Cylinder Beach, North Stradbroke Island

Sitting between near the metropolis of Brisbane and renowned for its excellent swimming conditions and fantastic surf, Cylinder Beach offers a slice of Australian paradise.

The beach is wide and long, offering the perfect backdrop for a family day out. There’s also a carpark located just a few metres from the beach, making it easily accessible to all travellers.

When it comes to the waves, expect small waves and calm waters that are ideal for sunbathing and swimming in during good weather conditions. Cylinder Beach remains a favourite amongst families as this beach is patrolled by lifeguards and is close to boutique shops, cafes and restaurants.

This long, wide beach offers the perfect backdrop for a family day out. The Lifeguards that patrol the beach, as well as the nearby shops, cafes and restaurant make this destination a favourite amongst families. And with a carpark located just a few metres from the beach, it easily accessible to all travellers. We’ve highlighted 3 of the best things to do at Cylinder Beach here, but first a bit of history on the area…

When did the first Europeans make their way to North Stradbroke Island?

In 1803, Matthew Flinders was on his way to Sydney to organise a rescue party for shipwrecked passengers of the Porpoise. During this time, the boat docked in the Cylinder Beach area and the local Quandamooka people helped the sailors find freshwater to store. This would become the first meeting between Europeans and the Quandamooka people recorded in history.

How did Cylinder Beach get its name?

It’s said that Cylinder Beach dates to 1932 when gas cylinders were placed on the beach after they were shipped there from suppliers. They were used for lighting fixtures in the Point Lookout lighthouse.

Things to Do at Cylinder Beach

There are plenty of things to do on Cylinder Beach, just like any other beach in and around Brisbane. So, if you find yourself in the area, plan to spend a day or so relaxing on the pretty sands and taking in the views.

  • Take a Swim

    When it comes to the waves, expect small waves and calm waters that are ideal for swimming in during periods of good weather. Though the waves are small, there can often be a strong westerly drift. However, the beach is well patrolled by lifeguards and, during better weather conditions, is the ideal place for young families. Not only can you bask in the warm, shallow waters, you can also look out at incredible views of the ocean and beyond. The beach even has a lagoon which is perfect for the little ones.

  • Try your hand at Surfing

    Cylinder Beach is renowned for its excellent surfing opportunities, with waves often reaching 10 foot. Keen surfers can regularly be found on the beach throwing shapes in the waves, while beginners can try their hand at the sport without worrying about the shallow water being too dangerous.

  • Go Fishing

    Alongside surfing and swimming, you can also fish at Cylinder Beach. Often, holes and gutters form under the waves, bringing in a range of different fish species to catch, but the popularity of surfing and swimming on-site means that you might be better-placed fishing elsewhere.

Cylinder Beach is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Brisbane. Its golden sands and crystal waters make it ideal for a fun family day out where there’s a little something for everyone. Whether you want to try your hand at surfing at one of Stradbroke Island‘s most popular surf beaches, take a swim in the beautiful waters, or simply kick back and relax against a stunning backdrop, the surroundings of Cylinder Beach have you covered.

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