15 things to do in Redcliffe and Surrounds

Like its inner-city cousin South Bank, Redcliffe boasts a man-made lagoon that is particularly popular with kids. Flanked by fig trees on one side, and iconic Moreton Bay on the other, the public pool is home to a scattering of tables, shade, and barbecues throughout, making it an ideal destination for family get togethers.

2. Throw in a line

Fishing is one of the best things to do in Redcliffe. There are a series of different bait supply shops lining the main drag of Redcliffe Parade to tempt budding fishermen; arm yourself with the necessary equipment before making your way to Redcliffe Jetty, Hornibrook Bridge or Scarborough Marina to throw in a line.

3. Take to the markets

Venture to Redcliffe Parade on Sundays where the weekly Redcliffe Markets take place. Pack a basket so that you can make the most of the produce vendors which line the streets alongside local artisans selling wares. Arrive hungry; there’s plenty of food stalls to indulge in while there.

4. Paddle around the bay

Spend your day on the water; hire a paddleboard or kayak and float your way around the natural wonder of surrounding Moreton Bay. There are a bounty of water sport rental specialists which reside on Flinders Parade in Scarborough or the Redcliffe Jetty. Those who aren’t confident to travel solo can join one of the many group lessons available instead.

5. Play in the park

Little ones in tow? Bayside is home to a collection of playgrounds and parks, many of which are themed (to the delight of kids everywhere). The most well-regarded are Pirate Place and Railway Place at Scarborough Beach Park, where playground equipment intertwines with large cottonwood trees for climbing. As an added bonus, Railway Place is disability-friendly.

6. Take a dip at Suttons Beach

Cool off with a swim at Suttons Beach, which remains the only patrolled beach in Redcliffe. Unlike the coastal beaches to the north and south of Brisbane City, parking here is conveniently abundant, and the stretch of sand comes accompanied by an array of space for hosting picnics and barbecues.

7. Wander Bee Gees Way

Acquaint yourself with the story of local heroes and musical sensation the Bee Gees with a stroll down the 70-metre-long Bee Gees Way. The walkway that connects Redcliffe Parade with Sutton Street acts as a museum of sorts (complete with daily light display), which chronicles the band’s rise to fame, which began back in 1959.

8. A day on the water

Take to the seas of Moreton Bay Marine Park with Dolphin Wild Island Cruises, as you explore the sapphire waters that dolphins, whales, and turtles call home. Ride in the boom net on the back of the boat, or optionally snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks followed by relaxation time on Moreton Island before heading back to the mainland.

9. Trek the coastal walk

Work up a sweat with a power stroll along the Clontarf-Redcliffe seaside walk. Stretching across 13 kilometres, this idyllic walkway nestles the coastline and traverses its way around many of the district’s best known landmarks. Commence your trek at Pelican Park, meandering your way for the next couple of hours until you reach Redcliffe Jetty.

10. Admire the historic Redcliffe Jetty

Walk your way along the peninsula’s oldest resident and sunset viewing point, the Redcliffe Jetty. Built in 1885, the historic landmark was first built as a landing area for visitors to the bay. While it is not the original structure, the new jetty built in 1995 is an exact replica, though water fountains, fish cleaning stations, and seating has been introduced for the comfort of visitors.

11. Watch the pelican-feeding

Animals lovers would agree that one of the best things to do in Redcliffe is to get up close and personal with the local pelican population. Pelican Park is where the marine birds tend to gather; this is where volunteers meet at 10.00am daily to treat the pelicans to buckets of flathead, whiting and bream, and check the birds for injuries.

12. Look out for whales

Keep an eye out for the giants of the deep during whale migration season which runs from June through October. Join the crew at Brisbane Whale Watching for a tour which departs daily from the Redcliffe Jetty and cruises through Moreton Bay, one of the best Brisbane locations to see the whales at play.

13. Taste the cafe culture

A growing collective of breakfast haunts now call Redcliffe home. What better way to get to know the neighbourhood then to stop in at one of its many cafes for a bite to eat. Flock Eatery and Cafe Diversity are two of the area’s stand-outs for a creative meal and a decent coffee.

14. Tuck into fish and chips

The bayside’s proximity to the sea means that gorging on some fish and chips whilst here is a non-negotiable. While Yabbey Road, Seafood Lovers Cafe, and The Boat Shed are a trio of the bayside’s best, there are a bounty of seafood specialists Redcliffe-way to choose from.

15. Window shop at Scarborough Marina

Considering your proximity to Moreton Bay it’s no surprise boats are big business here. The Scarborough marina is home to a treasure trove of boats, from trawlers through yachts, that are well worth a gander, no matter whether you’re actually in the market or just browsing.