11 of the best Moreton Island tours from Brisbane

By Kristie Lau-Adams
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Jump aboard the best Moreton Island tours to unwrap every inch of paradise just off the coast of Brisbane.

A natural playground, Moreton Island is filled with unspoiled beaches, secret lagoons, dramatic sand dunes and ancient marine wreckages. The best way to explore such staggering beauty? By joining one of the expertly led Moreton Bay tours leaving from Brisbane. From offshore expeditions to up-in-the-air escapades, the potential for adventure in this spectacular corner of the world knows no bounds.

Snorkelling tours of Moreton Island

1. Dolphin Wild Island Cruises’ Moreton Island Eco-Marine Safari and Snorkel

an aerial view of the Tangalooma Wrecks

See the jaw-dropping Tangalooma Wrecks up close with Dolphin Wild Island Cruises. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Soak up vividly hued marine life and the jaw-dropping Tangalooma Wrecks with Dolphin Wild Island Cruises’ Moreton Island Eco-Marine Safari and Snorkel tour. The full-day experience, departing from Redcliffe’s Newport Marina, which is less than one hour’s drive from Brisbane’s CBD, will lead you to the best spots to spy dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles and unique birds. There’s also Tangalooma Wrecks, a group of ancient ships scuttled between 1963 and 1984 to provide sturdy anchorage for boaties, to explore. Snorkelling gear, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, tea, coffee and water are all included. Prices start from $189 per adult.

2. Tangalooma Island Resort’s Snorkel the Wrecks Day Cruise

a woman snorkelling at the Tangalooma Wrecks

Go snorkelling around the wreckage. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

One of the best-loved Moreton Island tours to consider is Tangalooma Island Resort’s Snorkel the Wrecks Day Cruise departing from Brisbane. You’ll be taken on a guided tour of the Tangalooma Wrecks, where more than 200 fish species and 130 coral species will leave you speechless.

The experience also includes a lunch voucher to use at Tangalooma Island Resort, and all your gear is included. Prices start from $169 per adult.

3. Tangatours’ Snorkelling Tour

passengers riding a ferry during Tangatours’ Snorkelling Tour

Sail to Tangalooma Island Resort via one of Tangatours’ passenger ferries. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

If you’re travelling in from Brisbane to Tangalooma Island Resort via one of their passenger ferries, you’ve got Tangatours as a Moreton Island tour option. The team operate exclusive expeditions for resort day-trippers and guests, and their Snorkelling Tour is highly rated.

You’ll only spend 1.5 hours on the Tangalooma Wrecks, but experienced guides will show you where to look for the best marine life. Plus, your entire kit is included in addition to pool noodles if you need extra support. Prices start from $69.

Scenic flights and Aerial Tours of Moreton Island

4. Bekaa Air’s Moreton and Stradbroke Islands Helicopter Ride.

a scenic flight above Moreton Island

Experience spectacular Moreton Island views with Bekaa Air. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Prefer a bird’s eye view of those heavenly waters? Bekaa Air’s Moreton and Stradbroke Islands Helicopter Ride is just the ticket, offering aerial vistas across two spectacular coastal gems just off the coast of Brisbane.

The private flights, which last 70 minutes in total, depart from Archerfield Airport (about 30 minutes from the CBD) and soar to roughly 600 metres above the water. An extraordinary vantage point of the Tangalooma Wrecks is a stand-out, and you’ll also hear expert commentary from your experienced pilot. Prices start from $599 per person.

5. The Redcliffe Aero Club’s Blue Lagoon Scenic Flight – Moreton Island

Set off from Redcliffe Aerodrome, located just under an hour’s drive from Brisbane’s CBD, to explore the shimmering turquoise and rugged bushland below.

The Redcliffe Aero Club’s Blue Lagoon Scenic Flight – Moreton Island will let you linger a little longer atop the Tangalooma Wrecks before sweeping the island for knock-out views of the Moreton National Forest and Cape Moreton. It’ll last about an hour all up, and prices start from $460 per adult.

