NOTE: Images and comments within this article are indicative of our visit to Tangalooma in 2015. Features of the resort and locations may have changed since this date.
With its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise water, unspoilt national park and truly amazing wildlife, you could be forgiven for thinking Tangalooma Island Resort is a distant dream. Yet this topical island paradise is just 40 kilometres off the coast of Brisbane!
Tangalooma Island Resort is located on Moreton Island, the third largest sand island in the world. The unspoilt natural beauty of the island coupled with the unlimited array of activities on offer make it the ideal destination for everything from a day trip to a long family holiday. Whether you want a relaxing break, an unforgettable wildlife encounter or an action-packed adventure holiday, Tangalooma Island Resort really does have something for everyone.
Feeding wild dolphins at Tangalooma
Tangalooma Island Resort is one of the few places in the world where you can hand-feed wild dolphins, and getting up close and personal with these beautiful creatures is a truly magical experience. As the sun sets over beautiful Moreton Bay, a pod of local bottlenose dolphins make their nightly visit to the resort, to the delight of children and adults alike.
Watching the dolphins frolicking in the waters around the jetty and then experiencing the thrill of wading out to meet them is a highlight of any trip to Moreton Island. When they tilt their head to look at you as you deliver their tasty treat, it is impossible not to feel the connection with these stunning and intelligent animals and it is a memory that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Most of Tangalooma Island Resorts accommodation packages and some day packages include this amazing wild dolphin feeding experience.
More wonderful wildlife
One of the most special aspects of Tangalooma Island Resort is the chance to encounter and learn about its spectacular array of wildlife. The island is home to over 180 species of birds, and mammals such as gliders, while the bay is a sheltered haven for dolphins, dugongs, turtles, sharks and rays. From June to October, joining the Whale Watch Cruise to see magnificent humpback whales as they pass the island on their annual migration is a must.
There are numerous ways to discover the local wildlife at Tangalooma, including eco walks, talks and presentations. Everyone will enjoying seeing wildlife close up as the resort’s eco rangers feed dolphins, pelicans, kookaburras and fish. You can also join the Marine Discovery Cruise to get up close to marine life and explore the bay. Or tour or snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks — the spectacular man-made habitat for a beautiful array of colourful tropical fish, as well as possible turtles and other animals.
Exploring Moreton Island
Moreton Island is also a place of stunning natural scenery. Exploring the island, either alone or with the 4WD Tangalooma Bus or a guided tour, is a great way to discover its hidden wonders, including the beautiful fresh waters at Blue Lagoon, the stunning views from Cape Moreton, picturesque Honeymoon Bay and the astounding Tangalooma Desert.
Activities, activities and more activities!
With so many activities on offer, Tangalooma Island Resort has something for absolutely everyone! Whether you want educational activities, natural experiences, unique adventure and action, rest and relaxation or a bit of everything, you will be spoilt for choice.
There are land-based activities such as sand tobogganing, island walks and tours and quad bike riding, and water-based activities including cruises, snorkelling, paddle boarding and kayaking.
Free activities include tennis, squash, archery, boule, beach volley ball and much more.
Tangalooma for kids
Tangalooma Island Resort is a perfect place for kids. They offer a babysitting service, cots, pram hire, baby change facilities, a children’s playground, board games, and much, much more!
Dining and more
While at Tangalooma resort, there are lots of options for food and drinks for whatever your appetite, from their Fire and Stone Asian fusion restaurant and Tursiops breakfast buffet restaurant, to their Beach Café, Coffee Shop and Whalers Bar for sunset cocktails.
Also at Tangalooma, you will find the Marine Education and Conservation Centre, Massage Hut and Beauty Room, day-guest lounge access (only available as part of some packages), a resort shop, tours desk, change rooms, lockers, showers and more.
Go for a day or why not stay!
Visiting Tangalooma for the day is simple with the range of day packages available for you to fill your day with fun activities or simply enjoy the island. For those with more time to enjoy everything on offer, there are seven styles of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, from hotel rooms to fully furnished luxury apartments and hilltop homes. Family favourites include self-contained resort suites and beachfront villas
How to get to Tangalooma
High speed launches depart regularly from Holt Street Wharf, Pinkenba, which is a short drive from Brisbane CBD or airport. Bus transfers from the airport and Gold Coast and Brisbane CBD hotels are also available at an extra fee. You can even take the vehicle barge to bring your 4WD, organise to moor your own boat or take a scenic helicopter flight across the bay.
Tangalooma Island Resort is a natural wonderland just waiting for you to explore!
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