Tangalooma Resort is a popular destination for Queenslanders and visitors from all over Australia. The resort is located on Moreton Island, just a short ferry ride from Brisbane.
Tangalooma Resort offers a variety of accommodation options, from hotel rooms to self-contained apartments, as well as a range of activities and facilities. There are three restaurants on site, as well as a bar and cafe. The resort also has its own private beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling. You can also go dolphin watching and feeding, or take a quad bike tour of the island.
With so much to see and do, Tangalooma Resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
I came across Tangalooma Resort when I was researching trips I could take with my then teenage son, following my cancer treatments.
After spending over 8 months undergoing treatments, I was itching to get on a plane and go on a trip. I was still feeling a little fragile, so didn’t want to go overseas, but at the same time I was keen to find a place where I could relax and also do some fun stuff with my son.
We caught the plane from Sydney to Brisbane and then got an uber from the airport to Holt Street Wharf where we boarded a Tangalooma Island Resort Passenger Ferry. The trip on the ferry from Brisbane to Moreton Island took approximately 75 minutes.
Then it was just a short walk from the ferry wharf to the resort.
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Tangalooma Resort Accommodation
Tangalooma Resort offers a range of accommodation options to suit every need and budget.
Run of House Rooms
Run of House rooms are perfect for travelers who want to save money. Run-of-house rooms are comfortable but do not come with all the amenities that other rooms do – specific room types cannot be requested or guaranteed.
Standard Hotel Rooms
Located near the resort centre, the Standard Rooms offer comfortable accommodation for up to four guests. All rooms feature a private balcony or patio, LCD TV, ensuite bathroom and air conditioning. If you are staying in the Standard Room you also have access to all of the resort’s facilities, including swimming pools, restaurants and bars and one dolphin feeding session
Deluxe Hotel Rooms
Deluxe Hotel Rooms offer stunning ocean views, king-size beds plus a single bed and trundle bed. The bathrooms are spacious and you receive additional luxuries including bathrobes and slippers and upon arrival wine and chocolates.
You’ll also enjoy access to a private balcony, perfect for enjoying the sunset or sipping your morning coffee. And if you’re traveling with children, the staff can provide complimentary cots and highchairs.
Resort Unit
Situated right on the beautiful Tangalooma beach, resort units are perfect for families or those wishing to stay for a longer period. With studio-style accommodation and air-conditioning, these units offer all the home comforts you need to make the most of your stay. The ensuite bathroom, hairdryer, TV and DVD player, dining table and chairs, and kitchenette (including a ¾ size fridge, convection microwave oven, electric frypan, toaster, and tea and coffee-making facilities) all ensure that you have everything you need to relax.
Family Suite
The suites feature a spacious living area, separate bedroom and bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchenette. In addition, each suite has its own private balcony and fridge.
The family suites sleep up to 6 people and includes a 1 queen bed and 1 king single bed in the bedroom as well as 2 single beds and 1 divan.
Beachfront Villas
Tangalooma Family beachfront villas are 2 level air conditioned townhouses and offer the perfect base for exploring Moreton Island.
The villas are fully self-contained, and each one has its own private balcony with stunning views of the ocean and full kitchen including a full size fridge, microwave, cooktop and dishwasher. And naturally you can also enjoy access to a range of resort facilities, including a swimming pool, tennis court, and a kids’ playground.
Deep Blue Apartments
The Deep Blue Apartments at Tangalooma Resort offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. You can choose from a variety of spacious two, three and four bedroom apartments, all of which feature full kitchens, laundry facilities, and private balconies or entertaining sized decks.
The apartments are located just a short walk from the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking.
Plus, the Deep Blue Apartments offer access to all of the resort’s amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and day spa.
The resort also offers a number of packages which include experiences such as whale watching or snorkeling ship wrecks.
Things to Do at Tangalooma Resort
The island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of land and water-based activities to keep everyone entertained. On the land, guests can go on a quad bike tour or a desert safari tour. For those who want to take to the air, there are helicopter scenic flights available. And for those who prefer to stay on the water, there is an underwater sea scooter safari, parasailing and so much more.
Free Activities at Tangalooma Resort
Squash
Looking for a fun and affordable way to stay active on your next vacation? Then be sure to check out the free squash courts at Tangalooma Resort! Squash is a great cardio workout, and it’s also a lot of fun to play. The courts are open daily, so you can come and play whenever it’s convenient for you. And if you don’t have your own equipment, don’t worry you can hire racquets and balls
Badminton
Badminton is a great way to stay active on your vacation, and at Tangalooma Resort, they offer badminton as one of their complimentary recreation activities. Racquets and shuttlecocks are available for use at no charge, and you are welcome to play as long as you like.
