Sandgate | Explore Brisbane's bayside beach

With its scenic esplanade, seafood dining, and sandy beach, plan a weekend trip to historic Sandgate. Only 25 minutes from Brisbane CBD, this bayside stretch offers plenty of fun activities to enjoy.

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. Shorncliffe’s coastal path is about 2.5 kilometres long. The Sandgate section goes a little further. You can start anywhere along Flinders Parade and stop for breakfast when you like.

For those who love walking, continue on to Brighton. Just before Hornibrook Bridge, there’s a picnic area plus several cafes and water stations for you and your pets.

Kitesurfing, windsurfing, or stand-up paddleboarding

Sandgate offers a variety of experiences for both thrill-seekers and those looking for tranquillity. When the wind is strong, it’s the perfect spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Surf Connect Wind and Kitesurfing School at Sandgate Beach offers equipment rentals and lessons. You can find them at 170 Flinders Parade. They open 11am–5pm Tuesday to Friday, and from 9am on weekends.

Tee off at Sandgate Golf Club

For an affordable, beautiful game of golf, head to Sandgate Golf Club. This course started in 1921 and is one of Brisbane’s oldest community golf clubs. The waterways of Cabbage Tree Creek and Moreton Bay surround the course.

The club welcomes everyone from Sunday to Friday and after 3pm on Saturdays. Just 16 kilometres from the CBD, it’s 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. A gym includes rooms for yoga and Pilates.

Swim in the sea at high tide near Decker Park, at the Brighton end of Flinders Parade. While it’s just a small section of beach, it’s enough to cool off or have fun making sandcastles. Moora Park, below the Shorncliffe cliffs, features calm waters and a sandy beach perfect for paddling.

Fun for 4-legged friends

Sandgate Foreshore features a dedicated off‑leash dog area, perfect for pups who love to run and splash by the bay. Plan your visit for low tide, when your furry friends can explore the wide mudflats and paddle in the shallow water.

With its dog-friendly vibe, Sandgate makes it easy to enjoy a family day out. Browse the local op-shops. Then grab a bite to eat and relax in the sea breeze.

Relax in Brisbane's coastal surrounds

Sandgate Farmer's Market

The Sandgate Farmer's Market is opposite Sandgate Town Hall on a charming, tree-lined village street. You’ll find a great range of products, including fresh local vegetables, handmade sourdough, and tasty 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 offers a gluten-free menu and is a great choice for visitors with dietary requirements. Not to mention, their crispy batter is a winner!

For 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.

Prefer something else? Head to Ilforno Pizzeria on Third Avenue for authentic wood-fired pizza. 

For a relaxed atmosphere, visit Queensland Cruising Yacht Club at Shorncliffe, the starting point of the annual Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race. This waterfront restaurant offers a great menu and a large grassy area for kids to play.

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. Ample shaded grass, public barbecues, and a large playground for children are available.

Getting there

Sandgate is easy to reach by train or bus. Sandgate and Shorncliffe stations are a short walk from the foreshore. Plan your next trip with Translink.

Connected to Brisbane’s northern suburbs, the Kedron Brook Bikeway makes it easy to pedal all the way to the bayside. Hop on the bike trail and enjoy a relaxed ride with your family. Take in scenic paths, parks, and waterways before reaching the bay. You can discover plenty along the way.

More ideas for Brisbetter days out

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_{Editor’s note: This article aims to inspire residents and visitors to enjoy a day out in Brisbane. Brisbane City Council does not endorse or have any formal relationship with the businesses mentioned.}