This first-world problem is a tale as old as time, you haven't got any annual leave and only the public holidays available, but you still want to make the most of it and get away?
In desperate need of a mini vacay, even if it's just a long weekend to get out of the house and have some fun. We feel you and that's why we've done all the heavy lifting and prepared the perfect, fun-packed three-day itinerary for you, so all you need to do is pack a bag and fill up the tank, and head to the Moreton Bay Region, best part is it's only a short drive from North Brisbane.
DAY 1
Bribie Island is the only Queensland island connected to the mainland by bridge. This allows easy access by car and just a hop, skip and a jump (around 1 hour’s drive) north of Brisbane. Bribie Island is surrounded by natural beauty with white sandy beaches, national parks and a great variety of eateries.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at local’s favourite Annie Lane located on the scenic foreshore at Bongaree. Take some time to explore the pier and shops, while taking in the views across Pumicestone Passage and Moreton Bay towards Redcliffe and Brisbane. Take a wander through the Village Deli for some fantastic locally sourced products and treats to take home.
Hop back in the car and drive to Woorim Beach, just an 8 minute trip across the island to Brisbane’s closest surf beach. Spend some time on the beautiful white sandy beach - remember to swim between the flags!
Feeling like a coffee? Little Mikes serve their own signature blend which is an island favourite amongst locals and visitors alike!
Ready for a bite to eat? Bribie Beach Bar & Cafe serves up a delicious menu featuring locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere by the Woorim forefront. Enjoy a tasty pizza and beer in the beer garden and enjoy the afternoon.
Feeling adventurous? Book in with G’Day Adventure Tours for a fun-filled, fully guided tour of Bribie’s national park and 4WD access only beaches.
DAY 1
After you've spent the day checking out the sights of the island, make your way back over the bridge to check in to your accommodation for the night.
For something a little different, we suggest checking out the 'glamping' options in a Luxury Safari Tent at the Big4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort.
Sleeping two comfortably, these beautiful tents feature all the comforts including Queen Bed, ensuite bathroom, air conditioning and private alfresco dining with water views.
Enjoy dinner at the stylish Sandstone Point Hotel (located next door - easy walking distance) overlooking the Pumicestone Passage and enjoy a cocktail in the bar before turning in for the night.
DAY 2
It's time to swap the island-life for greener pastures - the road trip is part of the fun!
The Moreton Bay Region’s Hinterland consists of huge, picturesque mountains covered in untouched, beautiful restraints. Head towards Mount Glorious for some great walks in Maiala National Park (don't forget to put on your joggers), lookouts and quaint cafes.
Take the scenic, winding road down Mt Glorious towards Samford Village for some spectacular views across Samford Valley.
Arriving in historic Samford Village you have an excellent range of lunch options. Locals love Canter and Colt for it’s fresh, organic and delicious menu options and fantastic Montville blend coffee with a smile!
Take a stroll down Samford’s High Street and explore the boutique shops and nursery. For fans of Harry Potter, it’s hard to go past the famous ‘Store of Requirement’. You'll find Australia's largest collection of official Harry Potter merchandise. Enjoy a delicous Buttersctoch Brew and pick up some official HP accessories to add to your collection.
Day 2
Once you’ve explored Samford Village, hop back in the car towards Eatons Hill.
When the day’s end is near it’s time to drive to the modern and luxurious 4.5 star Eatons Hill Hotel for your night’s accommodation. Great quality dinner options are aplenty in the Eatons Hill Village. Our pick is the Hotel’s Restaurant and Bistro where you can taste the flavours of the region with a delicious locally sourced menu.
The Eatons Hill Hotel has 9 different bars is one of the most popular night entertainment venues in Brisbane, and is a great place to head after dinner for a drink and to enjoy some live entertainment. Stay a little later and you’ll catch some of the best local DJs so you can boogie into the night.
Day 3
It's your last day, time to make the most of it and take a trip to one of Moreton Bay’s most stunning bayside locations, Redcliffe Peninsula.
Take some time wandering along the forefront and explore the iconic Redcliffe Pier before diving into the vibrant Redcliffe Farmers and Artisans Market. Widely supported by the local community, the Redcliffe Jetty Markets have long been a staple of Redcliffe and you’re sure to come across super fresh produce, handmade goodies, exotic imports, delicious food stalls and one-of-a-kind finds that make for wonderful gifts.
Dolphin Wild Island Cruises operates all year round. Spend the day snorkeling the crystal clear aqua waters of the Wrecks and experience an abundance of marine life such as dolphins, turtles and dugongs that call the bay home.
If you’re visiting between July and November, don’t miss your chance for an unforgettable experience onboard with Brisbane Whale Watching. Whales love stopping to play in the waters of Moreton Bay as they migrate at this time of year and Brisbane Whale Watching can get you up close and personal as they go by.
Day 3
With your memorable weekend in Moreton Bay Region almost at an end, it’s time to top it all off with an unforgettable meal at the fantastic Tempest Seafood Restaurant & Teppanyaki Grill.
Sourced directly from local fishermen and farmers, the Tempest Seafood Restaurant menu is designed to suit the season, customers and climate of the Redcliffe Peninsula. The menu is modern with an uncompromising focus on excellence – bursting with freshness and flavour.
If you can stretch your long weekend, just one more night, Redcliffe boasts a range of accommodation options (we're sure the boss won't mind if you're a little late Monday).
We hope you enjoy your time exploring all that our wonderful region has to offer.
Share your journey with us on socials @visitmoretonbayregion and tag us with #visitmoretonbayregion in your posts, we would love to hear about your experiences in Moreton Bay Region!
Learn about the history of Moreton Bay region on a FREE tour through Woodford, Redcliffe and Samford guided by our local knowledgeable volunteers from Visitor Information Centres.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend hacker, Moreton Bay swings with opportunity for golfers of all stripes with championship golf courses, indoor golf simulators, driving ranges and mini golf courses.
While the Moreton Bay region is famous for its stunning marine park and hinterland activities, there’s also a thriving retail scene waiting to be explored.
Channel 7's Weekender Crew visit Moreton Bay's newest attraction Mathema Gallery and the stunning Ocean View Estate Winery and Accommodation that surround it. Watch SUNDAY MARCH 10 from 5.30pm.
Channel 7's Weekender Crew and Lee Carseldine embark on a brewery hop, exploring some of the region's finest breweries in Brendale. Watch SUNDAY MARCH 31 from 5.30pm.