Beach Volleyball
Tangalooma Resort is the perfect place to enjoy a game of beach volleyball. Not only is the sand clean and well-maintained, but the volleyball net is set up on the beachfront – directly opposite the resort centre. So whether you’re looking for a leisurely game with friends or a competitive match against other guests, Tangalooma Resort is the perfect place to play. Just be sure to bring your own beach ball!
Beach Cricket
Beach cricket is a fun and easy game to play while on vacation. All you need is a bat, a ball, and some friends or family members. The best thing about playing beach cricket at Tangalooma Resort is that it’s free! There are plenty of open spaces on the beach to set up your game, and the resort staff are always happy to help out. Just ask at the front desk, and they’ll provide you with everything you need. So gather your friends and family, head down to the beach, and enjoy a game of cricket under the sun.
Other free activities at Tangalooma Resort include:
- Boules or Bocce
- Croquet
- Island Golf
- Table Tennis
- Basketball
- Kookaburra Feeding
- Kids Playground
- Pelican Feeding
- Swimming Pools
- Tennis Court
Land Based Activities at Tangalooma Resort
Quad Bike Tour
These tours take you off the beaten track, allowing you to see the resort in a whole new way. You’ll get to ride through sandy beaches, native bushland and even some rocky terrain. And with a guide leading the way, you can be sure that you’ll see all the best that Tangalooma has to offer. Best of all, no experience is necessary – so anyone can join in the fun!
Beach Segway Tour
Tangalooma resort offers beach segway tours that are the perfect way to explore the beautiful scenery. The tour takes you along the beachfront and through the stunning natural surroundings. You’ll get to see the dolphins up close, and you might even spot a whale or two. The tour is fully guided, so you don’t need to worry about getting lost.
Desert Safari Tour with Sand Tobogganing
A desert safari tour is the perfect way to experience the unique beauty of Tangalooma Desert. You can add in a sand tobogganing adventure for even more fun. During your safari tour, you’ll explore the deser by 4WD bus. Then, it’s time to hit the sand dunes for some tobogganing fun. The resort’s specially designed toboggans make it easy to zoom down the dunes, and with a bit of practice, you’ll be flying down in no time. In addition to being great fun, tobogganing is also a great workout.
Northern Safari 4WD Bus Tour
A 4WD bus tour is the perfect way to explore the island. A 4WD bus is specially designed to handle the rough terrain and provide a comfortable ride. Plus, you’ll be able to see more of the island than you would on foot. The tour takes you to all the best spots, including Cape Moreton lighthouse, ship wrecks, dunes, and rainforests. You’ll also get to see wildlife up close, including dolphins, turtles, and stingrays. Best of all, the tour is led by an experienced guide who will share stories and facts about Moreton Island.
Southern Safari 4WD Bus Tour
A trip to Moreton island is not complete without a safari tour through the southern part of the island. This is where you will find the historic WW2 Rous Battery site and Mirapool lagoon. The tour takes you along the coastline, providing up-close views of the wildlife in their natural habitat. You also have the opportunity to learn about the island’s history and ecology from your knowledgeable guide.
Whale Watching Bus Tour
Looking for an up-close encounter with some of the world’s largest and most fascinating creatures? Then a whale watching bus tour on Moreton Island is definitely for you! During the tour, you’ll get the chance to see these massive mammals in their natural environment as they migrate along the coast. And, with the help of experienced guides, you’ll learn all about these amazing creatures – from their diet and behaviour to their social structure and family bonds.
Best of all, the tour includes round-trip transportation so you can relax and enjoy the experience without having to worry about driving. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a unique adventure, a whale watching bus tour on Moreton Island is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Air Based Activities at Tangalooma Resort
Helicopter Scenic Flight
Explore the stunning coast of Moreton Island from the air on a helicopter scenic flight! Departing from the helipad at Tangalooma resort, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the white sand beaches, turquoise waters and lush rainforest. Your experienced pilot will point out interesting landmarks and answer any questions you may have. Helicopter scenic flights are the perfect way to see Moreton Island from a different perspective. Soar over the shipwrecks, sand dunes and lagoons, and enjoy the experience of a lifetime!
Parasailing
If you’re looking for an exhilarating way to take in the stunning views of Tangalooma Resort, look no further than parasailing! As you ascend into the sky, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the resort’s sparkling turquoise waters and white sand beaches. And there’s no need to worry if you’re a first-time flyer – their experienced instructors will be with you every step of the way to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Water Based Activities at Tangalooma Resort
Clear Bottom Day or Dusk Kayak Tour
This tour is the perfect way to explore the shipwrecks that lie just below the surface of the water. You will be able to see a variety of fish, turtles and other marine life as they paddle around the bay. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, and all equipment is provided. No experience is necessary, making this an ideal activity for families and first-time kayakers.
