Marine Park . Spot dolphins, fish, a variety of seabirds, sometimes whales in season, Dugong and Turtles. This 4WD Eco-Adventure of Queensland’s most beautiful Beaches includes hidden bays and fresh water lakes for swimming and forest trails. Spot dolphins, turtles, sharks and whales (in season) as well as “Beach Kangaroo” on this wilderness escape.

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Swim or Snorkel at Lake Bummiera (Brown Lake) . 4WD to Amity Point and Cylinder Beach , with views of Moreton Island National Park and Big Sand Hills . Take the Whale Walk at Point Lookout with expert guide. Look for dolphins, sharks, turtles and manta rays. Take time (in season) for Whale Watching in one of Queensland’s best land based sites.

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  • Cruise Marine Park
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  • Swim Freshwater Lake
  • North Gorge Walk
  • Spot Beach Kangaroo

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Stradbroke Island’s Top Water Activities: Snorkeling, Kayaking, and More

  • Post author: Wongai 4wd Hire
  • Post published: January 3, 2023
  • Post category: Stradbroke Island / Travel Advice
  • Post comments: 0 Comments

Stradbroke Island, also known as Minjerribah, is a beautiful island located off the coast of Queensland. With its crystal clear waters and pristine beaches, Stradbroke Island is a paradise for water lovers. Here are some of the top water activities to enjoy on Stradbroke Island:

Snorkeling: Stradbroke Island is home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and even dolphins and whales. The best place to snorkel on the island is at Point Lookout, where you’ll find a number of shallow reefs and bays that are perfect for snorkeling. You can also join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the island’s underwater world.

Kayaking: Stradbroke Island is a great place to explore by kayak, whether you’re paddling along the coast or exploring the island’s waterways. There are a number of kayak rentals available on the island, as well as guided tours that will take you to some of the island’s best kayaking spots.

Surfing: Stradbroke Island is known for its great surfing, with a number of breaks that are suitable for surfers of all levels. The best place to surf on the island is at Cylinder Beach, which is known for its consistent waves. There are also a number of surf schools on the island that offer lessons for beginners.

Fishing: Stradbroke Island is a great place to fish, with a wide variety of species to target, including bream, flathead, and whiting. The best place to fish on the island is at Point Lookout, where you’ll find a number of rocky outcrops and headlands that are home to a wide variety of fish.

Boating: Stradbroke Island is home to a number of sheltered bays and waterways that are perfect for boating. Whether you’re sailing, powerboating, or kayaking, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the island by boat.

With so many water activities to enjoy, Stradbroke Island is a paradise for water lovers. So pack your snorkel, kayak, or surfboard and get ready to explore the island’s amazing aquatic world. Happy travels!

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20 Tips for Visiting North Stradbroke Island, Australia

Tips for visiting Stradbroke Island, Queensland, tips for visiting Minjerribah, tips for visiting North Stradbroke Island from Brisbane, tips for visiting Straddie, Stradbroke island tips, things to know before visiting North Stradbroke Island, Queensland Australia

North Stradbroke Island is a beautiful sandy island located just an hour and a half east of Brisbane, Australia. It’s a perfect a weekend getaway from Brisbane, and can even be visited as a day-trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast. North Stradbroke Island is known for its incredible natural landscapes including cliffs, beaches, and forests, and of course for its Aussie wildlife. 

The island’s small size and remoteness means it’s best to keep a few of these tips for visiting North Stradbroke Island in mind when you plan your next visit. The island is often referred to by its aboriginal name of Minjerribah, or also “Straddie” by the locals. Because you’ll hear all three when conversing with locals in Australia, I’ll use them interchangeably throughout this post of 20 tips for visiting Straddie.

Here are my tips for visiting North Stradbroke Island in Queensland!

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1. Wake up for every sunrise

Since North Stradbroke island is located off the east coast of Queensland, it boasts incredible sunset views each day. Whether you’re spending two nights on Straddie or ten, it is nearly a necessity to get up for the sunrise!

Not only is the natural beauty of the island during this Golden Hour impeccable, but it’s also the perfect time to spot wildlife on North Stradbroke Island.

My favorite sunrise spots are at Point Lookout across from the Blue Room Cafe (below), and looking over South Gorge Beach (above)

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2. Drive a car to Straddie instead of relying on busses

Two main methods of transportation are available on North Stradbroke Island: bus and personal vehicle. 

