The Best North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) Camping Guide

Whether you’re a glamper, caravanner or totally tent-talented, North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) camping presents low-key beach holiday perfection.

An unspoiled Queensland treasure just 30 kilometres east of Brisbane, Straddie, also known as Minjerribah to its traditional owners, is a rite of passage among Sunshine State campers. Stalking soldier crabs, catching yabbies and falling asleep salty and sun-kissed are what beach holidays are made of. For the more adventurous, surfing frothy idyllic waves and sandboarding in Dunwich, the gateway township to the island, also beckon. Here, we’ve crafted a guide to help you experience everything North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) camping has to offer, and best of all, it’s all entirely affordable.

Things to know before camping on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)

Raided the aisles of Anaconda and ready to lock in your location? It’s wise to tick off a bit of location-specific housekeeping ahead of your North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) camping adventure.

Firstly, there are five main beachfront campsites to choose from across the 275 square-kilometre sand island and each of them are managed by Minjerribah Camping . A sixth campsite at Adam’s Beach, located very close to the island’s ferry terminal (more on the ferry situation soon), was also up and running but it’s currently closed.

an aerial view of the camping site at Flinders Beach — A 4WD gives you access to remote camping locations like Flinders Beach.

If you’re camping with your 4WD, it’s a different story as there are literally hundreds of sites (also managed by Minjerribah Camping) scattered across Flinders Beach and Main Beach. But most visitors stick to the main, amenity-fitted campsites to scratch that outdoor adventuring itch in comfort.

the Main Beach on North Stradbroke Island — Take advantage of your location and cast a line at Main Beach.

Because it’s an island, you’ll also need to lock down ferry tickets prior to departure. Passenger ferries and vehicle ferries run on limited schedules so don’t leave before booking what you require. All vehicles are transported from Toondah Harbour at Emmett Drive in Cleveland (a 45-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD) via SeaLink’s North Stradbroke Island Ferry , who also run a passenger ferry. The vehicle ferry takes about 50 minutes while the passenger ferry takes 25 minutes and connects with local bus services. Check the website in advance for all scheduling and pricing.

an aerial view of the beach at Adder Rock — The beach at Adder Rock is sheltered for the most part. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

There’s also Stradbroke Flyer , a second company that takes visitors to the island via passenger ferries. Their ferries depart from the end of Middle Street in Cleveland. Check their website for up-to-date scheduling and pricing.

If you’re planning to beach camp with your 4WD, you’ll also need to purchase a Vehicle Access Permit through Minjerribah Camping before you go. Click here for all the details. Additionally, it’s worth noting that walking to these beach camping spots isn’t recommended. The access roads are long and you’ll have to carry all your gear the entire way.

Finally, an important note for fur parents. You can bring your four-legged friend with you, noting that there are two off-leash areas on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah): Home Beach and Dunwich Skate Park at Ron Stark Oval.

dogs outside a tent at Flinders Beach on North Stradbroke Island — Pets are welcome but there are only two off-leash areas on the island.

Amity Point at Minjerribah Camping

Price: From about $49 per night for an unpowered site.

Families, this is your spot. Set against calm Moreton Bay waters, Amity Point is a dream for keeping little ones busy as you kick your feet up. If they’re not splashing at your feet, they’ll be keeping their eyes peeled for pelicans, koalas and dolphins, all of which frequent the site.

a koala resting on a tree branch, North Stradbroke Island — Keep your eyes peeled for koalas in their natural habitat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It’s also a top spot to drop a line and just a short drive to the island’s surf beaches. A cafe and convenience store (where you can also fill up on fuel) are also located nearby and the campsite is suitable for tents, campers and caravans. Glamping tents, cabins and a three-bedroom house are also up for grabs if you book early enough.

the Amity Point campsite — Find the perfect spot to camp by the beach.

Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, a coin-operated laundry, an undercover barbecue area and good mobile coverage.

Adder Rock at Minjerribah Camping

Price: From about $49 per night for an unpowered site.

Soft sand relaxation comes on tap at Adder Rock , located in Point Lookout which is home to some of the island’s most stunning northern beaches. It’s a beautiful spot to swim safely and dabble in some whale watching if the timing’s right, as the beach is sheltered for the most part.

the Point Lookout Surf Life Saving Club on North Stradbroke Island — The views of the island from Point Lookout are breathtaking. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Expect crowds who choose this site due to its natural beauty (rocky headlands create serious drama) and proximity to the local bowls club, eateries and a service station.

an aerial view of Adder Rock filled with people — Adder Rock offers good swells to surf. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Adder Rock is suitable for tents, camper trailers and caravans, plus there are cabins and glamping tents to snap up.

the camping ground with tents at Adder Rock — There are glamping tents to book for an elevated camping experience.

Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, a coin-operated laundry, several undercover barbecue areas and some mobile coverage.

Cylinder Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Price: From about $59 per night for an unpowered site.

If you’re in town to chase waves, Cylinder Beach has your name all over it. A picture-perfect cove located between the Cylinder Beach and Home Beach headlands, the hot spot is patrolled by lifeguards so it’s also ideal for swimming.

a typical sunny day on Cylinder Beach, North Stradbroke Island — Cylinder Beach is a patrolled beach that is ideal for swimming. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Once you’ve scored your beach fix, wander down to the Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel for a great pub feed and sundowners, or any one of the nearby restaurants. The campsite is good for tents, camper trailers and caravans, plus there’s glamping tents and a three-bedroom house to seize.

the camping grounds of Cylinder Beach at Minjerribah Camping — The nearby campsite is a good spot to set up for a night or more.

Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, a coin-operated laundry and some mobile coverage.

Home Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Price: From about $49 per night for an unpowered site.

A simple yet ultra-lush spot to experience North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) camping, Home Beach is a quiet choice that welcomes tents, camper trailers and caravans. It’s perfect for a whole lot of nothing as the beach is unpatrolled and the nearby attractions are scarce, so brace yourself for a serious switch off. If you’re looking for action at any stage, there is a local bowls club and some eateries to visit.

Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, a coin-operated laundry, several undercover barbecue areas and good mobile coverage.

Bradbury’s Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Price: From about $69 per night for a powered site.

Go for Bradbury’s Beach if you want to stick close to the ferry terminal as well as the surrounding Dunwich action. It’s a cosy but atmospheric campsite filled with 21 powered van sites and six glamping tents but the real drawcard here is the plethora of water activities to enjoy.

an aerial view of the camping site on Bradbury’s Beach at Minjerribah Camping — Bradbury’s Beach offers six glamping tents and waterfront views.

Boaties will take advantage of its proximity to One Mile Jetty while kayaking and fishing are also popular. It’s low-key and offers everything a sleepy beach holiday should.

a family relaxing outside their glamping tent, Bradbury’s Beach at Minjerribah Camping — Slip into one of the spacious glamping tents.

Amenities: Toilets, hot showers, a coin-operated laundry, an undercover barbecue area and good mobile coverage.

Flinders Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Price: From about $22 per night for an unpowered site.

North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) camping doesn’t get more beautifully basic than this. Set up shop within the sand dunes at Flinders Beach in Point Lookout where 12 beachfront camping spots (and hundreds of individual sites) are only accessible by 4WD vehicles.

the Flinders Beach on North Stradbroke Island — Make Flinders Beach your camping base.

The eight-kilometre stretch between Amity Point and Adder Rock Headland is home to stunning sand bars and excellent surfing conditions. If you can manage without a few creature comforts, the serenity is worth it.

an aerial view of a 4WD driving along the Flinders Beach — Drive your 4WD along the pristine white-sand beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Amenities: Some have composting toilets, there’s a toilet waste dump point at Area H (check the website for location details) and there’s some mobile coverage.

Main Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Price: From about $19 per night for an unpowered site.

One for the extreme 4WD campers. Hitting any one of the 11 beachfront camping areas (and 300 individual sites) at Main Beach will provide a sensational setting but you’ve got to be really prepared to rough it.

the Main Beach Headland Reserve at Minjerribah Camping — Set up at one of the 11 beachfront camping areas at Main Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Located on the eastern side of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), the 38-kilometre east-facing stretch is an epic spot to beach fish. Plus, there’s a patrolled swimming area to dip into between long sessions of uninterrupted Mother Nature marvelling.

the wide shoreline at Main Beach, North Stradbroke Island — Head to Main Beach for a refreshing morning dip. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Amenities: None. There’s no mobile coverage and the nearest showers and toilets can only be found at Adder Rock.

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.

The ultimate guide to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) camping

Whether you’re a glamper, caravanner or totally tent-talented, North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) camping presents low-key beach holiday perfection.

Things to know before camping on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)

Amity Point at Minjerribah Camping

Adder Rock at Minjerribah Camping

Cylinder Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Home Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Bradbury’s Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Flinders Beach at Minjerribah Camping

Main Beach at Minjerribah Camping

A local’s guide to Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves

A parent’s guide to the best family accommodation in Brisbane

The ultimate guide to luxury accommodation in Brisbane

Things to do in Brisbane: food, culture and shopping

An insider’s guide to Noosa’s best-kept winter secrets

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

Where to eat in Noosa

Where to stay in Noosa

Things to do on land

Things to do in the water