Best Moreton Island Tours From Brisbane

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.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

11 of the best Moreton Island tours from Brisbane