The best of Moreton Bay: fly, ferry, walk or bike
Where do we start with things to do in Moreton Bay/Redcliffe Peninsula?
Paradise in 300 words? Here we go:
In past posts, we’ve written at length about Moreton Island Scenic Helicopter Flights, a must if you want to get a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful corner of the world.
For 90 minutes fly like an eagle (in a helicopter) over Moreton and Stradbroke Islands to take in a unique and spectacular landscape, swooping over an array of oceanic wildlife, famous ship wrecks and Cape Moreton Lighthouse.
If you prefer to travel by boat, there is nothing better than a day trip to Moreton Island.
Get there on the Redcliffe2Moreton Express Newport Ferry that operates on Friday and Sunday.
The pedestrian (no vehicles) ferry departs from Newport Marina at 158 Griffith Rd, Scarborough, on Friday and Sunday at 10am (arrive around 9.30am to board).
It returns to Newport from Bulwar at about 5pm. *Note that it doesn’t go to Tangalooma Resort.
If you prefer to keep your feet on terra firma, walk (or cycle) along the Redcliffe Peninsula seaside walk from Scarborough to Redcliffe Jetty. It is a level walk that can take 30 minutes (by bike) to an hour each way. But be prepared to be distracted by cafes and local boutiques so give yourself plenty of time.
Take your swimmers because you might be tempted to dive into the calm ocean at Suttons Beach.
Fans of fishing could also drop a line at fishing hotspots such as Scarborough Marina, Redclliffe Jetty or Hornibrook Bridge.
Check out the tours and discover more local attractions at Experience Oz.
Book accommodation nearby at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for attending an event at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
Culcha* on the Redcliffe Peninsula: must-see local art
WHAT: Art galleries on Redcliffe Peninsula are brimming with awesome overly-talented artists producing fantastic local art.
It is absolutely incredible the way talented people in communities like ours come together to produce masterful works of art that are fit for the world stage.
Or maybe that’s not so unusual?
Often it is small towns and suburbs away from the intensity and anonymity of the big cities that inspire people to discover their innermost desire to produce astounding and outstanding works of art.
We are lucky enough to have three art galleries on the Redcliffe Peninsula (there’s probably more ‘culcha’ we haven’t managed to dig up in a brief search) that support such talent and introduce artists and their work to the general public.
Redcliffe City Art Gallery
470/476 Oxley Ave
The gallery holds group shows, awards and feature events that showcase the creative communities of Redcliffe Peninsula.
It also has hands-on workshops for budding artists, which is bound to coax even more talent into the spotlight.
There are exhibitions throughout the year.
March 23-June 18
Robert Brownhall Tales of the Peninsula
Showcases the work of one of Brisbane’s most acclaimed contemporary artists. Brownhall has documented the urban landscape for more than 20 years. His work shines a light on the ordinary to reveal the extraordinary.
Seaside Artists Gallery
Top floor, Comino’s Arcade, 133 Redcliffe Pde
Doug and Rosslyn Kennedy established the gallery in 2001 to showcase the work of their four artist children. The gallery now shows the work of more than 60 artists and craftspersons who work in a wide variety of mediums.
Old Redcliffe Fire Station Gallery
395 Oxley Ave
Home to the Redcliffe Art Society, this gallery opened its doors in 2015. It is so popular with artists that the exhibition space is booked out until 2019. Regular exhibitions are held, running for about four weeks.
*Also known as ‘culture’
Book accommodation nearby at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for attending an event at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
Our 72 hour itinerary: yes, that is three days of activities on the Redcliffe Peninsula
WOW. Where do we start with things to do in the ‘hood over a long weekend/mini break?
Day 1: How about Friday?
Wake up when you feel like it. Stretch limbs and consider hanging around resort-style facilities all day or venturing out to explore local area.
Decide to pursue the latter.
Head to Redcliffe from Scarborough Beach. It is a flat 40-minute walk along the Esplanade or a 12-minute bike ride – with the sea breeze against your skin and a view that is one-in-a-million. If the exercise is not an option or preference, go for a three-minute drive along Prince Edward Parade. Or catch the bus almost outside our front door.
