Brisbane’s beaches mix golden sands, turquoise waters, and island escapes just waiting to be explored.
Beaches in Brisbane may not be as well-known as those on the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast, but they have their own special charm. You can find man-made lagoons right in the city and sandy stretches just a short drive away. Beaches of Brisbane are great for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a quick escape. Some spots are lively and full of energy, while others are calm and peaceful. No matter your style, Brisbane offers a refreshing beach experience close to the city.
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When to Visit Brisbane’s Beaches
Brisbane enjoys a warm, subtropical climate, which means beach weather lasts almost all year. Summer, from December to February, is hot and humid. This is the best time for swimming, but afternoon storms are common. Autumn, from March to May, brings cooler days and fewer crowds, making it perfect for a relaxed beach trip. Winter, from June to August, is mild and sunny, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F). Many locals still enjoy the beach during this season. Spring, from September to November, is warm and pleasant, often considered the best time to visit.
Why Visit Brisbane’s Beaches
Brisbane’s beaches offer the perfect balance of city convenience and coastal beauty. You can enjoy sandy shores without traveling far, making them ideal for day trips or quick getaways. Families love the safe swimming spots, while adventurers can try kayaking, surfing, or paddleboarding. The beaches also come with great picnic areas, walking trails, and nearby cafés, so you can make a full day of it. Whether you’re looking for fun, relaxation, or a scenic escape, Brisbane’s beaches have something for everyone.
The 10 Most Beautiful Beaches of Brisbane
Brisbane is a vibrant city with easy access to some of Queensland’s most beautiful beaches. From the golden sands of Moreton Island to the family-friendly shores of Redcliffe, each beach offers something special. Some spots are perfect for surfing and adventure, while others invite you to swim, paddle, or enjoy a quiet picnic by the sea. Moreover, Brisbane’s beaches mix natural beauty with a laid-back atmosphere, making them ideal for both locals and travelers. Whether you want a quick escape from the city or a weekend of island exploration, the beaches of Brisbane promise sun, sand, and unforgettable memories.
Streets Beach
Streets Beach is Brisbane’s most unique swimming spot—and it sits right in the heart of South Bank. In fact, this man-made lagoon feels like a tropical getaway even though it’s surrounded by the city skyline. Families love the shallow swimming areas, while couples and friends often relax on the sand or grab food from nearby cafés. Moreover, the palm trees, soft sand, and sparkling water make it a favorite for both locals and visitors. As a result, Streets Beach blends urban energy with laid-back coastal charm.
Where to Stay: Emporium Hotel South Bank (Rated 9.2, Superb) – A luxury Brisbane stay just steps from Streets Beach, featuring river views, a rooftop infinity pool, and elegant modern suites.
Bribie Island
Bribie Island is a true coastal escape, located only a short drive north of Brisbane. On one side, calm waters along Pumicestone Passage are perfect for swimming and kayaking. On the other side, Woorim Beach offers surf and wide sandy stretches. In addition, Bribie is home to national parks, walking trails, and plenty of wildlife, including dolphins and turtles. Because of this variety, the island is a top choice for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a slower pace.
Where to Stay: On The Beach Resort Bribie Island (Rated 9.1, Wonderful) – A beachfront property at Woorim offering spacious apartments with private balconies and stunning sea views.
Suttons Beach (Redcliffe)
Suttons Beach is one of the most family-friendly beaches near Brisbane. Its calm waters and wide sandy shore create the perfect setting for safe swimming. In addition, the waterfront is lined with picnic areas, walking paths, and playgrounds. This makes it a popular spot for locals who want a relaxed beach day close to home. Furthermore, visitors enjoy the easygoing vibe and the classic Queensland atmosphere without the big crowds.
Where to Stay: Marine 807 (Rated 9.4, Exceptional) – A stylish Redcliffe apartment with a perfect location on Marine Parade. Enjoy modern comfort, sea views, and easy access to the beach.
Cylinder Beach (North Stradbroke Island)
Cylinder Beach is one of the most popular spots on North Stradbroke Island, and for good reason. Its gentle surf makes it a safe choice for families. Surfers also enjoy the consistent waves further out. In addition, lifeguard patrols and shaded picnic areas add to its appeal. The golden sand and turquoise water create a postcard-perfect setting. Moreover, it’s a short walk from shops and cafés, which means you can spend a full day here with ease.
