The best things to do on Bribie Island

A much-loved sanctuary among Brisbane and Sunshine Coast locals, Bribie Island manages to fly under the radar of even the most in-the-know travellers – despite its easy access being the only Queensland island connected to the mainland by bridge.

What you’ll find here is something special. A charming seaside community, Bribie holds a special feeling that’s hard to find in busier beach towns. A little island with a lot of soul, even just a day here is enough to recharge, but if you have more time there’s a lot to keep you busy.

Ready to explore? Here are the best things to do on Bribie Island.

1. 4WD through Bribie Island National Park

There’s good reason Bribie Island can feel so untouched: much of the island is designated national park. And the best way to experience it all is by 4WD.

Got your own ride? Get a taste of the bush and the beach by driving ‘the loop’, or stick to the sands for off-road fun along the beach, where you can make your way north toward the old WWII forts and find your own secluded spot on the sand. A beach access permit is required.

Don't have a 4WD? Bribie has you covered...

2. Spend a day with G'Day Adventure Tours

Want an action packed day exploring all corners of Bribie, but you don't have your own set of beachworthy wheels? See the sights with G’Day Adventure Tours and you’ll explore the island's beautiful beaches by 4WD, gain a local’s insight into Fort Bribie and the island’s wartime history too. Choose a tour that includes kayaking and you'll hit the water to discover more wildlife and serenity in this special place. 

3. Splash at Bongaree's foreshore

The scenic foreshore at Bongaree is the perfect spot for a family trip to Bribie Island. With beaches facing towards the mainland, the water is calm for kids to splash around in, and it’s surrounded by picnic facilities, shaded areas, boat ramps and even a playground with flying fox at Brennan Park.

This is a popular place to bring your own or rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or even jet skis.

4. Grab fish and chips by the water

The line leading out the door of Savige’s Seafood each lunchtime is a testament to just how good it is. You might have to wait a while during peak times, but these seafood platters are worth it. You can get everything from prawns and bugs to classic fried fish and chips. There’s ample bench seating outside, or stroll down to Bongaree to sit on the sand.

Or, take the short drive back over the bridge to Sandstone Point Hotel, home to the Oyster Shed - a sprawling spot on the waterfront that's a favourite for seafood and cocktails. 

5. Take a scenic stroll

Swap the beach for the beauty of eucalypt forest and paperbark wetlands with a wander along the Bribie Island Bicentennial Trail. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, kookaburras and emus too.

6. Camp on the beach for a wild adventure

There’s so many things to do on Bribie Island you could fill an entire weekend or more – but one of the best ways to appreciate its charm is to set up camp.

There’s a Bribie Island camping adventure for everyone here. The Bribie Island Recreation Area provides a variety of coastal and bush camping experiences, accessible by 4WD or boat. Head to Bribie’s northernmost point for the remote Ocean Beach camping area, while along neighbouring Pumicestone Passage you’ll discover a collection of self-sufficient campgrounds, and Poverty Creek and Mission Point which provide the comfort of basic showers and toilet facilities.

Note: you must purchase a Beach Access Permit and book in advance for the campsites, as numbers are limited.

Check out these beach camping tips for a smooth trip.

Looking for other Bribie Island accommodation? There’s beachside resorts, bayside holiday apartments, hotels - and even houseboats for hire. Bribie Island caravan parks include Bongaree Caravan Park, Bribie Island Caravan Park in Woorim and Bellara Caravan Park, while Big 4 Sandstone Point is just moments away. All offer a charming, down-to-earth escape. 

7. Shop local at the markets

Bribie Island’s strong sense of community is showcased by its range of markets, which you can add to your itinerary if you’re visiting on a Sunday.

• Bribie Island Rotary Markets: every 2^nd Sunday of the month, Brennan Park, Bongaree
• Bribie Island and District Community Chest Market: every 3^rd Sunday of the month, Toorbul St Bongaree

You’ll find fresh product, local arts and crafts, and plenty of goodies to enjoy in the park.