Although a public bus can take passengers around Straddie, relying on the bus system means its basically impossible to reach the far edges of the island. it also means you’ll be glued to the infrequent bus schedule during your two-day itinerary to Straddie. 

I highly recommend paying the extra ferry fees in order to get to Straddie from Brisbane by car. In order to fully experience my two-day Stradbroke Island itinerary (coming soon), you’ll need a car as well. 

3. If riding busses, bring exact change and be mindful of the limited schedule

The public busses on Straddie are few and far in between, so if your North Stradbroke Island itinerary is going to rely on busses to get around, be mindful of the limited schedule. 

The busses also only take cash, my tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island is to bring exact change – $5 per person, per ride, or $10 for a day-pass. This will help the bus driver out immensely!

Check out the latest bus schedule on the  Stradbroke Island busses website .

4. Bring a 4WD if you have one

A number of roads and beaches on Straddie are only accessible by 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles. 

This includes driving on the Main Beach, a vast sandy beach that stretches along the eastern coast of North Stradbroke Island, which is where many Straddie campsites are located. Due to the depth and texture of the sand, only 4-wheel drives are allowed on the sand on Main Beach. To make the most of your Straddie itinerary, my tip is to take or rent a 4WD to island!

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5. Check out inland Straddie, not just the beaches

Some of the most gorgeous Aussie scenery on North Stradbroke Island is located inland. Many visitors might start and end their Straddie itinerary on the coastline at the beaches which is understandable, but my tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island is to check out the inland lakes, sand dunes, and forests as well.

Two of the most famous attractions to visit in inland Straddie are the Brown Lake and Blue Lake, which are two massive freshwater lakes in the heart of the island. Both lakes can be reached by car (no bus routes go to either), and Blue Lake is reached via a further 2km walk through the eucalyptus forests.

Read about the Karboora (Blue Lake) hike on my guide here . 

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6. Avoid visiting Straddie on holidays and long weekends

The busiest time to visit North Stradbroke Island is during the school holidays in Brisbane and Queensland, or three-day weekends. Ferries and accommodation will book out quickly, and you might expect a wait at cafes and restaurants during mealtimes. 

Not only will you be navigating crowds, the prices for accommodation around Stradbroke Island shoot up around this time as well.

7. Pack snorkeling gear and binoculars

Minjerribah has a number of amazing snorkeling spots and wildlife viewing opportunities. A snorkel and binoculars help you get up close to them! 

The waters on the west coast of the island are often calm and clear, perfect for seeing fish and stingrays that call the shallow island shores home.  Snorkeling gear can be brought from home but also purchased at the Amity Point general store, which is one of the most common places to go snorkeling on North Stradbroke Island.

In order to see wildlife from a distance, I also recommend bringing some binoculars on your trip. Although its tempting to get up-and-close to animals in the wild, checking them out from a distance is safer for both humans and our furry and feathered friends. 

snorkel tours stradbroke island

8. Book your Sealink ferry tickets ahead of time

Once you’ve locked in your travel dates to North Stradbroke Island, book your Sealink ferry tickets! Both a passenger-only ferry and a vehicle ferry operate between Straddie and the Cleveland suburb every day.

Especially during busy tourist seasons, some of the peak-hour ferries to Stradbroke Island may sell out. These include Friday afternoon and Saturday morning ferries heading to Straddie, and Sunday evening ferries heading back towards Brisbane. 

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9. Book accommodation ahead of time

Accommodation options on Stradbroke Island are not too plentiful, and can book out well in advance. Most accommodation is in the form of apartment rentals or holiday homes, with very few resort-like hotels on the island. While you’re researching your next trip to Minjerribah, be sure to secure accommodation for the nights you plan to stay. 

My favorite place to stay on the island which is perfect for budget travelers is the Manta Lodge hostel , which is part of the Australia Youth Hostel Association (YHA). It has both dorm rooms and private rooms, an on-site dive center, a massive kitchen, two common areas, and is located steps from the beach and ocean! 

Here are some other tips for where to stay on Stradbroke Island: 

  • Budget – Manta Lodge Hostel
  • Mid-range – Samarinda Jewel by the Sea apartment rentals
  • Mid-range – The Islander resort (one of few resort-style accommodation on Straddie) 
  • Luxury – Saltwater 5 three-bedroom apartment rental

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10. Know the limits of your vehicle

North Stradbroke Island’s main towns and points of interest are connected by paved roads. However to get to inland destinations like Brown Lake, or to head to Main Beach, visitors to Minjerribah will have to drive on dirt, rock, potholed, and sandy roads.

