MORETON BAY OVERVIEW

Welcome to Moreton Bay! 

Welcome to Moreton Bay, a diverse and alluring destination just up the road from Brisbane, where coastal charm and hinterland adventures come together to offer the ultimate escape. Whether you’re looking for sun-soaked relaxation, exhilarating outdoor adventures or peaceful nature retreats, Moreton Bay – affectionately known as Brisbane’s Playground – has it all.

On the coast, the Redcliffe Peninsula and Bribie Island invite you to enjoy their laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly beaches. Stroll along scenic shores, let your toes sink into the soft sand, and bask in the warm Queensland sunshine. The crystal-clear waters beckon you for refreshing dips, while local beachside cafes offer delicious food and drinks to complement the relaxed vibe. From water sports like kayaking, paddle-boarding and sailing, to simply lounging by the sea, Moreton Bay’s beaches provide the perfect setting for fun and relaxation with family and friends.

Inland, the region’s hinterland offers a variety of opportunities to escape into nature. Explore lush national parks, hike through dense forests, and take in breathtaking panoramic views from scenic lookouts. Discover hidden gems such as secluded swimming holes where you can cool off in natural surroundings. In the charming hinterland villages, you’ll find warm hospitality, cosy cafes, and local markets that showcase the area’s rich produce and artisan goods.

Moreton Bay offers world-class experiences that entice you to embrace the outdoors and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant bayside communities or retreating to the peaceful hinterland, this region is a sanctuary where unforgettable memories are made. With its combination of natural beauty, adventure and relaxation, Moreton Bay is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating break just a short drive from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

Outdoor Adventures

Unleash your adventurous spirit in the stunning Moreton Bay region, where diverse natural environments and thrilling activities offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for high-octane excitement or a tranquil getaway, Moreton Bay caters to all types of adventurers.

Along the pristine coastline, adrenaline junkies can indulge themselves with exhilarating water sports. Test your high-speed skills with jet skiing, or explore dazzling marine ecosystems where you’ll encounter fascinating underwater creatures through snorkelling and scuba diving. Just remember: look but don’t touch! For a more tranquil experience, you can choose to glide across the calm waters of the bay on a paddleboard or kayak. 

On land, Moreton Bay’s lush national parks and scenic hiking trails are begging to be explored. Trek through rainforests, discover hidden waterfalls, and take in breathtaking views from mountaintop lookouts. For those who love the thrill of wheels in motion, the region offers ample opportunities for mountain biking and off-road 4WD adventures, where you can navigate rugged terrain and experience nature from a different perspective. Those looking for a more leisurely way to explore the region can do so on horseback. With expert-guided tours and equipment hire options available, every type of adventurer can join in the fun.

If you prefer a more relaxed escape, Moreton Bay’s hidden swimming holes and waterfalls provide the perfect retreat. Surrounded by lush greenery, these crystal-clear waters offer a cool respite on a warm day. Whether you’re seeking a secluded oasis for peaceful contemplation, a romantic tryst or a family-friendly picnic spot, you’ll find serene locations that invite you to unwind and commune with nature.

For hikers and nature enthusiasts, the region is a paradise of rainforests, coastal paths and mountainous trails. From leisurely walks to challenging treks, the variety of trails showcases Moreton Bay’s unique flora, fauna and awe-inspiring scenery.

Wildlife

Nature thrives both on land and in the sea in the Moreton Bay region, whose diverse ecosystems are a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Discover the enchanting wildlife in the region’s pristine waters, protected wetlands and vibrant mangrove forests, which are teeming with an incredible range of wildlife. Whether you’re exploring the waters of the bay or hiking through coastal reserves, you’ll be captivated by the wide array of animals that call Moreton Bay home.

The bay’s translucent waters are alive with marine life, offering unforgettable encounters with playful dolphins, graceful sea turtles, and majestic dugongs, which are unusually abundant in the Moreton Bay Marine Park. Of the 13 species of stingray that call Moreton Bay home, three are endemic, found nowhere else in the world. For a truly breathtaking experience, witness the migration of humpback whales as they breach and tail-slap along the coast, an awe-inspiring spectacle that draws visitors from all over the world from June through October. Some 25,000 of these magnificent creatures pass through Moreton Bay Marine Park every year, providing an incredible opportunity to see them up close.

Moreton Bay’s wetlands and mangroves are a haven for birdwatchers, as they are home to a wide variety of rare and migratory birds that can be observed from more than 34 designated birdwatching spots. More than 360 bird species have been recorded in the Moreton Bay region, accounting for more than 40% of all species in Australia. Almost 20,000 migrating shorebirds representing 24 different species visit Bribie Island every year. Spot everything from elegant ospreys as they soar overhead to colourful kingfishers as they perch along river banks. 

