Previous winner of Queensland’s Friendliest Beach, Scarborough Beach is a jewel in the crown of the Moreton Bay Region. This impeccably maintained north of Brisbane swimming beach is the closest, sandy and safe swimming beach to the city. Shared paths and foreshore parkland have the bonus of being situated on the Bay meaning this Brisbane swimming beach’s water is totally swim-safe and ideal for kayaking (kayak hire available) and sailing, plus it’s one of the best fishing spots in Redcliffe offering-up great opportunities to score a catch along the purpose-built groin.
The family-friendly Scarborough Beach Park is fully fenced and has two partly shaded playgrounds, Railway Place and Pirate Place, complete with themed playground equipment. A stationary train and track runs throughout the play space together with a climbing net, swings and balancing equipment.
The unique Cotton Tree Forest located inside the fenced Pirate Park play area is a delight for small and big kids alike. The gnarled old trees provide hours of exciting climbing opportunities with a rubber mat and chip bark base – just in case….
To the left of the playground area is a half-pipe skate ramp, a basketball half-court and a rock climbing structure, perfect for older kids to test their limits. A short walk to the right of the playground reveals an over-sized chessboard in the park. Chess pieces are available free of charge from one of the local shops.
If the kids still have energy after running around at Pirate Park head back through the car park and just a little bit further along Scarborough Beach you'll find an inflatable Jumping Pillow. The Jumping Pillow has been recently been added to the popular Scarborough Park, proving already to be a hit with kids of all ages. Parents the Jumping Pillow is in a fully-fenced park with seating nearby so you can watch the little ones burn off some excess energy.
Adjacent to these Scarborough playgrounds are several ample sized shelter sheds with fixed seats, picnic tables, and electric barbecues making this a popular location for birthdays and other festivities. If celebrations are planned, early arrival is needed to guard a spot of this precious park real estate. The area is in close proximity to a spacious Scarborough car park, sufficient toilets and water fountains.
Hunger pangs can be relieved by strolling Scarborough esplanade to browse the cafes, coffee shops and wine bars, most with child-friendly menus. All boast stunning views of Moreton Bay Region’s peninsula waterfront if you decide to eat in-house, or enjoy your fish and chips while soaking up the sun that filters through the age-old Norfolk Pines on this north of Brisbane swimming beach.
Spend a few mesmerizing moments listening to the whispers of the ancient Scarborough Pines in the breeze and seek the magic door in the base of one stately tree. Local legend has it that Gollum, of Lord of the Rings fame, is residing inside The Gollum Tree! Take a peek through the small window at ground level of the door and see for yourself.
Leaving this idyllic location will be a wrench and a return inevitable. The family-friendly Scarborough Beach in the Moreton Bay Region caters for ‘everyone’ so head north from the city to this fantastic nearby to Brisbane swimming beach, to take a dip in the calm waters, or throw a line in at one of the best fishing spots in Redcliffe.
Best of all, Scarborough Beach is the home of the Moreton Bay Regions favourite Father's Day event Scarborough Sounds and Santa's early stopover with Scarborough Christmas Carols.
Made in conjunction with Stockland Newport and the Touched by Olivia Foundation, Spinnaker Park is an all-abilities playground in north Brisbane that ensures children of all abilities can play together, including those with physical disabilities and spectrum disorders such as autism.
Located in Clontarf, stage one of the Hays Inlet Eco Path has recently opened to the public. This path was made available in August 2019 for all members of the public to observe and become aware of the natural value of this remaining wetland.
Deception Bay has a rich history, from The Gubbi Gubbi – the traditional owners of the area to the establishment of a Moreton Bay penal colony. The Deception Bay Heritage Trail covers about four kilometres and can be completed in a 90-minute stroll.
In the lower reaches of Saltwater Creek off Bramble Bay, Hays Inlet is bordered by Anzac Avenue to the north, Houghton Highway to the east, Dohles Rocks to the south and the Bruce Highway to the west. This convenient location allows for simple access from any direction.
For things to do in Redcliffe head to Woody Point Jetty. With spectacular views and great fishing spots it's a day out the whole family can enjoy.