Fun Things to Do in Redcliffe and Surrounds

Redcliffe is a popular destination for visitors looking for laid-back fun and coastal attractions. Locals are also appreciative of the abundance in their community. Naturally, they are in the ideal position to be aware of all the area’s hidden gems. When looking for the best things to do in Redcliffe, we realise it’s important to ask the residents. 

With this in mind, we’ve done a little social research to extract some much-needed information. This includes not only details on the more obvious places for fun in Redcliffe and surrounds, but also those a bit more off the beaten track. Let’s check out all the amazing things to do and explore in this beautiful pocket of the Moreton Bay region. 

Swim to your heart’s content

The Redcliffe Peninsula is rich with opportunities to delight any type of swimmer. In terms of natural bodies of water, you’ll easily find a place to get your required dosage of vitamin sea. Families love the Peninsula for the many calm beach areas that are ideal for a dip, a splash, and making sandcastles. 

On the Peninsula, you don’t necessarily have to limit your swimming to just the warmer months. There are quite a few facilities that can allow you to stretch your swimming timeframe to the max. You have a choice of several public swimming pools. Plus, several water-based attractions in the region. 

Redcliffe beaches: 

• Suttons Beach: Probably the most popular beach on the Peninsula for swimmers, this beach is patrolled seasonally. It’s also located in the heart of Redcliffe. Suttons Beach Park has grassy areas, picnic and BBQ tables, and ample parking. Gentle waves form a scenic cove-like shoreline, making this a relaxed and idyllic spot. 

• Scarborough Beach: Another incredibly beautiful beach in the sleepy yet well serviced suburb of Scarborough. The water here is calm and a joy to swim in. With plenty of lush trees and parkland, Scarborough Beach Park is also perfect for a picnic, sunbathing, and watching a beautiful sunset. Nearby cafes and eateries offer a revival from time spent in the sun. 

• Queens Beach: Queens Beach is a stretch of sandy coastline located between Redcliffe and Scarborough. For anyone visiting or living on the Peninsula, it’s highly accessible. With plenty of other popular features, it’s known to provide a serene and scenic swimming area. There’s also a part of Queens Beach that allows for dogs (look for the dedicated off-leash area). 

You’ll see plenty of joggers, bike riders, and other people making use of the many pathways and other facilities. Relax under purpose-built shelters and cook up a feast using the BBQ facilities. Boaters will appreciate the boat ramp. 

Redcliffe swimming: 

• Settlement Cove Lagoon: Many people come to Redcliffe with the intent of enjoying this free facility. Settlement Cove Lagoon is described as a stunning tropical-themed seafront public pool. It has different sections suitable for different-aged children. And don’t fret; even if you’re not a kid, you can swim too! 

The lagoon is open all year round, so you can use it when the public swimming pools are shut.  It’s also wheelchair accessible. Shade structures, playgrounds, and BBQ areas mean you can rest while the kids are at play. Why not make a complete day out of a trip to the lagoon when visiting Redcliffe? Naturally, you’ll love it as a local too!

• Redcliffe War Memorial Swimming Pool: Overall, Redcliffe War Memorial Swimming Pool is a high-performance facility with plenty of coaching and training programs. However, it certainly does cater to all the family. This 8-lane Olympic-sized swimming pool is heated all year round. This makes it a great place to enjoy swimming, no matter the season or weather. 

There’s also a fully shaded toddler’s splash pool and a snack and drinks kiosk. Did you know that you can even book parts of the venue for children’s birthday celebrations? Visit the website at redcliffepool.com.au to check opening times, entry prices, and other details. 

Redcliffe water sports: 

• Aqua Warrior Australia: This is an amazing water activity park located in Clontarf. Aqua Warrior Australia provides sessions whereby you can traverse a water-based activity course. Challenge others or just yourself! The water park can also cater to special events, like end-of-year parties and birthdays. Check out the website at aquawarrior.com.au for pricing and session details. 

• Peninsula Water Sports Hire: Just like the name suggests, at Peninsula Water Sport Hire you can rent exactly what you need to have a fun time on the water. Choose between a water bike, paddleboard, or kayak. In this way, you can explore the Peninsula from the vantage point of the stunning coastline. Check the website at peninsulawatersportshire.com.au for equipment choices, rates, and restrictions. 

Shop at boutiques, markets, and more

Indulge in some retail therapy and find a shoppers paradise within the Redcliffe Peninsula. The area is a haven for fashion lovers and bargain hunters alike. There are plenty of lifestyle stores to boot. You will also find a wealth of gifts for loved ones and special occasions. 

Those who love art will also find plenty of inspiration in terms of local galleries, studios, and exhibitions. If you’re looking for fresh produce and artisan wares, you’ll easily find yourself loading up with goodies at the local markets. Plus, look out for a bounty of thrift shops that could easily keep you occupied for hours. 

