
Like its better-known counterpart to the north, Fraser Island, Moreton Island is a sand island. Despite being only a couple of hours away from Brisbane by ferry, it remains remarkably unspoilt and most of the island is protected by Moreton Island National Park. There are no made roads on the island and the only way to get around is by 4 wheel drive. It is possible to hire the island's taxi (a 4 wheel drive, of course) to take you to your destination. There are a few cross-island tracks which take you from the west to the east coast, but much of the island is accessible by driving along the beaches. Activities on the island include sand toboganning, fishing and camping. Another popular activity is diving, especially at the Tangalooma Wrecks, an artificial reef made from scuttled vessels which now provides a haven for sea life.
At Cape Moreton stands the first lighthouse built in Queensland. The island boasts sand dunes (including Mount Tempest, supposedly the highest sand mountain in the world) and freshwater lakes. At Tangalooma, once a whaling station, there is now a resort. The main attraction here (apart from sun, sea and unspoilt bush) is the pod of friendly dolphins which arrive each day to be hand fed. Be sure, as well, to visit the coloured sands a short walk away from the resort.
Photo courtesy of Queensland Tourism.