Karragarra Island is the smallest and most secluded of the four inhabited Southern Moreton Bay Islands. With just 200 permanent residents, it offers an ultra-peaceful lifestyle for those seeking genuine escape from modern life's hustle. The island's pristine white-sand beach, crystal-clear waters, and lack of commercial development make it a true hidden paradise.
This is not the island for those seeking shops, restaurants, or entertainment - Karragarra is for nature lovers, peace seekers, and those who want to know every neighbor by name. The absence of commercial facilities means a self-sufficient, close-knit community where neighbors genuinely help each other.
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Ultimate Seclusion
Just 200 residents - true island solitude
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Pristine Beach
White sand, clear water, safe swimming enclosure
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Tight-Knit Community
Everyone knows everyone - genuine island spirit
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Natural Paradise
Unspoiled coastal bushland & native wildlife
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Total Peace
No traffic noise, no crowds, no commercial bustle
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Affordable Entry
Most affordable island properties in SMBI
Living on Karragarra Island
🏠 Housing & Real Estate
Karragarra offers the most affordable entry to island living in SMBI. Median house prices range $220,000-$320,000 (2026), with vacant land from $80,000-$150,000.
Land sizes: Typically 600-1200m² (generous island blocks)
Property types: Modest 2-3 bedroom homes, weekenders, vacant land
Rental market: Very limited - most residents are owner-occupiers ($200-280/week when available)
Water & power: Mains electricity (reliable), rainwater tanks essential (no town water)
Sewerage: Septic systems (all properties)
Building considerations: Ferry freight costs for materials, limited local trades
Note: Karragarra is best suited for those who value peace over convenience. Minimal on-island services means self-sufficiency is essential.
🛒 Shopping & Services (Off-Island)
Karragarra has no shops, restaurants, or commercial facilities. Residents rely on:
Russell Island: 15-20 min ferry for groceries (Supa IGA), pharmacy, medical centre, post office
Macleay Island: 20-25 min ferry for additional options
Mainland: Redland Bay, Victoria Point for major shopping (70-90 min total including ferry)
Online shopping: Delivered to Redland Bay Marina for pickup on return ferry
Bulk buying: Most residents shop weekly/fortnightly, stock pantries well
🏥 Healthcare Access
Nearest medical centre: Russell Island Medical Centre (15-20 min ferry)
Emergency: Call 000 - QAS operates on all islands, ferry ambulance transport if required
Hospital: Redland Hospital, Cleveland (1.5-2 hours total travel time)
Pharmacy: Russell Island Pharmacy (15-20 min ferry)
Suitability: Not ideal for those with serious medical conditions requiring frequent specialist care
Telehealth: Good NBN coverage allows online consultations
🎓 Education (Off-Island)
No school on Karragarra. Families with school-age children use:
Primary: Russell Island State School or Macleay Island State School (ferry + short travel)
Secondary: Cleveland/Victoria Point High Schools (ferry + bus, 70-90 min each way)
School transport: Free student ferry passes, but long daily commute (not ideal for young children)
Home schooling: Popular option among island families
Consideration: Many families with young kids choose Russell or Macleay for easier school access
🚢 Ferry Access & Transport
Ferry route: Redland Bay Marina → Karragarra Island (60-70 minutes) - longest ferry ride of all islands
Operators: Stradbroke Ferries, TransLink SeaLink
Frequency: 3-5 services daily (fewer than larger islands)
Inter-island ferries: Can connect to Russell/Macleay for shopping (15-25 min)
🌐 Internet & Communications
NBN: Fixed Wireless available (good speeds 25-50 Mbps)
Mobile coverage: Telstra (good), Optus (patchy), Vodafone (very limited)
Postal services: Use Russell Island Post Office or Redland Bay
Parcel delivery: Most couriers deliver to Redland Bay Marina only
⚠️ Is Karragarra Right for You?
Best suited for: Retirees, remote workers, nature lovers, those seeking complete privacy and peace, people comfortable with self-sufficiency.
Not ideal for: Families with young school children (long commutes), those requiring frequent medical care, people who want walkable shops/restaurants, anyone uncomfortable with isolation.
Consider Russell or Macleay instead if you want: On-island shops, medical centres, restaurants, schools, or more ferry services.
Things To Do on Karragarra Island
🏖️ Karragarra Beach & Swimming Enclosure
The island's crown jewel - a pristine white-sand beach with:
Netted swimming area: Safe year-round swimming for all ages
Crystal-clear water: Some of the clearest water in Moreton Bay
White sand: Soft, clean beach perfect for sunbathing
Picnic facilities: Basic BBQs, shelters, toilets (maintained by residents)
Low crowds: Often have entire beach to yourself on weekdays
Shallow waters: Gentle slope, ideal for kids and non-swimmers
🥾 Karragarra Esplanade Walk
A peaceful 2.2km waterfront walking path featuring:
Stunning coastal views of Moreton Bay and shipping channels
Experience the serenity, community connection, and untouched nature of Queensland's most peaceful island. Explore homes for sale, local businesses, and upcoming community events.