Southern Moreton Bay Tourist Drive

Marked with brown and white dugong symbols, the Southern Moreton Bay Tourist Drive is a fantastic way to kill a few hours. The 78-km drive leads through many historical points of interest as well some of Brisbane's finest beaches.

Begin at Manly. Discover the historical fort at Lytton, the mangrove boardwalk in Wynnum and beautiful harbour views from the Esplanade at Manly. From Manly head 12kms around the bay to Wellington Point. This charming area is filled with renovated Queenslanders and old period homes. Whepstead Manor is a good example, lovingly-preserved it was operating as a restaurant, but is now closed to the public. Wellington Point Clock Tower also characterises the town and is set amongst tree-lined retail and restaurants. Turn left off the drive and head for the Point. This picturesque spot boasts an old wooden jetty and playground. At low tide, you can walk from the shore across to King Island.

From the Point, follow the drive to Ormiston, turning into Wellington Street. Look out for Ormiston House and Beckwith Street Conservation Reserve. Ormiston's nature conservation reserve is home to a permanent koala colony. Take the short Eucalpyt walk and spot a koala. Wellington Street is also the location of St Andrew's Church (c.1868).

Continue the journey to pass the Cleveland Heritage Precinct, the museum, art gallery, Cleveland Lighthouse or if you have time, take a ferry to North Stradbroke Island. Also of interest is the Black Swamp Wetlands, a fascinating eco-system abundant with birdlife. If you go at dusk expect to see hundreds of flying foxes at dusk.

From Cleveland, travel to Victoria Point. Catch the ferry to Coochiemudlo Island or stay and explore the Eprapah Environmental Centre (Colburn Avenue), Egret Colony Wetlands and Point Halloran Conservation Area (Orana Street).

After Victoria Point head to Redland Bay, where you can catch passenger or a car ferry to the Southern Bay Islands from Weinam Creek Commuter Facility. From Redland Bay turn west and head into the hinterland. The Rainforest Gardens on Mt View Road are a pleasant diversion as is local winery Sirromet. Visit the Venman Bushland National Park which has walking trails, picnic tables and wood barbeques. The park is part of the Koala Bushland Coordinated Conservation Area.