Ida Bay Railway

The Ida Bay Railway is a narrow gauge bush tramway that takes you on a scenic two hour return trip to Deep Hole Bay, a beautiful white beach only accessible by rail. You can enjoy a walk, picnic or bbq.

The line was opened in 1922 to carry limestone from the quarry to be shipped out from Ida Bay and later from Deep Hole. The line operated till 1975 when road transport took over. The trip out to Deep Hole takes in the remains of the Ida Bay settlement and Jaggers sawmill with a stop at the cemetery.

Deep Hole Bay provides BBQ, picnic and toilet facilities, with the train usually stopping for around 20 minutes before returning. It's also possible to camp overnight and return on the train the next day.

Southport Lagoon. There are marked tracks providing access to a number of places of interest from Deep Hole. These include Southport Lagoon, Southport Bluff and the King George III monument which commemorates the sinking of the convict ship, King George III in 1835 with the tragic loss of 134 souls. Walks are one to two hours return.

Ida Bay Railway Cafe is the last stop for food when traveling south and can cater for picnic lunches on request.

Budget accommodation is also available in the Ida Bay Railway Cabins for $25 per person per night.

Opening Times

Ida Bay Railway

Summer

9.30, 11.30, 1.30 & 3.30 seven days a week.

Winter (May - Sep)

10, 12 and 2 Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon.

Cafe 7 days a week 9 to 4pm