Moreton Bay Marine Park

Stretching across the sparkling waters of Moreton Bay, this vast marine park is a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts. Its protected habitats shelter dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles, and an astonishing array of birdlife, making every visit feel like a wildlife documentary come to life. Whether you're kayaking through mangrove-lined creeks, snorkelling over colourful reefs, or simply soaking up the coastal serenity, Moreton Bay Marine Park offers an authentic slice of Queensland's subtropical marine environment.

Highlights & What to See

• Tangalooma Wrecks – Snorkel or dive among 15 deliberately sunk ships off Moreton Island, now encrusted with coral and teeming with fish.
• Dolphin Feeding at Tangalooma – Watch wild bottlenose dolphins swim right up to the jetty at dusk – a magical, eco-friendly encounter.
• Moreton Island (Mulgumpin) – Climb the towering sand dunes, swim in the crystal-clear Champagne Pools, and hike to the Cape Moreton lighthouse for panoramic views.
• Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) – Spot koalas in the wild, explore the North Gorge Walk, and watch for migrating humpback whales (June–November).
• Pumicestone Passage – Paddle through calm, protected waters between Bribie Island and the mainland, a haven for dugongs and migratory birds.
• Birdwatching at Boondall Wetlands – Over 200 bird species, including egrets, herons, and the elusive eastern curlew, can be seen from the boardwalks.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate the park's diversity, plan for at least two to three days. Use Brisbane or the Redcliffe Peninsula as a base and take day trips to the islands. If you're short on time, a single day on Moreton Island (catching the early ferry) allows you to snorkel the wrecks, sandboard the dunes, and see the dolphin feeding before returning. For a deeper immersion, overnight on Stradbroke or Moreton Island to explore at a leisurely pace and catch the sunrise over the bay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Brisbane – Queensland's vibrant capital, with its riverside dining and cultural precincts, is the natural gateway to the marine park.
• Sunshine Coast – Head north for stunning beaches, the Glass House Mountains, and the Australia Zoo.
• Gold Coast – South of Brisbane, this glittering strip offers theme parks, surf beaches, and the hinterland's national parks.
• North Stradbroke Island – Just a short ferry from Brisbane, it's perfect for a day of beachcombing and wildlife spotting.
• Bribie Island – The only island connected by bridge to the mainland, offering easy access to the Pumicestone Passage and its dugongs.

Please check official sources for current details.