Last Updated: October 2026
You may have read our previous post on North Stradbroke Island. Well, we recently had a chance to visit its little sister, South Stradbroke Island. Like North Stradbroke, South Stradbroke Island is a sand island, located to the south of North Stradbroke in the Moreton Bay.
South Stradbroke Island or “South Straddie” is (like many of the Moreton Bay Islands) a great place for Brisbanites or holiday makers on the Gold Coast to spend a day or a weekend. South Stradbroke Island is a fair bit smaller than North Stradbroke, but it doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. Like North Stradbroke, it’s home to spectacular beaches, lots of wildlife and it’s a great spot to relax and unwind.
South Stradbroke Island is only 21 kilometres long and 2.5 kilometres at its widest point. It’s not a huge island but there’s no shortage of things to do there. Here is everything you need to know for a great trip to South Straddie.
How to get to South Stradbroke Island?
South Stradbroke Island is just offshore from Sanctuary Cove on the Gold Coast. Getting to South Stradbroke Island is by water transfer only because, although it is very close to the mainland, there is no bridge to access it. The short but very enjoyable ride (the views are awesome) can be done by water taxi, ferry, or private boat.
Tipplers Ferry
One option is the Tipplers Ferry, which operates bookable passenger transfers from Jacobs Well on the northern Gold Coast to Tipplers on South Stradbroke Island.
Bookings are essential, and you can check current availability and prices on the Tipplers Ferry website .
Water Taxis and Private Boats
You can also reach South Stradbroke Island by water taxi or private boat from various locations along the Gold Coast Broadwater, including Runaway Bay and Jacobs Well.
Make sure you arrange your return transfer in advance, particularly if you’re visiting for the day.
Important: Couran Cove Resort, where we stayed during our visit, is currently closed. Its former ferry service should not be relied upon when planning a trip.
How to get around the island?
The easiest way to explore South Stradbroke Island is on foot, with walking trails leading through coastal forests and across the dunes to the beautiful surf beach.
There are no regular public vehicle ferries to the island, so most visitors arrive by passenger ferry, water taxi or private boat. Cycling may also be possible if you arrange to bring your own bike, but don’t rely on hiring one once you arrive.
If you’re visiting for the day, the walking trails around Tipplers are a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty.
What to do on South Stradbroke Island
Take a long walk on the beach!
The ocean beaches of South Straddie are stunning but sadly they are not the best swimming spots as they can be rough, and it is not patrolled. Sharks have also been known to hang around sometimes. However, there is no better place to take a long walk. You can walk for ages on the long sandy beaches and listen to the sounds of the crashing waves.
Explore the island’s interior
South Stradbroke Island isn’t just about beautiful beaches. There are also walking trails through coastal forests, dunes and native vegetation, perfect for exploring the island’s quieter side.
Two walks worth checking out are the Tipplers Walking Trail (1.7 km return), which winds through coastal forest, and the Surf Beach Walk (1.6 km return), which takes you across the island towards the beautiful eastern beach.
During our visit, we also enjoyed the short rainforest boardwalk behind Couran Cove Resort. However, with the resort currently closed, access to this particular walk may be restricted.
Look out for wildlife
Wherever you are on the island, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. The island has a myriad of birdlife as well as many wallabies, kangaroos, koalas and more. We spotted kangaroos on the beach!
Water sports on South Stradbroke Island
With the calm waters of the Broadwater on one side and the ocean on the other, South Stradbroke Island is a lovely place for water-based activities.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and fishing are all possibilities, although you’ll need to arrange equipment or activities in advance, as hire facilities on the island are limited.
During our visit, Couran Cove Resort offered a range of water sports, but these facilities are currently unavailable following the resort’s closure.
One safety point worth mentioning: The eastern surf beach is unpatrolled, and Queensland Parks advises against swimming there because of dangerous currents and other hazards.
Go for a swim
As mentioned above, the ocean side is not best for swimming, but the water is calm on the inner side facing the mainland. So, hop in and enjoy it!
Watch the sunset
Watching the sunset is one of our favourite holiday activities, and South Stradbroke Island certainly didn’t disappoint!
During our stay at Couran Cove Resort, we enjoyed a drink at the sunset bar while a kangaroo grazed nearby. It was such a peaceful way to end the day.
Although Couran Cove is now closed, visitors staying overnight at one of the island’s campgrounds or beach shacks can still enjoy beautiful sunsets over the Broadwater. If you’re visiting just for the day, make sure you’ve arranged your return boat transfer before sunset.
Relax with a view!
Wherever you look on South Straddie, you have the best views. So, pick a spot and enjoy some peace and quiet for a little or a long while.
Exploring more of Moreton Bay? If you loved South Stradbroke Island, don’t miss North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), another beautiful destination with stunning beaches, coastal walks and fantastic opportunities to spot wildlife. Check out our North Stradbroke Island guide for the best things to see and do.
Best Time to Visit South Stradbroke Island
South Stradbroke Island is beautiful year-round, but autumn and spring offer particularly pleasant weather for beach walks, wildlife spotting and exploring the island.
Summer is ideal for enjoying the sheltered Broadwater, although it can be hot and humid. Winter brings cooler temperatures and the chance to spot migrating humpback whales offshore.
How Many Days Do You Need on South Stradbroke Island?
You can enjoy South Stradbroke Island on a day trip from the Gold Coast, particularly if you’re visiting Tipplers for its walking trails, beaches and café.
However, spending one or two nights allows you to explore at a slower pace, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and watch the sunset over the Broadwater.
Visiting Brisbane too? South Stradbroke Island is a peaceful escape from the city, but Queensland’s capital has plenty to offer as well. Check out our Brisbane travel guide for more ideas on what to see and do during your stay.
Where to stay in South Stradbroke Island?
Although Couran Cove Resort, where we stayed during our visit, is currently closed, you can still spend a night or two on South Stradbroke Island.
There are three designated campgrounds offering a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, with some accommodation options for those who prefer not to sleep in a tent.
Tipplers Campground
Located on the western side of the island, Tipplers offers waterfront campsites and simple island shacks. There’s also a licensed café nearby, making it a convenient option for an overnight stay. It’s a lovely spot to enjoy the sunset over the Broadwater.
North and South Currigee Campgrounds
These quieter campgrounds are ideal for visitors looking to escape the crowds. Both offer camping facilities, while South Currigee also has basic island shacks and cabin accommodation.
Remember that all accommodation is accessible by boat, so organise your transfers before travelling and bring any essential supplies.
For accommodation information and bookings, visit Tipplers or Gold Coast Tourist Parks
South Stradbroke Island FAQs
Is South Stradbroke Island worth visiting?
Absolutely! With beautiful beaches, peaceful walking trails and abundant wildlife, it’s a lovely escape from the busy Gold Coast.
Can you visit South Stradbroke Island for the day?
Yes! Passenger ferry and water taxi services make day trips possible. Just organise your return transfer before travelling.
Can you stay overnight on South Stradbroke Island?
Yes. Although Couran Cove Resort is currently closed, accommodation is available at Tipplers, North Currigee and South Currigee campgrounds, including some cabins and island shacks.
Can you swim at South Stradbroke Island?
There is a swimming enclosure near Tipplers on the sheltered Broadwater side. The ocean beaches are unpatrolled and can have dangerous currents, so swimming there is not recommended.
What wildlife can you see on South Stradbroke Island?
Keep an eye out for wallabies, native birds, dolphins and marine life. During whale migration season, you may also spot humpback whales offshore. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
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