Redcliffe fashion: 

• Orange Sherbet: This store has been a staple in the Redcliffe and Bayside fashion and lifestyle scene since 2006. Orange Sherbet aims to be more of a destination rather than just a store. Providing sizes six to 24 in women’s garments, the shop also has a range of accessories and more. Known for their effort less and flattering designs, Orange Sherbet should be on the list of anyone looking to shop up a storm in Redcliffe. 

• Sea Holly Boutique: Over in Scarborough, you’ll delight in the fabulous finds at Sea Holly Boutique. The store is still relatively new. However, it’s so sassy and fun that you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life. You’ll discover women’s designs that are event-friendly yet comfortable. Plus, a range of beautiful accessories and friendly local service. Pop in on your next visit to the Peninsula. If you’re a local, this could easily become your fashion go-to. 

Gifts and home lifestyle: 

• Loot Home Warehouse: Loot Home Warehouse is a treasure trove of home and lifestyle items located on the Redcliffe waterfront. They have been in the same location for over a decade. Loot has a range of coastal, classic, and eclectic items to help decorate your space. Gift ideas are plentiful, with sentimental and stylish choices that are sure to make the right impression. The staff are ever so friendly, which makes shopping a breeze.

• Wonderland Bookshop and Emporium: This is a shopping spot that’s not to be missed! It’s quite unlike any other store, stocking an intriguing selection of new and old books. Plus, curated new and secondhand home products, trinkets, curiosities, and fashion items. If you’re looking for something a little bit different and would like to be pulled into a wonderland of sorts, Wonderland Bookshop and Emporium is the place for you! 

Redcliffe art and art galleries: 

• Redcliffe Art Gallery and Shop: The leading arts destination on the Peninsula is Redcliffe Art Gallery. In four different exhibition areas, guests can take in art from local, emerging, and established Australian artists. This City of Moreton Bay facility hosts touring art exhibitions. This means that there is always something new to draw in the senses. 

For those looking for art and lifestyle items to take home, the Redcliffe Gallery Shop provides a bespoke retail experience. You’ll find a rotating availability of artisan products. These include limited edition art pieces, stunning ceramics, hand-made jewellery, authentic First Nation products, and an array of beautiful books and stationery.  

• Red Poppy Art Collective: Described as a seaside arts hub, you’ll be glad you sought out Red Poppy Art Collective for a bit of a browse. And quite possibly to make a treasured acquisition! This shop displays original and unique art pieces, pop culture items, pottery, wood-turned artworks, and more. You’ll be supporting local artists and artisans by taking your very own piece home. 

• Revival Green Studio: This captivating blend of gift shop and art studio is located on Baynes Street Margate. It also provides a workshop space for artistic endeavours. Come in and shop the locally made artwork, accessories and more at Revival Green Studio. The studio’s gift shop aspect offers exquisite fashion. Plus, housewares, décor, body care items, and home fragrances that are ideal for bringing flair to your interior. 

Redcliffe thrift shops:

• Lifeline Supa Store: In terms of thrift stores, it quite possibly doesn’t get bigger or better than this. It’s called a Lifeline Supa Store for a reason, with a standard shop out front and a warehouse-style facility out the back. In the back area, you’ll find a range of thrifted furniture, appliances, and home goods that can easily have your home kitted out for less. And in a more eco-friendly way! Explore the front of the store for preloved clothing, ornaments, and more. 

• Margate Family Op Shop: This is a very community-minded shop, with nothing priced at more than two dollars! That doesn’t mean you won’t find quality items. With lots of women’s fashion, kid’s clothing and toys, and a selection of odds and ends, you’re bound to pick up a bargain! Margate Family Op Shop is located across from Margate Village, making it a convenient stop-in anytime.

• EMM Power Shop of Opportunity: EMM Power Shop of Opportunity is a jam-packed thrift store in Clontarf. The enterprise also participates in a host of community outreach programs. So you know when you shop here you’ll be doing something to assist people in need. They also have very reasonably priced goods and a big mix of collectable and ornamental items. 

• Industry and Co Collective: This is a thrift store that’s more like a boutique. It also gives back to people in the community with disabilities. For example, by donations of financial support and via training opportunities. For those designer brand aficionados, Industry and Co Collective is an absolute must! Find it just one street back from the Redcliffe waterfront. This store is definitely worth supporting because of its great merchandise and kind staff.  

Redcliffe markets: 

• Redcliffe Farmers and Artisan Markets: Held every Sunday, the Redcliffe Farmers and Artisan Markets are emblematic of Peninsula life. They are fresh, fun, and fabulous! Stroll along the beautiful oceanfront and peruse wares from a variety of attractive and colourful stalls. There’s fashion, homewares, and novelty items a plenty.

