We all know Summer in Queensland is hot! So, if you’re looking for a different destination to cool off, why not try Settlement Cove Lagoon at Redcliffe. It’s perfect for all members of the family, with shallow water for the toddlers, and a graduated depth for the older children.
A hidden treasure
Redcliffe has long had a reputation for family-friendly events, with the Redcliffe Festival of Sails and Kitefest always popular choices for families. Did you know that Redcliffe is also home to one of Brisbane’s best free beachside lagoons?
Tucked away at the base of the cliffs on the Redcliffe foreshore, Settlement Cove is a popular space for cooling off on a hot day. Catering for the youngest members of the family, there is a designated toddler space which is partially fenced and shaded. With their inquisitive nature, toddlers can check out the mushrooms and climb on the bugs that sprinkle and spray water into the shallow pool.
The water depth is perfect for toddlers to wade in and splash about and it has a smooth concrete surface. Mimicking the larger lagoon, it is edged with fibreglass rocks which are great for climbing and balancing on.
Redcliffe Lagoon at Settlement Cove
Surrounded by rocky outcrops and palm trees, overlooking beautiful Moreton Bay, the larger lagoon is a great space for all the family. It has shallow coves suitable for toddlers, with a graduated depth for all ages. In the middle of the lagoon is a rocky island, which children seem to be drawn to.
Challenging one another to see if they can swim to the island, and climbing the rocks is very popular. The pool surface is pebblecrete and the maximum depth is 1.8 meters.
Redcliffe Lagoon on dusk
Designed with the community in mind, there are BBQs, sheltered tables, chairs and shade sails dotted around the lagoon. At dusk, the lighting comes on. It makes for the perfect place to host family gatherings, childrenโs parties or simply to meet up with friends for the day. It is suggested larger groups contact the council, so they can allow for extra lifeguards to be on duty. Bookings cannot be taken.
The Playground at Settlement Cove
Adjacent to the lagoon is a reasonably sized playground which is shaded by the mature trees with a sand base. There are slides, balancing bridges, swings, sand play, climbing walls and a large climbing structure shaped like a jellyfish.
Along the seafront is a pathway which extends to Woody Point to the south, and Scarborough Beach to the north.
If you venture along the waterfront to the south you will find a full-sized basketball court and a large, shaded amphitheatre. It is just near here where you will find the carpark.
Considerations when visiting Settlement Cove
- The lagoon can be very busy during the Summer months, so keep a close eye on all children.
- The area surrounding the pools are astro-turf and concrete. If bringing portable shade shelters, be mindful of the lifeguards. They may ask you to move such structures should they block the view of the water or cause an inconvenience for other users.
- Settlement Cove is a smoke-free and alcohol-free zone.
- Glass items are NOT permitted.
- Dogs are NOT permitted at the lagoon area but they may pass through the area on the beachfront pathway.
Accessibility at Settlement Cove
Wide, concrete paths lead from the carpark to, and around, the lagoon, making it accessible for wheelchairs, prams and other walking aids.
Entry to the lagoon itself is via a gradual slope, stairs with hand rails or a ramp with hand rails. There is a wheelchair available for loan, for use in the lagoon, during lifeguard patrolled hours, however, a carer must be available to assist. Wheelchair accessible toilets are available.
Lifeguards at Settlement Cove Lagoon
Lifeguards are generally on duty at the lagoon from the first weekend in September until the last weekend in May each year, though this may be subject to change. Outside of these times the lagoon remains accessible however as no life guard services are provided users should exercise caution.
Settlement Cove Features
- Large lagoon for all ages
- Designated toddler splash zone โ partially shaded and partially fenced
- Wheelchair available for use in the lagoon (during lifeguard patrolled hours)
- Qualified lifeguards on duty (at specified times)
- Children’s playground
- Multiple BBQs
- Picnic shelters
- Shade Sails
- Astroturf and concrete surroundings
- Toilets and showers (including accessible facilities)
- Basketball court (nearby)
- Shared zone bikeway from Woody Point to Scarborough (bike racks available)
Settlement Cove and Surrounds
Settlement Cove is located on Redcliffe Parade and is one of the many family-friendly areas on the Redcliffe Peninsula. There are numerous parks and playgrounds along the foreshore, most of them with BBQs, fantastic playgrounds and access to the water.
Our personal favourite is Scarborough Beach Park with its jumping pillow. Here are some other notable playgrounds in the area.
Pelican Park on the Hornibrook Esplanade at Clontarf
Suttons Beach Playground on Marine Parade at Redcliffe
Crockatt Park on Oxley Avenue at Woody Point
How to Get to Settlement Cove Lagoon
The carpark entrance is located off the round-a-bout on the corner of Anzac Avenue and Marine and Redcliffe Parades. From there it is a 250-metre flat walk along a concrete path. Street parking can also be found along Redcliffe Parade, however, it is closed for markets on Sunday mornings.
Access to the lagoon from Redcliffe Parade is via stairs or a ramp. During the summer months, the car park fills quickly.
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