Once there, an array of cafes and restaurants offer a variety of cuisines at reasonable prices. The vegetarian friendly Flock Eatery has gained a loyal following along with Bikini Beach Cafe and Cafe Diversity. But there are more than 50 eateries to choose from so take your time to find the one that suits you.
After brekky (or lunch) with the beautiful Moreton Bay always in view, take a stroll along Bee Gees Way, which is dedicated to the combined musical genius of the Brothers Gibb – Barry, Robin and Maurice.
The Gibb family emigrated from England to Australia, more specifically Redcliffe, in the late 1950s. The Bee Gees were responsible for hits such as Spicks and Specks, Lonely Days, You Should Be Dancing and Staying Alive. The pedestrian arcade resembles an open-air museum display that charts the brothers’ rise to fame and features statues and murals. It is free of charge and open 24 hours.
Day 2: Saturday
Wake up when you feel like it. Stretch limbs and consider hanging around resort-style facilities all day or venturing out to explore local area.
Decide to pursue the latter.
After a swim and workout in the gym (sure), have a go at a SUP (aka Stand Up Paddleboard) at Scarborough Beach.
The Floatin’ Fun team are professionals who work out of Scarborough Beach, almost opposite Scarborough Beach Resort. They hire SUPs, kayaks and boats that allow you to explore the usually calm waters of Moreton Bay. It is guaranteed to be fun for all the family, couples or groups of friends.
Afterwards, head to the Moreton Bay Boat Club for a late lunch (or book for dinner). The location is five-star, with views overlooking the marina. On Saturday, there is usually a lunch special. If you arrive later in the day, you might get lucky and witness a magnificent sunset.
Day 3: Sunday
Wake up when you feel like it. Stretch limbs and consider hanging around resort-style facilities all day or venturing out to explore local area.
Decide to pursue the latter.
A mini break wouldn’t be complete without a day cruise to Moreton Island, which has a marine park inhabited by dolphins and sea turtles. Usually morning tea and lunch are served, and snorkelling is an option.
It is the perfect way to end a perfect weekend without arriving at the end of Sunday with burn out because you’ve totally overdone it!
Book accommodation nearby at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for attending an event at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
Embrace life: dive into our pool, spa and gym
Bend and stretch, jump on a bike or glide into our pool and spa.
And let’s not forget the rooftop barbecue facilities with a sublime view of the ocean across Moreton Bay to a shimmering horizon.
At Scarborough Beach Resort we feel lucky to be able to offer our guests luxurious yet practical facilities.
On-site pool, spa and gym
Our pool is pretty cool. Situated outdoors, it is 23 metres in length – long enough to get in some laps – and because it is heated to an ideal 26 degrees you can use it in the cooler months.
If laps aren’t your thing, there’s the option to dip in and out before retiring to one of our sun chairs. As with our rooms, free unlimited WiFi extends to the area around the pool and spa. How convenient is that?
Our gym is equipped with bikes, walking/running machines, a rowing machine and multi station exercise equipment.
After a workout, it makes sense to take advantage of our undercover hydro-jet heated spa. This is not a teeny tiny spa, it is large enough to accommodate several adults (definition: a small group).
A sauna is also available and popular in the cooler months. It’s the perfect way to end the day, ironing out muscle and emotional stress.
Throw a sausage on the barbie
Our barbecue facilities have an undercover area with outdoor table and bench so there’s no excuse not to throw a sausage or three on the barbie.
We value security
We’re looking out for you. We provide well-lit secure undercover parking with secure lift access as well as an after-hours safe in reception.
Book accommodation at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for attending an event at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
Settlement Cove gets the thumbs up from families
WHERE IS IT? Settlement Cove is by the seaside, off Redcliffe Pde, Redcliffe
OPENING TIMES: All year round
COST: FREE
WHAT IS SETTLEMENT COVE?
For those not in the know, Settlement Cove is a fantastic day out for families with children of all ages.
It is a park, pools/lagoon and picnic and barbecue facility rolled into one.
Settlement Cove’s main attractions are the manmade lagoon and wading pools, which cater to all swimming levels.
The main lagoon has an islet in the middle and is rimmed by sandy bays. There are shallows, which are suitable for young children while older more experienced swimmers can venture out to the deeper areas.
During the summer months, life guards are on duty from 7am to 6pm.
