If you are looking for a 4WD driving weekend getaway and want a quick solution – there is a bridge to Bribie Island! That means, you won’t have to catch a ferry which is very convenient if you plan on leaving late on Friday evening or want to drive back whenever it suits you. It also saves you about $180 for the journey that a ferry to Moreton or Stradbroke Island would cost you.
Bribie Island is located just north of Brisbane and connected to the mainland via bridge. The bridge is open 24/7 and you don’t have to pay any tolls for crossing it.
Where to stay on Bribie Island?
There are many nice Airbnbs on Bribie which aren’t cheap but definitely worth it when you can wake up just a few steps away from the beach. Alternatively, you can decide to camp on the beach (Ocean Beach campground) that is only accessible with a 4wd or stay at one of the caravan parks (Bellara or Bribie Island Caravan Park Woorim).
The Ocean Beach alternative is definitely the most adventurous option, but you will require a 4wd permit to get there. There are micro-flush toilets, screened cold showers and water taps. They aren’t suitable for drinking, so ensure to take enough water supplies.
You should also take rubbish bags and insect repellent as the mosquitos are very active in that area. The Ocean Beach camping area has only 63 numbered camp sites, so ensure that you book in advance to secure a spot.
4×4 driving on Bribie Island
You have to get a permit to access the 4wd tracks. Fines apply and 24hrs number plate surveillance cameras monitor the access points. Permits are valid for Bribie Island only and you can purchase them for a week for $51.50 or more than 1 week (up to 1 year) for $160.80.
As you have to display the printed permit in your windscreen, you will either have to purchase it online and print it at home before your departure or stop at one of the news agencies on the island and purchase it there. One is on North Street in Woorim (Surfside News), the other one, Bellara News, is in Bellara.
There are two access points on Bribie to get to two tracks – one is at North Street in Woorim along the beach, the other one from White Patch along the Northern access track.
The Northern access track is a 16.4km inland rack that is quite dusty and rocky. The nicer alternative is the Ocean Beach drive which takes you along the beach past four lagoons for 23km to Fort Bribie at the northern tip of the island.
Get out and enjoy the empty beaches or explore the two Fort Bribie structures which are heritage-listed World War II sites.
Cleaning your 4wd
After driving on the beach, it is best to give your 4wd a proper clean as soon as possible. If you return late from the beach especially on the weekend, there won’t be any options on Bribie Island. However, there is a car wash located at Ningi, about 10 minutes’ drive from Bellara on the island. Car Kings Car Wash offers automatic and self-serve car wash options.
Places to stop for food and coffee
Start your day off with a coffee in the sun at Little Mike’s, a coffee shop located right next to Surfside News where you can get your 4wd permit.
If you feel like something bigger, head across the road to Pigface Seafood for some fresh fish and chips or homemade scones with jam and cream. Enjoy the sun on their outside tables before taking off down the beach along North Street.
The best way to finish off the day? A sunset picnic on the other side of the island at Sunset Park. If you feel like having a fancier experience, opt for a Bribie Island Gondola trip. Trips start from $200 and take around 1 hour. You can bring your own food and drinks or choose from their catering options.
Get your 4WD ready for adventures
At Prospark Auto Electrical, we can help you to get your 4wd ready for your next adventure. From canopy setups to dual battery systems, our team is well-experienced in getting your 4×4 holiday ready. Contact us online today or give us a call on 07 5620 4999 for booking enquiries.
Keep an eye on our blog post section for more 4wd adventures or send us a message about your favourite 4wd adventure locations.
