Where else can you walk on water and discover an offshore deserted island – right here plus a whole lot more with a day trip to Wellington Point Reserve. Once upon a time, near the vibrant city of Brisbane, there is a tranquil haven known as Wellington Point Reserve. This picturesque locale, nestled at the tip of Wellington Point, is a place where the waters of Moreton Bay hug the coastline and the gentle sea breezes whisper tales of adventure. Wellington Point is a wonderful family day trip destination, situated 25.5kms southeast of Brisbane, surrounded on three sides by Moreton Bay, this an ideal water playground, BBQ, Fishing and Picnic Area.
On a particular sunny day, we decided to explore this very popular (I think it’s a secret the locals would like to keep to themselves) renowned spot. With our hearts full of curiosity (we just had to find out the secrets of the Sandbar) and a spirit eager for discovery, ROAD TRIP’N set off on a journey to the Reserve.
As we arrived, Wellington Point welcomed us with open arms. Taking centre stage, you are immediately greeted with the Moreton Bay Fig trees with low hanging thick branches providing never ending climbing fun and games with welcoming shade on even the hottest Queensland day. The air was filled with salty scent of the sea, and the sounds of children playing in the distance while families picnicked under the coolness of sprawling trees. The Reserve is a patchwork of entertainment, fitness enthusiasts jogging along the tracks, couples strolling hand in hand near the jetty, while others were sitting in the café enjoying that special coffee or simply relaxing under a shady tree reading a good book just watching the world go by.
Make sure you pack your swimmers and do not forget the sunscreen. The calm sheltered waters of the sandy cove that is situated next to the playground is a great spot for the whole family to take a dip. Positioned right beside the beach, intertwined amongst several large shady fig trees is a playground that the children will love. With a huge assortment of swings and play equipment and plenty of room to run amok, the kids will go crazy.
I followed the path, its gentle curve hugging the shoreline connecting me to all this entertainment, while always offering spectacular views of the sparkling blue Moreton Bay. Children’ squeals of laughter drifted from the nearby playground, we passed by families enjoying a swim and others fishing with thoughts of landing that elusive big one. I’m sure that there are many stories around the picnic table of the one that got away.
The adjacent café and takeaway store offer a great selection of dine in or takeaway options with dazzling views of Moreton Bay.
The reserve unfolded before me, lush green open spaces with pockets of native plants contrasted with the stark beauty of weathered rock formations all interconnected by a series of pathways winding their way around the parklands.
We strolled along the Jetty, I just love jetty walks, there is always something happening. It was a hot day, people fishing, a few boats were being launched & retrieved and the younger generation were making full use of the diving platform jumping into the cool bay water.
Wellington Point is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic and laze in the sun. With easy access to the paths that weave along the foreshore, you’ll find an abundance of grassy spots to throw down the picnic blanket all the while enjoying the cooling sea breezes and magnificent views of Moreton Bay. With several seats & gazebos spread out around the reserve, free BBQ’s within easy reach for you to cook up a lunchtime feast, this is a breathtaking place to just sit and admire the stunning views of Moreton Bay and nearby islands. The sunrises and sunsets are unlike anything that will experience anywhere else.
Secrets of the Sandbar -Walk on Water to King Island. Drawn by the allure of the King Island walk, I timed my visit to coincide with low tide. A definite “Must Do” item to experience with the family, this unique sea walk happens when a sand causeway between mainland Wellington Point and offshore King island emerges as a natural bridge for walkers. This sandy causeway is a Low Tide phenomenon, as the tide recedes a pathway appears, along its length is scattered with all sorts of gritty shells and tidal pools with all types of marine life left behind by the receding tide just waiting for your further exploration.
The walk itself is a leisurely 2km round trip. Starting from the park, the trek to King Island is suitable for most and kids of all ages will love it. Paddle in the shallow water, check out the marine life left behind in the tiny pools and on the horizon your own mysterious King Island beckons. There is something bewitching about retreating tides that expose a hidden walkway to a faraway island and the experience of almost walking on water will be thrilling for the kids and the whole family. 🔥Tip: This is LOW TIDE event only. It is especially important to keep an eye on the incoming tide, so you do not lose track of the Pathway. If the incoming tide rises the track will be covered which might necessitate a swim back to Wellington Point or an extended stay on the island (there are no facilities). 🔥Tip: Willy Weather for all your tide & weather information (click here)
King Island itself is now a conservation park surrounded by mangroves and sandy tracks that wind their way around this tiny atoll. Deserted but full of natural wonder and a rich history, a place where time seems to stand still, where your trek across the sandbar fades into the eerie silence of this off-shore Island. While uninhabited now, the island was once the home of the Phillips family, who took up residence from December 1904 until April 1906 when one of their seven children contracted polio. There was little that could be done treatment wise, but frequent saltwater bathing seemed to be beneficial. Upon arrival, the exploration of the Island will not take you too long. Taking any number of sandy pathways around the islet, past mangroves, and more small pools of shallow water you’ll weave your own way through the mysteries of this ancient atoll eventually leading back to the original sandy causeway returning to Wellington Point.
What to Know Before you Go
- Check out the Weather forecast, high & low tide information on the Willy Weather site (Click Here)
- Wellington Pointis easily accessible by car, bus, and train. Visit the Translink Web site (Click Here) for all your travel information.
- Carparking: There is plenty of parking available on and around the ring road, but as this can be an extremely popular place, these spots can be taken early on weekends, school holidays and public holidays.
- Children’s Playground & safe swimming beach
- Toilets are available.
- There is a café with dine-in or take away food and drink options.
- Pack your togs, a hat & sunscreen as well as your favourite picnic goodies. Don’t forget to Slip Slop Slap when you are outdoors in the Australian sun.
AS my day trip to Wellington Point draws to a close, I can’t help but feel relaxed and refreshed. The beautiful scenery, from the sparkling waters of Moreton Bay to the playgrounds and open green spaces, this Day Trip has truly been worth the visit. Whether it be strolling along the jetty, picnicking under the Moreton Bay figs, or perhaps venturing out to King Island at low tide, Wellington Point Reserve has offered a unique blend of outdoor adventure and laid-back relaxation. Wellington Point is within easy reach of Brisbane CBD, so pack the car with your picnic goodies, check the tides, grab your beach gear, and head off on a wonderful day out. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as we did. 💖💖💖
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