Things To Do on the Redcliffe Peninsula, Queensland, Australia

You’ll find endless adventures in Moreton Bay, from hiking the Glass House Mountains to spotting humpback whales between June and October. Take a kayak out on the crystal waters, or join a sunset cruise to feed wild dolphins at Tangalooma Resort. Don’t miss the fresh seafood platters featuring famous Moreton Bay Bugs at waterfront restaurants like Sunny’s Margate Beach. You can explore colonial history at Fort Lytton, cycle the scenic Foreshore route, or snorkel around mysterious shipwrecks. For nature lovers, the region’s rich mudflats attract Arctic shorebirds and dugongs. There’s so much more beneath the surface of this coastal paradise.

Key Takeaways

Explore diverse hiking trails at Glass House Mountains, suitable for all skill levels and feature wheelchair-accessible paths.
Visit Bee Gees Way to celebrate the famous band's local connection through statues, photographs, and nightly light shows.
Browse the Sunday seaside markets on Redcliffe Parade, featuring fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local seafood.
Take whale-watching tours from June to November to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and dugongs in Moreton Bay.
Walk the heritage-rich First Settlement Walking Tour to discover Queensland's earliest European settlement sites and landmarks.

Experience Stunning Coastal Beauty

The Redcliffe Peninsula showcases Queensland’s most alluring coastal scenery, stretching along Moreton Bay with pristine beaches and iconic landmarks at every turn. You’ll find five distinct beaches, each offering its unique charm – from the tranquil waters of Suttons Beach, perfect for sunrise watching, to the family-friendly atmosphere of Scarborough Beach with its crystal-clear waters. The area’s relaxed community atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for families seeking a safe and friendly environment.

For the best views of Moreton Bay, head to the historic Redcliffe Jetty, extending 600 metres into the water. It’s an ideal spot to spot dolphins or try your hand at fishing. If you’re feeling adventurous, kayak and paddle through the calm waters or snorkel the wrecks at Tangalooma. Between June and November, you won’t want to miss the spectacular whale-watching opportunities in the bay.

Don’t skip Margate Beach’s impressive 2km boardwalk, where you can enjoy panoramic ocean views while enjoying the fresh sea breeze. For a truly magical moment, visit Woody Point Jetty at sunset – it’s one of the Peninsula’s most photographed locations and offers unmatched views across the water.

Discover Local Art and Culture

Immerse yourself in Redcliffe’s thriving arts scene at the newly designed Redcliffe Art Gallery. Four distinct exhibition spaces showcase works from emerging local talents to established Australian artists. Regular guided tours bring the exhibitions to life, and a gift shop features unique local art pieces.

Head over to the Redcliffe Museum for an in-depth exploration of the region’s rich history. You can explore First Nations stories, watch historical films about the Peninsula’s early days, and interact with memory boxes containing fascinating artifacts from the past. The museum’s contemporary exhibitions regularly change, keeping the experience fresh with each visit. As part of the museum’s dynamic program, you can join engaging workshops and exhibitions annually.

Don’t miss the chance to join immersive artist workshops at The Studio, where local creatives share their expertise through hands-on sessions. The Imaginarium offers engaging craft activities and creative play spaces if you’re visiting with kids. For a musical twist to your cultural journey, stroll through Bee Gees Way, where statues, photographs, and an evening light show celebrate the famous band’s connection to Redcliffe. The vibrant community exhibits throughout these venues showcase the Peninsula’s dynamic artistic spirit and rich cultural heritage.

Shop at Seaside Markets

After soaking in Redcliffe’s cultural offerings, you’ll want to head down to the bustling seaside markets along Redcliffe Parade, where local life truly comes alive every Sunday. Timing your visit is simple—arrive between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. from March to November, or beat the heat from December to February with earlier hours of 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

You’ll find everything from farm-fresh produce to vintage collectables along the waterfront strip. Local artisans regularly host craft demonstrations, while trawler-direct seafood and fresh-baked bread tempt your taste buds. Don’t miss the specialty stalls featuring handmade wares, unique clothing, and artisan goods you won’t find anywhere else. Visitors can indulge their senses with handmade scented candles while browsing the diverse stalls.

