Recommended short getaways in Australia and New Zealand

Last updated 30 April 2020

Chuffed to be included in blogger Dean Williamson from Lavidaglobal.com list of the best places in Australia and New Zealand for a short getaway

“To show you some of the magnificent places you might be missing we have asked some experienced travellers to let us in on their favourite places in Australia and New Zealand to get away for a few days. Make sure to add some of these best places in Australia and New Zealand for a short getaway to your plans. ”

My contribution was Moreton Island – one of my favourite escapes from Brisbane:

Moreton Island – or Moreton as the locals refer to it – is close to Brisbane, only 35 kilometres from the mainland. Moreton is a popular destination for anyone seeking isolation, beach activities and the opportunity to camp in a safe environment.

As the world’s third-largest sand island, its 170 square kilometre expanse is 98% national park. And this is what I love about Moreton. Because most of the island is undeveloped, it’s an untouched wilderness harbouring unique native wildlife and diverse vegetation. The perfect location for the nature lover. Access to Moreton is via water (although a landing strip at Cowan Cowan is available for small aircraft.) A ferry departs from Brisbane’s Pinkenba wharf and 90-minutes later drops passengers at the Tangalooma Island Resort.

The resort offers a number of activities to day-trippers, or those staying overnight can pace themselves. If you enjoy getting up close and personal to wild dolphins, I recommend the sunset wild dolphin feeding run by the resort’s Marine Education centre.

Alternatively, if you’re an adventure enthusiast and don’t mind beach bashing (4WDing across long stretches of sandy beaches) consider taking your 4WD over to Moreton. All roads on the island are unsealed and some are narrow in parts presenting many interesting 4WD experiences. A car ferry provides easy vehicle access to the island. Campgrounds are easy to find. And if you enjoy snorkeling or diving, the wrecks within easy access of the beach provide unparalleled underwater experiences. I’m so grateful I live in southeast Queensland with Moreton on my doorstep.