
In Brisbane weโre lucky to enjoy long summers and plenty of sunshine. When the weather gets a little too hot and youโre looking for ways to keep cool, these activities are perfect for staying refreshed and entertained with the kids.
Enjoy a Free Water Play Area

Wynnum Whale Water Park
Brisbane has lots of free water parks perfect for families. Streets Beach at South Bank, Wynnum Whale Park, Orion Lagoon at Springfield and Settlement Cove at Redcliffe all feature shallow pools, shaded areas and plenty of space for kids to splash around. Pack sunscreen, hats and water and make the most of the sunshine.
Cool Off in a Local Swimming Pool
Brisbaneโs public swimming pools are ideal for families looking to escape the heat. Newmarket Olympic Pool, Colmslie Aquatic Centre and Spring Hill Baths are great options. Most pools have lifeguards, splash zones and cafes for a refreshing treat.
Level Up to a Water Park

WhiteWater World, Gold Coast
For waterslides, splash zones and heaps of water-based fun, spend the day at a water park. Chermside Aquatic Centre, or Whitewater World on the Gold Coast will be popular with the kids.
Jump in the Creek

Cedar Creek, Samford
For a more natural swimming experience, explore one of Brisbaneโs creeks. Cedar Creek at Samford and Enoggera Reservoir are popular spots for paddling and swimming. Bring water shoes for rocky areas and keep a close eye on younger kids.
Hit the Beach

Scarborough Beach, Scarborough
Pack the beach shade and bucket and spade โ we are spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts. For a local option, try Suttons Beach at Redcliffe, Scarborough Beach in Scarborough, Lower Moora Park Beach in Shorncliffe or Raby Bay in Cleveland. All have calm water, nearby playgrounds and plenty of space to build sandcastles.
Visit a Museum
If youโd prefer to stay inside and enjoy the air conditioning, visit one of Brisbaneโs many museums. Queensland Museum Kurilpa is a top choice where kids can explore dinosaurs, natural history and hands-on science in SparkLab. Next door at QAGOMA, thereโs a dedicated space for kids, with interactive art activities and rotating exhibits.
For further inspiration check out our growing list of Museums and Galleries.
Burn Some Energy at a Play Centre
If the kids have energy to burn, an indoor play centre is a perfect option. Area 51, Bounce, or Urban Xtreme will keep the kids endlessly entertained.
Go to the Cinema
Brisbaneโs cinemas are a simple way to escape the heat and enjoy the air conditioning. Catch a movie at your local cinema, and donโt forget the popcorn and a choc-top.
More Ideas to Keep Kids Cool
- Enjoy a game of bowling
- Hit the arcade
- Try laser tag
- Play indoor mini golf at Holey Moley
- Cool off in a shopping centre
- Visit your local library
- Go ice skating
- Stop for an ice-cold drink at a family-friendly cafรฉ
Still looking for more ideas?? A huge range of suggestions await you at Fun Ways to Stay Cool in Summer.
Whether youโre splashing in a lagoon, jumping into a creek, or enjoying the air conditioning indoors, there are plenty of ways to stay cool and have fun with the kids in Brisbane.








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