The market’s atmosphere is quintessentially Redcliffe – bring your four-legged friend, grab a coffee from a nearby café, and enjoy live music while you browse. The road closes to traffic during market hours, creating a relaxed, pedestrian-friendly environment where you can shop at your own pace. With free parking and easy access to the beach and Settlement Cove Lagoon, you can quickly turn your market visit into a full day of coastal exploration.

Explore Historical Landmarks

You’ll find a unique perspective of Redcliffe’s heritage by taking an evening stroll along the 1995-built Redcliffe Jetty, where the lights create a magical atmosphere against Moreton Bay’s waters. For history buffs, the First Settlement Walking Tour lets you trace the footsteps of Queensland’s earliest European settlement while learning about the region’s rich past. Don’t miss the chance to snap photos of the historic landmarks along the way, including the Ambassador Hotel site where the old convict barracks once stood in 1824. The area’s transformation into a vibrant coastal community began when it became an agricultural reserve in the 1860s.

Redcliffe Jetty After Dark

The historic Redcliffe Jetty transforms into an alluring evening destination when darkness falls. You’ll find local anglers casting their lines into the moonlit waters, with bait readily available from shops along Redcliffe Parade. During whale season, you can book nighttime whale-watching tours to get a unique perspective of these majestic creatures.

The heritage lighting system bathes the Jetty in a warm glow, creating the perfect ambience for an evening stroll. While walking, you’ll notice historical panels that tell the story of the Jetty’s evolution since 1885, including its role in the Bee Gees’ early years when they visited the Penny Arcade in 1938. The decorative concrete railway tracks embedded in the deck serve as a reminder of how cargo was once transported between the jetty head and the main street.

After your jetty exploration, you can retreat to the nearby cafes and restaurants along Redcliffe Parade, where plenty of locals share stories of the Peninsula’s rich history over dinner and coffee.

First Settlement Walking Tour

The rich history of Redcliffe Peninsula comes alive through the First Settlement Walking Tour, starting at the picturesque Captain Cook Park. Led by knowledgeable Redcliffe Museum volunteers, this one-hour journey traces the footsteps of early European settlers who first arrived in September 1824.

You’ll explore sites of profound historical significance, including the First Settlement Memorial Wall, where John Oxley established the region’s first penal settlement. The tour takes you past the iconic Redcliffe Jetty, built in 1885, and reveals hidden gems like the convict-built well and air raid shelter. There’s exceptional educational value as you learn about the SS Koopa’s role in local tourism and view the remains of the historical weir on Humpybong Creek. The fascinating history of maritime tourism is highlighted through the Koopa Deck’s operations from 1911 to 1953.

The tour concludes at the Redcliffe Museum, where you can immerse more deeply into the Peninsula’s rich heritage through carefully preserved artifacts and exhibits. Best of all, it’s free with your museum admission. You’ll want to book ahead by calling (07) 3883 1898, as this insider’s look at Redcliffe’s founding story often fills up quickly with history enthusiasts and curious locals alike.

Watch Marine Life

You’ll find some of Australia’s best Whale watching right from Redcliffe’s Jetty, where daily tours from June to November get you up close to humpback whales, including mothers and calves in Moreton Bay. The bay’s calm waters are perfect for spotting playful dolphins year-round, and you might even catch sight of dugongs and sea turtles during your cruise. Tours depart on the high-speed luxury vessel Eye Spy, offering premium viewing opportunities. When you’re not watching whales breach and play, you can hop aboard one of the regular bay cruises that operate throughout the year, giving you a different perspective of the Peninsula’s stunning coastline.

