A recent visit to Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island, just off the coast of Queensland was the perfect weekend getaway for a small family, so close and yet you feel miles away on a tropical island.

About an hour flight from Newcastle and then a short boat ride across the bay, and we had arrived at what appeared to be a hidden piece of paradise. Upon check in at the wharf our luggage was whisked away and would be delivered to our room on arrival, a big plus in my books when you have a 4 year old to keep entertained. The transfer was very comfortable with snacks available on board and a knowledgeable captain.

Stepping foot on the island we were greeted by a beautiful beach and clear waters. There’s enough to keep you going before you can check in so whether that’s a cold beer or some lunch the choice is yours. We decided on lunch which was a nice bowl of beef nachos and of course chicken nuggets for my little one. Sat outside watching the world go by, and a stones throw from the beach, what more could you ask for.

Home for the next couple of days was a family suite that slept six people, and  had everything you need when travelling with children, from a kitchenette, dining table and chairs, lounge with TV and DVD player, ensuite with hairdryer and centrally located to all the facilities. Our room over looked the gardens and you could head straight out to the nearby park which was a big hit. If you were brave enough the pool was close by too but we only paddled as it was a little bit on the cold side.

After checking in we hopped aboard a small boat from the shore and went to feed the fish and explore the ship wrecks. It’s only around 45 minutes so for those that don’t have sea legs, you should be fine. There’s over 200 species of fish so you certainly won’t be disappointed especially when you get your bag of fish food out as they all seem to know when its feeding time. We sailed around the ship wrecks and if you are of the adventurous kind, grab a snorkel or scuba gear and see what lies below.

The great thing is that this is for all ages and for the none swimmers just pop a life jacket on. On the way back the turtles came to say hi which my son loved. As there is a marine education and conservation centre on the island you can go and learn more about the dolphins and the marine life and be more mindful of how you can help keep our oceans clean and safe for the future.

After an early start there was nothing quite like sitting down with a platter and watching the sunset whilst my son burnt off the remainder of his energy digging in the sand and having fun. Then the one thing he was most looking forward to was the dolphin feeding that evening. Although you can’t predict the weather as it was raining and windy, it certainly didn’t put us off or the other guests either. What a great experience and to know they are not held in captivity made it even more special. There are only three places that offer this in Australia so it really is a ‘must’ whilst you are here.

A well rested sleep was had by both of us and to start the day we enjoyed a breakfast buffet that had a wide selection of cereals, fruit, hot breakfast, muffins, juices and of course tea and coffee. Then we headed over to take a helicopter joy ride over the island. This was a first for both of us and although we chose the shortest ride it was still an amazing experience. Something else I can tick off of my list. It was a beautiful day and we had a few guests from the cruise liner join us which gave a buzz to the island. My suggestion would be to make sure you book any activities the day before as they do get booked out.

Every day they hold a pelican and sea bird talk along with kookaburra feeding so if you have some spare time I would highly recommend it.

We then took up the offer of ‘do as little as you like’ so chilled out on the beach soaking up some sunshine with a take away pizza. They have live bands that play in the dining area so it was nice to be able to hear them in the distance.

For dinner we chose to try the Stone restaurant where a hot stone cooked my chicken and prawns and it was delicious, followed by a panacotta for dessert. It was warm enough to sit outside with the flicker of the flames that light up along the entrance to the restaurant.

The following morning, it was time to say goodbye, so caught the 8.30am boat transfer back to Brisbane. We did so much in the 2 days we were there and to think from Newcastle its just over a couple of hours from door to door. I just love the fact you can do as much or as little as you like whilst you are here and it caters for all, families, couples, honeymooners.

Don’t take my word for it though, go and see for yourself.

For more on Tangalooma Island Resort and the wild dolphin feeding please visit www.tangalooma.com.