7 of the Best Beaches Close to Brisbane for Your Next Staycation
Looking for the ultimate staycation destination that’s home to some of the best beaches, entertainment, and natural beauty in Australia? Then look no further than Queensland. From cityside beaches perfect for day trips to island escapes made for weekend getaways - take advantage of some serious beachside downtime without ever needing to stray too far.
In addition to its beaches, Queensland boasts a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests - And for foodies, there's no shortage of delicious seafood, seasonal cuisine, and wine to savour. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed beachside adventure, here are some of the best beaches close to Brisbane to check out.
Coochiemudlo Island
A hidden gem located just a short ferry ride away from Brisbane, Coochiemudlo Island offers a tranquil oasis and a laid-back atmosphere with stunning natural beauty at every turn. The main attraction to Coochiemudlo is its picturesque beaches, Morwong Beach and Norfolk Beach, which are both known for their sparkling warm waters and soft, golden sand.
From swimming and sunbathing to fishing and kayaking, there are plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach's shoreline and enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean. You can even enjoy the surrounding landscape with a picnic on the beach as the sun goes down. In addition to its natural beauty, Coochiemudlo Island is home to a couple of cafes, restaurants and beach bars, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway less than 2 hours from Brisbane CBD.
Beachside Bite to Eat
Coochiemudlo Island Beach Bar offers stunning views of Moreton Bay, along with a delicious selection of food, craft beers, and an array of other tasty drinks available for anyone to enjoy.
Coochiemudlo Island Beach Bar Opening hours:
- Thursday to Sunday 11 am to 8 pm
2. Bongaree Beach
Another popular island beach close to Brisbane is Bongaree Beach, located on Bribie Island. The beach is located in the town of Bongaree, which is a popular destination for tourists, daytrippers and locals alike. Characterised by its soft sand and calm, clean waters, it’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up the sun. Perfectly suited with a good book and a bottle of something cold.
Bongaree Beach is also popular for fishing and watersport, with plenty of respite from the sun under the canopy of the trees that line it. The beach is also easily accessible, with ample nearby parking and public amenities such as toilets, showers, and barbecue facilities. Bongaree Jetty is the perfect place for insta-worthy shots at dusk falls, while a great variety of bars and restaurants are just a stone’s throw away.
Beachside Bite to Eat
Located right on the beautiful beachfront of Bribie Island, @ The Jetty Restaurant is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a martini or signature cocktail while getting lost in ocean views and stunning sunsets. Enjoy a bite to eat and soak up the vibes while resident dolphins perform a spectacular show.
@ The Jetty Restaurant Opening hours:
- Thursday to Saturday 11 am to 9:30 pm
- Sundays 11 am to 3 pm
3. Main Beach
Situated just a short drive from Surfers Paradise and South Stradbroke Island, Main Beach is a Gold Coast icon that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Gold Coast skyline. The beach is a hugely popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, with a whole host of dining, entertainment and retail right on the doorstep. Spend the day soaking up the sun and making the most of the beachside fun before venturing to Marina Mirage shopping centre - the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and stock up on designer and brand-name goodies.
While here, be sure to pack a hamper to enjoy at Main Beach Park, a manicured green space perfect for picnics and family outings under the tree canopy. Home to several playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and plenty of shaded areas, it’s a great spot for a day out. When on the Gold Coast, no trip would be complete without a visit to The Star Gold Coast and its upscale entertainment and dining venues in nearby Broadbeach. Why not check into Dorsett Gold Coast and elevate your stay, with access to the best things to see and do within easy reach?
Beachside Bite to Eat
Waterfront Restaurant is the ultimate waterfront dining experience at one of Gold Coast's most exclusive venues in Main Beach, overlooking the sparkling Southport Yacht Club Marina. The multi-award-winning Waterfront Restaurant also has a newly renovated bar on the Quarterdeck offering a delectable tapas menu between 3 pm - 5 pm daily.
4. Nudgee Beach
A Beach close to Brisbane, in fact, just a 20-minute drive from Brisbane CBD is Nudgee Beach. The beach offers a biking track along the Schulz Canal, which leads to Toombul Shopping Centre. Connecting visitors to various parts of Brisbane. There are several picnic areas and BBQ facilities available for visitors to use. Nudgee Beach is also a popular spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with calm waters that are perfect for beginners.
One of the main attractions of Nudgee Beach is the Nudgee Beach Reserve. A large area of protected wetlands that is home to a wide range of bird species, including migratory and native birds. Explore the walking trails and bird hides, stroll the trails to the beach and lose yourself in a little slice of Queensland's natural beauty.