Whale Watching Tours Daily

During Queensland’s whale migration season from June to November, spectacular whale-watching tours depart daily from Redcliffe Jetty aboard the luxury vessel ‘Eye Spy’. You’ll spend five and a half hours exploring Moreton Bay Marine Park, where humpback whales follow their ancestral migration paths. The tour’s experienced crew provides extensive commentary. At the same time, you observe these magnificent creatures breaching, blowing, and playing in their natural habitat. The vessel is proudly owned and operated by Captain Kerry Lopez, who is recognised as the only female captain on the South Pacific rim.

Want to make the most of your whale-watching experience? Here's what you should know:

Arrive at 9:00 am for boarding, as the vessel departs promptly at 10:00 am.
Keep your camera ready for other marine life, including turtles, rays, and tropical fish.
Support sustainability initiatives by choosing this eco-accredited operator that contributes to whale research.
Ask about volunteer opportunities to assist with data collection on whale behaviour.

The vessel is wheelchair accessible and has a licensed bar and snack counter for comfort. With Brisbane CBD transfer packages available, you’ll return to Redcliffe Jetty at 2:30 pm. The tour operates within the Marine Park’s protective zoning plan, ensuring responsible wildlife viewing practices.

Dolphins in Moreton Bay

Beyond seasonal whale migrations, Moreton Bay’s crystal waters offer year-round encounters with two remarkable dolphin species – the Australian humpback dolphin and the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin. You’ll find these intelligent marine mammals swimming throughout the bay’s diverse ecosystem, from shallow seagrass beds to mangrove-lined shores.

For an unforgettable experience, head to Tangalooma Resort, where you can participate in supervised dolphin-feeding interactions at sunset. Before you meet these curious creatures, you’ll learn about their ecology and behaviour through the “Discover the World of Dolphins” presentation. The resort offers daily tours of Brisbane, making it easily accessible to visitors. If you prefer a more natural setting, the Jetty provides excellent vantage points to observe dolphins in their element.

Local conservation efforts are making a real difference in monitoring dolphin populations, with researchers actively studying these vulnerable species through the Moreton Bay Dolphin Research Project. The bay’s marine park zoning helps protect critical habitats, ensuring future generations can enjoy these magnificent animals. Whether watching from shore or joining a guided tour, you contribute to a community that values and preserves its marine heritage.

Bay Cruises Year Round

While Whale watching draws the biggest crowds during migration season, Moreton Bay’s year-round cruises offer spectacular marine encounters that locals consider the Peninsula’s best-kept secret. From June to November, you’ll catch the majestic humpback whales as they rest, bond, and nurse their young in the pristine waters. Brisbane Whale Watching and Tangalooma Island Resort offers daily cruise schedules during whale-watching season, with guaranteed sightings under specific conditions.

The sparkling bay waters make for the perfect backdrop for your marine adventure. You’ll find marine adventures aboard eco-accredited vessels departing from Redcliffe Jetty or Pinkenba. What makes these cruises unique isn’t just the whales – the rich diversity of marine life you’ll encounter. Here’s what the locals know about making the most of your bay cruise:

Book mid-week for smaller crowds and more personal wildlife encounters
Keep your camera ready for dolphins, turtles, and seabirds year-round
Try the morning cruises when the bay waters are typically calmer
Pack light, but bring a jacket - the bay breeze can be cool even on warm days

The cruise experience includes a delicious lunch, licensed bar service, and expert commentary from knowledgeable crew members who’ll share fascinating insights about the bay’s marine ecosystem.

Enjoy Beachfront Entertainment

The Redcliffe Peninsula comes alive with beachfront entertainment ranging from upscale dining to vibrant Sunday markets. You’ll find plenty of ways to indulge in beachfront dining, from gourmet coffee shops to fresh seafood restaurants like Morgans and Tempest. Grab a table at one of the al fresco eateries for the best views, or head to Sunny’s Margate Beach Rooftop Bar. Active visitors can enjoy a scenic ride along the Moreton Bay Cycleway while enjoying the stunning coastal views.

