Where to Go - Bay Islands : Russell Island
Russell Island is the largest of the Bay Islands, measuring eight kilometres in length and nearly three kilometres at its widest point. There are picturesque views down the length of the island, into Moreton Bay towards the other Bay Islands and North Stradbroke Island.
For those sunny days, there is a swimming enclosure on High Street at the northern end of the island with a calm beach and picnic area near the jetty. Another popular spot is Sandy Beach which has a barbeque area, toilets and grassy area - perfect for a game of cricket.
For families, there is the Pioneer Children's Park, while Jackson's Oval hosts a number of sporting activities such as little athletics and cricket.
Those who like fishing can throw a line off the jetty, or try their luck from Rocky Point or Sandy Beach. The island has an abundance of birdlife, wildflowers, eucalypt forest and banksia woodland, making bushwalking a popular activity.
Turtle Swamp, a well-known wet heath area, boasts a variety of wildflowers. On the northern end of the island, visitors can see a forest of red, or spotted, mangroves.
Other facilities on the island include a bowls club, convenience store, liquor store and café located close to the jetty. If you want to stay a little bit longer, there is a variety of accommodation options on the island including holiday homes, a bed & breakfast and a motel.
A local taxi service is available to take you around the island or alternatively, for the energetic, take your bike over on the water taxi and cycle around, exploring the island at your own pace.