Moreton Island
March, 2019The Wrecks, Blue Lagoon, Honeymoon Bay, Gutter Bar, Cape Morton, War Bunkers, & Champagne Pools
For first time visitors I recommend accessing the ‘guide for first timers’ from the Morton Island Adventures site
Pre planning: book accommodation, ferry transfer & vehicle access permit (approx. $53.65 for a month), food, drinking water and fuel
Ferry from Pinkenba Wharf to Moreton Island (approx 75 mins). Pricing is dependent on size of vehicle (standard return approx. $320)
Link
Moreton Island makes the Glampavan’s top 4 destinations for home trips due to its vast sandy landscape. It was perfect for exploring and getting adventurous both in and out of the water.
Trip Video
Check out some of the highlights of this trip, we loved doing this trip, and making this video, so please enjoy it, and follow our social media sites for more content!.
Our Accommodation
Ben Ewa Camping Area
We chose to stay at Ben Ewa camping area due to its close proximity to the ferry drop off point and the wrecks (where we spent a great deal of time). We travelled with our 79 series and towed our Jayco Outback. There are no surfaced roads on the Island, however, we had no problem getting our van to the site. Unfortunately we did not take a load of photos to drop in, however, the camp ground was perfect for our needs. We travelled with 5 other couples/families who stayed in tents and camp trailers.
(approx $6.35 per person per night or $25.40 for a family, however, check website for current prices as they may change)
The wrecks
From the minute we docked on the Island we feel in love with its beauty and we are counting down the months/days until we return.
Our favorite spot on the Island was The Wrecks. From what we understand there were a total of 15 sea vessels deliberately sunk in 1963 to create a break wall for small boats stopping at the Island.
Today this is a popular spot for snorkeling, swimming, kayak, stand-up boarding etc…I’m sure you would be as amazed as we were at the variety of marine life (I explored the amazing underworld for hours)
The weekends can get really busy with day and weekend trippers and those staying at Tangalooma Resort but once the crowds go, it is a very peaceful and serene location to relax.
For children and non confident swimmers the current from the breach to The Wrecks can be strong at times so be vigilant as there are no lifeguards present. Remember to slip, slop, slap…
Every day we explored a different part of the Island in our 4×4. We stuck to the main tracks and had no problems at all. Worth noting is that there is over 420km of unsealed tracks to explore.
We packed a light lunch or cooked a meal on a portable gas BBQ. If you do require any supplies head over to Castaway’s . Expect to pay Island prices. $$$
Explore
Champagne Pools
Must see is the beautiful Champagne Pools, which is located near Cape Morton on the north-east tip of the Island. They get their name from the sparkling effect created as the ocean waves crash over the volcanic rock break wall. Hot tip: check the tides
Honeymoon Bay
Just a short stroll from Champagne Pools you will find Honeymoon Bay. This is a secluded beach, with a fab view. Perfect for a private get away Hot tip: Take a packed lunch or wine and cheese. P.S. check the tide before diving of the rocks as the current may be a little deceiving.
Tangalooma Island Resort
We drove around and had a sticky at Tangalooma Island Resort whom also offer a range of accommodation options and a stack of activities, included but not limited to, 4×4 tours, dolphin feeding, sunset cruises, so check them out if that suits your needs. On the way back to camp we stopped of at ‘Big Sandhills’ for some shenanigans on the sand toboggans.
Cape Moreton Lighthouse
Cape Moreton Lighthouse was well worth a look because most of the Island can be seen from here. Fun fact: It was the first lighthouse built in QLD by convicts and tradesman in 1857.
Gutter Bar
We highly recommend a trip to the Gutter Bar, for a seafood platter and cold beverage (or 3). It has a great Island vide and is the only bar on the Island (besides your camp).
Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon is a sandy bottom lake in the middle of the Island. It was formed through natural catchment of rainfall over thousands of years. Top spot for a dip. Map
War Bunkers
Stop off to view the war bunkers around the Island. They played a big part in Australia’s major coastal defense during both World Wars. At some stage 900 troops called the Island home.
Fishing Paradise
Sadly I only got to wet a line a few times but didn’t catch any big dogs. Went back to camp with an empty esky. Fishing was not a priority for us on this trip, however, many avid fishing clubs hit this destination.
When we hit Moreton again, I will be sure to make fishing a priority!
Bang For Buck
Getting to the island is the most expensive, however, camping at Ben Ewa was definably bang for buck
Adventure
As much or as little as you like, Moreton Island can be a relaxing experience, or an absolute adventure. That choice is up to you
Scenery
Food
Pack whatever you desire, but be prepared to pay Island prices if you forgot anything
Facilities
Limited but more than enough for our full off-grid set-up
Vibe
Very chilled vibe which is exactly what we were aiming for on this adventure
Pet Friendly
NO – The entire island is classified as a National Park
How We Became THE GLAMPAVanS
So who are the Glampavans? We have been married for 19 years, we have adult children whom are self sufficient, and are the proud owners of a French bulldog named Baxter. We live a very busy life like most trying to juggle full time work and a social life. We love spending time with family and friends, we have a passion for food, travel, the great outdoors and are always up for a challenge. When we hit our 40’s our perception of life changed. We no longer wanted to be a slave to our work and mortgage, we wanted to live our best life, together, sooner rather than later. We purchased a caravan and started to explore a little of this country and realised there was so much more we wanted to see. We plan to hit the road in September 2021 with our fur baby for a minimum of 12 months, however, between now and then we have planned to take some shorter adventures that we will share along the way. We will free camp when we can and also support local parks and businesses along the way
Australian Travels
Kristy and I love to travel, and we have shared some of our experiences and our reviews on these travels below, please take a look and fall in love with these locations just as we have
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