with Nathan from Go Camping

You can’t beat North Stradbroke Island or “Straddie” for a quick getaway or a full-on family holiday.  It’s one of the best islands in the world with beautiful ocean beaches, tranquil lakes and abundant wildlife.  It has a rich cultural heritage maintained by the local indigenous people and is also a great place to see the amazing spectacle of the annual humpback whale migration along the Eastern coast.

Getting Around

Arriving at Dunwich, the main town, you can visit the information centre for details on 4WD permits ($37 for a whole year) and camping permits (from $13.50 a night) and pickup loads of information of what’s on offer. From Dunwich, head to the northern end of the island to Amity, a sleepy town that has camp grounds, netted safe swimming area and all of the facilities that anyone would ever need.  From Amity, head towards the ocean, hop on the beach and travel east along Flinders Beach.  This is the perfect spot for camping in the fore dunes.  From Flinders Beach, a quick drive (back to the bitumen) takes you to the trendy town of Point Lookout where you can fill up on salt ‘n’ pepper squid and lattes.  Cafes, restaurants and best of all, the pub, look over the ocean and Moreton Island.

At 30kms long it is an easy cruise from Point Look out down to the end of the island, arriving at Jumpinpin Bar.  Half way down, Main Beach is another area for beach camping.  From here you see the outline of the Surfers paradise skyline.  On the return trip heading north you can take the inland track that cuts across the island and takes you past Brown Lake and Blue Lake.  Brackish brown tea tree lakes are an inviting place for a quick dip on a hot day.  After cooling off keep heading west to come full circle back to Dunwich.

Fast Facts

Distance:    45 minutes from Nerang to Cleveland

Cost:           Approx $135 return. Depends on variables

For further information contact Stradbroke Island Visitor Information Centre on (07) 3415 3044; www.stradbroketourism.com.  Office is open 7 days and is 200m from the ferry terminal at Dunwich.
4WDs will need to obtain a permit from Straddie Holiday Parks Tel: 1300 551 253
Ferry bookings can be obtained from www.stradbrokeferries.com.au