Where to Stay: Samarinda Jewel by the Sea (Rated 9.1, Superb) – Spacious beachfront apartments overlooking Cylinder Beach, offering private balconies, modern amenities, and stunning ocean views.
Main Beach (North Stradbroke Island)
Main Beach stretches for more than 30 kilometers. It is one of the longest and most dramatic coastlines in Queensland. This beach is a favorite for surfers, anglers, and campers who love its rugged beauty. Moreover, it provides plenty of space to find a quiet spot, even on busy days. On weekends, it’s a lively gathering place, but during the week it often feels like your own private paradise. Because of its vastness, Main Beach is perfect for those who want adventure and solitude all in one.
Where to Stay: Samarinda Jewel by the Sea (Rated 9.1, Superb) – Spacious beachfront apartments overlooking Cylinder Beach, offering private balconies, modern amenities, and stunning ocean views.
Bulwer Beach (Moreton Island)
Bulwer Beach is a hidden gem on Moreton Island, known for its calm, crystal-clear waters. Families love the shallow entry. Snorkelers also enjoy spotting fish and marine life close to shore. In addition, the beach has a laid-back village feel, with small cafés and holiday homes nearby. Sunset here is especially beautiful, as the sky glows over the bay. Furthermore, the relaxed vibe makes Bulwer Beach a peaceful escape compared to Brisbane’s busier mainland spots.
Where to Stay: Kiarabilli (Rated 9.5, Exceptional) – A coastal Bulwer retreat with a prime spot on Moreton Island. Offering modern comfort, sea views, and a peaceful beachside escape.
Woorim Beach (Bribie Island)
Woorim Beach is the only surf beach on Bribie Island. It’s a favorite for both locals and day-trippers. The wide sandy shore is perfect for swimming, beach walks, and fishing. In addition, the town of Woorim has cafés, shops, and picnic spots right by the water. Families enjoy the safe patrolled areas. Surfers also catch waves further down the beach. As a result, Woorim offers a great mix of fun, convenience, and natural beauty.
Where to Stay: On The Beach Resort Bribie Island (Rated 9.1, Wonderful) – A beachfront property at Woorim offering spacious apartments with private balconies and stunning sea views.
South Gorge Beach (North Stradbroke Island)
South Gorge Beach is a sheltered cove tucked between rocky headlands at Point Lookout. Its dramatic cliffs make it one of the most photogenic beaches on Stradbroke Island. While the waves can be strong, the smaller size of the cove gives it an intimate feel. Moreover, it’s a short walk from the famous North Gorge Walk. Visitors can easily combine hiking with a beach stop. Because of its beauty and location, South Gorge is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.
Where to Stay: Samarinda Jewel by the Sea (Rated 9.1, Superb) – Spacious beachfront apartments overlooking Cylinder Beach, offering private balconies, modern amenities, and stunning ocean views.
Amity Point (North Stradbroke Island)
Amity Point is a relaxed, family-friendly destination. The calm waters and excellent fishing make it popular with both locals and visitors. Dolphins often swim close to shore, delighting children and adults alike. In addition, the sunsets here are some of the best on the island. The atmosphere is peaceful, with holiday houses and small cafés nearby. Furthermore, the safe swimming areas make it a top choice for those traveling with kids.
Where to Stay: Dolphins at Sunset (Rated 10, Exceptional) – A charming Amity Point retreat with modern comfort and sea views. In addition, it offers a peaceful setting to enjoy Queensland’s famous sunsets.
Tangalooma Beach (Moreton Island)
Tangalooma Beach is famous for its daily wild dolphin feeding. The beach itself is pristine, with soft white sand and calm turquoise water. Visitors can enjoy swimming and relaxing in a postcard-perfect setting. In addition, Tangalooma is known for snorkeling, ATV tours, and kayaking over shipwrecks just offshore. Because of its variety of activities, it is one of the most exciting beaches near Brisbane. Moreover, it is the best choice for travelers who want both adventure and relaxation in one place.