Just like my tip for visiting Kangaroo Island , when booking a rental car or van, or bringing your own to Straddie, be sure to know the limits of what the vehicle can do. 

I visited Minjerribah after a bout of rain, and found the paved road to Main Beach flooded nearly up to my knees in some sections. Since I was driving a smaller, 2-wheel drive vehicle, I decided not to risk it and walked the rest of the way to the beach.

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11. Support Straddie Locals and go Shopping in Dunwich

If you’re like me and no vacation is complete without doing a bit of shopping, or at least some window shopping, Dunwich is a great place to check out. It has a number of shops for local handicrafts, artwork, and a snack and a coffee too. You’re sure to find a Straddie keepsake from one of these Dunwich shops.

Tip: The ferry terminal in Cleveland has a small Straddie souvenir shop too – pick up an I <3 Straddie sticker from here!

12. Experience a cultural activity

Minjerribah is the aboriginal name for North Stradbroke Island, the spiritual home to the Quandamooka People. One option for visitors to learn more about the culture of the traditional owners of Minjerribah is by joining a cultural tour or experience.

Quandamooka Coast is an indigenous tourism business based on the island, which posts tours, ceremonies, festivals, and other events  on their website  if available. 

Another option for experiencing the traditional culture of the island is joining a tour with  Yura Tours . With cultural walking tours around key island landmarks and even a whale-watching tour, visitors will learn about bush tucker and aboriginal creation stories with a highly-rated Quandamooka guide.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by QYAC (@quandamooka)

13. Spot dolphins at Amity Point

Here’s another tip of where to spot Aussie wildlife on North Stradbroke Island – Amity Point Jetty! This 70 meter jetty on the west side of the island is a favorite fishing spot for locals and visitors to Straddie. It’s located right by the boat ramp parking lot and the Amity Point campground.

Hang out at the end of the jetty where the fishermen wait for their catch (and local kids swim in the deep water) and you’re sure to see a few dolphin fins popping up out of the water. These local animals hang out around these shores looking for a meal, just like us humans!

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14. Spot kangaroos at Lookout Point

North Stradbroke Island is one of the best places in Queensland to spot kangaroos in the wild. It’s tied for my favorite place (with Emerald Beach between Brisbane and Sydney) to admire these gentle creatures. 

Across Lookout Point, the north section of Straddie, families of kangaroos hang out and munch on the dewy coastline grass. I love visiting the coastline, just in front of the Blue Room Cafe, at sunrise. Photos below are proof! 

You’re also bound to see ‘roos at the top section of Main Beach, just south of the Point Lookout Life Saving Club. 

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15. Visit Straddie on a Day-Trip Tour from Brisbane

This popular day-trip tour from Brisbane to Stradbroke Island lets you sit back, relax, and enjoy the ferry cruise, bus rides, and more while you visit some of the most popular sites of the island. 

16. Spot a koala at Amity Point

Stradbroke Island is the only place where I’ve seen a koala in the wild during my time in Australia! Although these creatures are commonly seen (and held) in places like the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and the Australia Zoo, there’s something different about seeing them in the wild.

Here’s where I went to see a koala on Straddie: Drive or walk north from the main Amity Point boat ramp until the main road veers to the right. There’s a narrow road called Ballot Street that turns into a dirt road, and turns up towards a northern beach. 

A small carpark here is surrounded by tall gum trees – this area is where I’ve seen a koala (twice!) in the wild on Straddie.

Here’s another tip for visiting North Stradbroke Island: bring your binoculars!

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17. Fill up on gas and groceries ahead of visiting

North Stradbroke Island has a handful of gas or petrol stations and grocery stores, including a small Foodwords and a Spar in Dunwich and another Foodworks and a Cellarbrations liquor store at Point Lookout. Expect to pay island prices though – everything to be purchased here was shipped over on a boat from Brisbane!

Gas prices are the cheapest around the fringes of Brisbane city (before reaching Cleveland where it gets expensive again). You may use a half-tank of gas on Minjerribah, so fill up ahead of time! 

If you’re cooking food at the  Manta Lodge Hostel  or other self-contained accommodation, plan ahead and fill up a cooler with cooking ingredients and drinks before embarking on your trip to Straddie. 