8. Jump on a jet ski

Inject a little more adrenaline into your Bribie Island visit with a guided jetski tour that mixes eco-adventure with thrills. A 90-minute tour offer follows in the steps of explorer Matthew Flinders who explored this area, and you might see turtles, dolphins and dugongs along the way. There’s family friendly tours too.

9. Throw a line in

There’s plenty of opportunity to reel in catch around Bribie Island. Great spots along Pumicestone Passage include Bongaree Jetty for snapper, bream and flathead; The Lock (entrance to the canals) for mangrove jack; take your 4WD toward Gallaghers Gutter for bream, whiting and flathead; or hunt for mud crabs at Poverty Creek. Pumicestone Passage has many strict no-fishing zones so be sure to pick up a map and only fish in designed spots.

Over on the ocean side, Woorim Beach is the place to catch whiting, dart and bream.

You can also rent boats from Bribie Island Boat Charters and Bribie Beach Shack to head further offshore.

10. Visit Bribie Island Butterfly House

An under-the-radar gem, enter Bribie Island Butterfly House to discover nature’s colourful wonderland. This little sanctuary is home for hundreds of bright and beautiful butterflies: wander slowly to enjoy the magic, and wear bright colours like yellow and red for a better chance of butterflies landing on you. 

11. Spend a day on the beach

While Bongaree is perfect for gentle swims, head ocean-side for a dose of surf at Woorim Beach. This is Brisbane’s closest patrolled surf beach, and a great spot for surf or bodyboard beginners as it’s sheltered from excess swell. Nearby, there’s a skate park, playground and barbeques when you want a break from the water.

With Bribie Island weather nearly always pleasant and warm (even winter sees clear days with an average of 20-25C), you can plan a beach day all year-round.

12. Cruise out for a new perspective

Explore the peaceful waterways around Bribie Island on an eco-cruise with Ferryman Cruises. Pass by quaint coastal townships, golden beaches and shipwrecks, you might spot dugongs, dolphins, turtles, sea eagles and hundreds of bird species, while the Glass House Mountains stand tall on the horizon.

For other cruise options, check out BBQ Boat Hire in Banksia or Bribie Island Gondola – a unique way to see the sights.

13. Discover local art

Get acquainted with the island’s artistic side at Bribie Island Art Gallery. Exhibitions change regularly, but you’ll find a wide variety of contemporary art, woodwork, pottery and glasswork here, as well as workshops including paint ’n’ sip, sculpture, kids classes and more.

Open Tuesday – Sunday. Free entry.

14. Bring your dog to the beach 

If you’re travelling with your best mate in tow, don’t miss Bribie Island’s dog beach. Located between Woorim Beach and Red Beach, it’s a popular off-leash spot with plenty of space to run, swim and play with new friends.

15. Check out water tower art

From galleries to water towers, art is all around on Bribie Island. In fact, it’s home to two of Queensland’s iconic outdoor art pieces. Woorim Beach in – you guessed it – Woorim, captures Bribie Island’s beach culture, while another great piece stands tall in Bongaree.

16. Eat local

Want breakfast before the beach? Annie Lane Café in Bongaree serves up an all-day brunch menu that wouldn’t be out of place in Brisbane, but is served up in an inviting, light-filled space not far from the sand. Bursting with colour, dishes from acai bowls to big breakfasts and crazy shakes will have you fuelled up for a day of adventure.

Over in Woorim, Little Mike’s is a great spot to pop into for specialty coffee and bagels – dogs are welcome too.

17. Head to The Surf Club

When you’re on the beach in Queensland, you can’t get more local than the Bribie Island Surf Club. Boasting some prime Bribie Island real estate, this club is a hidden gem if you’re looking for a great meal, cheap drinks and a very chilled-out atmosphere. There’s a Lil’ Nippers menu for kids under 12 years.

18. SUP at sunset

Best view in the house? Jump on your paddle board for a sunset paddle in Pumicestone Passage. You might get lucky and have a few dolphins join you.

19. Learn more at the Seaside Museum

With the kids in tow, learn about the intriguing stories and wartime history of Bribie Island at the Seaside Museum. There’s interactive exhibitions and artefacts that’ll fascinate. 

Now that you've discovered the magic of Bribie Island, why not explore these other islands close to Brisbane.