You’ll also find refreshments and street food to fuel you on your way. Many people like to go to the markets to purchase their fresh produce for the week ahead. Keep an eye on the Facebook page at facebook.com/RedcliffeMarkets/ to make sure the event isn’t occasionally rained out or otherwise cancelled. 

• Newport Markets: This market is still a bit of a newbie market of the Peninsula. But it certainly offers plenty to keep you entertained. A lovely oceanside park location on Lakeview Promenade in Newport adds to the fun. Newport Market offers handmade crafts, farm-fresh produce, food trucks, and even face painting for the kids. The markets are held on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 2pm.

Immerse yourself in nature 

Many people find their peace in retreating to nature-based activities. The Redcliffe region certainly delivers on this front. With the area being rich in organic beauty and coastal splendor, even just taking a walk or going for a bike ride can be something special.

The proximity of Redcliffe to the ocean presents a wealth of opportunities for cultivating some serenity. Similarly, man-made features like gardens, nature reserves, and jetties offer areas to relax. These types of places can also present incredibly fun activities that are perfect for all the family! 

Redcliffe parks, playgrounds, and cycleways: 

• Captain Cook Park: With views of Moreton Bay and the Redcliffe Jetty, this two-level park is located along the Redcliffe seafront. It’s a thoroughly peaceful spot where you can rest on a picnic blanket, stare at the clouds, and listen to the birds chirping. There’s also beach access. Nearby Captain Cook Park, Rotary Park offers picnic areas and a playground.

• Pirate Park: This is definitely one for the kids, but adults can also get a reprieve here as well. Located at Scarborough Beach, you can relax under the cotton tree forest while the little ones enjoy a bouncy pillow, climbing frames, and other exciting pieces of playground equipment. Pirate Park is fully fenced. The water and several cafes are also just a short stroll away! 

• Moreton Bay Cycleway: Why not enjoy the refreshing sea breeze while cycling on one of the many well-equipped bike lanes? The Moreton Bay Cycleway was set up by the local council to offer a safe and easy cycleway. A major plus is that it mostly runs alongside the ocean, so you can absorb all the natural sights on route. 

Within the Redcliffe region, the Moreton Bay Cycleway extends from Scarborough Beach in the north to Hornibrook Bridge, Clontarf, in the south. And it even goes far beyond that! The cycleway is multi-use, so you also enjoy the tranquility as you walk, jog, or scoot along. 

Redcliffe gardens and nature reserves:

• Redcliffe Botanic Gardens: Did you know that Redcliffe has its own botanic gardens? Usually reserved for capital city centres, botanic gardens preserve and nurture plant species and wildlife. They are able to educate while also giving people a retreat from the hustle and bustle. 

There are many haven-like, shaded spots within Redcliffe Botanic Gardens. Also good to know is that there are drinking fountains, benches, and shelters available. This makes the area perfect for a picnic or a simple gathering. 

• Gayundah Arboretum Park: Gayundah Arboretum offers visitors not only the fascinating sight of a shipwreck (HMQS Gayundah) but also a nature reserve filled with native flora. The park is nestled in scenic Woody Point, with a rugged romantic landscape overlooking the ocean out to the horizon. Pandanus palms and small tidal pools add to the overall appeal. 

Redcliffe jetties: 

• Redcliffe Jetty: The Redcliffe Jetty is one of the area’s most characteristic landmarks. It was originally built in 1885 and replicated in 1995. It’s a great spot for a breath of fresh ocean air. It’s also popular for throwing in a line, with fish cleaning stations provided along its length. There’s also plenty of seating to offer visitors a place to relax. 

• Woody Point Jetty: Woody Point Jetty is another fantastic spot for fishing, viewing a sunrise or sunset, or simply strolling the boardwalk. What you may not know is that this structure is also wheelchair accessible. Shaded seating areas, water fountains, a BBQ, and even a tap with a dog bowl add to the convenience and comfort of the surroundings. Nearby, you can have a drink or a meal at the popular establishment, The Belvedere. Or, refresh at several other cafes and takeaway shops.

Now that you have perused this list, you can definitely see all the wonderful things that you and your family can do in the Redcliffe region. We recognise that you can do a quick Google search on the topic. This will give you a summary of the more obvious things to see and do. However, that might mean you miss out on all the more out-of-way places. And these are just so incredibly  worth it! 

Let us know if you’ve enjoyed reading about the above places on the Peninsula. Did we miss any of your favourites? It’s easy to let us know in the comments. Your feedback helps us supply quality information to you whenever and wherever we can. Stay tuned for more!