Whale watching tours of Moreton Island

6. Tangalooma Island Resort’s Whale Watching Day Cruise

a whale swimming in Brisbane waters

Don’t miss out on the whale watching season in Brisbane. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Sniff out the ocean’s most magnificent creatures on board Tangalooma Island Resort’s Whale Watching Day Cruise departing from Brisbane during whale watching season (that’s mid-June to mid-October). You’ll jump on board a catamaran and score a light lunch over three hours of solid binocular squizzing.

Expert commentary will shine a light on the whales’ annual migration through Queensland’s waters, and as a bonus, you’ll also be granted access to Tangalooma Island Resort’s two swimming pools, restaurants and bars. Prices start from $105 per adult.

7. Brisbane Whale Watching’s VIP Whale Watching Adventure

a whale gracefully popping out of the water, Brisbane Whale Watching

See these friendly creatures in action. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Catch a glimpse of ocean royalty in style with Brisbane Whale Watching’s VIP Whale Watching Adventure. Again, it’s a June to November window you’ll have to take advantage of (and get in quick, because it’s popular), but rest assured you’ll have a front-row seat to the action.

Running for approximately 330 minutes in total, guests will be transported via the MV Eye-Spy, a multi-million-dollar catamaran with reduced noise and vibration. There’s also a rooftop sun deck, air conditioning and a licensed bar to enjoy. Prices start from $200 per adult.

Sandboarding on Moreton Island

8. Moreton Bay Escapes’ Moreton Island 4WD Adventure Day Tour

One of the most popular small-group Moreton Island tours, Moreton Bay Escapes’ Moreton Island 4WD Adventure Day Tour departs from various locations within Brisbane (and even the Gold Coast) to get you flying down the infamous Moreton Island sand dunes. Home to 46 hectares of desert, including the mighty, 280-metre-tall Mount Tempest—Australia’s largest sand dune—it’s one of the largest sand wonderlands in the world. These guys reckon you’ll reach up to speeds of 50 kilometres per hour, so it’s a good thing experienced guides are on hand to walk you through it. The tour also includes snorkelling, beach visits and hiking. Prices start from $189 per adult.

9. Australian Sunset Safaris’ Moreton Island Get Wrecked 1-day Tour

gliding down the dunes on Moreton Island with Australian Sunset Safaris

Race down the dunes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Whether you’re staying in Brisbane’s CBD or you’re closer to the Port of Brisbane, Australian Sunset Safaris’ Moreton Island Get Wrecked 1-Day Tour is going to get you racing down those dunes quick sticks.

This standout Moreton Island tour includes snorkelling over the Tangalooma Wrecks in addition to gliding down those giant hills, with this team promising to get you up to 70 kilometres per hour.

If you’re game, expect to be out and about all day with prices starting from $259 per person, including lunch.

Scenic tours of Moreton Island

10. Australian Sunset Safaris’ Cape Moreton Scenic Day Tour

an aerial view of Honeymoon Bay

Head to a secret beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Let’s get ready to rumble. Australian Sunset Safaris’ Cape Moreton Scenic Day Tour will send a 4WD bus to pick you up from the Brisbane Coach Terminal in the CBD or the Port of Brisbane for a day of scenic activity.

One of the best-loved Moreton Island tours to choose from, this experience takes in quality time at beautiful headlands, lakes and secret beaches (like the beautiful Champagne Pools and Honeymoon Bay) while also putting on lunch—you’ll just need to BYO your cozzies and a towel. Prices start from $259 per adult.

11. Tangalooma Island Resort’s Beach Day Cruise

an aerial view of Tangalooma Island Resort

Soak up the natural splendour surrounding Tangalooma Island Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Take things nice and easy onboard Tangalooma Island Resort’s Beach Day Cruise, departing from Brisbane and including lunch at the resort itself. You’ll glide at a sea turtle’s pace through Moreton Bay Marine Park and beyond, allowing you to thoroughly soak up the natural splendour. Plus, it offers access to the resort’s pools, restaurants and bars. Prices start from $99 per adult.