The region’s bushland is home to some of Australia’s iconic marsupials: while kangaroos roam free in the grasslands, sleepy koalas cling to the branches of their eucalypt homes. Koalas are best seen from July to December, during their mating season.

For an immersive, educational experience, join guided wildlife nature walks or boat tours that reveal the hidden gems of Moreton Bay’s natural world. Whether you join exhilarating whale-watching cruises or informative walks through protected reserves, local experts will explain the area’s remarkable biodiversity. Each encounter will deepen your connection to nature and foster a greater appreciation for the region’s unique ecosystems.

Art and Culture

Immerse yourself in the art and culture of the Moreton Bay region, where galleries, museums and cultural landmarks recount the rich heritage of the region. From the tranquil shores of Bribie Island to the early farming history of Whiteside, Moreton Bay’s cultural hubs offer immersive experiences that will captivate art lovers and history buffs alike. Free entry to all these cultural spaces makes it even easier to explore the region’s creative landscape, and with public programs such as artist talks, workshops and self-guided activities, there’s something for all ages and interests to enjoy.

Discover an ever-evolving collection of exhibitions and displays in the region’s many galleries and museums – from the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology on Bribie Island to Caboolture Historical Village. Whether you’re drawn to contemporary masterpieces or historic artefacts, you’ll be impressed by the diversity and vision showcased in the galleries and museums across the region. These treasures, along with semi-permanent and temporary exhibitions, offer a glimpse into the unique character and artistic pulse of the region. 

For those fascinated by history, Moreton Bay’s cultural landmarks and heritage sites allow you to step back in time as you explore museums that uncover the history of the area, delving into the tales that weave the fabric of Moreton Bay’s heritage. These journeys into the past will ignite your imagination and deepen your connection to the roots of this remarkable region. You can also learn about the history of the region on a free walking tour through Woodford, Redcliffe and Samford guided by local knowledgeable volunteers.

From dawn to dusk and beyond, there’s always something to keep you entertained in Moreton Bay. Early risers can enjoy a beautiful sunrise as they walk their dog, jog along the beach or take a leisurely bike ride before experiencing the region’s thriving cafe culture. Choose from an exciting calendar of events and programs throughout the year, including festivals, sporting events, performances, workshops, art exhibitions, and live music. 

Food

Moreton Bay is a culinary paradise, where the freshest local produce from the bay and surrounding farmlands takes centre stage. The region’s thriving food scene is truly sensational, with dozens of venues offering dishes that showcase the finest ingredients and reflect the vibrant local food culture. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, Moreton Bay will leave you craving for more.

Renowned for its freshness, Moreton Bay’s seafood and farm produce attract talented chefs who transform these ingredients into mouth-watering culinary masterpieces. From freshly caught fish, beautifully cooked Moreton Bay bugs and succulent prawns to seasonal fruits and vegetables, every bite highlights the region’s rich natural bounty. These chefs create a dining experience that not only pleases the palate but also celebrates the local agricultural abundance.

Dining in Moreton Bay is an adventure of its own. Picture yourself enjoying an exquisite meal paired with local wine overlooking rolling vineyards at Ocean View Estates set atop Mount Mee. Or imagine relaxing at a cosy lakeside cafe such as the Boardwalk Cafe in North Lakes, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast overlooking the serene Lake Eden.  Historic country pubs like the Woodford Hotel offer hearty meals with a side of nostalgia, not to mention the warm hospitality that Moreton Bay is known for.

For a taste of the local culture, explore Moreton Bay’s farmer and foodie markets. These bustling markets are filled with stalls offering fresh produce, artisanal goods and homemade treats. Here, you can meet the passionate growers and artisans who bring their products to market and who are at the very heart of the region’s culinary scene.

Accessibility

The City of Moreton Bay is committed to a future where everyone has equal access to infrastructure, services and opportunities and the council has already made huge progress in this direction. A wide range of initiatives are already in place – from assistance for people to move their rubbish bins to the kerb to an award-winning program to provide children with sensory disabilities opportunities to take part in educational activities in libraries. Visitors to the region will benefit greatly from the council’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility, which is celebrated every year with activities during Disability Action Week.

Transport 

If arriving by air at Brisbane Airport, passengers with access needs can find information on how to navigate the airport using their Accessible Journey Planner on their website at bne.com.au.

Translink is the main public transport provider in the region, and most of its vehicles – including buses, trains, ferries and trams – are accessible with allocated spaces for people who use wheelchairs and mobility scooters. For full details visit translink.com.au and check out the Accessibility page under the Travel with Us tab. Further information on the accessibility of trains and railway stations can be found on the Queensland Rail website.

