Brisbane has plenty to see and do to quench your thirst for adventure. Explore our subtropical city from the mountains to the sea, including lookouts, nature reserves and picturesque bayside.
Lookouts
Get the best views of Brisbane from some of the best lookouts around the city. Visit the Mt Coot-tha Lookout - the highest point in Brisbane - for remarkable views of the city and Moreton Bay. You can hike up to the summit with several walking tracks and mountain bike trails leading to this location.
On a clear day, get a glimpse of the Moreton Bay islands, D'Aguilar Ranges and the Glasshouse Mountains from Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve.
Climb the Kangaroo Point Cliffs or take the staircase to see the Brisbane CBD, or visit Wilson Outlook Reserve in New Farm for spectacular views of the Story Bridge.
Exploring nature
Immerse yourself in nature and explore Brisbane's bushland reserves, including Anstead Bushland Reserve, Brisbane Koala Bushlands at Burbank, Toohey Forest Park at Nathan, or Tinchi Tamba Wetlands in the north.
Visit Council's 3 environment centres at Boondall Wetlands, Downfall Creek and Karawatha Forest Discovery Centre for a unique opportunity to learn about our incredible native flora and fauna in Australia's most biodiverse city. There are free and low-cost events and activities throughout the year, including guided walks, bush kindy and nature journaling.
Bayside
Take a walk along the sand at Manly before cooling off at the Wynnum Wading Pool. This heritage-listed, tidal pool has spectacular views of the bay.
Learn more about the history of the area through Council's Wander Through Wynnum Heritage Trail. This trail takes walkers on a journey through time to explore the emergence of Wynnum as one of Brisbane's premier holiday destinations.
Further north, visit the Shorncliffe and Sandgate seaside, including Sandgate Foreshores Park featuring Baxter's Jetty and boat ramp, Shorncliffe Pier and Lover's Walk picnic area.
Looking for more action? Have fun paddling in the water with one of Council's water-based activities including kayaking and stand up paddle boarding.
More ideas to seek adventure
For more inspiration, read our other Brisbetter Explore articles or Things to do blogs. For on-the-go inspiration, download the Brisbane app.
**This article was updated in February 2024.**