Cylinder Beach, located on the eastern side of North Stradbroke Island, is a picturesque and family-friendly destination renowned for its inviting atmosphere and natural beauty. Nestled between Cylinder and Home Beach Headlands, the beach is easily accessible, with a car park just a short stroll from the sand. Its gentle waves make it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing, while its expansive shoreline and clear, turquoise waters offer a perfect setting for relaxation. Surfers also enjoy Cylinder Beach when conditions are favorable. Despite the beach’s overall calm demeanor, it’s important to be aware of occasional side sweeps caused by strong southerly winds. Lifeguards patrol the area to ensure safety, and the beach’s fine sand and shallow waters create a pleasant environment for visitors. Cylinder Beach’s ever-changing sandbars and surf conditions add to its charm, making it a beloved spot on Stradbroke Island.
Cylinder Beach
Getting There
To get to Stradbroke Island, take a 45-minute ferry ride that accommodates cars, though having a car is optional. The ferry features comfortable seating where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views, with food and drinks available for purchase on board. It’s wise to book your ferry tickets a few days in advance, especially on weekends when the ferry can get quite busy, particularly in good weather. Arriving at the ferry port 30 minutes early is recommended to account for traffic, collect your tickets, and grab a bite from the Departure Lounge Cafe on-site. I prefer to avoid any last-minute stress and rushing.
For our trip, I scheduled the 8 am ferry to the island and the 6 pm return ferry, which gave us ample time to explore. As an added bonus, we enjoyed a spectacular sunset while waiting for the return journey.
Location: SeaLink ferry leaves from Emmett Drive Cleveland
Website for ferry: https://www.sealink.com.au/
The images below showcase both the ferry terminal and the scenic views enjoyed during the ferry ride.
The Beach That Stole My Heart
From the moment I set foot on the soft, golden sands of Cylinder Beach, I knew I had discovered something truly special. The crystal-clear waters gently lapped at the shore, creating a soothing melody that immediately put me at ease. The beach is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
The day that I visited it was 26 degrees in July which is winter, the beach wasn’t busy so it was easy to get a car park with a few people swimming. The picture below is of the toilet block and in the next lot of photos there is a playground for the kids to play on and BBQ’s and picnic tables.
You can also camp at Home Beach Camping Ground or Adder Rock Camping Ground which is right next to the beach.
We walked to the right hand side of the beach and climbed up some rocks to get a better view.
History
In 1803, Matthew Flinders was en route to Sydney to coordinate a rescue for shipwrecked passengers from the Porpoise. During the journey, Flinders and his small crew stopped in the Cylinder Beach/Home Beach area. Here, they were aided by some Nunukul people in finding fresh water. This event marked the first recorded European/Aboriginal contact on the island and is commemorated by the Hope Plaque located at the edge of the Cylinder Beach carpark.
Surfing Paradise
For those with a passion for surfing, Cylinder Beach is a mecca. The consistent swell and well-defined sandbanks make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced surfers. As the waves roll in, the sense of exhilaration is unparalleled, and the views from the water are breathtaking. Don’t worry if you’re new to surfing – there are local surf schools that offer lessons to help you catch your first wave.
Consistently offers low right-handers, which can rise up to 10 feet with large swells and the right sandbar configuration.
Wildlife Encounters
One of the many charms of Cylinder Beach is its proximity to the pristine bushland of the island. A short walk from the beach will lead you to the iconic Gorge Walk, where you can spot dolphins, sea turtles, and even migrating whales during the season. The untouched beauty of the surrounding environment is a testament to the island’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures.
Swimming
The beach features low to moderate spilling waves along a dynamic shoreline, with a frequent strong westerly drift. The highly variable bar and trough topography, due to migrating sand waves, often creates deep holes in the bay-shaped beach. Exercise caution for rips when waves exceed 1 meter.
Picnic and Relaxation
Cylinder Beach is more than just a playground for water sports enthusiasts; it’s also the perfect place to unwind. Bring a picnic basket filled with local treats and find a shady spot beneath the swaying palm trees. The gentle sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing will make your picnic a truly memorable experience.
