Bribie Island National Park is an oasis just waiting to be discovered. Just a stones throw from North Brisbane, this beautiful preserved state forest has
so much to offer, from 4WD inland tracks and beach frontage off-road opportunities, to beautiful camping spots and fantastic fishing - once you start
exploring you'll wonder why you haven't spent more time discovering this island gem before!
Bribie Island National Park offers 4WD enthusiasts a great day out on the tracks and beach. You can either drive the 'loop', experiencing bush and beach,
or just stick to the sands for off-road fun along the shore.
Access to the National Park's inland bush track is off White Patch Esplanade found on the Pumicestone Passage side of the island. Depending on weather conditions, the track can become quite rough, with areas of super soft sand or mud to be wary of. Please check the Queensland National Parks website before embarking on your inland drive as the track may be closed periodically.
The drive is quite scenic, consisting of a mix of bushland and pine tree rejuvenation plantations. The inland track provides access to the Gallagher Point and Poverty Creek camping areas, perfect spots for a picnic lunch or morning tea. Lighthouse Reach at the far northern end of the inland track is also a lovely spot to pull over and take a dip in Pumicestone Passage.
The Northern Access Track at the far end takes you straight out onto the Bribie Ocean Beach where your beach driving experience can commence!
There's no denying that beach driving is an unforgettable experience, however, it is one which should not be attempted by inexperienced four wheel drivers.
If you're a newbie to driving on sand then for your first trip it is advised you tag along with a group or tour to learn the ropes from someone with beach driving experience. Not only can inexperience lead to loss of property, but in extreme circumstances it can also result in loss of life.
You must also be mindful of tidal times. Driving at high tide is not recommended and can be very dangerous. Be sure to check tidal times before hitting the sand and please drive with care on the beach - road rules DO APPLY!
When you drive out onto the beach from the Northern Access Track, be sure to look left, as this is the location of the World War 2 military fortification ruins on the island, known as Fort Bribie. Be sure to stop and explore this important monument to the island's modern history.
It is possible to drive further north from Fort Bribie until you hit the 'no access signs'. To venture further north you'll need to walk to Lion's Park. On a clear day you can see the Sunshine Coast's, Caloundra.
Most of your Bribie Ocean driving exploration will be south of the Northern Access Track heading back towards Woorim Beach.
On the island side you will drive past:
It's important to note that the beach entry and exit at the Woorim Beach end can be problematic and it's not unusual to see someone getting winched out of the sand. Be sure to always drive with '4WD' switched on and less tyre pressure.
For those who love camping in nature, Bribie Island National Park has a lot to offer.
For full details of 4wd and boat camping in Bribie Island National Park CLICK HERE.
Purchase your Moreton Bay camping permit and vehicle access permit before you head off. If you're not aware of the rules around beach driving, these videos by Queensland National Parks are well worth the watch.
Make sure your camping trip is problem-free – take note of the camping fees, where you can use a generator and usage rules, and check up on fire bans and where you can enjoy a campfire, fuel stove, or BBQ cook-up.
It's important to note that domestic animals are not permitted within the National Park, so please leave your pets at home.
Red Beach is 8km of doggie heaven, designed to let your pooch run, swim and play off-leash to their hearts content. Nestled somewhere between the surf side of Woorim Beach and the calm waters of Bongaree, Red Beach is the number one Bribie Island dog beach.
If you’re looking for a place to surf, or fish near Brisbane, then Woorim Ocean Beach, located on picturesque Bribie Island.
For a unique bird watching Moreton Bay experience, head to Toorbul Bird Roost, due to the assortment of species of birds found in the one great location. DISCOVER TODAY!
Drive to Pumicestone Passage’s shore side town of Toorbul near Bribie Island for a day trip from Brisbane, one of the best places to visit in Queensland for kayaking, picnicking & fishing enthusiasts.
For historically significant Bribie Island attractions visit Ocean Beach to discover the remnants of Fort Bribie – a major WWII defence site.