Emu Plains
Emu Plains
Redland Bay
Redland Bay
Flight Driving

Emu Plains to Redland Bay

Updated: 30 May 2026

The route from Emu Plains to Redland Bay covers roughly 980 kilometers. Driving via the M1 Pacific Motorway is the most common method, taking approximately 11 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from Sydney to Brisbane and take a taxi or bus to Redland Bay. Redland Bay is a coastal suburb known for its ferry terminal to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.

Total Distance: 980 km driving distance, 790 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying is the fastest option, taking 5 hours including transfers.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most economical choice for families.
Compare Emu Plains to Redland Bay Routes
Flight
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 5 hours 11 hours 30 mins
Avg Price 250-500 AUD 190-260 AUD
Operator Qantas or Virgin Australia Personal Vehicle
Route Train to Sydney Airport, flight to Brisbane, then taxi/Uber to Redland Bay. M1 Pacific Motorway via Newcastle, Port Macquarie, and Brisbane.
Tip Pre-book your airport transfer to Redland Bay to save on taxi costs. Take the exit towards Cleveland/Redland Bay once you reach the Brisbane outskirts.
Travel Tips
  • Ferry Schedule
    Check the Bay Islands Transit ferry schedule before arriving at the terminal.
  • Parking
    Parking at the Redland Bay terminal can be busy; arrive early if you plan to leave your car.
  • Sun Protection
    The Queensland sun is strong; wear SPF 50+ sunscreen.
  • Traffic
    Expect heavy traffic on the M1 near the Gold Coast during weekends.
  • Booking
    Book your flight to Brisbane well in advance to secure lower fares.
Safety Tips
  • Water Safety
    Be aware of marine stingers in the bay during summer months.
  • Driving
    Stay alert on the long stretch of the Pacific Highway.
  • Emergency
    Keep your phone charged and have a backup power bank.
  • Weather
    Check for storm warnings before planning any ferry trips.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train to Redland Bay?
    No, the nearest train station is in Cleveland.
  • How far is Brisbane?
    Redland Bay is about 40 kilometers from Brisbane CBD.
  • Can I take a car on the ferry?
    Yes, vehicle barges are available for the islands.
  • Is it a good place to live?
    It is a popular, quiet coastal suburb.
  • Are there hotels?
    There are limited hotels, but plenty of holiday rentals.
Quick Info
  • From Emu Plains, New South Wales, Australia
  • To Redland Bay, Queensland, Australia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

September to November for warm weather and outdoor activities.

Things to Do in Redland Bay
1
Redland Bay Ferry
Take a scenic ferry ride to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands like Macleay or Russell Island.
2
Redland Bay Golf Club
Enjoy a round of golf on this picturesque course overlooking the bay.
3
Victoria Point Shopping Centre
A nearby hub for shopping, dining, and cinema experiences.
4
Thompson's Beach
A quiet, family-friendly beach perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the water.
Tags
Emu Plains to Redland Bay travel to Redland Bay driving to Redland Bay flights to Brisbane M1 highway route Redland Bay transport NSW to QLD travel fastest way to Redland Bay cheapest way to Redland Bay Australia road trip