Read our comprehensive guide to camping on Moreton Island.
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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A comprehensive guide to camping on Moreton Island

    By Kristie Lau-Adams
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    Camping on Moreton Island provides a front-row seat to the majesty of Mother Nature.

    When you’re camping on Moreton Island, also known by its Indigenous name of Mulgumpin, the unspoilt coastline invites instant serenity. Part of the spectacular Moreton Island National Park, just a hop, skip and ferry ride from Brisbane, the world’s third-largest sand island is surrounded by turquoise blue waters and flows with amazing activity for every holiday speed. From four-wheel driving and surfing sand dunes to chilled-out snorkelling and uninterrupted stargazing, kicking back your way is easy. Here are the basics to get you moving.

    How to get to Moreton Island

    an aerial view of Micat ferry on Moreton Island

    The ferry ride to Moreton Island takes approximately 90 minutes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

    Let’s get familiar with paradise. Located 40 kilometres offshore from Brisbane, Moreton Island is mostly accessed via the Micat ferry, which takes about 90 minutes and departs from the Port of Brisbane, the city’s main shipping port. If you’re making the trek from Brisbane’s CBD to go camping on Moreton Island, it’s a 30-minute drive north-east of the city.

    It’s worth noting that Micat is a passenger and vehicle ferry, and the only option for visitors who plan on taking their 4WD with them (which is highly advised). Ferry scheduling fluctuates depending on the season, but during peak periods, it can run up to five times each day. Check the website for up-to-date information.

    Make sure you book well in advance, too. School holiday periods attract serious crowds, which cram those regular runs right up. We advise securing tickets at least four weeks in advance, no matter when you’re visiting, and if you’re planning an Easter or Christmas trip, get organised six months in advance. Ticket pricing differs depending on when you’re travelling, but expect a minimum of around $79 each way if you’re taking your car. Passenger-only tickets are cheaper.

    Permits and regulations

    bush camping in Mulgumpin

    Lush surrounds on Moreton Island invite instant serenity. (Image: Queensland Government)

    If you’re bringing your wheels, a vehicle access permit is a must. Furthermore, all campsites require camping permits, so you’ll need to sort them before you go, too.

    The vehicle access permit, which must be clearly displayed within your vehicle so your booking number can be viewed at any time you’re camping on Moreton Island, can be purchased as either an annual or monthly pass — there are no single trips. If you’re going for anywhere up to one month, you’ll need to fork out $57.80 per vehicle. If you’re adventuring for more than one month and up to one year, it’s $291 per vehicle. Check out the website for more information.

    a tent and hammock setup in Mulgumpin

    You can set up a tent for a minimal fee. (Image: Queensland Government)

    Camping fees are less steep. No matter where you’re setting up your tent (literally and figuratively) on Moreton Island, you’ll pay $7.25 per person or $29 per family, per night. Additionally, all sites, even the facility-free camping areas, require bookings in advance, so don’t assume you can just rock up and pay when you jump off the ferry.

    You can also live out those dreams of roasting marshmallows as the sun sets, given many of Moreton Island’s camping grounds allow for fires, but you’ll need to BYO firewood.

    Activities and attractions

    quadbiking in Tangalooma Island Resort

    Pump up your adrenaline on a thrilling ATV Quad Bike ride at Tangalooma Island Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

    Adventure seekers will bask in four-wheel driving along nature’s highway, in addition to climbing the extraordinary sandstone formations of Cape Cliff and kayaking and snorkelling through crystal-clear waters.

    Hiking is another popular pastime when you’re camping on Moreton Island, and Mt Tempest is the highest point to help you gaze adoringly at Mother Nature’s handiwork.