Snorkelling on Shipwreck
Are you interested in exploring the underwater world, but not keen on diving? Then snorkelling is the perfect activity for you! And there’s no better place to try snorkelling than on a shipwreck tour at Tangalooma Resort.
Tangalooma is home to 15 shipwrecks, which form an artificial reef that is teeming with marine life. The wrecks are located in shallow water, so they are perfect for exploring by snorkelers of all levels of experience.
Just don your wetsuit and mask, and you’ll be able to see colourful fish, coral and other marine creatures up close. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a turtle or dolphin!
Illuminated Wrecks Tour
If you’re looking for an unforgettable underwater experience, then be sure to check out the illuminated wrecks tour at Tangalooma Resort. This tour takes you to see the resort’s renowned shipwrecks, which are illuminated at night for a truly magical experience. You’ll have the chance to see a variety of marine life, including turtles, stingrays, and dolphins. The tour is led by experienced guides who will provide you with all the information you need to know about the shipwrecks.
Sea Scooter Safari
Sea scooter safaris are a great way to explore the underwater world. Sea scooters are easy to use and provide a fun and exciting way to see fish, coral, and other underwater life. Tangalooma Resort offers sea scooter safaris that allow you to explore the resort’s shipwrecks and local marine life.
Wrecks Sightseeing and Fish Feeding Cruise
One of the highlights of a stay at Tangalooma is the Wrecks Sightseeing and Fish Feeding Cruise. This popular excursion takes you out to the resort’s artificial reefs, where you can see a variety of fish species up close. In addition, the cruise provides an opportunity to learn about the history of the Tangalooma Wrecks, which were sunk in 1963, 1970s and 1980s to create the artificial reefs.
Dolphin Feeding Experience
Feeding dolphins has been a popular tourist activity at Tangalooma Resort for many years. Every evening, guests have the opportunity to hand-feed wild bottles nose dolphins that come into the shallows to eat. The experience is truly memorable, and it’s a great way to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re planning on feeding dolphins at Tangalooma Resort. First, make sure to follow the staff’s instructions carefully. They know how to best keep both the dolphins and the guests safe. Second, be prepared to get wet! The dolphins are often very enthusiastic about eating, and they may splash around a bit as they feed. Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the experience. Watching the dolphins interact with each other and with the guests is one of the highlights of a visit to Tangalooma Resort.
Stand Up Paddle Board Hire
Tangalooma Resort offers stand up paddle board hire, so you can explore the beautiful Moreton Bay Marine Park at your leisure. Their friendly staff will provide you with all the equipment you need, and they’re always on hand to offer advice and tips.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, we’ve got a board to suit your needs.
Other water based activities include:
- Catamaran hire
- Scuba diving
- Whale Watching Cruise
- Sunset Cruise
- Kayak Hire
- Fishing Tour
- Marine Discovery Cruise
Restaurants and Bars at Tangalooma Resort
Tangalooma Resort is a world-class destination for dining and drinking. With seven restaurants and bars onsite, there’s something to suit every taste. For those looking for fine dining, the resort’s main restaurant offers a menu of modern Australian cuisine.
The bar is the perfect place to relax with a drink after a long day of exploring. For something more casual, there’s the poolside café and bar, which serves light meals and snacks throughout the day.
There’s also a pizzeria, an ice cream parlour, and a café serving Starbucks coffee. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, Tangalooma Resort has everything you need.
Anchorage Café
Anchorage Café is open for breakfast and brunch from 6.30am to 12noon daily and offers great coffee and breakfast food as well as sandwich and wraps.
Great for: Coffee, Breakfast, Takeaway Food, Sandwiches & Wraps
B&Bs Bar
B&Bs Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring Tangalooma Resort. Located near the beach, B&Bs offers a relaxed setting for enjoying a few drinks and some light snacks.
In addition to its great location and friendly atmosphere, B&Bs Bar also offers a wide selection of drinks, including beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails.
Great for: Couples, Wine & Cocktails, Live Music
Beach BBQ
Looking for a delicious dining option while on vacation at Tangalooma Resort? Then be sure to check out Beach BBQ Bistro! This unique eatery offers up a tantalizing array of grilled meats and seafood, all cooked to perfection over an open flame.
The relaxed beachfront setting is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family and friends, and the friendly staff will make you feel right at home.