Where to Stay: Paradise Palms Tangalooma (Rated 9.5, Exceptional) – A coastal villa with modern comfort, sea views, and a prime location near Tangalooma’s beaches and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there swimmable beaches in Brisbane?
Yes! While Brisbane doesn’t have traditional surf beaches in the city, you can swim safely at Streets Beach in South Bank. For natural ocean beaches, nearby spots like Suttons Beach, Bribie Island, and North Stradbroke Island are excellent choices.
What is the best beach near Brisbane for families?
Suttons Beach and Woorim Beach are both popular with families thanks to their calm waters, patrolled swimming areas, and easy access to facilities.
How far are Brisbane’s beaches from the city center?
Streets Beach is right in the CBD at South Bank. Other beaches, like Bribie Island or Redcliffe, are within a one-hour drive, while North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Island require a short ferry ride.
Which Brisbane beach is best for surfing?
Woorim Beach on Bribie Island and Main Beach on North Stradbroke Island are top spots for catching waves. Both offer consistent surf conditions and are patrolled for safety.
Do Brisbane beaches have amenities?
Yes. Many beaches have nearby cafés, picnic areas, restrooms, and walking tracks. Some, like Tangalooma Beach, also offer resort-style amenities with activities and tours.
Sun, Sand, and City Vibes
Brisbane’s beaches prove you don’t have to travel far for a day by the water. From the man-made lagoon at South Bank to the surf breaks of Bribie and the wild beauty of Stradbroke and Moreton Islands, there’s a beach for every style of traveler. Whether you’re chasing adventure, family fun, or simple relaxation, Brisbane offers the perfect blend of city convenience and coastal escape.
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This was a source of excellent information. I am picking out some places to visit right now. Thank you for the great information.
You are very welcome Joe 🙂 I am glad I could help. Brisbane beaches are beautiful for sure!
I think you just helped me plan my next vacation! These beaches are all so gorgeous! Australia has always been on my travel list, now I know where top visit. Tallow beach here I come!
Oh you will love Brisbane beaches. All beautiful and Tallow beach, especially beautiful. Let me know if you need any help planning, as I would be more than happy to help 🙂 Thanks for visiting Brisbane Beaches!
Wow, I love the beach! It is the best place for outdoor activities and staying active. I am very interested in diving here. Looks like it would be amazing. The blue of the ocean, the sound of the waves, all so peaceful and relaxing! I actually have an opportunity to go to Brisbane, so I am going to bookmark this site and make sure I head to some of the beaches you have listed. Thanks for the great information!
Hi Hussien, Thanks for reading about Brisbane Beaches. You will love it when you visit. If you need any additional information for your stay, please let me know. I can get you a good deal on hotel and airfare.
Thanks for writing this post about Brisbane beaches. It is interesting to see all those beautiful beaches, and I did not realize there were so many! I am hoping to make it to Australia this next year, and you’ve made it easy for me to decide which beaches I must go to while there. This is a very informative round up, thanks!
You’re welcome Rob! I am glad you enjoyed learning about all the wonderful Brisbane beaches. If you have any additional questions, or need help with your planning, please let me know.
I love beaches, and I love this site! I have always wanted to go to Australia, and was looking to go to Sydney. After doing some research, and coming across your site, I see that Brisbane is a great choice for me! I love that it has so many great beaches to choose from! I am loving Street Beach. That looks like a lot of fun. Being the sun worshipper I am, I think that I will love Brisbane! Thanks for the great information on Brisbane and all the wonderful beaches it has to offer!
Hi Ivan, I am so glad you enjoyed reading about Brisbane Beaches. Thank you for taking the time to leave me some comments. Yes, it is really a sun worshippers paradise in Australia for sure. There is a beach for everyone, and I know that you will love vacationing here. Please let me know if you need any help planning your vacation.
