ABOUT NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND:: HISTORY AND INFORMATION

Located on Brisbane's eastern doorstep, North Stradbroke Island ("Straddie" to the initiated) is one of Australia's east coast natural treasures and a perfect escape destination. Somehow, the secret has been well kept and it is only in recent years that Straddie has begun to show up on the tourist and property radar.

Travel to Straddie via the bayside village of Cleveland takes approximately 50 minutes on the vehicle ferry. Cleveland is a 30 minute drive from Brisbane International Airport and Brisbane City and one hour's drive from the Gold Coast. The boat ride across Moreton Bay is the first of a series of experiences that make Stradbroke Island such a wonderful experience.

Stradbroke Island covers 27,530 hectares making it the world's second largest sand island. The elongated sand island shields much of the southern part of Moreton Bay and the smaller islands from the ocean swells.

The 35 kilometres of white sandy beaches fringing the island's eastern side runs from Point Lookout in the north to Jumpin Pin in the south. From the Point lookout headland, the conrete jungle of the Gold Coast is often clearly visible, and is a constant reminder of the stark contrast to the lifestyle and slower pace of Straddie. Stradbroke Island's beaches are accessible by four wheel drive, bicycle or on foot, with numerous popular camping sites dotted all the way down Main Beach.

North Stradbroke (or Minjerriba, to the indigenous Noonuccal people) was the home of renowned Aboriginal poet Kath Walker, or Oodgeroo Noonuccal. There is much Aboriginal (perhaps 50,000 years ago) and European (200 years) history surrounding Dunwich where the water taxis and vehicular barges land. Views form almost everywhere on Straddie

The calm waters of Moreton Bay lap against the shores of the island's western fishing towns. The lack of agriculture and the filtering effects of the sand provides clean water that fish and particularly Stradbroke Rock oysters thrive upon.

North Stradbroke attracts 4WDers, anglers, surfers and beach lovers to its expansive stretches of sandy coast and rugged granite headlands, and the Island offers a range of accommodation, restaurants, cafes and holiday infrastructure. With an incredible diversity of experiences to offer and beautiful spots to explore, North Stradbroke is a popular holiday location for families, couples and adventure-seekers alike.

Point Lookout is the main tourist hub and a 30k drive on a sealed road from Dunwich. The North Gorge Headland is 40 metres above sea level and recognised as a leading land based whale watching area during winter and world class surfing and fishing throughout the year. The ideal way to see the Island is by Four Wheel Drive, but there are many stunning coastal walks and a mountain bike and whale watching map are an easier and more environmentally sound alternative. World ranked surfer and local Bede Durbidge

Point Lookout's unspoilt beaches and headlands are perfect for swimming, surfing and fishing year round. Whales (in season May to November), dolphins, turtles and manta rays can often be spotted from the spectacular North Gorge at the northern tip of the island. The island has been listed as one of the world's most ecologically important wetlands and has several freshwater lakes, waterways and lagoons that are accessible by 4WD or on a guided tour with one of Straddie's tour operators.

One of the great features of the island is the fresh seafood available direct from local fishermen. Just look for the signs at Amity Point and Point Lookout to direct you to their homes and the freshest catch of the day around. For those that prefer the work done for them, Straddies restaurants and cafes all make use of this perfect island resource on thier menus.

The jewel in the Straddie crown is Point Lookout and the natural wonder of the North Gorge Walk. The surf, the choice of beaches, all sheltered in different winds, the whale watching, the spectacular coastal walk around the gorges, and perhaps the last truly old-school surf shop in the country - that makes its business selling surfing equipment rather than fashion. fresh stradbroke island seafood at Fishes Cafe

"The Point" offers several alfresco style cafes, a bakery, chemist, post office, newsagent, corner store and supermarket. The island also has its' own bus service linking all three towns to ferries and water taxis.

North Stradbroke Island is the ultimate paradise for the many enthusiasts who visit each year. On a good day it’s possible to surf right past the pub, along the evocatively named Cylinders Beach, on waves that peel dreamily for hundreds of metres. Stick ten bucks in the back pocket of your boardies and you can drop in for a quick beer on your way back around!

View Larger Map