Great for: BBQ, Dining In, Steak Options, Sunset views
Beach Café
The Beach Cafe is the perfect place to relax and take in the stunning views of Moreton Island. With a menu full of healthy and delicious options, it’s the perfect spot to refuel after a morning spent exploring the island.
From fish tacos, salads, seafood to pizza and pasta, there’s something for everyone at the Beach Cafe.
Best for: Families, Fast Food, Room Delivery, Sunset Views
Fire: Chinese Cuisine
Fire Chinese Restaurant at Tangalooma Resort is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking beautiful Moreton Bay. The menu features a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, all of which are cooked to perfection. whether you’re in the mood for sweet and sour pork or beef stir-fry, you’re sure to find something to your taste. And, if you’re looking for something truly unique, Fire Chinese Restaurant also offers a range of dumplings.
Stone: Vietnamese Cuisine
Stone Vietnamese Restaurant is a must-visit when you’re staying at Tangalooma Resort. The restaurant offers a delicious mix of traditional and modern Vietnamese cuisine,all cooked to perfection. The friendly staff are always on hand to help you choose the perfect meal, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind after a long day exploring the resort.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tangalooma Resort
Is Tangalooma worth visiting?
Tangalooma Resort is definitely worth visiting! It’s a great place for family holidays, with plenty of activities and amenities to keep everyone happy.
The resort offers a wide range of activities, from swimming and snorkelling to dolphin-watching and 4WD tours. Plus, there’s a range of accommodation options to suit every budget.
The beaches are simply stunning and there’s also plenty of wildlife to see, both on land and in the water.
The resort itself is well-equipped, with everything you need for a comfortable stay. And the staff are always on hand to help make your vacation as enjoyable as possible.
How long is the ferry ride from Brisbane to Tangalooma?
The ferry ride from Brisbane to Tangalooma takes about 75 minutes. The ferry departs from Holt Street Wharf in Brisbane and arrives at Moreton Island Terminal in Tangalooma. During the peak summer season, the ferry may run multiple times per day. Tickets can be purchased online or at the terminal. Seniors and students receive a discount. For more information, please visit the Tangalooma Ferry website.
Is Tangalooma good for kids?
Tangalooma Resort is a great choice for families with kids. The resort offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, dolphin watching, and sand tobogganing. You will also find a swimming pool and playground in the resort.
There are plenty of kid-friendly dining options, and the resort staff are always happy to help make sure that your family has a memorable time.
Can you swim out to the Tangalooma wrecks?
Tangalooma wrecks are a group of 15 shipwrecks that were deliberately sunk in Moreton Bay. They’re now a popular tourist destination, and you can snorkel or freedive around the wrecks. While it is possible to swim out to the wrecks from the shore, it’s not recommended unless you’re a strong swimmer. The current can be quite strong, and there can be jellyfish in the area. If you do decide to swim out, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. And remember – never swim alone!
What beaches are at Moreton Island?
If you’re looking for beaches on Moreton Island, you’re in luck! The island is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Cape Moreton, Tangalooma Beach, and Honeymoon Bay.
Cape Moreton is the island’s easternmost point, and it’s a great spot for whale watching and birdwatching.
Tangalooma Beach is popular with snorkelers and scuba divers, as it’s home to a shipwreck that’s perfect for exploring.
Honeymoon Bay is a secluded beach that’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Regardless of what type of beach you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it on Moreton Island.
Is it safe to swim at Moreton Island?
Swimming at Moreton Island is generally safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, there are no patrolled swimming areas on Moreton Island, so be aware of the tides and know when to swim. Head to the island at low tide so you can swim in the calm, shallow water.
Second, keep an eye out for marine life. While most creatures found in the waters around Moreton Island are harmless, there are a few that can pose a threat. Use common sense and exercise caution if you see something that looks dangerous.
Finally, remember to wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and fun day of swimming at Moreton Island.
Tangalooma Resort is more than just a place to stay – it’s a destination in itself. Situated on Moreton Island, the resort offers an array of activities and amenities that are sure to please everyone in the family. You can enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, bushwalking, sand tobogganing, and much more.
There’s also a variety of dining options available, as well as a kids playground and day spa. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed vacation or a relaxing getaway, Tangalooma Resort is the perfect choice.
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Ivana Katz is a Sydney based website designer and travel blogger. Having her own business has given her the freedom to explore the world. She believes travel is the best teacher and her passion for adventure, writing and photography has taken her and her son to some amazing places, including Hawaii, Canada, Fiji, Greece and Czech Republic. Ivana’s favourite thing about travelling is learning, discovering hidden gems and creating memories. She loves nothing more than inspiring other women to chase their dreams and explore the world with their families and friends.
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