The ultimate guide to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) camping

Kristie Lau-Adams Kristie Lau-Adams
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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.

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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.

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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.

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Tropical islands, good food & world-class shows: Your eventful guide to a holiday in Townsville

    Lee Mylne Lee Mylne
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    Townsville is buzzing as the events capital of North Queensland, with a host of festivals, international sporting and arts events on offer.

    Perched between the Coral Sea, the towering pink monolith of Castle Hill, and fringed by ancient rainforest ranges, Townsville North Queensland is a genuine tropical playground.

    Here, find postcard-worthy landscapes all the way from nearby Magnetic Island to inland swimming holes and waterfalls – all dotted with an array of endemic wildlife. Get the heart racing with adrenaline water sports. Soak in a world-class arts scene. And take advantage of a culinary offering that punches well above its weight.

    And, then there’s the fact that Townsville has fast become the destination to an outstanding line-up of events – from live music to top-level sporting contests.

    Whether you have a weekend or weeks, there’s plenty here to fill your tropical getaway.

    Day 1: An eventful day

    Morning

    The Strand in townsville
    Explore The Strand.

    Daily flights offer easy connectivity from all capital cities to Townsville Airport, and within 10 minutes’ drive, you’re in the city centre. Start your stay by recharging with breakfast or coffee at the city’s newest spot, Botaniq Cafe, on the ground floor of the award-winning Bridgewater restaurant on the banks of Ross Creek.

    Start exploring on a breezy walk along the 2.5-kilometre foreshore of The Strand. Here, a waterfront path stretches all the way to the headland of Jezzine Barracks parklands. Admire more than 35 sculptures and artworks, as well as stunning views from the top of the park. Further along, Queens Gardens, established in 1870, offers a cool retreat and is Townsville’s oldest botanic garden.

    Stroll Gregory Street, off The Strand, for boutiques, homeware stores, cafes and restaurants, or follow a self-guided street art walking trail through the city centre, stopping to admire colourful works by big-name artists including Queenslander Fintan Magee.

    Afternoon

    concert in front of castle hill townsville events
    Time your trip for one of many Townsville events.

    For a casual lunch, stop in at Balabite for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired street food. Build your own pita with a choice of fillings, before enjoying a relaxing afternoon in preparation for one of Townsville’s big events.

    Whether it’s a concert from a big-name international band – think Foo Fighters or Guns ‘n’ Roses – or a night cheering on the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup, there’s plenty to entertain you.

    Time your visit for events like the Townsville Folk Festival (June 12-14), Supercars Townsville 500 (July 10-12), Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week (August 27-September 2), North Australian Festival of Arts (September 25 – October 11) or see the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup (coming in 2027).

    Day 2: Island dreaming

    Morning

    Pilgrim Sailing magnetic island
    Take a lunchtime sailing trip with Pilgrim Sailing.

    Fuel up with breakfast at Cbar on The Strand, looking out to your destination for the day: Magnetic Island (or ‘Maggie’ to the locals). Catch a quick ferry to spend the day exploring walking trails through national park, choosing from 23 beaches and trying a hand at the island’s water sports.

    The Forts Walk is the best place to see wild koalas in Australia, and you’re likely to find friendly wallabies at the Nelly or Geoffrey Bay headlands. Try guided snorkelling with Aquascene Magnetic Island or Pleasure Divers, or take a land-based tour with MI Ride Discovery Tours to the secluded west coast of the island.

    Pilgrim Magnetic Island offers four-hour lunchtime sailing trips aboard a 58-foot luxury yacht, dropping in to some of Magnetic Island’s remote bays for snorkelling or swimming and including gourmet grazing platters, drinks and ocean views.

    Afternoon

    picnic bay on magnetic island
    Head to Picnic Bay for delicious dining.

    Refuel after a morning of adventure. Seasalt Arcade at Picnic Bay has several good options. Savour craft brews and Latin tapas at Maggie Island Brewery, opt for bagels and light bites at Lava Lava cafe or fine dining at Restaurant Elsie.

    Now, it’s time to choose your own adventure. Stay the whole day on Maggie, or return to Townsville, where there’s plenty more to discover.

    Head to The Docks at Flinders Street Wharves for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or join Poseidon Adventures for water sport adventures.

    Evening

    Ardo's Rooftop townsville
    End your day watching the sunset from Ardo’s Rooftop.

    However your day looked, end it with cocktails and canapes at Townsville’s Ardo Rooftop. Find something more substantial at the hotel’s elegant but casual Chef-hatted Japanese restaurant Terasu, where each dish is a work of art.

    Day 3: Natural delights

    Morning

    couple holiding hands at the top of castle hill in townsville
    Join the locals for an early walk to the peak of Castle Hill. (Credit: My Colourful World)

    Join the local early morning pilgrimage to hike up Castle Hill for the best 360-degree views in town, before heading to breakfast at Spirited Goat for gourmet treats and locally brewed coffee.

    A trip to Townsville wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the outer Great Barrier Reef. For those with time, Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive runs full-day trips to the Museum of Underwater Art for snorkellers and divers to admire the reef’s stunning collection of submerged sculptures on John Brewer Reef, about two hours by boat from Townsville.

    Afternoon

    Shorehouse restaurant townsville
    Stop into the award-winning Shorehouse.

    Round off your Townsville getaway with lunch at Shorehouse, awarded Best Restaurant in the North Queensland People’s Choice Awards every year since 2023. Dine on the deck to catch the breeze and sample modern Asian cuisine as you watch the world go.

    Keen for something more to extend your stay? There are always more adventures –new, familiar and with a twist – in the events capital of the North.

    Plan your eventful visit to Townsville North Queensland at townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au.