18. Plan your dinners ahead of time

Minjerribah is home to a number of nice restaurants and cafes, perfect for enjoying a meal out. (Check out Sealevel21 ) An important tip for visiting Stradbroke Island though, is to plan when you’ll have dinners, and make reservations if you need to, because most restaurants and shops close early. Between 7:00 pm-8:30 pm is when the kitchens close and lights go out in most restaurants.

One location that stays open later than most is the humble  Stradbroke Island Bowls Club . With a kitchen that closes later than most places, and beer on tap as well, many locals and visitors may find themselves here after-hours.

snorkel tours stradbroke island

19. Paid campsites are available on Straddie

Stradbroke Island is home to a number of campsites, including at Amity Point, Point Lookout, Flinders Beach, and around Dunwich. One entity owns and operates all campsites, which include caravan spots and some cabins:  Minjerribah Camping . 

Surprisingly, camping on Straddie is also not the most economical option for island accommodation, especially if you’re traveling solo. For one or two people visiting Stradbroke Island, it’s cheaper to stay in a bed at  Manta Lodge YHA . For larger groups and families all sharing one campsite or caravan spot, Minjerribah camping is a great budget accommodation option on Straddie.

Minjerribah Camping is an Aboriginal-owned company. When I visited the island in early 2022, the campsites had stricter vaccination rules compared to the rest of Queensland. Call ahead to check campsite availability and other requirements for your next visit. 

20. During the months of May-November, see Humpback Whales off the coast

The East coast of Australia hosts an incredible migration of humpback whales between the months of May to November. The most popular activity during this time to see these massive creatures is to join a whale-watching tour .

There are so many whales though, when they breach out of the water or spray water from their blowholes, they can be spotted from shore! 

Minjerribah has a designated whale-watching platform at Point Lookout, perfect for seeing whales from a great vantage point on the island. 

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BONUS: Go Slow and enjoy the island life!

Whether you’re enjoying island life on Koh Lanta, Thailand  or  Korcula, Croatia  or  Caye Caulker, Belize , or North Stradbroke Island, Australia, remember to enjoy the slow, island life.

The incredible natural beauty of Stradbroke Island, including its expansive beaches and inland hikes, make it the perfect place to unwind. Grab a wine or coffee with an ocean view, kick back, and relax on North Stradbroke Island!

Pin these Straddie tips for later!

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The Sphinx from Turtle rock hikes at Girraween National Park, South Walking Trails at Girraween National Park. Stanthorpe 3-day itinerary, hiking trails at Girraween National Park, Queensland Australia

Turtle Rock and The Sphinx Hike at Girraween National Park

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Guide to Hiking the Pyramid at Girraween National Park

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snorkel tours stradbroke island

Authentic Aboriginal Cultural Experience DISCOVER ADVENTURES ON

North stradbroke island, with a cultural twist.

Arrow Down

North Stradbroke Island has plenty to offer the adventurous visitor of all ages. Hi all, due to sighting a croc while on a tour early this year 2023  we have suspended the kayaking tours.

We are not prepared to put our customers at risk.

Enquire about other tours

The tour business "Straddie Adventures", specialise in Bay Kayaking, Sand Boarding, 4WD Tours and Kulcha with a difference.Our business is owned and operated by Original Sovereign Owners of the Quandamooka who live on a place people call Nth Stradbroke Island - "Cherrangaree" We will take you on an authentic experience into territory known as "Quandamooka", sharing, demonstrating & teaching our Original Kulcha passed on through the generations.

Tour & Activities on Offer

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Kayak Adventures

You paddle on a guided tour at the high tide along the edge of the mangroves, going in and out of the mangroves. Stopping at a few locations to yarn about the local history, 1st Nations people history, our family customs, traditions and practises, Environmental

management and issues.

 Pristine; Colourful; Clear; Clean; Waters. And an opportunity to see on occasions: fish, stingrays, eagle-rays, shovel-nose rays, turtles, dugongs, whales (seasonal), dolphins, birds, mud crabs.

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Kayak Kulcha Experience

W hile you are paddling you will have a handmade spear to have a go at getting something to eat.

Like the Kayak Adventure we stop at a few locations to yarn about the local history, 1st Nations people history, our family customs, traditions and practises, Environmental management and issues.

The opportunity to see an area of Straddie many people drive by not knowing what they are missing out on. Pristine; Colourful; Clear; Clean; Waters. 

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Sand Boarding

‘Goorie Style’! Grab a Board, some Wax, Instructions & Slide our Sandy Slopes of Straddie.