Beachside Bite to Eat
If you're craving deliciously hot battered cod, calamari rings, and barramundi, as well as freshly cooked chips and other tasty treats, look no further than the Shelley Inn. Indulge with mouth-watering ice cream and freshly made coffee. Available for takeaway as well, perfect for those looking for a waterfront lunch.
Shelley Inn Opening hours:
- Open daily from 7 am.
5. Redcliffe beach
Located in the Moreton Bay region and just 25 kilometres from Brisbane, Redcliffe Beach is a beautiful and family-friendly beach. Offering stunning views of Moreton Island and the Glasshouse Mountains. A popular spot for swimming, fishing, and other water activities. Enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. BBQ facilities and picnic areas are conveniently located along the coastline, perfect for a relaxing alfresco lunch or dinner.
Redcliffe is also home to several parks and gardens, including the Redcliffe Botanic Gardens - which features a variety of fragrant exotic plants and flowers. From walking and cycling tracks that offer stunning views of the surrounding area to historic landmarks, and a range of activities, it is sure to be a highlight of any staycation in Queensland.
Beachside Bite to Eat
The Rustic Olive is an authentic Italian restaurant that serves traditional and modern cuisine, such as pasta, pizzas, risotto, seafood, salads, steak, and more. Enjoy the sea breeze and stunning ocean views of Moreton Bay with outdoor and indoor dining options. An elegant and rustic decor adds to the authentic Italian experience, providing guests with a cosy and warm atmosphere.
The Rustic Olive Opening Hours
- Wednesday to Sunday. Dinner from 4:30pm
- Friday - Sunday: Lunch from 11:30am
6. Suttons beach
A charming beach located in the suburb of Redcliffe. Suttons Beach is just 35 kilometres north of Brisbane and is ideal for a variety of water activities such as swimming, surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. A popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy its long stretch of golden sand, calm waters, and beautiful sea views.
Throughout the year, Suttons Beach is also home to a variety of events including the Redcliffe KiteFest, the Redcliffe Festival of Sails, and the Redcliffe Jetty Markets. Which take place every Sunday from 7 am - 1 pm. Stroll along the Redcliffe Jetty for breathtaking views of Moreton Bay and stop by the Redcliffe Museum, which provides a glimpse into the history and culture of the area.
Beachside Bite to Eat
Experience great food and deluxe Genovese coffee while enjoying stunning views across the bay at The Oasis. A fully licensed boutique café in Redcliffe. The alfresco setting allows you to enjoy your meal and drinks in the fresh air while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Whether you're looking for a place to relax and unwind, or a spot to catch up with friends, The Oasis is the perfect place to do so.
The Oasis Opening Hours
- Daily from 6:30 am to 3 pm.
7. Red beach
When looking at the best beaches close to Brisbane, Red Beach is another amazing option to add to your list. Located on Bribie Island, it’s a little over an hour's drive north of Brisbane - perfect for a nearby staycation destination. Relax on soft golden sands lapped at by calm, warm waters and fringed by a broad-leaved paperbark forest. When it comes to the most picturesque beaches in the area, Red Beach is definitely a top contender.
While reasonably small in size, visitors to Bribie Island can enjoy a variety of water activities, such as swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkelling. There are also several picnic areas and BBQ facilities available for use, as well as walking and cycling tracks that guide you through the surrounding area. Better still, being in close proximity to Bongaree Beach means you can beach-hop to your heart's content.
Beachside Bite to Eat
La Vera Gourmet Pizza & Bar serves authentic wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and other Italian cuisines. The menu features a range of gourmet pizzas with fresh and delicious toppings. Additionally, the fully stocked bar has a selection of wine, beer, and cocktails to complement your meal - perfect for those who appreciate authentic Italian cuisine with a view.
La Vera Gourmet Pizza & Bar Opening Hours
- Wed to Sun from 4:30 pm to 8 pm
- Staycation Accommodation on the Gold Coast
If you find yourself traveling down from Brisbane beaches to the Gold Coast, make your stay one to remember by checking into Dorsett Gold Coast. Wake up to breathtaking ocean and hinterland views, relax in spacious rooms, and enjoy a range of world-class facilities and amenities. Spend your days lounging poolside, indulging in spa treatments, and exploring the best nearby beaches.
When it comes to fun-filled staycation just a few hours' drive from Brisbane CBD, Dorsett Gold Coast has everything you need.