Where to Stay in Redcliffe: Best Areas & Suburbs

Open-plan living room with coastal palm cushions opening onto the modern kitchen at Redcliffe Seaside Villa Escape in Scarborough

Choosing where to stay in Redcliffe comes down to two things: which part of the peninsula suits your trip, and what kind of accommodation matches your group. This guide walks you through both so you can settle in and enjoy Moreton Bay.

Where is Redcliffe and what makes it a great base?

Redcliffe is a seaside peninsula on the northern edge of Moreton Bay, about 40 minutes from Brisbane. It packs calm bay beaches, a waterfront esplanade, marinas and a relaxed cafe scene into a compact area.

Because everything sits close together, the suburb you pick changes the feel of your stay more than your travel times. Below is a quick tour of the main areas.

Why choose Scarborough at the northern end?

Scarborough sits at the quiet northern tip of the peninsula and is a favourite for families and groups who want calm over crowds. You get sheltered beaches, a working harbour and marina, grassy foreshore reserves and easy parking.

It is close to Newport Marina and just a few minutes from the main Redcliffe beaches, so you are never far from the action while still enjoying a peaceful base. This is where a whole-home stay shines.

What about central Redcliffe and Margate?

Central Redcliffe and neighbouring Margate are the busy heart of the peninsula. This is where you will find the historic jetty, weekend markets, the lagoon, plus the widest choice of cafes, restaurants and shops.

If you want to walk out the door and into the buzz, this central strip puts you close to most of the dining and events.

Are Woody Point and Clontarf worth considering?

Woody Point and Clontarf sit at the southern end, closest to the Brisbane side and the Hornibrook crossing. The area is known for its historic jetty, fishing spots and quieter waterfront streets.

It suits travellers who like a laid-back, local feel and want a slightly shorter run back towards the city.

Which type of stay is best: whole home, hotel or caravan park?

Redcliffe offers a few accommodation styles, and the right one depends on your group:

  • Whole-home holiday rentals: the most space and privacy, with a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms and living areas. Ideal for families, groups, corporate travellers and pet owners.
  • Hotels and motels: handy for a quick overnight or solo trip, though space and self-catering are limited.
  • Caravan parks: budget-friendly and social, but with shared facilities and less privacy.

For longer stays or larger groups, a whole home often works out better value once you factor in cooking your own meals and sharing the cost across everyone.

Why does a whole home suit families and groups best?

A whole home gives everyone room to spread out, a kitchen for easy meals, and the privacy of your own space rather than hotel corridors. Self check-in adds flexibility around late arrivals and long drives.

Pet owners benefit too, since pet-friendly homes let the whole family travel together. A four-bedroom home in Scarborough that sleeps up to eight, minutes from the beach and marina, ticks all of these boxes.

The easy pick: a whole home in Scarborough

If you want the easy version of all this, Redcliffe Seaside Villa Escape is a luxury four-bedroom, pet-friendly holiday home in Scarborough that sleeps up to eight, five minutes from the beach and Newport Marina. It is the whole-home option this guide describes, with room for families, groups and the dog. See the accommodation or check availability and book direct.

What is the best area to stay in Redcliffe?

Scarborough suits those wanting calm beaches and a marina at the quiet northern end, while central Redcliffe and Margate are best for cafes, markets and the jetty.

Is Redcliffe a good base for visiting Brisbane?

Yes. Redcliffe is around 40 minutes from Brisbane, so you can enjoy a relaxed bayside stay while keeping the city within easy reach.

Is Scarborough good for families?

Very. Scarborough has sheltered beaches, foreshore parks, a harbour and marina, and a calm, family-friendly feel away from the busier central strip.

Are there pet-friendly places to stay in Redcliffe?

Yes. Pet-friendly whole-home rentals let you bring your dog along, which is often easier than finding pet-friendly hotels or motels.

Is a holiday home better value than a hotel in Redcliffe?

For families and groups, often yes. A whole home with a kitchen and multiple bedrooms spreads the cost across everyone and saves on dining out.

Book Your Scarborough EscapeSettle into a spacious, pet-friendly whole home in Scarborough, just minutes from Redcliffe’s beaches and marina. Check availability