Russell Island is the largest of the bay islands, at around eight kilometres by three kilometres. It boasts beautiful views of the bay and North Stradbroke Island, and an abundance of diverse natural environments, and birdlife that make it very popular with nature lovers.

With its laidback lifestyle Russell Island is an ideal spot for families with calm beaches, and grassy picnic areas with barbecues. Fishing is popular off the jetty or off one of the beaches.

Turtle Swamp is a spectacular sight in spring with the array of wildflowers, and with woodlands, forest and mangroves also in abundance, bushwalking and cycling is a popular pastime on this island.