Hi Leahrae, I just read your post about Brisbane beaches! What to say, you really covered it all when it comes to what Brissie has to offer, my personal favourites while driving down the Australian east coast were Noosa and Surfers paradise. Unfortunatelly I didn’t had the time to visit every single one you have mentioned here on your post because of a tight traveling schedule. When it comes to Noosa as city/town you would like to search up Noosa north shore, really a great spot also for camping! Come prepared with timing and camping gear because to reach it one has to take a small line-ferry that bridges you over to the north shore and it stops its service after a certain hour in the evening. Really a great post and well written, Brisbane is surelly a great spot when it comes to beaches. If I had more time than my two years stay in Australia, Brisbane would have defenitelly been another place in which I would have liked to live in instead of just stopping by it during my travel down the coast! Keep up the good work, you really have a great website going on there. Thanks for my reading, reminded me of those earlier Aussie years I have been living.
Thomas
Hi Thomas! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave me comments. Wow, you have enjoyed a lot of Australia! I am glad I could take you back to that time. Oh yes, I would love to go camping there. That would be an amazing experience to camp along the beach in Australia! Thanks for visiting the beautiful Brisbane Beaches.
Brisbane is a dream destination of mine! I would love to go there, but after seeing this post, it is definitely on my bucket list of places I must visit. I love beaches and warm weather, so what is not to like? Again Leahrae, thanks for all of the great information. You have done an excellent job on your website.
I have not been to Brisbane either, so it is on my bucket list as well. Well, Australia is on my bucket list. I want to go to a few different areas just to experience different parts of Australia. Don’t give up on your dreams> Make sure get to these wonderful beach destinations! Thanks for visiting Brisbane Beaches.
I love this post 🙂 I especially like Street Beach. I watched and the video, and WOW Brisbane looks pretty awesome. A bunch of friends are going to Brisbane, and I am thinking about going with them. After reading your post, and watching the video, I think this is the perfect vacation for all of us! Take me in …another part of the life, sun, sea, holiday, free time:) Thanks for sharing all this great information. You made my decision easy to go with them on this trip!
Cristina
Hi Cristina,
I think you will have a great time in Australia! Brisbane is pretty wonderful with all their great beaches. Please let me know if I can help with the planning. I know that I could save your group some money on hotel and airfare. I will send you an email 🙂
I have always wanted to visit Australia. My husband and I (and kids) are planning a visit there within the next 2 years as a friend of us is living in Melbourne now.
We have been putting it off since the flight for us is around 19 hours (with transfers). I can’t wait to see some of these amazing beaches.
I do not know Australia well so I am not sure how far Melbourne is from Brisbane? If it is far, do you have any recommendations on beaches near Melbourne?
It’s really too long of a drive to drive from Brisbane to Melbourne. I have included a link to the beaches on Melbourne. They have some really great beaches as well. Visit this link: https://beachtraveldestinations.com/melbourne-australia-beaches Thanks for reading!
The photos are tremendous and this site is top notch! I really do like the personal tidbits on the beaches. It’s not robotic and adds a bit of romance to each setting. This whole post makes me want to hop on a plane and take blogging to a different continent!
I’m so glad! Thanks for reading!!
What’s with all these foreign beaches looking way better than the Jersey beaches? Hahaha, I rather be in those places rather than Jersey in general anyway, not just for the beaches. But that’s a great selection you have here. Definitely going to be on my list of places to visit when I do my world travel.
Great! Yes, much better than Jersey for sure, thanks for reading!
So many amazing photos of those beaches and you did a really thorough job of writing up a summary all of the different ones. Australia sure looks like a beautiful place to visit, but I’m not sure I could handle that long flight from the states. But I love taking beach vacations, so that’s something I may just have to look into.
It’s well worth it Mike! Thanks for reading!
I must say I’m blown away by the quality of this website! I love the layout and the text wrap.
As for stuff you can improve, the menu at the bottom with flights is quite small, I would make it larger or maybe put some text/images around it to make it more appealing. As well, I have a huge screen and your site cuts off about an inch and a half on either side, making it seem slightly amateur.
Overall though, mind=blown! Keep up the great work!
Great! I am working on improvements and I definitely do now want my website to see amateurish. Thank you for the tips!
Do you live in Austrlia? It seems like you know SO much about these beaches. Have you been to all of them? The streets beach seems like the neatest thing that I’ve ever heard of. I can only imagine a beach cutting through the middle of a city. What a wild thing! If you were to pick one beach out of all of these to visit, which one woudl you choose???
I would definitely go for Street Beach for the experience. So much atmosphere and so much fun! Thanks for reading!