Bay Bound: Paddling Moreton Bay’s Hidden Islands
Half an hour from Brisbane, paddle mangrove mazes, sleepy sand islands and seagrass meadows where dugongs graze
There’s a moment when Brisbane’s skyline loosens its grip and the bay breathes in salt and calm. You push off from a quiet slip at Raby Bay, the kayak settling beneath you like a small promise. The water answers—soft ridges across blue, mangrove roots like the fingers of a sleeping forest, and a wind that prefers to skirt your face rather than fight you. Ahead, islands wear their histories plainly: sand, remnant rainforest, and the pale scars of tides.
Trail Wisdom
Time Your Paddle
Morning launches usually mean flatter water and better wildlife viewing; aim for windows around low to mid-tide for calmer channels.
Bring a Dry Bag
Keep electronics and warm layers protected—unexpected splashes and wind can chill you on return legs.
Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect sensitive seagrass and coral habitat by using biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen.
Listen to Your Guide
Guides make route decisions for safety and wildlife protection—follow instructions during crossings and wildlife stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet mangrove channels around small islands that shelter shorebirds
- •A sheltered sand spit perfect for a solitary picnic and birdwatching
Wildlife
Bottlenose Dolphins, Green Turtles (and occasional dugongs)
Conservation Note
Moreton Bay Marine Park is managed to balance recreation and habitat protection—visitors should avoid seagrass beds, not approach wildlife, and use reef-safe products.
Moreton Bay sits on Quandamooka Country—the Quandamooka people have maintained cultural and food-gathering ties to these waters for thousands of years.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: calmer seas, mild temperatures, good marine life sightings
Challenges: windy days possible, blooming insect activity
Spring offers warm water and fewer storms—ideal for clear paddles and active wildlife, though onshore breezes can pick up late in the day.
summer
Best for: warmer water, long daylight hours, vibrant birdlife
Challenges: heat and sun exposure, occasional afternoon storms
Summer brings heat and afternoon sea breezes; early starts beat the heat and reduce the chance of storm interruptions.
fall
Best for: stable weather, good visibility, fewer tourists
Challenges: cooler mornings, variable tides
Autumn can be one of the most pleasant times for paddling with steady weather and clear light for photography.
winter
Best for: calm, crisp days, excellent visibility, less humidity
Challenges: cooler water and air, possible short cold snaps
Winter mornings are often glassy and cold—pack warm layers, but expect quiet bays and terrific clarity on the water.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Dry Bag (10–20L)Essential
Keeps phone, camera, and spare layers safe from spray and brief swims.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the bay’s seagrass and coral ecosystems.
Water ShoesEssential
Easy to wear on and off the kayak, good for rocky or sandy landings.
Light Windshell or Paddling Jacket
Blocks chilling on-water winds and keeps you comfortable during cool mornings.
Common Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
This tour is aimed at intermediate paddlers; you should be comfortable with basic strokes and paddling for several kilometers. Guides offer instruction and safety briefings to refresh technique.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, green turtles, various seabirds and, seasonally, dugongs in seagrass meadows—sightings are never guaranteed but guides know high-probability areas.
How far is the launch point from Brisbane CBD?
The Raby Bay launch is roughly a 25–35 minute drive from Brisbane CBD depending on traffic—about 30 km by road.
Are there age or health restrictions?
Operators typically require participants to be able-bodied and capable of following safety instructions; children and seniors may be allowed but check operator age minimums and fitness requirements.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours are routed based on conditions—operators may change the location or reschedule/cancel for safety; confirm cancellation and refund policies when booking.
Are lockers or facilities available?
Launch sites near Raby Bay have basic amenities; operators often offer a place to leave non-waterproof items and will advise on facilities during booking.
What to Pack
Water bottle (hydration), dry bag (protect gear), reef-safe sunscreen (protect skin and marine life), water shoes (for landings)
Did You Know
Moreton Bay supports extensive seagrass meadows that are critical habitat for dugongs and green sea turtles—protecting these beds is essential to the bay’s health.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning departures, bring reef-safe sunscreen, carry spare dry clothes, confirm pickup/parking with your operator
Local Flavor
After your paddle, head to Cleveland’s foreshore for fish-and-chips or local seafood—Moreton Bay bugs are a regional specialty. If you’re returning to Brisbane, South Bank and Fortitude Valley offer craft breweries and casual restaurants to round out the day.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Brisbane Airport (BNE) / Launch: Raby Bay (Cleveland) / Driving time from Brisbane CBD: ~30 minutes / Cell service: reliable near shore, intermittent on islands / Permits: no visitor fee but follow Moreton Bay Marine Park rules
Sustainability Note
Keep distance from marine mammals, avoid anchoring in seagrass beds, use reef-safe sunscreen, and carry out all rubbish to protect sensitive coastal habitats.