Capembah Creek, also known as Myora Springs, is a hidden gem on North Stradbroke Island. This freshwater spring is not only a serene natural oasis but also holds significant cultural importance for the Quandamooka people. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the crystal-clear waters of Myora Springs create a peaceful setting, perfect for a tranquil escape into nature. The area is rich in biodiversity, with an abundance of birdlife, fish, and frogs, making it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts. A visit to Myora Springs offers a glimpse into the island’s ecological beauty and cultural heritage, providing a unique and memorable experience for those who explore it.
Capembah Creek Myora Springs
To reach Stradbroke Island, you can take a 45-minute ferry ride that accommodates cars, although bringing one isn’t necessary. The ferry offers comfortable indoor seating where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views, with food and drinks available for purchase on board. It’s a good idea to book your ferry tickets a few days in advance, as weekends can get particularly busy, especially in good weather. Arriving at the ferry terminal 30 minutes early is recommended to avoid traffic delays and collect your tickets, with the option to grab a bite from the Departure Lounge Cafe on-site. Personally, I prefer avoiding the stress of rushing.
For my trip, I booked the 8 am ferry to the island and the 6 pm return, giving us plenty of time to explore. As an added bonus, we enjoyed a stunning sunset while waiting for the return ferry, a perfect way to end the day.
Location: SeaLink ferry leaves from Emmett Drive Cleveland
Website for ferry: https://www.sealink.com.au/
The following images showcase both the ferry terminal and the scenic views captured during the ferry ride.
Stradbroke Island, or “Straddie” as it’s affectionately known by locals, is a destination renowned for its pristine beaches, rich indigenous culture, and stunning natural beauty. While many visitors flock to its world-famous beaches, there’s a hidden gem that often escapes the tourist radar—Capembah Creek and Myora Springs.
This was our first stop for the day after getting off the ferry, I just took photos on the board walk. I did see some shoes on the boardwalk so people must of been exploring. I would reamend spending the whole day here exploring the island or staying the night.
A Natural Oasis
Tucked away on the southern end of the island, Capembah Creek and Myora Springs offer a serene and untouched haven for nature enthusiasts and explorers. These two natural wonders provide a stark contrast to the bustling tourist spots on the island, making them an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and a deeper connection with nature.
Myora Springs: A Place of Cultural Significance
As you step into Myora Springs, you’re not only entering a lush natural paradise but also a site of immense cultural significance to the Quandamooka people, the traditional custodians of the land. The springs hold a special place in their heritage, and you can feel the spiritual aura that surrounds this area.
Take a moment to appreciate the abundant plant life and the crystal-clear waters bubbling up from the earth. The springs are a testament to the deep connection between the Quandamooka people and the land they have cherished for generations.
Capembah Creek: A Hidden Waterworld
Capembah Creek, just a stone’s throw away from Myora Springs, offers a unique aquatic experience. This meandering creek is teeming with marine life. Bring your snorkeling gear, and you’ll be rewarded with colorful underwater gardens, vibrant fish, and perhaps even a friendly turtle or two. The clear waters of the creek make it a perfect spot for exploring the marine wonders that call this area home.
Exploring the Surroundings
While Capembah Creek and Myora Springs are the main attractions, the surrounding area is also worth exploring. Bushwalkers will find plenty of trails to immerse themselves in the island’s unique flora and fauna. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the diverse avian population that frequents the region.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Respect the Land: Remember that Capembah Creek and Myora Springs hold deep cultural significance. Be respectful of the land, and leave no trace of your visit.
- Snorkeling Gear: If you’re planning to explore the creek, don’t forget your snorkeling gear. The underwater world here is a sight to behold.
- Picnic Paradise: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Myora Springs. Just be sure to clean up after yourself.
- Timing is Key: The best time to visit is during the cooler months when the weather is mild, and the wildlife is active.
Capembah Creek and Myora Springs on Stradbroke Island offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature and history in a peaceful setting. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, these hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. So, the next time you find yourself on Straddie, be sure to make time for this natural oasis, and let the beauty of Capembah Creek and Myora Springs leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Must-See Places Around Stradbroke Island
Stradbroke Island offers a wide range of activities for visitors, catering to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those simply looking to relax:
- Beaches and Surfing: The island’s eastern beaches, like Main Beach and Cylinder Beach, are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Cylinder Beach is particularly famous for its great surf breaks.
