Picture this. You’re in Brisbane, you’ve got a day off, and you’re looking for the perfect way to spend it. If you’re a nature and wildlife enthusiast like our Product Manager for Oceania, Christina, then you simply have to visit North Stradbroke Island, affectionately known as Straddie. Read about her experiences from the first time she visited the island in April 2026.
Have you heard of Straddie – the world’s second largest sand island?
I certainly hadn’t.
I was familiar with its big brother, K’gari Island (formerly Fraser Island) – the world’s largest sand island – and its smaller sibling, Moreton Island, which comes in third place. But North Stradbroke Island – better known as Straddie – was completely new to me. And it turned out to be a huge oversight for a nature and wildlife lover like me.
North Stradbroke Island is the world’s second-largest sand island, located just a short ferry ride from Brisbane. The island is known not only for its wild nature, with its long stretches of white sandy beaches and exotic wildlife, but also for its deep cultural significance to the Quandamooka people, who have lived here for thousands of years.
We had barely got off the ferry when our guide suddenly pulled over and jumped out of the car. He’d spotted something up in the trees – and sure enough, there they were: giant bats, known as flying foxes, hanging in clusters above us. Quite an incredible start to the day!
We then continued on to Point Lookout, where we enjoyed a beautiful walk along the coast on boardwalks overlooking the open sea. This is where the island’s wildlife really started to shine. We met plenty of grey kangaroos who came surprisingly close – one even had a tiny joey tucked safely in her pouch. We also spotted a wallaby, though it was much more timid and kept its distance.
But it didn’t stop there. We also came across a blue-tongued skink (a small Australian lizard), and to top it all off, I personally spotted a large carpet python in the bush. The whole group, including the guide, was absolutely thrilled by the experience. Although Australia is famous for its many snakes, it’s actually quite rare to encounter one in the wild.
After lunch, we had time to unwind on the beach. Naturally, I couldn’t resist going for a swim in the clear, warm sea.
The tour ended at Amity Point, where we all stood gazing upwards into the tall eucalyptus trees – and yes, we did it! We spotted two koalas in the wild. What incredibly adorable little marsupials they are.
The sunset was breathtaking, and as we stood on the beach taking it all in, another kangaroo hopped by – the perfect ending to an already magical day.
This is a tour I will never forget – and it certainly won’t be the last time I visit Straddie.
Christina,
TourCompass – From tourist to traveller
Planning a tour to Australia? Follow in Christina’s footsteps and book a full-day tour to North Stradbroke Island for your free day in Brisbane.