KIDS’ WADING POOL
Tiny tots have their very own fenced-off pool that contains a mushroom fountain and squirting lizards.
FOR YOUR COMFORT
The palm-tree studded park gets the thumbs up from parents as there are shady areas and picnic shelters, along with barbecue facilities.
There are toilet and shower facilities on-site.
PLAYGROUND ALTERNATIVE
If water play isn’t an option, the children’s playground is another fab area for the little ones who will dig the sand play area and hang out on the swings and slides. With a renovation happening right now, the playground is set to improve with more fun play and learning equipment on the cards.
FEEDING THE FAMILY
If you don’t want to bring a picnic or DIY barbecue, a kiosk is also in the vicinity. And there’s always the huge range of takeaway shops and cafes on Redcliffe Pde.
According to those in the know, parking can be a bit tricky on sunny days so either plan to get there early or consider doing some research on parking spots nearby.
And another heads up – like car spaces picnic shelters are also in demand and people do arrive early to make sure they get one. As the old saying goes, the early bird gets the worm.
Book accommodation nearby at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for attending an event at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
Attention lap swimmers and human otters: Scarborough Beach Resort’s 23 m lap pool will help you find your zen
If you love to swim laps or, at the other extreme, your preference is to loll like an otter in a pond, our 23 m pool is da bomb!
Heated to a “just right” 26 degrees, our turquoise blue pool is simply divine.
Simply floating about in a pristine outdoor swimming pool has huge benefits for your well being.
If you like to dog paddle or breast stroke, it is a soul soothing remedy for stress.
If you are a lapster who thrives on driving up and down on a mission to become the next Michael Phelps (huge exaggeration but we are all allowed to dream) it is the perfect training ground.
If you’ve brought the kids along to SBR for a relaxing weekend, our pool provides a wonderful environment for fun and play – it’s the guilt free way to wear them out! They’re exercising, having fun, playing together and learning about water safety at the same time.
Amazing.
Located outdoors on level 1, our pool is surrounded by comfortable deck chairs while shade is readily available under a covered area equipped with a poolside barbecue.
You are able to keep an eye on the kids at play at all times.
It’s that beautiful time of year, the weather is warming up and summer is around the corner.
Stop for a moment. Float on your back. Breathe. Look up at the sky. Love life.
Book accommodation at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for a family holiday to Queensland, it’s just 35 minutes drive from Brisbane airport, offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more.BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
Freewheeling on Moreton Island: Tangalooma day tripping without a care in the world
Don’t you love it when you have a choice and aren’t restricted to the same activities as everyone else on an organised holiday or day trip?
When you alight from a luxury catamaran onto Moreton Island on the Self-Drive Tangalooma Day Trip Including Activities, you get full use of the Tangalooma Island Resort facilities plus a choice of three pre-paid activities from a selection of eight.
The activities list contains so many fun adventures, it’s hard to know what to pick or where to start.
Young families might might be interested in 1. banana boat and tube rides (15 minutes), 2. guided snorkelling at the Tangalooma wrecks (1.5 hours) and 3. beach bike hire (1 hour).
The kids will experience a slice of the action in a pristine natural environment and, afterwards, there should be time left over to do your own thing (like relax on the beach).
Those on a mission to fish are able to hire a fishing rod for the whole day and try their luck at hauling in flathead, whiting and bream.
Kayak, snorkel gear and westsuit hire for three hours gives you the chance for some independent adventuring into the heavenly blue waters around the wrecks off the resort.
There’s also stand-up paddle board hire (check out what all the fuss is about), beach segway instruction and a tour, and a fish feeding tour and sightseeing cruise.
Spoilt for choice!
Book accommodation at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for a family holiday to Queensland, it’s just 35 minutes drive from Brisbane airport, offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
Five things to do that don’t require a day on the road
It’s hard to come up with five definitive ‘must sees’ in South East Queensland because we are so spoilt for choice in the scope of attractions that range from natural wonders through to cultural and indigenous heritage.
To make things easier, we’ve narrowed down the drive time from Scarborough to five things that are “do-able” in a day.
We’ve gone off the beaten track for some while others are an easy cruise for a big day out.