- Whale Watching: From Point Lookout, you can witness migrating humpback whales during the season, usually from May to November.
- Wildlife Watching: Stradbroke Island is home to koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species. Spots like Amity Point and Brown Lake offer excellent opportunities to observe wildlife.
- Dolphin Watching: Amity Point is a prime location to spot dolphins playing in the waters close to shore.
- Diving and Snorkeling: Manta Bommie is one of Australia’s top dive sites, where you can encounter manta rays, sharks, turtles, and diverse marine life.
- Four-Wheel Driving: With proper permits, visitors can explore the island’s remote areas and beaches, such as Flinders Beach and Main Beach, using 4WD vehicles.
- Bushwalks and Hiking: Trails like the North Gorge Walk at Point Lookout and the Blue Lake Track provide stunning views and a chance to experience the island’s diverse landscapes.
- Cultural Sites: Learn about the indigenous heritage at sites like Myora Springs, which holds significance for the Quandamooka people.
- Fishing: Whether from the beach, jetty, or a boat, fishing is a popular pastime at locations like Flinders Beach and Amity Point.
- Cycling: With bike-friendly paths and scenic routes, cycling is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty.
From adventure to relaxation, Stradbroke Island has something for everyone.
Essential Packing List
Click here to discover my packing list
Tours and Activities:
- North Stradbroke Island SUNSET Tour
- 4 Hour Jetski Adventure to the Top of South Stradbroke Island
- North Stradbroke Island Private Tour with Pickup
- 1.5 hr Jet Ski Safari tour to South Stradbroke Island!
- Stradbroke Island 4WD Day Trip from Brisbane
- North Stradbroke Island Golf Club
- Straddie Stand Up Paddle
- Straddie Kingfisher Tours
- Straddie Adventures
- Shakas Adventure Tours
- Samadhi Flow Yoga with Kat Ford
- North Stradbroke Surf School
- Cultural Experiences with Matt Burns
- Straddie 4WD Hire
Places To Get Food
- Straddie Brewing
- CJs Cafe and Pizza 7
- Perry’s Seafood
- Little Ship Club
- Bistro Seymour
- Fishes at the Point
- Manta Ray Bistro
- Oasis Mexican Cantina- Restaurant and Bar
- The Blue Room Cafe
- Sealevel 21
- Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel Bistro
- Spar Express Dunwich
Accommodation
- Manta Lodge YHA & Scuba Centre
- Quarterdeck
- Pandanus Palms Resort
- Allure Stradbroke Resort
- Whalewatch Ocean Beach Resort
- Sea Shanties
- Central Studio + Close to the beaches + Wifi & Netflix
- GORGEOUS STUDIO + 100M TO BEACH + POOL
- Minjerribah Accommodation Standalone Unit
- Minjerribah Island Accommodation Straddie
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim myora springs?
Take a Quick Dip. Myora Springs Conservation Area offers abundant natural beauty, including the adjacent mudflats. Beyond appreciating the stunning surroundings, don’t miss the opportunity to swim at Myora Springs.
What is the aboriginal name for Stradbroke Island?
Welcome to North Stradbroke Island, affectionately called Straddie, or Minjerribah, its traditional name.
How many lakes are there in Stradbroke Island?
These waterways include Brown Lake, Blue Lake, the Keyholes, Eighteen Mile Swamp, and a series of small lagoons. Blue Lake is a window lake formed in a hollow within the island’s water table. Tortoise Lagoon, a small seasonal swamp, is a perched lake situated above the water table.
What are some fun facts about Stradbroke Island?
It’s the world’s second-largest sand island, primarily composed of sand, with rocky outcrops at Point Lookout and small sandstone outcrops at Dunwich.
How many people live on Stradbroke Island?
In 2023, North Stradbroke Island’s Estimated Resident Population is 2,228, with a population density of 8.03 persons per square kilometer.
How old is Stradbroke?
Archaeological evidence indicates that Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) has been occupied for at least 21,000 years. Various tribes have historically mingled on the island, and the Noonuccal and Goenpul peoples are recognized as the traditional custodians of the island and its surrounding waters.
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