A Perfect Day on Coochiemudlo Island

So far, the best part about living in Brisbane has been the incredible variety of things to do in and around the city. With hinterland hikes, islands getaways, gorgeous beaches and stunning national parks, there’s no way to be bored! A couple of weeks ago, we hopped on a ferry to check out the small island of Coochiemudlo.

Coochiemudlo, or Coochie as the locals like to call it, is a small island in the southern part of the Moreton Bay region. Because of its size, Coochiemudlo is a very easy day trip from the city and one that will please the whole family. 

How to get to Coochiemudlo? 

Coochie is only 35 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD. On a weekend, that’s a short thirty-minute drive to the ferry terminal in Victoria Point. There is parking at the terminal and in the park next door. The carpark gets busy quickly though, so we suggest arriving early in the morning to secure a spot. 

From Victoria Point, the passenger ferry is only a short ten-minute ride to reach the island. The ferry costs $10 return per adult and $5 for children (5-14). It’s free for children under 5 years old. 

The passenger ferry operates all year round, every day from 5 am until late and departs every half hour. You can take a car across to the island and catch the barge. However, this has to be booked in advance and to be honest, you don’t need a car on the island if you are just going for the day. The island is easily walkable. 

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! Prices start from $10 for a half-hour. 

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. 

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. It starts at AU $10 for a 9-hole game. 

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 and Oasis on Coochimudlho.

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