Iconic Brisbane summer holiday destinations
From island escapes and hinterland hideaways to vibrant city stays and laidback bayside destinations, Brisbane is home to iconic summer holiday escapes. Here are six destinations across balmy Brisbane and its regions that locals love when the warmer months roll around, and we think you will too!
Inner City
When the temperature rises, Brisbane City and its surrounding suburbs know how to keep their cool. Chill out at one of the many summer-perfect hotels, where days are spent between sparkling pools, sipping on refreshing cocktails and enjoying restaurants and bars, before retreating to your cool, comfortable luxurious hotel room after a day of exploring. Stay in the heart of the city at W Brisbane, The Westin Brisbane, Hyatt Regency Brisbane, Amora Hotel Brisbane, and InterContinental Brisbane. For a stylish summer escape beyond the city, check into The Alva Hotel Brisbane, The Emporium Hotel South Bank, Crystalbrook Vincent, Novotel South Bank or The Calile Hotel.
Brisbane’s warm weather and outdoor lifestyle extends well beyond the sunlounges by the pool, with a multitude of open-air shopping destinations waiting to be explored. Wander the iconic streets of James Street, Bulimba and Paddington, lined with high end boutiques or explore Brisbane City, where luxury labels and department store favourites await.
When the summer sun is at its peak, Brisbane’s arts and culture scene offers the perfect excuse to enjoy some aircon. Start at the Museum of Brisbane where you can uncover the stories and artists shaping this city, then voyage across the Victoria Bridge to Brisbane’s Cultural Centre in South Bank. Explore Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) catch a live performance at Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) or dive into natural and ancient history at the Queensland Museum Kurilpa. To fuel your cultural adventures, discover some of Brisbane’s bars and restaurants along Fish Lane.
You haven’t experienced the full Brisbane summer without time spent on the river. Feel the breeze as you ride with Jet Ski Tours Brisbane, picnic your way along the water aboard a private GoBoat, or party it up on YOT Club or Oasis Brisbane to cruise the river in style. As the sun sets and the evening comes to life, Brisbane’s riverside bars, restaurants and rooftop venues are the perfect way to soak up the city’s warm summer nights.
Plan your full Brisbane summer itinerary with our top summer attractions.
Moreton Island/Mulgumpin
Moreton Island/Mulgumpin’s pristine beaches make it an easy choice when summer rolls around. Spend your days snorkelling around the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, spotting marine life, exploring the island’s natural beauty or getting your adrenaline fix before kicking back on the sand – there’s so much adventure to be had on this tranquil haven.
Despite being 25 kilometres from Brisbane’s shoreline, Moreton Island/Mulgumpin feels like a true island escape. Hop aboard a ferry and before long you will be swapping the city for sandy shores, crystal-clear waters and a range of accommodation to suit every style of traveller. Many choose to stay at Tangalooma Island Resort, where you can take your pick of outdoor adventures, including helicopter rides and water activities.
All that island exploring is bound to work up an appetite, fortunately you won’t have to fish for your supper on this island getaway! There are plenty of enticing dining venues to visit - think fresh seafood, delicious cocktails, classic pub feeds and beachside cafe meals.
Redlands Coast
For an easy summer escape, head to the Redlands Coast. Just 35 minutes from Brisbane, the region offers an easy getaway by the bay and plenty of activities for people of all ages.
The Redlands Coast has a little bit of everything, from wineries to bayside parks and islands galore, including one that you can walk to from the mainland.. With so much to explore, you may want to stay for a few nights, alongside island camping, accommodation on the Redlands Coast includes forest retreats, winery glamping, refurbished cottages and island holiday houses.
If you’re looking for idyllic dining venues on the Redlands Coast, a bounty of flavourful experiences awaits. From alfresco cafes to casual restaurants, waterfront bars and classy bistros, your appetite is the only limit to dining in this sunny region of Brisbane.
North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah
Jump on a Sealink ferry from Cleveland as you journey to North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah and prepare to be transported to an oasis that feels a world away from the mainland. With rich cultural heritage, striking beaches, and spectacular coastal views, it’s easy to understand why this destination is a favourite summer holiday for families, friends and couples alike.
From retro beach shacks to glamping retreats, accommodation on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah accommodation inspires a sense of adventure. There’s no shortage of things to do – discover the rich Quandamooka culture on a guided tour, exploring nature walks, swim in crystal-clear water or tea-tree-infused lakes. While there’s something for everyone to do, the real magic of Minjerribah lies in relaxing and unwinding.
Whether it’s a scoop of gelato by the beach, a bush food tasting or a brewery tour with a view, the islands food experiences are sure to excite the senses on this verdant island off the Redlands Coast.
Scenic Rim
A lush hinterland escape can be found just beyond Brisbane’s city, the Scenic Rim offers a welcome retreat from the summer heat. Home to heritage-listed rainforests, spend days in the cooling shade of ancient trees, visit vineyards and enjoy a long lunch overlooking the vines, chase waterfalls to hidden swimming holes, or feel the breeze when you try your hand at hang-gliding.
If food is something you map out your summer holidays around, you’ve arrived in the right region! In the Scenic Rim, there’s an abundance of community producers – from cheesemakers to brewers or distillers – world-class restaurants, top-notch cellar doors and talented local chefs. Hop between the region’s wineries, distilleries and breweries; discover the favourite eateries in the Scenic Rim, or take a gourmet tour with an expert guide.
Whether you want to sleep among the wilderness in a glamping tent, tree-top stay or eco-pod, wish to wake up to animals at a farm stay, or prefer a luxurious hotel getaway, you’re bound to find your ideal accommodation in the Scenic Rim.
Moreton Bay region
For many, the idea of the best summer holidays in Brisbane includes alfresco dining beneath the sunshine, seaside drinks, walks along the waterfront and days on the water. If you’re planning to visit the Moreton Bay region, that’s exactly what you can expect. Made up of charming seaside villages, coastal escapes and peaceful hinterland, Moreton Bay is a destination that ticks all the boxes for a Brisbane summer holiday.
So, where do you start? Cool off at the region’s local pools, including a pristine lagoon and outdoor water park, explore the coastline from Bribie Island to the waterfront villages, and venture into the peaceful hinterland. Or get out on the water with a jet ski, boat or gondola cruise and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region – there’s endless things to do in Moreton Bay.
When it comes to eating and drinking in Moreton Bay during the summer months, it’s all about fresh seafood enjoyed with a water view, open-air winery experiences, market strolls and seaside picnics. Add a sunset drink by the bay and you’ve got the recipe for a quintessential Brisbane summer!
Stay a while this summer at one of Moreton Bay’s enticing accommodation offerings. From waterfront apartments and glamping retreats, winemakers’ cottages or bush escape, you will find accommodation to match your holiday style.
Plan to visit Brisbane and its regions and make the most of your summer season in Brisbane.
