How to make the most of your Bribie Island weekend getaway

If you’re dreaming of a family holiday, weekend getaway or a place to switch off and relax, it’s time to get acquainted with Bribie Island.

Located just 65km north of Brisbane, Bribie Island is linked to the mainland by road bridge (or of course, you can start your weekend on the water and travel by boat - hire and drive your own and be there in under 15 mintes from Caloundra).

Bribie Island showcases the best of the Moreton Bay Region, including a thriving arts scene, fascinating history and stunning coastal scenery fringed by crystal clear water.

Home to a great variety of accommodation and restaurants, or bush camping spots that overlook beautiful beaches, if you’ve got the weekend free, here’s how we recommend spending your Bribie Island getaway.

Day 1:  Friday morning

Boasting both long stretches of surf beaches and a calm protected coastline, Bribie Island offers the best of both worlds for beach lovers.

For favoured family spots, journey to Bongaree Beach foreshore on the protected western side of the island. Bongaree is home to calm water spots for leisurely swims, and a popular spot to hire a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or jet skis.

Featuring barbecue and picnic facilities, and play areas for the kids, take in the carefree community atmosphere and enjoy a family picnic and overlook the stunning views of the bay. Make use of the wide footpaths along the foreshore for a relaxing bike ride or Segway.

Aside from the picnic areas, there’s a range of cafes, local takeaways, grocery store and ice-cream parlour within walking distance of the park.

Friday afternoon

Get back to basics and experience the stunning white sandy beaches of Bribie Island National Park.

The Bribie Island Recreation Area provides a variety of coastal and bush camping experiences, accessible by 4WD or boat. Neighbouring the pristine Pumicestone Passage, you’ll discover a collection of self-sufficient campgrounds, while Poverty Creek and Mission Point provide the comfort of basic showers and toilet facilities.

Set up camp and take in the simplicity and pure goodness of getting back to nature.

If you enjoy strolling through eucalypt forest and paperbark wetlands, then make your way to the Bribie Island Bicentennial Trail. There’s a variety of wildlife trails to be explored – keep an eye out for goannas, kangaroos, emus and kookaburras. Whilst exploring the national parks be sure to take photos on your phone and leave only your footprints.

Day 2: Saturday morning

Take in the stunning sights from an eco-cruise with Ferryman Cruises to spot dugongs, dolphins, turtles, sea eagles and over 360 variety of birds throughout the Pumicestone Passage. Following the historical trails taken by Matthew Flinders, and take in sites of quaint costal townships, national parks, shipwrecks and beautiful pristine beaches, with background views of the Glass House Mountains, it will be a tour to remember.

After the tour, adventurous types can hire stand-up paddle boards, kayaks a boat or jet ski, if you’re after more play time on the water.

Saturday afternoon

Head to the popular Woorim Beach on the eastern side of the island for surfside adventures and access to long sandy stretches of beach 4WDing as well as brilliant coastline fishing spots.

4WD enthusiasts will love the opportunity explore the tracks (on the beach or bush), or book into a 4WD beach tour with G’Day Adventure Tours to gain a deeper understanding of the coastline and learn about Fort Bribie; the naval site that was built at the outbreak of WWII to provide defence support for the RAN against light raiding warships.

Spend the afternoon exploring the bush tracks, or stick to the beach for off-road fun along the shoreline.

Take in the sunset over the Pumicestone Passage, and kick back and relish the taste of fresh seafood and oysters at The Oyster Shed or Bribie Island Surf Club.

Day 3: Sunday morning

Squeeze in an early-morning dip, before heading back to the mainland. But why not let ‘island time’ continue for a little longer by delving into the heart of creativity and arts at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre. Take a stroll through the gallery to explore contemporary art, woodwork, fabric, pottery, and glasswork by talented artists. Workshops are also available on weekends, and while you’re there, stop in at the giftshop or savour a delicious coffee or lunch at the onsite cafe.

Be sure to check out the Sunday Vibe Markets for your does of fresh local produce. Soak in the sun and fresh sea air whilst you browse the wide-range of stalls and stock up on goodies for a picnic in the park.

Sunday afternoon

With the kids in tow, learn about the intriguing stories and history of Bribie Island at the contemporary Seaside Museum. With scenic views across the glistening waters of the Pumicestone Passage and Moreton Bay, the museum features a micro-theatre, various interactive collections, artworks, and exhibitions, and presents authentic stories of Bribie Island and its role in World War II.

Popular with water sport enthusiasts, nature lovers and families alike, Bribie Island makes for a magnificent island holiday.

Feature image: Visit Moreton Bay Region