Sandgate | Explore Brisbane's bayside beach

With a stunning esplanade to explore, seafood dining and a sandy beach, it’s time to put aside a weekend and head to the historic bayside suburb of Sandgate. Just a 25-minute drive from the Brisbane Central Business District (CBD), there’s plenty of fun things to do along this bayside stretch.

Fun, family-friendly activities

Shorncliffe to Sandgate bayside walk

The Sandgate to Shorncliffe bayside walk is fantastic, with plenty to see along the way. The Shorncliffe stretch of this coastal stroll is around 2.5 kilometres long and through Sandgate is just a few more. You can start the walk at any point along Flinders Parade and stop whenever you see the perfect breakfast spot.

For keen walkers, continue through to Brighton. There’s a lovely picnic spot just before the Hornibrook Bridge, and plenty of cafes and water stations for both you and your furry friends.

Kitesurfing, windsurfing or stand-up paddleboarding

Whether it's adventure you’re craving or something a little more zen, Sandgate has it all. When the wind picks up, there’s nowhere better for windsurfing or kitesurfing. If you want to give it a go, Surf Connect Wind and Kitesurfing School is located right on the water at Sandgate Beach for gear hire and lessons. It’s at 170 Flinders Parade, open from 11am-5pm Tuesday to Friday, and from 9am on weekends.

Tee off at Sandgate Golf Club

If you’re looking for a picturesque game of golf at affordable prices, Sandgate Golf Club is the course for you. Established in 1921, this hidden-away course is home to one of Brisbane’s oldest community golf clubs. The course is surrounded by the waterways of Cabbage Tree Creek and Moreton Bay.

The club is open to everyone, Sunday to Friday and after 3pm on Saturdays. The course is just 16 kilometres from the CBD and a few hundred metres from Shorncliffe station.

Beachcomb the mudflats

At low tide, the mudflats off the foreshore are an awesome place to go exploring. Teeming with wildlife, including birds and soldier crabs, it’s a great way to entertain the kids. Just make sure you bring a towel and a change of clothes for the car ride home – especially for the little ones!

Splash and swim at Sandgate

On the Sandgate Foreshore, the much-loved Sandgate Aquatic Centre has lap pools (of course), a wading pool, play gear, slides, a diving board, a heated pool and a gym with yoga and Pilates rooms. See here for opening hours.

For a swim in the sea, take a dip at high tide at the Brighton end of Flinders Parade, near Decker Park. While it’s just a small section of beach, it’s enough to cool off or have fun making sandcastles. Moora Park, at the base of the Shorncliffe cliffs, also has calm waters and a sandy beach, perfect for a paddle.

Chill out in Brisbane's coastal surrounds

Sandgate Farmer's Market

Sandgate Farmer's Market is located just across the road from Sandgate Town Hall and in one of the village's gorgeous tree-lined streets. You’ll find an impressive variety of products, including fresh local veggies, crusty handmade sourdough and mouth-watering pastries from Crust & Co. Then there's the fresh local flowers, handmade cards, local honey, Woombye cheeses, handmade sauerkraut, dips, vinegar, boutique teas, spices and much more. The market runs on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Explore the op shop trail

From 192-200 Brighton Road, you’ll find some of Brisbane’s best op shopping. Home to an eclectic and surprising range, you’re sure to find a bargain! Parking is available on the street or across the road at the duck pond. Sandgate station is also just a 10-minute walk away.

Fish and chips

Sandgate just might have Brisbane’s best seafood restaurants. The family-friendly Doug's Seafood Cafe has plenty of covered outdoor seating, or you can pack a picnic blanket for alfresco dining along the esplanade. Sandgate Fishmonger is also a great option for those with dietary requirements, with a gluten-free menu – plus their crispy batter is a winner!

If you like your fish and chips with a view, you can’t go past the Full Moon Hotel. Situated right at the top of the bay on the Sandgate and Shorncliffe border, the deck has views over Bramble Bay and fresh ocean breeze. For those who aren’t keen on fish and chips, try local institution Il Forno Pizzeria for authentic wood-fired pizza on Third Avenue or Eclectea, the wine bar in Brighton, which is open from Thursday to Sunday. Eclectea also runs lots of mindfulness workshops and wreath-making workshops with free mimosas!

For a laid-back vibe, head to the Shorncliffe Yacht Club. Situated on the water, with a great menu, this stunning restaurant has a large grass area for kids to run around on. It’s also the starting point of the annual Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race.

Fishing from Shorncliffe Pier

Built in 1872, the Shorncliffe Pier is a stunning spot to try your hand at fishing. If you're new to fishing, Council regularly hosts fishing events and activities throughout Brisbane for different ages and abilities. Find free and low-cost Council fishing events.

With its bay views, the pier is a relaxing spot, and the surrounding Moora Park is popular for picnicking. There’s plenty of shaded grass, public barbecues and a massive playground for the kids.

More ideas for Brisbetter days out

There's so much to see and do in Brisbane. Check our other Brisbetter Days Out articles for more fabulous ideas.

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• Moreton Island camping - everything you need to know
• Mt Coot-tha Reserve - Beginner's guide to walking.

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