4wd day tripping in Bribie Island

Situated just 65-km north of Brisbane, Bribie Island awaits couples, friends and families looking to escape to an almost private paradise. Bribie Island is a glorious sand island that shelters the northern parts of Moreton Bay. It boasts a stretch of white sand set in between green bush land and crystal blue waters.

The most entertaining way to explore the recreation area, divine Ocean Beach and wildlife found on the island, including kangaroos, wallabies and dingoes, is via 4WD (high clearance vehicle). Note that a permit is required.*

For this road trip, it's best to pack a day tent, sunscreen and sufficient food and water, as no commercial outlets are found on the beachfront. However some say that this is the beauty of Bribie Island. The magical sandy island offers visitors seclusion and the feeling of owning a piece of paradise for just one day.

Entry to the recreation area is from the northern end of White Patch Esplanade or from the Eighth Avenue carpark off North Street, Woorim.

Once past the deep soft sand, there is an incredible stretch of beach that avid four-wheel-drivers can enjoy driving along. For first timers, it is an incredible experience passing the blue waters at up to 50km per hour. On occasion, schools of dolphins can be seen jumping close to the shore as you drive along and from July to October humpback whales can be seen moving through the deeper waters on their journey north past Moreton Island.

Set up the day tent in any safe space along the sand dunes and away from passing vehicles. For a day of peace and quiet, suggested activities include fishing, beach drives, reading or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the sun and sand.

Or for something a little more active, gather your friends or family and put together some beach games such as football, cricket, sand darts, beach bowling and beach volleyball.

If you want to soak up some local history, take a beach walk to Fort Bribie which is a major defence installation constructed as an outburst of World War 2 to defend the main shipping channel through Moreton Bay into Brisbane.

No matter what you choose to do, Bribie Island is an amazingly relaxing break for all who enjoy sinking their feet into white sand with the sun shining down on their backs.

Need to know: Be sure to purchase a vehicle access permit through the Queensland Government website and tide guides from your local news agency or fishing store.

*Get your permit here.

by Katherine Lamont