    Tobogganing or sandboarding down Moreton Island’s sand dunes, some of the tallest examples in the world, is always a fun choice. The best spot is The Desert, located right behind Tangalooma Island Resort.

    swimming at Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island

    Be transported to a bygone era at Tangalooma Wrecks. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

    Those looking for restoration will enjoy observing the rich variety of wildlife on display, including birds, dolphins, whales and turtles. Relaxing at Honeymoon Bay, soaking in the natural Champagne Pools and dipping into the Blue Lagoon will also feed the soul effortlessly.

    But Moreton Island’s most-visited attraction has got to be the Tangalooma Wrecks, a stack of ancient ships scuttled by the government to help recreational boaties anchor in safely during the 1960s, 70s and 80s.

    Your inner explorer will delight in stickybeaking through the rusting bones of old ship hulls, transporting you to a thrilling bygone era without sacrificing those Instagram-perfect surroundings.

    Best camping spots on Moreton Island

    Yellow Patch Camping Zone

    Surfers froth for the Yellow Patch Camping Zone as the exposed beaches offer sensational waves. 14 sites are dotted throughout the stretch, with some offering more exposed conditions than others. Choose your own adventure with various-sized sites and surf proximity. The North Point Camping Area is just a short drive from this area.

    Address: It’s all that space on the western side of the island between North Point and Heath Island.

    Facilities: None.

    Accessibility: It’s reachable via 4WD, and you can park it beside your campsite. Camper trailers are welcome.

    Dog-friendly? No.

    The Wrecks Campground

    an aerial view of The Wrecks Campground, Moreton Island

    Camp on a sheltered bay next to a shipwreck. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

    Set right off a sheltered bay and wrapped in a blanket of native trees and shrubs, The Wrecks Campground offers 21 sites. It’s near the main barge point, so anybody without a car can access it, but be prepared to walk a little to get to the actual sites.

    Nearby attractions include the Tangalooma Wrecks, and there’s also great snorkelling with coral growing on the ships themselves. Top-notch fishing is also on tap.

    Address: Near the main barge landing point, where the ferries arrive.

    Facilities: Cold showers, non-flush toilets, water (but treat before drinking), rubbish bins and Wi-Fi (but it’s extremely patchy).

    Accessibility: Camper trailers aren’t supported as the Wrecks can only be reached via 4WD and boats. Even then, you’ve got to walk to the site itself because vehicles need to be parked on the beach.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    Ben-Ewa Camping Area

    Hands down, the best option for first-time campers. A hit amongst families and school groups, the Ben-Ewa Camping Area provides sheltered waters right off shaded sites. Located north of The Wrecks on the western beach side of the island, just 12 sites are on offer. If you can nab one, you’ll spend your days dipping in dreamy waters, enjoying calm kayaking and SUP paddleboarding with fellow nature lovers. The conditions are perfect for it all. 

    Address: Just a short stroll north of the main barge landing point, where the ferries arrive.

    Facilities: Water (but treat before drinking), hybrid toilets, a portable toilet waste disposal system and cold showers.

    Accessibility: You can get to the campground in your 4WD with parking available either right next to or close to the sites themselves. Camper trailers are welcome.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    Comboyuro Point Campground

    This beautiful spot is close to 4WD tracks that lead to some of the island’s main attractions. Boasting 49 camping plots of various sizes, the Comboyuro Point Campground offers plenty of shade and calm swimming conditions for the whole family to enjoy. Even better, the sunsets across the bay from this site are majestic.

    Address: It’s located on the western side of Moreton Island, within walking distance of the Bulwer township.

    Facilities: Water (but treat before drinking), septic toilets, rubbish bins, a portable toilet water disposal system and cold showers.

