Couran Cove: An Idyllic Boating Destination Near Brisbane

 

Imagine sipping a drink whilst watching the sunset, right on the waterfront of a tropical island paradise amongst gorgeous sand dunes and amazing beaches…

“Beautiful,” you think, without a worry in the world, knowing your boat is securely berthed, until you are ready to take it home… and also because you are in a stunning retreat only accessible by private boat or ferry.

Where are happy families found?

Finally, you’ve picked a destination that’s got your wife smiling non-stop in your direction, she’s already sent her friends a bunch of photos so they can see exactly how special the place you’ve taken your family is.

It’s been a brilliant day. The teenagers and the more active grown ups enjoyed spectacular rainforest walks, as well as a 2.5km trek to a wild surf beach, before a lazy afternoon sunbathing by the 25 metre pool (In fact, they’re probably still there now). The little kids are finally quiet, having spent a good hour squealing in delight after seeing the wallabies lounging near the lagoon.

Wallabies? Yes, Native Australian wallabies

Whales? Try a rare white Migaloo whale but only if you get lucky and visit between March and September

Hatching turtles? Absolutely

Pristine beaches? Tick.

Protected forests? Yep, 1800 hectares of pure wilderness all around.

In fact, you almost can’t believe that this little getaway is less than a 30 minute boat ride from the Runaway Bay Marina on the bustling Gold Coast.

Welcome to a boatie’s best-kept secret: Couran Cove

Couran Cove is located on the National Conservation Park of South Stradbroke Island. Originally a state-of-the-art eco-tourism resort when it opened in 1998 it’s current facilities cater for residents as well as tourists and day trippers; as well as weddings, corporate functions and romantic escapes.

 

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Olympic History

  • Couran Cove is the brainchild of the late Ron Clarke, a former Australian Olympic long-distance runner and medallist in the 1960s.
  • Mr Clarke was also an environmentalist, an accountant, an MBE and Gold Coast Mayor.
  • Mr Clarke is also won a Centenary Medal for distinguished service to the ecotourism industry.
  • The resort also hosted Team Britain in the lead up to the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

What do you need:

  • A boat (check out one of these quality affordable Revival Boats). Public ferries also are available from Mariners Cove & Main Beach.
  • Berth Pass – includes power and water and resort access, including complimentary equipment. Call here to book (prices depend on boat size)
  • Protective items like Mosquito repellent, especially in the rainy season, sunscreen and hats.
  • Essentials: water, food for special diets or infants, and extra snacks, Visa card.
  • Accessories: swimming and hiking gear, camera, spare phone charger.

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Resort facilities you get with berth pass for a boat:

Couran Cove Island Resort features:

  •     25m heated lap pool
  •     Children’s pool & playground
  •     Running tracks, tennis courts & half-court basketball
  •     Cycling & kayaking equipment
  •     Ping pong & indoor cricket rooms
  •     Giant outdoor chess, lawn balls & a mini-golf course
  •     Shuffleboard & beach volleyball
  •     Train that takes guests to the surf side of the island

*Berth Pass fees vary, depending on the size of your boat.

**If you also want accommodation, Covid-19 “Iso Packages” and other options are also available…

I’m sold, what next?

Great, call reception on +61 (0) 7 5597 9999 or email marina@courancove.com.au.

See you at the marina!