Moreton Island (Mulgumpin), Brisbane - forest near body of water
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Moreton Island Mulgumpin

4.7
·19 reviews·Moreton Island, Australia

Discover Moreton Island Mulgumpin, a pristine sand island paradise near Brisbane, offering world-class snorkeling, thrilling sandboarding, and breatht...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Moreton Island (Mulgumpin), Brisbane - forest near body of water

Moreton Island Mulgumpin

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Moreton Island Mulgumpin, a pristine sand island paradise near Brisbane, offering world-class snorkeling, thrilling sandboarding, and breathtaking aerial views.

4.7
(19 reviews)

"Moreton Island Mulgumpin is a must-visit for its stunning wrecks, epic sand dunes, and incredible marine life!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack Your Own Picnic 🧺

Food at Tangalooma Resort can be pricey. Bring your own snacks and meals to save money .

Snorkel Gear Essentials :mask:

Rentals are available, but bringing your own ensures comfort and availability, especially during peak times.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tangalooma Wrecks

Tangalooma Wrecks

Western side of Moreton Island

Explore a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life around sunken ships. Perfect for snorkeling and diving!

The Desert (Sand Dunes)

The Desert (Sand Dunes)

Central Moreton Island

Experience the thrill of sandboarding down massive dunes for an adrenaline rush and stunning island views.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter Tours

Various departure points

Soar above Moreton Island for breathtaking aerial views of the coastline, wrecks, and marine wildlife.

Planning Your Visit

Ferry Fares & Access

Ferry tickets to Moreton Island Mulgumpin can be pricey, especially for groups. Consider booking 'walk-on' tickets with companies like Micat for direct access to the Tangalooma Wrecks. Be aware that Tangalooma Resort may restrict access to its facilities for non-guests.Reddit

Getting Around the Island

Moreton Island Mulgumpin is largely undeveloped and requires a 4WD for extensive exploration. For day trips without a car, focus on areas accessible by foot from the ferry drop-off, like the Tangalooma Wrecks and the sand dunes.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Warmer for swimming
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A little FUN FACT FRIDAY (or any day you’re seeing this!). Come check out where they film “Spooky Island” and see all the not so scary-cool things you can do at #tangalooma! @Tangalooma 👻👹🏝️ @VisitBrisbane #MoretonIsland #Queensland #TangaloomaIslandResort #ScoobyDoo #Brisbane #FunFact #HelicopterRide #Dolphins
@tabithalipkin
292.2K likes • 2.8M views

Pack Your Own Picnic 🧺

Food at Tangalooma Resort can be pricey. Bring your own snacks and meals to save money.Reddit

Snorkel Gear Essentials :mask:

Rentals are available, but bringing your own ensures comfort and availability, especially during peak times.

One of my favourite places in australia, coming from an australian. Location in video #snorkelling #diving #shipwrecks #bluewater #ocean #beach #wrecks #island #views #fyp
@hollylieschke
138.5K likes • 895K views
We’re so excited to announce our newest vessel, Spirit of Mulgumpin, a brand new way to experience Moreton Island! 🏝️🛥️ Snorkel the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks, spot dolphins & turtles, and indulge in a tropical buffet lunch aboard our luxury catamaran. All-inclusive. All in one day. Paradise is just 75 minutes away. 🐬🌴🤿🐢 Your Moreton Island adventure starts here → link in bio.
seemoreton
62 likes • 2.5K views

4WD Recommended for Exploration :car:

While some areas are walkable, a 4WD is essential for accessing the island's more remote beaches and tracks.Reddit

Check Ferry Schedules :bus:

Ferry times vary, so plan your day trip around the return schedule to avoid missing your ride back.

Welcome to Moreton Island / Mulgumpin ☀️ Where endless sandbars meet crystal blue waters, and summer never truly ends... right in Brisbane’s backyard. Come on a day trip or stay for the night with @tangaloomaislandresort - you won’t regret the extra time to explore. @australia @queensland #VisitBrisbane 📸 @theverticalpixel
visitbrisbane
57.1K likes • 1.1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack Your Own Picnic 🧺

Food at Tangalooma Resort can be pricey. Bring your own snacks and meals to save money.Reddit

Snorkel Gear Essentials :mask:

Rentals are available, but bringing your own ensures comfort and availability, especially during peak times.

4WD Recommended for Exploration :car:

While some areas are walkable, a 4WD is essential for accessing the island's more remote beaches and tracks.Reddit

Check Ferry Schedules :bus:

Ferry times vary, so plan your day trip around the return schedule to avoid missing your ride back.