2hrs of EXTREME FUN & LAUGHTER FOR ALL AGES

Just because the boards have foot straps, you can sit and lay on the boards

Kayaks are single seat or double seated

1.5hr - 2hr paddle

Suitable for: All ages

Kayaking & Paddling Experience & Skills needed: Nil

Non Swimmers: Life Jackets provided

Minimum: 2 people

1.5hr - 2hr paddle & 1hr at ours taste testing

All boards provided. 2hrs of boarding

Boarding Experience & Skills needed: Nil

Children: We ask parents supervise

Minimum: Bookings Required

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We have a Responsibility & Right as Original Sovereign Owners to Teach, Demonstrate & get People to Participate in an Authentic Experience of KULCHA & LAWS/LORE   

‘My Kulcha’. I have hunted & gather cultural resources since I was a little boy with my dad Glen Jones and older brother Allan Jones. We got taught to catch mud crabs in the mangroves & sand crabs, fish, gather quanpee’s, eugaries here on Straddie. Dad and our mum’s father our grandfather Richard ‘Dicky’. Perry taught us how to survive from the land & sea. We learnt to use a spear, a net and help the fishermen regularly as well as going out fishing in a dinghy by ourselves to feed the family. As a teenager I was taught how to hunt Dugong by dad’s brother in-law Uncle Sid Coolwell and dad’s brother-cousin Uncle Kenny Murphy.

Still today I hunt with Uncles Sid’s son, my brother-cousin Fred Coolwell. We continue this practice by handing these skills onto our children and now my grandchildren are hunting & gather our cultural resources. With turtle my brother & I would bring 1 or 2 home after the fishermen had netted and our Grand Uncle Walter Tippo taught us the skill of cutting turtle up the way he was shown and I now show my children, grandchildren and the boys who come hunting how to cut up. Hunting & Gather cultural resources, has been a continual cultural activity practice I’ve been a part of since the late 1960’s as a child and still now I continue with my children and grandchildren.

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Bookings & Enquiries

To get a quote or enquires about one of our tours please call us on 0433 171 477 or fill in the form below.

Thanks for submitting!

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Follow us on Facebook @StraddieAdventures

StradBrokeIsland

about the island

QUANDAMOOKA

OUR HISTORY 

ISLAND GUIDE

MARINE TURTLES

SPECIAL OFFERS

HEALTH & WELLBEING

REAL ESTATE

getting here

VEHICLE HIRE

GETTING AROUND

see & do

ARTS & CRAFTS

EDUCATIONAL TOURS

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

BEACHES & WATERWAYS

ATTRACTIONS

eat and drink

BAKERY & CAFES

RESTAURANTS & BARS

LOCAL PRODUCE

places to stay

RESORTS & HOTELS

HOTELS & B&BS

HOLIDAY RENTALS

EVENTS ON STRADDIE

CORPORATE FUNCTIONS

StradBrokeIsland

Welcome to Straddie...

Where a trip becomes tradition, explore straddie.

There's so much to explore and experience here on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah). From endless summer adventures to amazing whale watching winters. Straddie is the perfect place to make your trip a tradition.

Weekend Getaway

Reconnect with loved ones and explore our weekend offerings.

Family Activities

Take a trip the kids will remember, explore what we offer families.

Educational Tours

There are lots of places to experience the rich culture of the Quandamooka people.

For those who like a little bit of action, explore our day tours.

Straddie has the closest surf to Brisbane City, explore our amazing coastlines.

Dunwich Township

Dunwich is the gateway to the island by ferry and water taxi and has a range of cafes, shops and services.

snorkel tours stradbroke island

Amity Point

Amity is great for kayaking or, if you love fishing, “putting the tinny in”, or perhaps throwing a line in from jetty.

snorkel tours stradbroke island

Point Lookout Township

Point Lookout is popular for its magnificent surf beaches, land-based whale watching from the headland, beautiful North Gorge walk.

snorkel tours stradbroke island

Experiences & Events

There is no better time to visit Straddie than right now! We have handpicked some great deals and discounts for you to make that trip even sweeter. Check out these incredible offers and get booking today.

snorkel tours stradbroke island

Island Vibe

3 day music festival born of reggae, dub and island vibes

Lines in the Sand

NATURE ART CONNECT invites you to learn about island ecology, island culture and immerse yourself in making nature art.

