Brisbane Beaches | Top Surfing Spots, Swimming Areas & Secluded Sands

Last Updated: March 03, 2025

Brisbane beaches are some of the most stunning in the region. This exciting city, located in Queensland, Australia, has much to offer visitors. Its beaches include smaller, tucked-away locations as well as popular beaches on the bayside and several expansive island beaches. If you are looking for a long walk on the beach, sunbathing, or even some surf, these are the best beaches Brisbane has to offer.

Best Brisbane Beaches for Surfing

Many locals and visitors go to the beach because they want to surf. Some of Brisbane’s beaches can offer excellent surfing.

The best beach in Brisbane for surfing might be Ocean Beach in Woorim on Bribie Island. This beach even offers the Bribie Island Surf School for those just starting to learn.
Another option for good surfing is Cylinder Beach, located on North Stradbroke Island. Stradbroke is known for its fantastic options for honeymoons, but the island has some of the most intense surfing beaches in the area. Body surfers and body boarders are welcomed here. Other options on North Stradbroke Island include Main Beach and Frenchmans Beach. Both are exceptional for anyone who loves the water. Frenchmans Beach is perhaps the best option during the winter months because it has westerly winds. However, swimming isn’t advisable here.
Surfside on Moreton Island is an excellent choice. This is one of the best coast options in the area. There are no lifeguards on the beaches on Moreton Island, though, which may mean you are on your own to some degree.

Check In to On The Beach Resort Bribie Island, Step Out to Bribie Island

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Low & No-Wave Beaches

Not all Brisbane beaches are about the surfing. You may want to check out a special beach or two that offer low waves, which are perfect if you have kids or want a more tranquil experience.

One solid option is Sylvan Beach on Bribie Island. There’s a lot of wildlife here, including marine life to see. It is a nice, cool beach for a bit of relaxation on a hot day. There are also barbecue facilities and a boat ramp here.
Also, on Bribie Island is Bongaree Beach. It’s facing Pumicestone Passage (as is Sylvan Beach). This means it has a bit of protection that provides a no-wave benefit. If you want to go swimming at one of Brisbane’s beautiful beaches, this is an excellent choice. There are a few playgrounds in this area for the kids to have some fun during your visit.
Another beach to consider is Bulwer on Moreton Island. This is one of the great places located near on Gold Coast that offers something for everyone, including clear, blue water. There’s good fishing here, too.

Check In to Tangalooma Island Resort, Step Out to Moreton Island National Park

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Good Swimming Beaches in Brisbane

There are a few more top-of-the-line swimming beaches on Moreton Island which are perfect for the family. Be sure to check out Cowan Beach, which is exceptional for families who don’t want 4WD vehicles coming through the area. Tangalooma Beach is perhaps one of the best-known options for those who love swimming and want to do some snorkeling or kayaking, too.

Check In to Tangalooma Island Resort, Step Out to Moreton Island National Park

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Check Out the Bayside Beaches

The federal divisions in the area provide a solid number of options on the bayside when it comes to beaches. Lower Moora Park at Shorncliffe is a good option. Good for the whole family, there is a lot of room to spread out here. Also, check out Suttons Beach in Redcliffe. If you want to go for a small boat ride and paddle a canoe, this is a good option to consider.

Check In to Brisbane International Virginia Hotel, Step Out to Shorncliffe Pier

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