Respect the Environment :leaf:

Help keep Moreton Island beautiful by taking all your rubbish with you and sticking to designated paths.

Sandboarding Thrills :runner:

Wear old clothes as you'll get sandy! The dunes offer an exhilarating experience for all ages.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(19 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Moreton Island Mulgumpin's natural beauty, particularly the vibrant Tangalooma Wrecks for snorkeling and the thrilling sandboarding on its massive dunes. While ferry costs can be high and resort amenities may be restricted for day-trippers, the stunning scenery and unique activities make it a highly recommended destination for an island escape.

"A great spot. There were many spaces and not very clear on which is which. We chose what we thought was the best as only ones there for the first night.
Minimal traffic on the beach
Keep an eye on the tides as the bypass is easier and the closest link to this camp is really dodgy. We saw 4 cars get stuck in 2 days."

luke purcell

"Very nice camping area next to the beach. The toilet and shower facilities at the camp grounds are close and very clean."

Lea Meiring

"Awesome calm side of the island, with a view of the massive ships coming into port of Brisbane. Great spot!"

Louis Crowe

What People Like

Snorkeling at Tangalooma Wrecks
Sandboarding on dunes
Beautiful island scenery

What People Dislike

Expensive ferry fares
Limited resort access for day visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common ways to reach Moreton Island Mulgumpin are via passenger ferry or car barge. Companies like Micat offer passenger-only services that drop you directly at the Tangalooma Wrecks, which is convenient for day-trippers.Reddit For those with a vehicle, car barges are available. The journey typically takes around 75 minutes.Instagram

Yes, some passenger ferries, like the Micat, are specifically designed to drop passengers directly at the Tangalooma Wrecks, minimizing walking time and hassle for snorkelers.Reddit

Ferry prices can vary, but expect to pay around $80-$100 AUD for a return passenger ticket. For families, this can add up, so booking in advance or looking for package deals might be beneficial.Reddit

Yes, car barges operate to Moreton Island, allowing you to bring your own 4WD vehicle. This provides the most flexibility for exploring the island's extensive beach tracks and remote areas.Instagram

Absolutely! You can visit Moreton Island Mulgumpin as a walk-on passenger. Focus your activities around the ferry drop-off points, such as the Tangalooma Wrecks and the nearby sand dunes, which are accessible by foot.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.Reddit

While there isn't a specific entry fee for the island itself, you will need to pay for ferry transport. If you plan to camp, camping permits are required.

Access to Tangalooma Resort's facilities can be restricted for non-guests. It's best to confirm directly with the resort or pack your own provisions.Reddit

Ferry operating hours vary by company and day. Always check the specific schedule of your chosen ferry operator before planning your trip.

Yes, Tangalooma Island Resort and other tour operators offer various day trip packages that often include ferry transport, activities like snorkeling, and sometimes lunch. However, booking the ferry independently and bringing your own supplies can be more cost-effective.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Must-do activities include snorkeling or diving the Tangalooma Wrecks,TikTokInstagram sandboarding down the desert dunes,TikTok taking a scenic helicopter flight,TikTokInstagram and spotting marine life like dolphins and turtles.Instagram

Yes, if you arrive at the wrecks via ferry (like Micat), you can easily snorkel directly from the shore. Bring your own gear or rent it nearby if available.Reddit

The sand dunes, often referred to as 'The Desert,' are accessible by foot from the Tangalooma area, though it's a walk of a couple of kilometers. If you have a 4WD, you can drive closer.Reddit

Moreton Island is home to diverse marine life, including dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and numerous fish species around the wrecks.TikTokInstagram Birdlife is also abundant on the island.

Yes, Moreton Island Mulgumpin is a popular day trip destination from Brisbane. You can experience key attractions like the wrecks and dunes within a single day.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Tangalooma Island Resort offers dining options, but they can be expensive for day visitors. Many visitors opt to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach or at picnic spots.Reddit

While the resort is nearby, access to its cafes and shops might be limited for those not staying at the resort or on a specific package. It's safer to bring your own provisions.Reddit

Packing a picnic with sandwiches, fruits, snacks, and plenty of water is the most recommended and cost-effective approach for a day trip.Reddit

Some camping areas on Moreton Island may have BBQ facilities. If you are visiting for the day, it's best to check with the ferry operator or resort about available picnic areas.

Potable water is available at Tangalooma Island Resort and some campgrounds. However, it's always wise to bring a good supply of water, especially if you plan to explore further afield.

📸 📸 Photography

The Tangalooma Wrecks offer incredible underwater and above-water photo opportunities.Instagram The expansive sand dunes provide dramatic landscapes, and helicopter tours offer unique aerial perspectives.TikTokInstagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic contrasts on the sand dunes.

