Weekends were made for exploring—so instead of bingeing yet another show, or getting your regular halloumi fix from the cafe around the corner, why not discover somewhere new? And forget long roadies that chew up half the day, we’ve got a bunch of epic destinations just down the road.
Fringed by golden beaches and backed by lush hinterland brimming with magical villages, set your sat nav for the Moreton Bay region. From epic eateries slinging farm-to-fork produce, to nature-filled adventures and glittering beaches, there are hidden gems galore in this beautiful pocket of SEQ—so here’s where you need to visit this weekend.
Redcliffe
A true slice of paradise in every sense of the word, if you’re looking to soak up the sunshine and bliss out in the ocean then Redcliffe is calling your name. Oozing pure holiday vibes, throw a towel down at one of Redcliffe’s many scenic spots. Scarborough Beach and Settlement Cove Lagoon are must-dos, but our fave has to be Margate Beach, framed by Norfolk Pines and a wide boardwalk.
While away the hours in calm waters, SUP or kayak, before tucking into post-surf snacks, like fresh-from-the-trawler eats at Morgans Seafood—a local institution. Quench your thirst at Scarborough Harbour Brewing Co., where all craft tipples are brewed onsite, or snag a seat at the rooftop bar of Sunny’s Margate Beach, where you can sip artfully created cocktails while checking out the ocean views.
And a trip to Redcliffe wouldn’t be complete without trawling the famous Redcliffe markets. Taking place every Sunday, stalls slinging international eats, plants, farm-fresh produce and art snake along the coastline. Finally, round out your day with a visit to Woody Point Jetty and watch the sky blush shades of plum and orange as the sun sets.
Bribie Island
Craving an island getaway minus the price tag of an airfare or boat ride? Connected to the mainland by a convenient bridge, Bribie Island is the ultimate sunny sojourn. This floating paradise is home to a slew of postcard-perfect beaches. Got little ones? Then the patrolled Woorim Beach is for you, with BBQs, picnic areas and a playground nearby.
If you want to make it like you’re in the Med—Banksia, Sylvan and Bongaree Beaches are all top-notch swimming spots with crystal-clear water. With the latter offering a jetty that is excellent for casting a line off—Skirmish Point is also popular with keen fishermen. And if you’re bringing your four-legged pal along for the day, Red Beach is one of the few off-leash dog beaches.
Adventure-seekers can hire jet-skis and cruise alongside dolphins, or if you’ve got a 4WD, hit the sandy highway and soak up the island’s rugged beauty. For something truly unique to the island, treat yourself to a gondola ride.
Sip a glass of bubbles, tuck into a cheeseboard or treats from the latest addition to the delectable Kenilworth Bakeries, bless your ears with some tunes and take in the incredible vistas spanning Pumicestone Passage to the Glasshouse Mountains.
On your way home, stop by the Sandstone Point Hotel for a feed. A day-tripper wonderland, there’s a bistro, pub, Oyster Shed, gelato bar and live music all set along the water.
Samford Valley
Brimming with lush greenery, freshwater swimming spots and rolling tree-cloaked mountains, Samford Valley is a truly tranquil escape. Feeling like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city (but only a 35-minute drive away), you’ll feel your shoulders drop the moment you arrive.
Flanked by clusters of rich forest and bush, the village centre looks like something out of a Netflix rom-com. The main street is lined with boutiques, a country bakery, cafes, a pub, gelato shops and a Harry Potter-inspired shop and cafe, The Store of Requirement. Transport yourself to Hogwarts as you pursue their large selection of wands and indulge in a chocolate frog or two.
Once you've got your fill of the village's epic eats, work it off on one of Samford’s many walking tracks. The South Pine River track is a good all-rounder, starting from the village, winding along the river and beneath lush canopies. For a real calf burn, check out the House Mountain Track. With steep angles across the 5km trek, you’ll be ready for another round of cream buns in minutes. Cool off with a dip at Rocky Hole, etched into Mount Mee’s granite-filled gullies. Or take in the utter serenity of the Cedar Creek rock pools, where you can float in the freshwater and let nature’s soundtrack serenade you into a state of zen.
Dayboro
So much more than just a country town, the fairytale-like village of Dayboro is a vibrant arts precinct awash with creativity and character. Nestled in the heart of Moreton Bay, Dayoro is steeped in history, reflected in the rich tapestry of historical buildings that line the main street.
Beyond the nostalgic facades lies a thriving arts scene. Here you’ll find uber-cool independent shops selling local art, craft, jewellery and delicious candles that smell like holidays. Uncover a treasure trove of antiques at Dayboro Shed Antiques and Hay Cottage, and for unique, one-of-a-kind art from over 30 SEQ artists, head to the Dayboro Art Gallery. Opened in 1994, you’ll find a rainbow of genres here to marvel at or purchase to take home. As a not-for-profit gallery run by the artists themselves, it’s a great opportunity to decorate your home with beautiful pieces at a super reasonable price.
Pro tip: From quaint cafes to farm-to-fork produce, you’ll want to arrive hungry in Dayboro, Swing by The Old Storehouse for top-notch coffee, and if you like your lunch with a side of jaw-dropping views, check out the Pitstop Cafe along Mt Mee Road—which boasts incredible hinterland vistas. The Dayboro Bakery is non-negotiable, with flaky pies, loaded sandwiches, sweet slices and classic damper.
For something extra special, head to Ocean View Estates, where you can grab a seat at the restaurant overlooking the 100-acre vineyard and devour local produce like pan-seared scallops, house-smoked duck breast and seared lamb rump. Or grab a picnic basket and a bottle of vino and enjoy lunch amongst the vines.
Shorncliffe
For a rejuvenating day trip, head to the seaside town of Shorncliffe, a sweet spot packed with charm. Let the sea breeze wash over you, and soak in the soundtrack of water lapping against the boardwalk—this beautiful pocket is all about slowing down and enjoying nature at its finest.
Early risers will want to get here for daybreak (easier to do in the winter) to see the sky turn into a technicolour rainbow stretching across the ocean. Warm your mitts with a takeaway coffee (The Wired Owl and Cocoa Biscotti are great picks) and perch yourself at Shorncliffe Pier for some serious magic. Come daylight, hit the water with a kayak or try your hand at kitesurfing—something the area is famous for—with a lesson from the crew at Surf Connect. There’s also a large section of the beach that’s off-leash for pups, so your four-legged mate can come along for the adventure.
The rest of this seaside ‘burb is best explored on two feet or two wheels. Grab a bike and traverse the boardwalk spanning Shorncliffe and its neighbouring hoods Brighton and Sandgate. You’ll want to stop several times along the way to refuel at the area’s slew of tasty eateries. Baaia is our pick for the best brunch—the ever-changing menu celebrates local produce, and includes bites like harissa sweet potato hash cakes and pork belly eggs benny.
For lunch, you can’t go past Sandgate Fishmonger—their fish and chips are an 11/10 and the gelato scoops are generous. Want to linger longer? Live tunes, a spritz, oysters and a rack of ale and miso ribs can be found at the Full Moon Hotel. The perfect way to round out your day trip to Shorncliffe.
Ready to hit the road? For everything else to eat, see and do in the Moreton Bay region, head here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Visit Moreton Bay and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Image credit: Supplied.