Living in the Sunshine State means that hitting the beach is a way of life for our Brisbane Kids and toddler beach time might just be the perfect Summer activity. That’s why we’ve found the best beaches with cool & calm waters as well as all the other things that make life easier when you take your tribe out for the day.
Street’s Beach, South Bank
In the heart of Brisbane City, Street’s Beach is an oasis on a hot day. Yes, it’s a man-made beach – but we couldn’t go past it when searching for the best beaches for toddlers in Brisbane. Surrounded by tropical trees, you could almost forget you’re in the middle of the city.
The lagoon has varying depths so it’s perfect for your little paddlers. There’s plenty of pebbly creeks to explore and kids will love the free Brisbane water play at Aquativity. There’s something for everyone here.
Toilet and shower facilities are located next to the beach and there are barbecues, play areas and green shady spaces close by to make a day of it.
Street’s Beach is free and patrolled all year round by qualified lifeguards.
Suttons Beach, Redcliffe
Sutton’s Beach is a patrolled beach on Moreton Bay with gentle waves that are just perfect for your paddling toddler.
With views out to Moreton Island, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the gorgeous Queensland weather year-round. There is a huge grassed area next to the beach and plenty of shady spots for picnics. The beachfront promenade is perfect for bikes and scooters and the fenced playground is popular when the kids are finished building sandcastles. There are also barbecue facilities and accessible toilets.
Sylvan Beach, Bribie Island
Located on the western side of Bribie Island, Sylvan Beach is a calm beach in the protected waters of the Pumicestone Passage. Splash around in the shallows or hire a boat or kayak to explore the area. You can bring your furry family members too, but just remember to keep their leash on.
Fire up a barbecue or head to the local fish and chip shop for lunch. Car parking is close to the beach and there are toilet facilities available. If you want to stay for a bit longer then you need to read our article featuring Bribie Island and beach camping in Queensland.
Wellington Point
Wellington Point is a lovely seaside suburb with a fantastic recreation reserve out on the peninsula. The beach is perfect for toddlers and the shallow water means they can splash and play to their heart’s content.
The large playground next to the beach sits under a canopy of shady fig trees. The playground is not only a winner for its imaginative play setup, but also for the amazing climbing tree options that surround it.
There are plenty of barbecues and picnic tables as well as a café serving meals, snacks, and coffee.
Visitors to Wellington Point should also include a walk to King Island. A natural sand walkway is revealed at low tide that allows you to walk to the island 1km away. Your kids will love searching for shells and small crabs on the walk. Check tide times to make sure you have enough time for the round trip.
Coochiemudlo Island
Coochiemudlo Island is a short ferry ride from Victoria Point on Brisbane’s bayside. It’s a small island surrounded by white sand and calm water perfect for swimming and water sports. Aqua bike, kayak and boat hire are available at the island near the ferry terminal.
The island is only 5 square kilometres so it’s easy to explore on foot even with little ones. Pack a picnic and find a shady spot to relax for the day. You’ll forget that the city is a stone’s throw away.
Secret tip – Did you know that Coochiemudlo Island transforms into Pirate Island a few times a year?
If you’re keen to go further afield, here’s our pick of beaches for young ones.
Gold Coast toddler beaches
Tallebudgera Creek – Only steps away from a surf beach, Tallebudgera Creek is known for its calm, kid-friendly water. It is located next to Burleigh Heads National Park and is popular for swimming, kayaking and fishing.
Sunshine Coast toddler beaches
Currimundi Lake – Connected to the surf beach, this location has it all. Calm and shallow water for the little ones and shady trees overhanging the beach. (You can leave your beach umbrella at home!).
It’s great to give our kids an experience that suits their ability, improves their confidence, and sets them up for a lifetime of loving the beach! We know that taking toddlers anywhere means a lot of preparation and planning so we help this collection of toddler-friendly beaches makes things just a little bit easier for you!
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