Nestled away just off the coast of south-eastern Queensland lies the tropical paradise of Moreton Island. The protected sand island, just an hour’s boat ride from Brisbane, is home to Tangaloom Island Resort, a tropical bliss that will help any traveller unwind and reboot.
Boasting chilled, barefoot vibes, stretches of white sand, and clear, warm waters – Tangalooma is the perfect spot for single traveller’s, families, couples or island seekers.
We spent the weekend living like an island local (think: low-key beach bars, excellent dining, moonlight dolphin feeding, massages and all the sun you can soak up).
STAY
Tangalooma’s long stretch of land is home to many accommodation options – all of which offer the laid-back lifestyle the island demands.
As well as being within walking distance to the island’s bars (yes!) and restaurants, each room is fit with front-door beach access, making your trip as seamless as possible.
EAT
This tropical paradise provides the quintessential setting for soaking up the sun with some good food and drinks, so luckily, it has plenty of options.
Fire & Stone
After eating here every day on our trip, it’s safe to say this Asian Fusion heaven became a firm favourite.
Offered exclusively in the northern wing of the beach, this dining haven offers guests the opportunity to indulge in traditional spicy Sichuan cuisine. The dishes are designed to be shared, making this a perfect spot for family and groups.
During the day, here was also the perfect place to pick up a few pieces of fresh sushi to enjoy on the beach.
Beach Bar
The Beach Bar perfectly complements the laid-back Aussie lifestyle this island so readily demands. On offer here is fish and chips, burgers, calamari, pizza and more. Pair a meal here with one of the island’s signature cocktails, and you’re in for a treat.
Plus, the view couldn’t be better.
WELLNESS
No island retreat is complete without a little indulgence. Tangalooma offers a number of beauty and wellness options, including massages, manicures and signature facials.
We tried the classic relaxation massage, and safe to say it soon went to the top of our list of must do’s.
FEED THE DOLPHINS
The highlight of any visit to Tangalooma is the opportunity to hand feed one of the wild bottlenose dolphins that visit the shores each evening at sunset. This was truly a magical experience that I couldn’t recommend more.
The Tangalooma dolphins are playful creatures, each with their very own distinctive and unique personalities.
On the night we visited, a cheeky dolphin named Echo stole the show.
The incredible staff can tell the dolphins apart and let the audience know a little about each one’s personality.
The best part about this experience, is that these dolphins are subject to the resort’s very strict rules, ensuring they remain as wild as possible.
THE WRECKS
Tangalooma has become world famous for it’s wrecks, with the island being home to a cluster of ships scuttled by the Queensland Government between 1963 and 1984 to provide safe anchorage for recreational boat owners on the eastern side of Moreton Bay.
The Wrecks are now home to a large variety of different species of reef fish, coral formations and marine life.
Discovering a hidden world under the sea by diving and exploring the shipwrecks at Tangalooma – either on tour or on your own accord – is a Summer must.
This article originally appeared on WHO.
