Sandgate | Explore Brisbane's bayside beach
Experience Sandgate and surrounds, a fun and relaxing bayside escape close to the CBD. Enjoy foreshore walks, the sandy beach, water sports, seafood, golf, fishing and more.
With a stunning esplanade to explore, seafood dining and a sandy beach, it’s time to plan a weekend trip 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.
Family-friendly fun
Bayside walk from Shorncliffe to Sandgate
The Sandgate to Shorncliffe bayside walk is a wonderful experience, offering numerous sights along the route. The Shorncliffe section of this coastal path spans approximately 2.5 kilometres, with the Sandgate portion extending a bit further. You can begin your walk at any location along Flinders Parade and pause whenever you find the ideal breakfast venue.
For those who love walking, continue on to Brighton. Just before reaching the Hornibrook Bridge, you'll find a charming picnic area, along with numerous cafes and water stations for you and your four-legged companions.
Kitesurfing, windsurfing, or stand-up paddleboarding
Sandgate offers a variety of experiences for both thrill-seekers and those looking for tranquility. When the wind is strong, it’s the perfect spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Surf Connect Wind and Kitesurfing School is conveniently situated at Sandgate Beach, providing equipment rentals and lessons. You can find them at 170 Flinders Parade, with operating hours from 11am to 5pm Tuesday to Friday, and from 9am on weekends.
Tee off at Sandgate Golf Club
If you want a beautiful game of golf at good prices, Sandgate Golf Club is for you. This course started in 1921 and is one of Brisbane’s oldest community golf clubs. The course is surrounded by the waterways of Cabbage Tree Creek and Moreton Bay.
The club welcomes everyone from Sunday to Friday and after 3pm on Saturdays. It is only 16 kilometres from the CBD and a short walk from Shorncliffe station.
Explore the mudflats
When the tide is low, the mudflats off the foreshore become an incredible spot for exploration. Brimming with wildlife such as birds and soldier crabs, it's an excellent activity to keep the children entertained. Remember to pack a towel and a change of clothes for the journey back home, particularly for the little ones!
Splash and swim at Sandgate
Located on the Sandgate Foreshore is the popular Sandgate Aquatic Centre. The facility features lap pools, a wading pool, play equipment, slides, a diving board, and a heated pool. There's a gym that includes rooms for yoga and pilates.
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.
Relax in Brisbane's coastal surrounds
Sandgate Farmer's Market
The Sandgate Farmer's Market is conveniently located just across from the Sandgate Town Hall on one of the village's charming, tree-lined streets. You’ll find an impressive variety of products, including fresh local vegetables, crusty handmade sourdough and mouth-watering pastries from Crust & Co.
You can also find fresh local flowers and honey. Shop for handmade cards, Woombye cheeses, and handmade sauerkraut. You can enjoy 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 might just have Brisbane’s best seafood restaurants. The family-friendly Doug's Seafood Cafe has plenty of covered outdoor seating. As an alternative, you can pack a picnic blanket for alfresco dining along the esplanade.
Sandgate Fishmonger has a gluten-free menu so it's a great option for people with dietary requirements. Not to mention, 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. You'll find the hotel at the top of the bay, bordering Sandgate and Shorncliffe. From the deck, you can enjoy ocean breezes and views over Bramble Bay.
For those who aren’t keen on fish and chips, try local institution Il Forno Pizzeria on Third Avenue for authentic wood-fired pizza. Or, you can head to Eclectea, in Brighton. This wine bar, open from Thursday to Sunday, also runs mindfulness and wreath-making workshops with free mimosas!
For a laid-back vibe, head to the Shorncliffe Yacht Club, the starting point of the annual Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race. Situated on the water, with a great menu, this stunning restaurant has a large grass area for kids to run around on.
Fishing from Shorncliffe Pier
Built in 1872, Shorncliffe Pier offers a picturesque location for fishing. For beginners, Council regularly hosts fishing events and activities across Brisbane, catering to various age groups and skill levels. Discover free and low-cost Council fishing events.
With its scenic bay vistas, the pier provides a tranquil setting. The surrounding Moora Park is a popular place for picnics. There is ample shaded grass, public barbecues, and a large playground for children.
More ideas for Brisbetter days out
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