When you’re ready to participate in water sports, the calm waters of Moreton Bay are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. Take a dip in the wheelchair-accessible Settlement Cove Lagoon, or try your luck fishing off the historic Redcliffe Jetty.

Don’t miss the Sunday Redcliffe Farmers & Artisan Markets, where you can sample fresh local produce and handmade crafts. For evening entertainment, stroll through Bee Gees Way to catch the musical light show or watch the sunset from Woody Point Jetty. Pack a picnic and use the free beachside BBQ areas, or join the community celebrations during festivals like Australia Day, with local music and fireworks displays.

Follow Scenic Walking Trails

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a casual explorer, Redcliffe Peninsula’s network of scenic walking trails offers something for everyone. The foreshore boasts three interconnected trails where you’ll learn about indigenous history and modern culture through art installations, historical sites, and informative plaques along the waterfront.

You’ll discover diverse landscapes and local wildlife when you visit nature reserves and coastal paths in the region. The Cottonwood Walk at Deception Bay combines heritage elements with natural beauty. At the same time, Bribie Island’s Bongaree Walkabout lets you explore coastal landmarks leisurely. Take ocean views as you pass sixteen prominent landmarks along the Bongaree coastal route.

Here's what makes these trails unique:

They're family-friendly with plenty of amenities - from BBQ facilities to playgrounds and fitness stations
You can combine multiple trails for longer adventures, especially during the annual Jetty 2 Jetty event
Most paths are shared and relatively flat, making them accessible for all fitness levels
Each trail tells unique stories about the region's heritage through interpretive signs and preserved landmarks

For additional variety, venture to nearby Lake Samsonvale, Centenary Lakes, or Godwin Beach Environmental Reserve, where you’ll find peaceful walking tracks through diverse ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Redcliffe Peninsula?

The best time to visit is during winter (June to August) when ideal weather conditions offer comfortable temperatures in the low 20s with clear skies. You can enjoy outdoor activities without summer’s intense heat or afternoon storms. Plus, you’ll catch seasonal events like Whale watching from June to November. If you’re budget-conscious, consider visiting in autumn (March to May) when there are fewer crowds and better accommodation rates.

Are There Any Pet-Friendly Beaches on the Redcliffe Peninsula?

You’ll find plenty of pet-friendly facilities on the Redcliffe Peninsula! Queens Beach is your go-to spot for off-leash fun before 8 am and after 4 pm. For dog walking areas, you can explore the beaches between Houghton Highway and Woody Point Jetty with your leashed pup. Don’t miss Kroll Gardens in Clontarf – a fenced dog park with an obstacle course. You’ve also got Scarborough Beach and Suttons Beach’s boardwalks for leashed walks.

How Far Is Redcliffe Peninsula From Brisbane Airport?

You’ll find Redcliffe Peninsula just 19 miles (31km) from Brisbane Airport. The driving time from Brisbane Airport typically takes 30-35 minutes along the highway. However, you’ll want to allow up to 45 minutes during peak hours. If you’re looking at public transportation options to Redcliffe Peninsula, you’ve got choices – trains, buses, or taxis are available. But here’s a local tip: a car transfer service is often your most convenient option.

Where Can I Find Free Parking Near Redcliffe Markets?

There are plenty of free parking locations around Redcliffe Markets, with over 600 bays at the north end. You can easily park along Redcliffe Parade or the surrounding streets without paying a cent. If you’re heading to the markets, you’ll want to park in the designated visitor areas – just remember not to park within the market area itself. There’s plenty of waterfront parking nearby, too.

Which Restaurants Offer the Best Seafood Dining on the Peninsula?

You’ll find the freshest seafood options at Morgans Seafood in Scarborough Boat Harbour, where you can watch the trawlers come in with their daily catch. For waterfront dining experiences, head to Seafood Town at Woody Point – you’ll get stunning Moreton Bay views while enjoying local Queensland seafood. Don’t miss The Komo’s seafood Seacuterie platter if you’re after something special, or try Si Baby’s Italian-inspired seafood dishes at Newport.