Nikki Michail Photography & Events

Connecting Indigenous, earth-based wisdoms and emerging sustainable practices through projects.

Point Lookout Markets

There’s a great range of Island vendors coming together to create the vibrant markets. Find toys, ladies beach fashion, organic Island honey, homemade soaps, gifts, food, jewellery and much more

Quandamooka Festival

The Quandamooka Festival aims to provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance for people to learn about the Nughi, Nunukul, and Goenpul clans.

Stradbroke Chamber Music Festival

The Stradbroke Chamber Music Festival is a series of six concerts held over three days at intimate venues in stunning Island settings.

Latest Posts

snorkel tours stradbroke island

Getaway Ideas

Camping Checklist & Guide To Camping On Stradbroke Island

snorkel tours stradbroke island

Community News

Community Groups, Organisations & Clubs

snorkel tours stradbroke island

Family Fun Day

Follow @northstraddieisland on Instagram!

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  2. Snorkel Tour with Island Bay Divers

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  3. First Snorkeling Experience

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  4. 3 REEF SNORKEL BY BOAT....Royal Excursion Cozumel

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  5. Dive the snorkel trail.

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COMMENTS

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    We are the only snorkel tour provider on North Stradbroke Island with access to local offshore sites, which means you get to experience the beauty and magic of the Moreton Bay Marine Park as the local marine life do. ... North Stradbroke Island QLD 4183 Australia [email protected]. PHONE : +61 7 3409 8888 . Follow Us on Facebook; Follow us ...

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    Address: 5 Guy Crescent, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island. www.straddiekingfishertours.com.au. [email protected]. 0409 123 586. Dave offers a 6-hour 4WD eco-tour of North Stradbroke Island, as well as sandboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing adventures. Enjoy our famous beach bbq for lunch, taking in all this Island ...

  6. THE 10 BEST North Stradbroke Island Tours & Excursions

    Full-day Tours. 10-12 hours. On the North Stradbroke Island Tour, migrating whales can be spotted from June to October, along with dolphins and turtles…. Free cancellation. from. $166. per adult. 5. Stradbroke Island 4WD Day Trip from Brisbane.

  7. THE BEST North Stradbroke Island Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

    Scuba & Snorkeling in North Stradbroke Island. 1. Manta Lodge & Scuba Centre. Dive 1. Manta Bommie.... beautiful big manta waiting for us at the mooring on our descent. What a start, and plenty of... Top North Stradbroke Island Scuba & Snorkeling Activities: See reviews and photos of scuba & snorkeling in North Stradbroke Island, Australia on ...

  8. Morning Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour 2024

    Start your day off right with a 3-hour kayak tour to South Stradbroke Island. Enjoy a great vantage point on the beaches and wildlife of the Gold Coast as you paddle at a leisurely pace, stopping to snorkel off Wavebreak Island, visit secluded beaches, and enjoy a picnic breakfast on the beach. Your expert guide shares informative commentary about the region's ecology and animals, and provides ...

  9. North Stradbroke Island Snorkeling

    An excursion off the island is called Manta Bommie, which is a boat-accessed snorkeling dive to a manta ray cleaning station. It is also best on very calm days. North Stradbroke Island is a 25 minute ferry ride from downtown Brisbane. Overall, North Stradbroke Island is the 17th most popular snorkel dive spot of all 43 snorkeling dives in ...

  10. Dive Into The Sunshine Coast's Best Snorkelling Spots

    Easily some of the best snorkelling on the Sunshine Coast, Sunreef provides all the required wetsuits and snorkel gear and say the winter months are best, when the big fellas are migrating. Once a whale is sighted, swimmers can jump into the water while holding onto a floatation line attached to the boat. North Stradbroke Island

  11. THE 10 BEST North Stradbroke Island Tours & Excursions

    Apr 15, 2024 - Find & Book the top-rated and best-reviewed tours in North Stradbroke Island for 2024. From prices and availability to reviews and photos, Tripadvisor has everything you need to create that perfect itinerary for your trip to North Stradbroke Island. ... Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard) frm Brisbane or Gold ...

  12. Gold Coast Snorkeling Tour with South Stradbroke, Wave Break 2023

    Spend the morning swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking around South Stradbroke and Wave Break islands on this cruise from the Gold Coast. Paddle your way from through clear waters to South Stradbroke Island by kayak, then see colorful birds and wallabies on a bushwalk and go snorkeling. Continue to Wave Break Island, where you can enjoy a light lunch, go stand up paddleboarding, relax in the ...