1. Mt Tempest on Moreton Island National Park: Moreton Island is the ultimate ‘must see’ destination on our list. And if you want to make the most of your visit, the 2.5 kilometre hike to the island’s highest sand dune Mt Tempest is well worth it. On a clear day, the view from the top takes in 360-degree views of the island and the Glasshouse Mountains on the mainland. Less challenging hikes are available if the two-hour return trip appears daunting.
2. Coastal drive or bike ride from Scarbrough to Shorncliffe: You can drive or ride a bicycle along this scenic route that passes through local coastal villages on the Redcliffe Peninsula. Cross the Ted Smout Memorial Bridge – at 2.7 kilometres in length, it is claimed to be Australia’s longest bridge – and cruise through Sandgate with its heritage-listed houses. At Shorncliffe, check out Shorncliffe Pier (see photo), which reopened in 2016 after a full refurbishment.
3. Deception Bay: Walk the four-kilometre heritage trail along the boardwalk and over mudflats at Deception Bay. Look out for the heritage-listed sea baths, rare surviving examples of 19th century tidal baths built for health and recreational purposes by landowner Dr Joseph Bancroft, who is recognised as a founder of medical research in Australia.
4. D’Aguilar National Park: It takes less than an hour by car to get to the Walkabout Discovery Centre at D’Aguilar National Park. The cool mountain tops and forest flats are home to a huge variety of native plants and animals. There are plenty of options for getting around including bush walking, mountainbike riding and trail rides on horseback.
5. St Helena Island National Park: Visit the 166ha island, the location of the state’s first penal settlement from 1867-1932. Take a guided tour to get educated on the colourful history of the island and to gain access to the restricted area that includes the remains of fragile structures such as the butcher shop and bakery. Seek out the middens and shell scatters left behind by indegenous people who visited the island for thousands of years.
Book accommodation at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for a family holiday to Queensland, it’s just 35 minutes drive from Brisbane airport, offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
No more excuses: get back on track in our gym
Who doesn’t dread the end of winter when well-intended New Year’s resolutions have well and truly dissipated and there is no longer the option to hide under the doona (after reading a good book accompanied by a chocolate bar)?
But there is a solution to the ‘winter body’ woes!
It is called an on-site gym. We have one here at Scarborough Beach Resort – and it is equipped with everything you need to get back on track in the fitness game.
Treadmills, stationary bikes, a rowing machine and a multi-station gym give you a selection of workout options.
Floor-to-ceiling mirrors run the length of one wall so you can monitor and correct your form – they are not there to make you feel guilty about the chocolate!
If you are already there in terms of cultivating the body beautiful, the gym is a quiet place to maintain those defined abs and to enhance the six-eight pack.
The gym is handy if you’re staying with us for a conference and need that morning workout before heading to an early meeting. Or after a day spent sitting in a conference, it is a great way to re energise.
Book accommodation at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for a family holiday to Queensland, it’s just 35 minutes drive from Brisbane airport, offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW
Tick it off the bucket list: Moreton Island helicopter flight
It’s one of those amazing experiences we would all love to have, even if just once – to soar in a helicopter over some of the most stunning scenery that coastal Queensland has to offer.
We are privileged to have one of nature’s miracles, Moreton Island, just across the way from us. It’s one thing to travel there by ferry, which we highly recommend.
But imagine drinking in the whole vast expanse of this protected sand island from the vantage point of a helicopter?
Woo hoo! It’s goosebumps territory.
A Moreton Island Scenic Helicopter Flight is a “once in a lifetime” “let’s just do it” adventure.
The flight takes you from Brisbane, flying across an aquamarine ocean, to Moreton Island where you will have bird’s eye view of the many wrecks scattered along its coastline like ancient relics.
Have your camera at hand as you might be lucky enough to spot marine life such as whales, rays, dolphins and sharks.
The chopper will glide to low altitudes and head around the island’s lighthouse at Cape Moreton before returning to Brisbane along the sparkling coast fringed by beaches.
What are you waiting for?
Book accommodation nearby at Scarborough Beach Resort. Perfect for a family holiday to Queensland, it’s just 35 minutes drive from Brisbane airport, offering a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully-self contained holiday apartments and onsite facilities including swimming lap pool, large heated spa and more. BOOK YOUR SCARBOROUGH BRISBANE ACCOMMODATION NOW