Brisbane is known for its warm weather and is centrally located to many beautiful beaches, making it the perfect destination for a beach holiday. With so many options to choose from, selecting the best beaches near Brisbane can be challenging. The smell of salty sea air, the feel of soft sand between your toes, and out-of-this-world experiences of fresh seafood caught right off these paradisiacal beaches will invigorate your senses, leaving you wanting more. Brisbane truly is the ultimate destination for recharging your batteries!
Our Top 5 Beaches Near Brisbane
Are you looking for the perfect beach getaway close to Brisbane? Look no further! We have got all the information you need to know about our top 5 beaches, including distance in kilometres and travel time. So pack your sunscreen and swimming togs, and get ready for some fun in the sun!
1. Redcliffe Beach
Distance from Brisbane: 29km (30-40 minute drive)
Everything Australia has to offer
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach destination just a short drive from Brisbane, look no further than Redcliffe Beach. Located approximately 29 km north of Brisbane, this beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The drive from Brisbane to Redcliffe Beach typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you arrive, you will be greeted by crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and a wide range of amenities.
One of the top events at Redcliffe Beach each year is the Redcliffe KiteFest, held in October. This two-day festival celebrates the joy of kite flying, with demonstrations, workshops, and a kite market. It’s a fun and family-friendly event that attracts kite enthusiasts from all over the country.
Another popular event at Redcliffe Beach is the Redcliffe Seaside Village Street Fair, held on the last Sunday of each month. This event features a range of stalls selling handmade crafts, local produce, and other goodies. There are also live performances, food trucks, and other entertainment on offer.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, the Redcliffe Jetty is a must-visit. This historic jetty is home to a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can also take a scenic walk along the jetty, soaking up the views and enjoying the fresh sea air.
Overall, Redcliffe Beach is a fantastic destination for a day trip or weekend getaway from Brisbane. With its beautiful beaches, fun events, and plenty of activities on offer, it’s a great place to relax and unwind.
2. Moreton Island
Distance from Brisbane: 40km (1 hour by ferry)
A Diverse Landscape
Located just off the coast of Brisbane, Moreton Island is another top destination for beach lovers. The island is home to a variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches and dunes to lagoons and mangroves.
One of the most popular beaches on the island is Tangalooma Beach, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. The sheltered coves make Moreton Island perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and other water sports. It’s also home to a number of beachfront accommodation options, so you can stay right on the beach to watch the sun fall behind a pink and orange horizon.
Another great spot on the island is Blue Lagoon, a serene lagoon surrounded by mangroves and sand dunes. The lagoon is perfect for swimming and relaxing, and it’s also a popular spot for birdwatching.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Moreton Island is also home to a number of activities and attractions. You can go sandboarding on the dunes, go fishing in the ocean, or visit the historic Bulwer Lighthouse.
3. Bribie Island
Distance from Brisbane: 50km (1 hour by car)
A Quiet Escape
Bribie Island is a beautiful and serene destination located just north of Brisbane. Bribie Island National Park is a must-visit for beach lovers, with its warm blue waters and white sand. The park is also home to a variety of native animals, including wallabies and kangaroos, and it’s a great spot for birdwatching.
Woorim Beach is the main beach on Bribie Island and stretches for over 5 km. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months, meaning it is popular for swimming, surfing, and fishing, and there are plenty of amenities, such as toilets, showers, and BBQ facilities. It’s also home to a number of restaurants.
Other popular beaches on Bribie Island include Ocean Beach, a secluded spot perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and Caboolture Beach, which is great for fishing and crabbing. There is something for any type of mood.
4. Noosa
Distance from Brisbane: 152km (2 hours by car)
A coastal atmosphere like no other
Noosa is a popular beach destination located on the Sunshine Coast, just north of Brisbane. This beach is known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, as well as its abundance of marine life. The main beach in Noosa is known as Noosa Main Beach, and it is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
In addition to the beautiful beaches, Noosa is also home to a variety of other attractions, including the Noosa National Park, which is home to a variety of native wildlife and walking trails. The town of Noosa is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, making it a great place to explore.
To get to Noosa, you can catch a bus from Brisbane, which takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can drive to Noosa, which takes about 1.5 – 2 hours.
Accommodation Options in Noosa
There are a variety of accommodation options in Noosa, ranging from luxury hotels to holiday rentals. If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, you can stay at the Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort, which offers a range of amenities including a golf course, spa, and restaurant.
For a more laid-back vacation, you can rent a holiday home or stay at one of the town’s many holiday apartments.
5. Stradbroke Island
Distance from Brisbane: 35km (1 hour by ferry)
A Tropical Paradise
Stradbroke Island, also known as “Straddie” to local Queenslanders, is a must-visit for beach lovers near Brisbane. Located just a short ferry ride away, a North Stradbroke day trip is the perfect getaway or long weekend escape.
The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, with pristine aqua-blue waters and golden sands. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, take a dip in the ocean, or go for a walk along the shore, Stradbroke has something for everyone.
One of the most popular beaches on the island is Point Lookout, which is known for its stunning views and great surf. The beach is also home to a number of cafes and restaurants, so you can grab a bite to eat while enjoying the breathtaking views.
If you are looking for a more secluded spot, head to Cylinder Beach. This hidden gem is located on the north side of the island and is known for its calm waters and peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds and relax in nature.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Stradbroke Island is also home to a number of walking trails, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. You can spot a variety of native animals, including wallabies, kangaroos, and koalas, as you explore the island.
Accommodation Options on Straddie Island
We recommend staying a night (or three!) on Straddie. There are a number of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and holiday homes. For a more luxurious experience, you can stay at the Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel, which offers a range of amenities including a pool, restaurant, and spa.
The Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel
The Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel is a family-friendly oasis that offers a range of activities for kids, including mini golf, poolside games, and a playground. There are also daily kids’ club activities, such as beachcombing, sandcastle building, and nature walks. This hotel offers a variety of water sports and activities for adults, including snorkelling, surfing, and fishing. There is also a pool and a spa on site for relaxation.
The Stradbroke Island Resort
The Stradbroke Island Resort is a luxurious resort offering a range of activities for adults, including golf, tennis, and yoga classes. There is also a fully equipped gym and a range of spa treatments available. This resort doubles as a top choice for families, with a range of amenities including a water park, kids’ club, and movie nights. Kids can also enjoy the resort’s outdoor playground, pool, and mini golf course.
The Stradbroke Island Holiday Village
The Stradbroke Island Holiday Village is a great choice for families, with a range of activities for kids including a playground, pool, and mini golf. The village also offers kids’ club activities, such as beach games, nature walks, and sandcastle building. This hotel offers a range of outdoor activities for adults, including bushwalking, birdwatching, and stand-up paddleboarding. There is also a BBQ area and a range of entertainment options available.
For a more laid-back vacation, you can rent a holiday home or stay at one of the island’s many campsites. No matter what type of accommodation you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and tranquillity.
Wrap Up
It is no surprise that Brisbane beaches are a hot spot for both tourists and locals. The breathtaking scenery of the Australian coast is really something to behold, and It is highly recommended that all visitors to the area experience the unique magic of these beaches for themselves.