Yes, the clear waters around the Tangalooma Wrecks are perfect for underwater photography. Ensure you have a waterproof camera or housing for your phone.TikTok

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, particularly around the resort and national park zones. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and dunes. For underwater shots, a GoPro or waterproof camera is ideal. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant wildlife.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Moreton Island Mulgumpin offers fantastic family fun! The Tangalooma Wrecks are perfect for kids to snorkel and discover marine life in shallow, calm waters.TikTok Sandboarding down the dunes provides an exciting activity for all ages, though younger children might need assistance.TikTok

Consider booking a family-friendly day trip package that includes ferry transport and activities, or opt for the passenger ferry and pack a picnic to save costs.Reddit The resort at Tangalooma may offer some family-oriented activities, but check their policies for day visitors. Ensure children are supervised at all times, especially near the water and on the dunes.

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Moreton Island Mulgumpin on a budget is achievable by being strategic. The biggest cost is often the ferry. Booking 'walk-on' passenger tickets with companies like Micat can be more economical than resort-inclusive packages.Reddit

Key money-saving tips: Pack all your own food and drinks, as resort prices are high.Reddit Bring your own snorkeling gear to avoid rental fees. Focus on activities accessible by foot, like the Tangalooma Wrecks and the sand dunes, rather than paying for organized 4WD tours if your budget is tight.

✈️ Day-Trippers

Moreton Island Mulgumpin is an ideal day trip destination from Brisbane. The most efficient way to maximize your time is to take a passenger ferry that docks near the Tangalooma Wrecks, allowing immediate access for snorkeling.Reddit

Plan your day to include snorkeling the wrecks in the morning and then heading to the sand dunes for sandboarding in the afternoon. Remember to factor in travel time to and from the ferry terminal. Bringing a packed lunch and water is crucial, as food options can be limited and expensive for day visitors.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Tangalooma Wrecks

The Tangalooma Wrecks are a cluster of deliberately sunk ships located off the western coast of Moreton Island Mulgumpin. Originally sunk in the 1960s to create a breakwater for small boats, they have since become a thriving artificial reef.Instagram Today, they are one of the most popular snorkeling and diving sites in the region, attracting a vibrant array of marine life.

Visitors can easily access the wrecks by swimming directly from the shore, especially if arriving via ferries that dock nearby, like the Micat. The shallow, clear waters make it ideal for snorkelers of all levels, offering a chance to see colorful fish, coral formations, and sometimes even turtles and rays.TikTokInstagram For divers, the wrecks provide a more immersive experience, exploring the submerged structures and the diverse ecosystem that has developed around them.

Pro Tip: Visit during calmer seas for the best visibility. While accessible year-round, the warmer months offer a more comfortable snorkeling experience. Remember to bring your own snorkel gear or rent it locally if needed.Reddit

Adventure on the Sand Dunes

Moreton Island Mulgumpin is renowned for its vast sand dunes, often referred to as 'The Desert.' These towering sand formations offer an exhilarating adventure, most famously through sandboarding. Visitors can rent sandboards or use makeshift alternatives to slide down the steep slopes, experiencing a unique thrill with stunning views of the island and Moreton Bay.TikTok

Accessing the main dune areas typically requires a 4WD vehicle if you're exploring independently. However, for day-trippers without a car, the dunes are a significant walk from the Tangalooma area, but it's a manageable trek for those with reasonable fitness.Reddit The experience is often described as a highlight, providing a stark contrast to the island's beaches and waters.

What to Expect: Wear old clothes as you will get covered in sand! It's a fun, active experience that's suitable for most ages. Remember to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.

Getting Around: 4WD vs. Foot

Moreton Island Mulgumpin is the world's third-largest sand island, and much of its interior is accessible only by 4WD vehicles due to its sandy terrain and lack of paved roads.Instagram If you plan to explore beyond the immediate vicinity of the ferry drop-off points, bringing or hiring a 4WD is highly recommended. This allows you to reach more remote beaches, camping spots, and scenic lookouts.

However, for visitors on a day trip without a car, it's entirely possible to enjoy key attractions. The Tangalooma Wrecks are easily accessible by foot from the ferry landing at Tangalooma.Reddit Similarly, the famous sand dunes ('The Desert') are within walking distance, though it's a longer trek. Many visitors find that focusing on these accessible areas provides a fulfilling experience without the need for a 4WD.Reddit

Key Takeaway: If your primary goal is snorkeling the wrecks and experiencing the dunes, you can manage without a 4WD. For comprehensive exploration and reaching secluded spots, a 4WD is essential.

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