Excellent spot on the Eastern Beach of Mulgumpin for riding the waves
Surfside Beach, often referred to as Eastern Beach, is the place to go on Moreton Island (aka Mulgumpin) if you love surfing. Stretching for about 27 km in length, it actually comprises about six different beaches that virtually continue as one extension and as they are unprotected, produce powerful waves that crash vigorously on the shoreline.
As Surfside Beach is wider than other sections of Moreton Island and links to many of its inland roads, it is also a popular destination for adventurous souls who enjoy 4WDs and camping.
Like with the rest of the island, there is no lifeguard patrol here. So, you will have to exercise extreme caution and safe swimming practices when you enter the water on account of there being strong currents and rips that run out to sea, particularly around the Tangalooma Wrecks.
Due to its length, half the appeal of Surfside Beach is that you can easily find a quiet little patch to relax on it. If you are an early riser, make sure you get up for sunrise. The colours of the morning sky are quite spectacular over the Coral Sea at that time.
How To Get To Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach is one of the best beaches near Brisbane you can visit when you want a break from city life.
To get to Moreton Island, you will need to catch a 90-minute ferry which you can do from the Port of Brisbane via the Moreton Island Adventures Micat Ferry, which transports both 4WD vehicles and walk-on passengers over to it.
Alternatively, the Tangalooma Ferry is laid on for guests staying at the Tangalooma Resort. It is solely designed for walk-on passengers and leaves from Holt Street Wharf.
Best Time to Visit Moreton Island
Moreton Island enjoys a subtropical climate which means it serves up plenty of warm days all year round.
Given its proximity to Brisbane, the island always attracts a lot of visitors from Queensland’s state capital city, especially over the weekend. So, you might want to time your visit during the week days to avoid the denser crowds.
For this reason, it is a good idea to visit the island in autumn. This period falls outside of the main tourist and school holiday season, so there aren’t as many people there. Crucially, the weather is still beautiful at this time, with blue skies and pleasant temperatures making for excellent conditions for swimming, snorkelling and surfing.
Where to Stay on Moreton Island
Moreton Island is home to several accommodation options which cater to different budgets and preferences. Arguably the most well known place to stay on Moreton Island is the Tangalooma Resort, which offers excellent facilities, including restaurants, swimming pools and bars.
Elsewhere, you’ll find several rental properties and campsites dotted around the island which offer everything from luxury to rustic experiences. Some good rental options are the Bayview Breeze, Castaways Moreton Island and the Shorebird on Moreton, while campers should check out the Yellow Patch or The Wrecks camping areas.