Sunset Serenity
As the day starts to wind down, Cylinder Beach transforms into a haven of tranquility. Sunsets here are nothing short of magical. Find a comfortable spot on the beach and watch as the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant hues of orange and pink across the sky. It’s a sight that will stay with you long after your visit.
Fishing
While Cylinder Beach has a variety of holes and gutters formed by bars and sand waves, the high number of people engaging in other activities often makes other locations more appealing for fishing.
Amenities
- Beaches & Surf
- Caravan/Camper Trailer/Campervan Sites/Campsites
- Carpark
- Free Experience
- Family
- Family-Friendly
- Fishing
- Public Toilet
- Snorkelling
- Surfing
- Swimming
Dogs
Not allowed.
Parking
- Formal parking: 50 spaces
- Informal parking: 50 spaces
Plan Your Visit
Getting to Cylinder Beach is easy, with regular ferries departing from the mainland. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer on Stradbroke Island, Cylinder Beach is a must-see destination. Accommodations range from beachfront cottages to cozy cabins, providing you with options to suit your preferences and budget.
Cylinder Beach on Stradbroke Island is a hidden gem that captures the heart of all who visit. Its natural beauty, water sports opportunities, and serene atmosphere make it a destination worth exploring. So, pack your beach gear, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to fall in love with Cylinder Beach on North Stradbroke Island.
For more park information click on the link provided https://minjerribahcamping.com.au/camp-grounds/cylinder-beach/ https://stradbrokeisland.com/cylinder-beach/
Places To See Around Stradbroke Island
Here are some highlights of North Stradbroke Island:
- Cylinder Beach: A family-friendly spot with gentle waves, ideal for swimming and relaxing. The beach is known for its fine sand and shallow waters, offering a picturesque setting.
- Point Lookout: Famous for its stunning coastal views and the iconic Gorge Walk, where you can enjoy breathtaking ocean vistas and spot marine life, including dolphins and whales.
- Amity Point: A charming village offering tranquil beaches, excellent dolphin and whale watching opportunities, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a peaceful getaway.
- Main Beach: Stretching 32 kilometers, this expansive beach is perfect for surfing, fishing, and beach camping. Its unspoiled landscape and powerful surf make it a must-visit.
- Blue Lake (Karboora): A serene freshwater lake with clear waters, surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and experiencing the island’s natural beauty.
- Manta Bommie: A top dive site renowned for its rich marine life, including manta rays, leopard sharks, and vibrant coral reefs. A prime location for underwater adventure.
- Myora Springs (Capembah Creek): A culturally significant and ecologically rich freshwater spring offering a tranquil escape and the chance to observe diverse wildlife.
- Naree Budjong Djara National Park: Home to a variety of ecosystems, from mangroves to rainforests, and a great location for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Vital Packing List
Tap here to see 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 at Cylinder Beach?
Cylinder Beach caters to visitors of all ages, providing opportunities for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and relaxing at shaded beachfront campsites. Additional amenities include car parking, public toilets, and convenient access to restaurants and accommodation nearby.
Why is it called Cylinder Beach?
Cylinder Beach earned its name from the acetylene gas cylinders that were brought ashore during the construction of Point Lookout Lighthouse in 1932.
Where is Cylinder Beach located?
Cylinder Beach is a shoreline located in Point Lookout, Redland, QLD.
Is Cylinder Beach patrolled?
Cylinder Beach remains popular with families due to its lifeguard patrolling and proximity to boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Are dogs allowed on Cylinder Beach?
At Cylinder Beach, the area includes the foreshore, seashore, and the reserve extending to the roads adjacent to it. At Main Beach, it encompasses the foreshore and seashore from a location northeast of Plant 7 Road to the access road next to the Point Lookout Surf Lifesaving Club.
How much does it cost to camp on Stradbroke Island?
The cost of camping on North Stradbroke Island varies based on the campsite and accommodation type. Typically, rates range between AUD 20 and AUD 60 per night for a campsite, with additional charges for extra vehicles or individuals.
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Point Lookout, Stradbroke Island: Nature’s Spectacular Viewpoint
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