Beaches 

Moreton Bay was one of the first councils in Queensland to begin making its beaches accessible to people with limited mobility. Beach matting that allows wheelchair and mobility scooter users – as well as those using walking frames, seniors and people pushing prams – has been installed at Woorim Beach on Bribie Island and Suttons Beach in Redcliffe. 

At Woorim Beach a continuous pathway connects accessible parking in the car park off North Street to Access Point 12 off Bluey Piva Park. There are two types of wheelchairs available for free from Bribie Island Surf Lifesaving Club on weekends and public holidays between late September and early May. One wheelchair can be used for transport over the sand, while the other is amphibious and can be used both over sand and in the water. Bookings are required at least two business days in advance. An accessible pathway extends along the foreshore on Bribie Island from Renton Lane to the Bribie Island Bridge, stopping at Bongaree Jetty.

The beach matting at Suttons Beach is near the rotunda, next to the sea wall. Starting at Hornibrook Pier is a sunny concrete pathway suitable for walkers, wheelchairs, pedestrians and bikes, which heads north towards Woody Point Jetty. Accessible parking bays and accessible toilet facilities are located at Hornibrook Pier, Pelican Park and Woody Point Jetty. Both Hornibrook Pier and Woody Point Jetty are wheelchair- and walker-friendly, with room to manoeuvre and enjoy the views from seated and standing positions.

Deception Bay Heritage Trail

With its waterfront views, choice of picnic spots, shaded rest areas and a visual historical trail, the accessible pathway along the Deception Bay Foreshore has something for everyone. Running from Boama Park up north towards the Old Fisheries Site, three kilometres of wheelchair-friendly paths, ramps and bridges takes you on a relaxing, outdoor adventure. The Deception Bay Heritage Trail is equipped with audio narration, tactile signs, historical photos and an interactive map. 

Parks and Playgrounds

Considerable effort has been made to make the region’s parks and playgrounds as accessible as possible.

Leslie Patrick Park’s award-winning all-abilities playground is located at Olearia Street West, Arana Hills. Equipped with all-abilities playground equipment, including a Liberty swing for wheelchair users, accessible toilet facilities, continuous sealed pathways and a sensory garden, it has been lauded as one of the best places to play in Australia! Another all-abilities playground with a variety of accessible equipment, including cognitive play boards and sensory play equipment, can be found at Caboolture Region Environmental Education Centre (otherwise known as CREEC), 150 Rowley Road, Burpengary. The Hills District All-Abilities Playground is located at Olearia Street West, Arana Hills, and is equipped with accessible picnic, barbecue and toilet facilities, a passive interactive garden space, and wheelchair-accessible playground equipment including a five-way swing with capsule seats.

Pelican Park, overlooking Bramble Bay, is equipped with a Liberty swing, which is accessed using an MLAK key which can be collected from a Service Centre between 8:30 AM to 5 PM Monday to Friday if you don’t have one of your own. There are accessible toilet facilities and rubber playground matting.

Bluey Piva Park also has accessible toilet facilities, soft rubber playground matting and is the access point for the Woorim Beach accessible beach matting.

Changing Places Facilities

The City of Moreton Bay is proud to be the first local government in Australia to develop a Changing Places Network Plan. There are currently three adult change facilities within the region, at South Pine Sports Centre, Redcliffe Library and Albany Creek Aquatic and Leisure Centre, with future facilities planned for six more locations, including one at each of the two accessible beaches: Suttons Beach and Woorim Beach. These, and several of the unisex accessible toilets in the region, can only be accessed with an MLAK key. For further details please visit the council’s website.

Virtual Tours

The City of Moreton Bay is trialling a smart initiative that enables anybody to virtually travel through the region’s libraries, galleries, museums, community spaces and entertainment venues on their computer or smart device. This service can be accessed via each venue’s webpage or through Google Maps. While this service can benefit all members of the community, it has been developed specifically for the needs of people with disability to enable users to decide whether a venue is accessible to their needs. We hope that knowing what to expect on arrival will boost confidence and reduce anxiety for visitors with physical disabilities as well as for visitors who are neurodivergent.

Accessible Guides

Visit Moreton Bay has created five comprehensive and informative accessible guides to the region covering the Redcliffe Peninsula, Bribie Island, Northern Moreton Bay Hinterland and the Southern Moreton Bay Hills. The final guide is dedicated to Ultimate Accessible Trails and Pathways. Detailed information, photos and hyperlinks to individual attractions and facilities are sure to help planning and avoid surprises. Find them on the Visit Moreton Bay website at visitmoretonbayregion.com.au by searching for “accessible guide”.

You can find comprehensive disability access and inclusion information on the City of Moreton Bay website at moretonbay.qld.gov.au by searching for “disability access and inclusion”. The council’s future plans are detailed in its Disability Action and Inclusion Plan.