Settlement Cove at Redcliffe

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 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, children’s 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.

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 but they may pass through the area.

Accessibility

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

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 – partially shaded and 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)
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 here

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.