Last updated: September 2026
One of the things we loved most about living in Brisbane was the incredible variety of day trips right on our doorstep. With hinterland hikes, island escapes, beaches and national parks all within easy reach, there was always somewhere new to explore.
One of those easy escapes is tiny Coochiemudlo Island, or “Coochie” as the locals call it, in southern Moreton Bay. Just a short ferry ride from Victoria Point, it’s an easy and affordable day trip from Brisbane, with beaches, walking trails and plenty of places to simply slow down and enjoy island life.
How to get to Coochiemudlo?
From Victoria Point, the passenger ferry takes just 10 minutes to reach Coochiemudlo Island. The ferry is part of the Translink network and services generally run every 30 minutes throughout the day. Payment is cashless using a go card or contactless bank card and the fare is only 50 cent.
You can also take a car across on the vehicle barge, but bookings are essential. For a day trip, however, there’s really no need to bring your car. Coochiemudlo is small, flat and very easy to explore on foot.
Parking around Victoria Point ferry terminal can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and during school holidays, so allow some extra time to find a park.
What to do on the island?
Walk around the island
First things first, take a walk around the island. The walk around Coochimudlo Island is just under 5 kilometres and is all flat. It’s easy enough to do and it’s a good way to start the day before it gets too hot.
The trail is well marked and includes walking along the sand, mangroves, bush and parks. Be sure to check out the red rock cliffs. You might spot some wildlife and birdlife along the way so keep your eyes peeled. Make sure to have water with you, especially in the summer. It was so humid when we visited which is often the case during the Queensland summer.
There are a few toilets along the way.
Take a swim at one of the beaches
Coochimudlo Island has three beaches where you can take a dip, Main Beach, Norfolk Beach or Morwong Beach. After a walk around the island, you will deserve a good swim to cool off! All its beaches are lovely and, with no waves, they are perfect for swimming.
We ended up swimming at the main beach where we ended our walk. We couldn’t wait to jump in! The water was refreshing and there were lifesavers on duty too.
Hire a kayak or SUP
Coochie Boat Hire, located right off Main Beach, has stand-up paddleboards, aqua-bikes and beach kayaks for hire. If lying on the beach all day is not your style and you want to be more active, you’ll have a lot of fun!
You can also hire a BBQ boat and enjoy a BBQ right on the water!
Have a picnic or BBQ
You can take your picnic or BBQ supplies to the island and find yourself a nice spot for a lovely lunch. There are BBQs and picnic tables on Main Beach, right as you exit the ferry.
Check Out the Local Art Galleries
Coochiemudlo has a surprisingly active little arts scene. The Curlew Gallery, located above the Curlew Café, showcases paintings, sculptures and other works created by local artists, with regularly changing exhibitions. Nearby, Ross Street Gallery is another small space featuring work from island artists.
Both galleries are open Friday to Sunday and on public holidays from 10 am to 2 pm, making them an easy addition to a weekend visit.
Go for a round of golf
Coochie has a 9-hole golf course which is run by volunteers. For a small fee, visitors can play a game and enjoy a peaceful and beautiful setting.
Where to stay on Coochimudlo Island?
Also, Coochiemudlo Island can easily be done in a day, if you wish to stay the night you can! There is no camping on the island, however, there are a few accommodation options available, including the Seminara Apartments.
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