Bribie Island is an ideal destination for a family holiday, romantic mini-break or day trip from Brisbane with kids. Thinking of making a move to Bribie Island? It’s become the mecca for boat owners, fishing enthusiasts and families wanting a conveniently located sea change. There’s so much to do, see and explore on Bribie Island.
The Bribie Island area includes Banksia Beach, Bellara, Bongaree, Welsby, White Patch, Woorim, Beachmere, Donnybrook, Meldale, Toorbul, Godwin Beach, Ningi and Sandstone Point. Bribie Island was, and still is, the first choice for many Brisbane and Moreton retirees. And why not retire to paradise if there’s a choice of options from budget to opulent, with easy access to shopping, healthcare and entertainment.
You’ll notice some big changes to the Bribie Region as new luxury estates like Pacific Harbour at Banksia Beach and Sandstone Point Estate attract affluent lifestyle buyers. There are still plenty of affordable homes in the Bribie Island region, many with a quick, easy stroll to a white sand beach.
Perhaps Bribie Island’s biggest asset is the ‘community feel' it offers residents and visitors. It’s what draws each new generation back to Bribie Island for family holidays and what makes retiring here so worthwhile.
Bribie Island and its mainland neighbours are in the perfect spot for a school holiday day trip, whether you’re from the north, south or west. A day trip to Bribie Island makes one of those magical childhood memories, every single time.
Bongaree is by far the most popular destination for a family day trip. The calm water beach, the fishermen on the jetty, Brennan Park (with the world’s most fun flying fox!) and of course, fish and chips, followed by ice-cream right on the beach. It’s a whole day of fun in one amazing spot!
If you’ve bought yourself a 4WD that you never use, Bribie is your destination this weekend! Pack up the kids and the fishing gear and head to gorgeous white sandy beaches – teeming with fish for budding young fishermen and ladies. Head to the north end of Woorim Beach or White Patch. If you’re lucky, you might spot some dolphins or whales while you’re out and about.
Want to see some Aussie wildlife? Tour the Bribie Island National Park north of White Patch to spot gigantic goannas, kangaroos, kookaburras and migratory birds from Kakadu. Like all National Parks, treat it with respect, take only photos and leave only footprints.
Don't own a 4WD? Book a 4WD adventure tour with Gday Adventure Tours to see Bribie Island's natural attractions.
Bribie Island’s Seaside Museum is a popular destination by the water in Woorim. Bribie Island has a surprising history and this contemporary museum is an excellent stop on your day trip.
Perhaps Bribie’s best-kept secret is the Bribie Community Arts Centre. This unassuming gallery at Banksia Beach is a hot spot for art and creativity on the island. You’ll love the contemporary artwork for sale, including rare delights for the oh-so-popular-right-now a shabby chic beach shack design trend. Arts to be found onsite include lead lighting, lapidary, woodwork, painting, pottery, fabric work, glass work and jewellery.
Don’t forget that The Abbey Museum is on the road to Bribie Island and is a surprising little gem.
In addition to House of Happiness at Woorim, a holiday resort designed especially for kids with special needs, Bribie Island has plenty to do for all kids. Sylvan Beach park features a large wheelchair friendly play structure. The Bribie Island Aquatic Centre is an amazing little gem with fountains, spas and a real whirlpool! It’s so much fun, heated year round and can be accessed without using stairs.
Bribie has also hosted special needs fishing competitions and has wheelchair accessible play areas, toilets and showers at the Lion’s Park in Woorim.
Want to try jet skiing? Want to self-drive a boat out to do some serious fishing? What about stand up paddling? Hire boats, paddle boards, kayaks, electric bicycles, segways and surry bikes to try something new, and see Bribie Island from a whole new perspective.
Red Beach at Bribie Island is a sandy beach where dogs can run free. The beach itself has very small waves and shade for mum and dad. Dogs on a leash are also welcome at the Sunday markets, so you can make a day of it – for the whole family!
Sandstone Point, Beachmere, Toorbul, Donnybrook and Godwin Beaches are all good options for fishing enthusiasts and also for younger children not yet confident in the water. When the tide is out Beachmere’s bay beach lets kids run free through the beach puddles – perfect for toddlers with lots of energy but not much experience with water.
Bribie Island Gondola's are an experience you can ONLY get in Moreton Bay. Take your romantic day or night cruises aboard the renovated and exquisitely restored Venetian-style gondola, which has been rescued from neglect. Along with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert cruises, the gondola can be rented for proposals, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and Christmas light tours.
Bribie Island Gondola near Brisbane provides a unique gondola cruise experience with cruises starting at $180 for 1-1.5 hours. Bribie Island Gondola is open for reservations from dawn until dusk, seven days a week, and can assist you in celebrating a special occasion or helping you make memories that will last a lifetime.
If you are planning a day trip with kids from Brisbane or Moreton, consider making it the third Sunday of the month. Not only will kids be able to take a ride on a miniature steam train in Melsa Park, but the famous Jetty Markets will be in full swing. You’ll love the fashion, food, rides and bits and bobs for everyone in the family. Jetty Markets happen every Sunday in Bongaree but change weekly, so any time is a good time to go and to go back.
On the last Sunday of each month, the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre hosts its own crafts market, filled with lovely gifts and things for the home. Bribie Island Markets at the Marina have everything homemade, handmade,
Bribie Island Markets at the Marina have everything homemade, handmade, homegrown, retro, vintage and organic. The markets are on every second and fourth Saturday.
If your fond childhood memories were of caravan parks on Bribie Island, you’ve now got a lot of choices. There are still plenty of amazing spots for a budget caravan vacation but holiday homes, camping and even luxury hotels are all options now.
With so many beautiful spots on Bribie Island, there are plenty of places to set up camp. Because Bribie’s home to a unique eco-system and is a refuge for migratory birds, please stick to the allotted camping areas. Most caravan parks will allow for tents too, just confirm when you book.
If you’re four-wheel driving this holiday, the Bribie National Park has a host of hidden treasures including the Bribie Bunker and freshwater lagoons. The official camping areas are around 16kms along the beach but remember to obtain your permit before you leave.
Pets are not permitted. Camping is also permitted at Mission Point and Lime Pocket but it is only accessible by boat. CLICK HERE for full list of information on each site.
Bribie's Moreton Bay Jetski Hire and Ride
Sandstone Point Hotel
Looking for more things to do and see? Pop into one of the region's Accredited Visitor Information Centres, the volunteers have a wealth of local knowledge.
From exclusive wine tastings and scenic helicopter rides to overwater villas and gourmet meals by the beach, every moment of your day in Moreton Bay will feel like an escape into refined relaxation and beauty.
Learn about the history of Moreton Bay region on a FREE tour through Woodford, Redcliffe and Samford guided by our local knowledgeable volunteers from Visitor Information Centres.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend hacker, Moreton Bay swings with opportunity for golfers of all stripes with championship golf courses, indoor golf simulators, driving ranges and mini golf courses.
Ready for a Deliciously Moreton Summer? Hit the highway and head north of Brisbane, only 20 minutes in the car from the Brisbane Aiport you will stumble on a hidden gem, Moreton Bay. It has something for everyone this summer! That's Deliciously Moreton.
Here's our guide to the best golf courses in Moreton Bay Region, just a short drive north of Brisbane City.