Although life on the Goldie is not known for its hectic city life, overly steadfast work ethic or consistently dreary weather, an adventurous weekend getaway to South Stradbroke Island is a convenient way to appreciate more of what Queensland has to offer. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time to this Gold Coast camping haven, we offer excellent suggestions for making the most of your perfect weekend escape.
Transportation
Those with their own boats or jet skis will be pleased to find that South Stradbroke Island lies only 200 meters from the tip of The Spit, making it an extremely quick and easy ride to our favourite Straddie landing spot of South Currigee Campground.
Alternately, non-boat owning residents and visitors can easily reserve a water taxi for a scenic and economical ride to the shoreline. Broadwater Taxi, based at the nearby Runaway Bay Marina, offers daily water transfers to South Stradbroke Island. With personable, prompt and friendly service from co-owner and Captain Chris O’Hanlon, we highly recommend his transportation services for your next interisland voyage.
Campground Highlights
With easy access for boats and ample accommodation options, South Currigee Campground offers plenty of space to spread out, relax, and savour the scenery. Though tent camping is the most budget-friendly option, onsite Wallaby Tents and private cabins are available for larger groups or families seeking a bit more privacy.
Located directly on the water with picturesque views of the north end of the Gold Coast, South Currigee is equipped with everything you need for a successful camping excursion, including fire pits, a covered dining area, gas grills, hot water showers, clean bathroom facilities, a children’s playground, and even a store with firewood, ice, snacks, beverages, and basic toiletries.
While the rainy forecast made for a fairly empty campground during our recent visit, busy summer months see a noticeable increase in visitors, from both near and far, coming to bask in a leisurely weekend away. No matter what time of year you decide to visit, campground reservations are required prior to arrival.
Pack your fishing poles, insect repellant, sunscreen and plenty of drinking water for the best results, and be sure to properly hide your food from nearby wildlife found on the island, primarily the friendly wallabies and notoriously curious Australian white ibis.
South Stradbroke Activities
If you have been searching for a reason to forget your cell phone at home, work on your grilling skills, build an epic fire and explore nature’s finest in a compact and easy-to-navigate destination, you will be delighted with your options on South Stradbroke Island.
Only a short walk from the campground lies an amazingly desolate and large surfing beach, perfect for a morning sunrise walk, surf session, or sun-soaked lounge on the 22 kilometres of white sand. During whale season, be sure to keep an eye out for nearby humpback whales!
In the early afternoon hours, we were even treated to a show from a nearby pod of playful dolphins, happily swimming in the calm waterway near the many excited onlookers. Wildlife enthusiasts will also want to take a visit to Couran Cove to see the wallabies, birdlife, lizards and more.
Visitors seeking a bit of exercise with their relaxation time may also want to do some rock climbing, while those who prefer their mornings with their feet in the sand can sit back and take advantage of the prime fishing conditions.
Regardless of your reason for visiting, South Stradbroke offers something for everyone, including couples, families, solo adventurers, groups of friends and more. We highly recommend a visit during the beautiful Gold Coast summer months. If anything, it is a great reason to get out on the water and treat yourself to a fun weekend adventure!
By Kelsey Love
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Reserve your Spot
Broadwater Taxi
0403.587.804
watertaxi@broadwatertaxi.com.au
South Currigee Campground
07.5577.3932
