Brisbanites and beyond have long looked to Sandgate as an accessible spot to escape for a while. The name pretty much explains it all – it’s definitely a gateway to the more urban and bustling areas located outside its boundaries. While the ‘sand’ part of its name speaks of sandy toes you can easily expect to experience on your adventures here.
Be it for spending a day or a week, the location offers many hidden gems and more touristy gems to take your pick of. This article is written from the perspective of a real-life local. So if you’re looking for a born-and-bred guide to Sandgate, you’ve come to the right place.
Read on to discover some extra insight into the best parts of Sandgate, QLD.
1. Explore Einbunpin Lagoon
You don’t have to save a trip to Einbunpin lagoon for during the annual Einbunpin Festival (though it is all kinds of carnival-type fun). Take in the scenery any day of the week for a peaceful jaunt amongst nature.
Einbunpin lagoon and neighbouring Dowse lagoon are located near the town centre. However, you can feel a world away sheltering under the trees and gazing into the water. Meander the delightful winding pathways and small bridges. You can even pack a picnic or grab some lunch or a snack from nearby outlets to enjoy under a gazebo. Or under the grass in the dappled sunlight.
What’s so wonderful about this location is the opportunity to spot turtles, birdlife and plenty of eels who are all just waiting to snap up some errant food scraps. It’s often that you’ll see plenty of vibrant lorikeets aloft the trees. Rest assured, they won’t be hard to find. This is especially true when it comes to late afternoon, due to their jubilant cacophony (read: squawking).
Kids enjoy it, birdwatchers love it, and photographers are bound to get something out of it. So whatever your inclination, Einbunbin lagoon is one spot in Sandgate to definitely not overlook.
2. Stroll Sandgate Foreshore Promenade
Take a stroll down the Sandgate Foreshore Promenade for a walk with a view. Unlike a lot of other locations around city centres, the walkway promises peace and quiet without the annoyance of a lot of people getting in your way. Therefore, what’s great is that you can absolutely go at your own pace. Contemporary, it still is. Cluttered it is not.
You can walk, jog, run, cycle or skip! Pick a clear day, and despite plenty of sun, you can still expect some cooling sea breeze. The area is a delight for those wanting a snap of an idyllic tropical sunrise in hues of orange, yellow, pink and red. You will often come across people set up their equipment to get the perfect shot. Whether you are a pro yourself or an iPhone snapper, you can certainly get a gorgeous pic.
With Sandgate being one of the oldest suburbs in Brisbane, a special highlight is taking in the sight of some beautiful houses (including colonial stunners) along the waterfront. It all makes for picturesque scenery. You might be dreaming of retirement or a sea change. In any case, you’ll find losing yourself to daydreaming so very easy indeed!
If you’re feeling hungry or want a refresher, just journey across the street to visit a cafe or fish and chip shop on Flinders Parade. One of these, a cafe called Baaia, is a favourite with local and visitors alike for a lovely breakfast or brunch. Just next door is Sandgate Fishmonger, which serves all the classics alongside gelato.
Remember, one of the best things to do in Sandgate can be as simple as getting an ice cream and strolling the seaside!
3. Swim at Sandgate Aquatic Centre
When we talk about Sandgate Aquatic Centre, we aren’t talking about any old suburban public pool. This location offers an entire experience, from a dip in a heated swimming pool or laps in an outdoor Olympic-sized facility, training in a gym or fitness class or fun with the kids in an amazing water-play area. Oh yes, and there’s also a proper cafe alongside your typical pool kiosk.
It’s easy to spend an entire day at this well-appointed aquatic facility. We mentioned it’s great for children, as there is a toddler wading pool and water play area featuring a tipping bucket, water cannons, slides and sprinklers. But it’s also ideal for adults. This is whether you are the sporty kind who likes to combine dry land and water workouts. Or perhaps you are just looking to chill with a bit of a splash and then a bit of a sunbake, ice coffee in hand. This place just floats anyone’s boat!
Located right on the ocean, it offers fantastic sea breezes and a coastal outlook. It makes a trip to the pool feel much more holiday-esque. It offers BBQ facilities and shaded areas and has lifeguards, as well as a creche available. So the facility can take care of all your requirements while providing some worry-free aquatic leisure (you don’t have to watch for jellyfish, etc.). Ahh, so good!
It’s also an ideal way to cool off after spending some time exploring the town. Check the Sandgate Aquatic Centre on Facebook for opening times and other important information.
4. Savour Shrimp and a Sunday Sesh
Having opened relatively recently, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co has created a lot of buzz as the first in the chain to open in Australia. It’s now a must-do on any trip to Sandgate. As you’d expect, the venue offers a seafood-driven dining experience and fun themes for the ideal photo op. It also provides laid-back coastal charm and perhaps the perfect diving board into a continued Sunday sesh.
You can head to the iconic Full Moon Hotel for live music (lazy Sunday acoustic chill sessions), drinks and an all-round great time. Throughout the week expect bingo, trivia, schnity nights, streamed sports and special events. The venue offers a bistro, gaming bar, bottle shop and those stellar ocean views.
Expect a few larrikins at this historic (over 150 years old) pub. But that’s all part of the charm, and it’s definitely a place to experience the real deal Sandgate vibe.
Linger at Lovers Walk and Lower Moora Park
Lovers Walk connects Sandgate with its adjoining suburb, Shorncliffe, at the end of Sandgate and traverses into Moora Park and the Shorncliffe Pier. Find the sign for the walk near Eagle Terrace. Bring your lover. Bring your walking buddy or your dog. It doesn’t matter who you bring; the path is gentle, very scenic and therefore very enjoyable. Take in the interrupted water views and look out for the interesting public artworks along the journey.
The pier itself is also a great spot to enjoy some fishing. It has a history dating back to 1792 and marks the location for the start of the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race. Its wooden planks have also been home to The Long Table Dinner, a premier event featuring gourmet dining under the full moon we hope returns soon!
Moora Park (including Lower Moora Park) is an especially popular area with families and recreation seekers. The upper area contains a rotunda and epic ocean views, while the lower has a fantastic adventure playground and a beach area for wading.
A top spot for a picnic, it’s a destination near Sandgate you simply won’t want to miss!
Sandgate Sensations
For the day-tripper or holiday maker, breezy and beautiful Sandgate offers so much. From ocean strolls and outdoor activities to local attractions and more, it’s Brisbane but not as you typically know it. With so much tucked away at every turn, those who love coastal charm will no doubt fall in love.
Keep exploring, and why not let us know about your favourite find in the region in the comments?
