Discover Dunwich

Brown Lake (Bummiera) is one of those places you will never get tired of visiting.  We've been a hundred times, and we will gladly go a hundred more. Nestled in the Naree Budjong National Park, Brown Lake is pure rainwater, surrounded by native bushland, including paperbark tea-trees that give the lake its colour (and name!). It's a sacred place of deep cultural significance to the Quandamooka people and for tens of thousands of years it was reserved for Women's Business. Unearth more of this history surrounding the lake with a tour with Yura Tours. Experiencing a Welcome to Country is something you won't forget. The lake is accessible via car, or if you're on foot, you can book a transfer with the island's local taxi service or StradEasy. 

A tour of Dunwich is not complete without a visit to Myora Springs, a serene freshwater sanctuary located just outside of Dunwich towards Amity Point (Pulan) and Point Lookout (Mulumba). Stop here for a leisurely stroll and allow yourself to soak up the tranquility of island life.

You don't visit one of the most stunning sand islands in the world just to dine indoors. From the rooftop of Straddie Brewing Co. Bar & Restaurant, you can soak up the sweeping views of Moreton Bay while sampling bold, flavourful beers brewed onsite in their three-storey brewhouse. And if beer really isn't your thing, they also serve up island-crafted cocktails, local artisan spirts and a curated selection of fine Australian wine, all designed to complement the island-inspired menu. 

If your ideal dining experience involves a picnic, fresh seafood and a waterfront view,  Fishlass and Perry's Seafood is hard to beat. Open for breakfast and lunch, it's the perfect spot to pick up the daily catch before taking a short walk to the beach and take in views of the beautiful Moreton Bay waters your very meal was freshly caught - a true ocean to plate experience. If you're visiting with kids, there's also a great playground and skatepark nearby where they can burn off some energy. 

A true Straddie icon, the Little Ship Club is set on the Western shoreline of Dunwich and has been welcoming locals and visitors since 1951. Its laid-back and family friendly atmosphere makes it an easy place to settle in for a long lunch or afternoon drink. Lots of grassy space for the kids to run around, live music most Saturdays and better yet, four-legged family members are welcome too.  

Arguably (by us) one of the most beautiful golf courses in Australia, The North Stradbroke Island Golf Club is perched on a hill in Dunwich, amongst native bushland and serves up unbeatable views of Brown Lake, the Brisbane harbour, Moreton Bay and even the Glasshouse Mountains. Keep an eye out for the club's resident kangaroos who are known to make appearances, adding a unique Straddie touch to your game.  If you're visiting without a car, you can contact the club who will organise transport for you at a small fee. 

While it's still cool, it's the perfect time to explore the island's National Park, wandering through one of the rarest ecosystems in South East Queensland. The network boasts 10 kilometres worth of trails which will lead you to unmissable Straddie landmarks like Blue Lake (Kaboora) and Mt Vane and Mt Bippo Penbean summits. 

There is plenty of accommodation available in the heart of Dunwich. Become the Brewery Custodian for the night at Straddie Brewing with your very own rooftop view, stay in the freshly renovated Dunwich Apartments or embrace island life with a camping or glamping experience on Bradbury's Beach. 

It's easy to hop on a bus and make a beeline for the beach, but there is something special about delving into the island's past and forming a deeper connection with its people and places. Its rich history, culture, and natural wonders make Dunwich a destination worth spending real time in.