    Accessibility: You can park your car right next to your site, and campervans are also welcome.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    North Point Camping Area

    an aerial view of the beach at North Point Camping Area

    North Point Camping Area offers direct access to the beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

    Want to be within walking distance of Honeymoon Bay and the Champagne Pools? North Point Camping Area is your go-to. The area offers a large grassy patch close to the beach, and there are 21 sites available.

    Kids love it as the nearby swimming is shallow and calm. Note that open fires are not permitted.

    Address: It’s found at the northern tip of Moreton Island, between Yellow Patch and Cape Moreton.

    Facilities: Water (but treat before drinking), hybrid toilets, cold showers and pedestrian access to the beach.

    Accessibility: It can only be reached by 4WD, and just four of the sites are suitable for camper trailers. It’s impossible to park next to your campsite.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    North-West Camping Zone

    Ready to really rough it? The North-West Camping Zone is one of Moreton Island’s facility-free campgrounds, offering unadulterated connectivity to your natural surroundings. Fires are permitted, and generator use is green-lit between 8 am and 7 pm. This camping ground has a capacity of 76 beach campsites, all with fabulous access to calm bay waters. Some sites are even located a walk away from the Bulwer township.

    Address: It’s anywhere between the Ben-Ewa Camping Area and the Comboyuro Point Campground.

    Facilities: None.

    Accessibility: You can park your 4WD beside your campsite, and camper trailers are welcome.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    Blue Lagoon Camping Area

    swimming at Blue Lagoon Camping Area, Moreton Island

    Go for a refreshing dip. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

    The beautiful, beach-centred Blue Lagoon Camping Area offers easy access to an ocean surf beach and scenic walking trails. Even sweeter, it’s just a stroll away from the Blue Lagoon, a natural freshwater lake renowned for heavenly swimming and birdwatching. There are 25 sites in total to choose from.

    Address: You’ll find it on the eastern length of Moreton Island, between Middle Road and Cape Moreton.

    Facilities: Water (but treat before drinking), septic toilets and cold showers.

    Accessibility: It can be reached via 4WD, and parking is provided right next to the sites.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    North-East Camping Zone

    Another completely stripped-back camping pick, the North-East Camping Zone offers 89 sites scattered beyond Middle Road and up towards Spitfire Creek on the Eastern beach. Secluded conditions equal exceptional surf beach views, but be mindful of the narrow, soft-sanded Middle Road if you’re bringing a camper trailer.

    Address: The space between Middle Road and Spitfire Creek, so basically everything on the eastern side of the island.

    Facilities: None.

    Accessibility: It can be reached via 4WD, and parking is provided right next to the sites. Camper trailers are welcome, but plan cautiously as Middle Road’s soft sand makes life tough.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    South-West Camping Zone

    Get your hands (and everything else) dirty at the South-West Camping Zone, the island’s most challenging region to access. But the rewards are priceless. This pick offers 24 (mostly tent) sites situated right by picture-perfect waters. The campground is even more exclusive, given that some of its sites are completely impacted by the tide, so be warned that some are only accessible during low tide.

    Address: You’ll find it on the western side of Moreton Island from Tangalooma Bypass to Toulkerrie.

    Price: Your camping permit, detailed in the section above, will cover you.

    Facilities: None.

    Accessibility: You can reach the sites via 4WD, on foot or via a boat or kayak. Some by-your-site parking is available.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    South-East Camping Zone

    With 35 sites to choose from, the South-East Camping Zone presents killer digs to explore the exposed surf beaches between Middle Road and Rous Battery. You’ll need to be mindful in this neck of the woods, though, particularly if you’re towing a trailer, as high tide times can obstruct beaches.

    Address: You’ll find it on the eastern side of Morton Island between Middle Road and heading south to Rous Battery.

    Price: Your camping permit, detailed in the section above, will cover you.

    Facilities: None.

    Accessibility: It’s reachable via 4WD, and you can park it beside your campsite. Camper trailers are welcome.

    Dog-friendly?: No.

    Now read our travel guide to visiting Moreton Island.