  13. North Stradbroke Island Day Tour

    Any suitcases and/or large backpacks (luggage) over 5kg will incur a $40.00 per item surcharge. Book Direct. Book Online. Check Tour Availability. (NO credit card fees) OR call +61 7 3203 4241. North Stradbroke Island Day Tour - Spot dolphins, fish, a variety of seabirds, sometimes whales in season, Dugong and Turtles.

  14. Dolphin Kayaking & Snorkeling Guided Tour in Gold Coast

    Enjoy a stroll across some of the best surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking beaches in the world; Snorkel and see hundreds of sub-tropical fish in Wavebreak Island; Spot the swamp wallaby, also called blank stinker by the locals, only found on South Stradbroke Island

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    1 place sorted by traveller favourites. 1. Manta Lodge & Scuba Centre. Awesome days diving with Manta Lodge, Captain James ensured the best dive experience possible and Tyler and Emma show... Top North Stradbroke Island Scuba & Snorkeling Activities: See reviews and photos of scuba & snorkeling in North Stradbroke Island, Australia on Tripadvisor.

  16. Stradbroke Island's Top Water Activities: Snorkeling, Kayaking, and

    With so many water activities to enjoy, Stradbroke Island is a paradise for water lovers. So pack your snorkel, kayak, or surfboard and get ready to explore the island's amazing aquatic world. Happy travels! Stradbroke Island, also known as Minjerribah, is a paradise for water lovers.

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    Book Now, north stradbroke island, tours, adventure, sand, kayak - STRADDIE KINGFISHER TOURS. ACCESSIBILITY. Accessibility to our tours for all guests is not always possible. Access to our vehicle is via a step on the back of the 4WD and does not allow for easy wheel chair access or low levels of sightedness.

  18. 20 Tips for Visiting North Stradbroke Island, Australia

    6. Avoid visiting Straddie on holidays and long weekends. The busiest time to visit North Stradbroke Island is during the school holidays in Brisbane and Queensland, or three-day weekends. Ferries and accommodation will book out quickly, and you might expect a wait at cafes and restaurants during mealtimes.

  19. Aboriginal Culture

    North Stradbroke Island has plenty to offer the adventurous visitor of all ages. The tour business "Straddie Adventures", specialise in Bay Kayaking, Sand Boarding, 4WD Tours and Kulcha with a difference.Our business is owned and operated by Original Sovereign Owners of the Quandamooka who live on.

  20. Stradbroke Island Day Trip from the Gold Coast 2024

    Visit Stradbroke Island for a relaxing half-day of swimming, snorkeling and other fun activities in a secluded tropical paradise. Cross from the Gold Coast mainland to the island by high-speed catamaran in just 35 minutes, then have free time to do as you please. Hit the water by kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard, swim, snorkel or lounge around on the white-sand beaches. Enjoy the ...

  21. Official North Stradbroke Island & Straddie Information Website

    Welcome to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), where a trip becomes tradition. There's so much to explore and experience for all, only 25km from Brisbane. ... For those who like a little bit of action, explore our day tours. Learn more. Surfing. Straddie has the closest surf to Brisbane City, explore our amazing coastlines. Learn more.

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  23. Gold Coast

    North Stradbroke Island Dive is a SCUBA diver's dream come true! Boasting incredible biodiversity and one of the best experiences in Australia. Strong currents improve visibility and bring fresh nutrient-rich water to the area. Dive Flat Rock during winter for Grey Nurse Sharks, and dive Manta Bommie, during the summer see Manta Rays in their ...

  24. Snorkel Hire

    Snorkel Hire. Daily hire prices are: Mask, snorkel & fins $20.00. Wet suit hire $20.00 per suit. Sharkbanz $30.00 per band. Life Jackets $15.00 each. Straddie Kingfisher Tours will hire snorkel equipment to you to use during your stay here on North Stradbroke Island where you can play and explore at your leisure!

  25. Snorkeling and Dolphin-Spotting Cruise at Moreton Island 2024

    North Stradbroke Island SUNSET Tour. 131. from $84.26. Brisbane, Queensland. Stradbroke Island 4WD Day Trip from Brisbane. 28. from $205.75. ... Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard) frm Brisbane or Gold Coast. 431. 11 to 14 hours. Free Cancellation. From. $110.39. Australia Zoo Day Trip from Brisbane. 87.