Iconic bayside experiences

Stroll between Wynnum and Manly

One of the best ways to explore these bayside neighbourhoods is on foot – start at Waterloo Esplanade and stroll along the bay to Wynnum Manly Yacht Club Marina. Along the way, enjoy sea breezes, waterfront views and a row of fishing lines – just a small insight into the beloved things to do around Wynnum and Manly.

Swim in Wynnum Wading Pool

A favourite for families, let the kids splash and slide in the Wynnum Wading Pool. Filled with seawater at high tide, this summer playground dream features a waterslide, shallow swimming area and an adjoining playground to splash and play. The enclosed pool makes it easy for parents to relax while keeping a watchful eye on all the action.

Beat the heat at Wynnum Aqua Park

Pack the swimmers and prepare for plenty of fun at Wynnum Aqua Park. This free water play space is a summer hit, featuring interactive fountains, sprays and water features designed to help kids beat the Brisbane heat. Located on the foreshore, it’s the perfect spot to cool off while making the most of a day by the bay.

Picnic by the sea

There’s no better way to watch the sun go down than with a picnic by the sea. Picnic and barbecue areas dot the Wynnum Esplanade, providing plenty of places to spread out and cook up your fishing catch.

Try your luck on a fishing pier

Whether you are hoping to reel in a catch or simply want a picturesque spot for sunrise, Wynnum Jetty is a bayside favourite. Known for species such as bream and whiting, it’s a local favourite to get your dinner fresh.

Kayak at Manly Harbour

Paddle around Manly Harbour or venture into the Moreton Bay Marine Park to explore the many islands of the bay. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins or dugongs that may cross your path as you take in the beauty of this unique area of Brisbane.

Boating, sailing & water

Spend your Wednesday afternoon sailing

With its marinas, yacht clubs and easy access to Moreton Bay, it's no surprise sailing is part of everyday life in Manly. Join the enthusiastic yachties at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron for a Wednesday afternoon sail around Green Island or Jump aboard with WAGS (Wednesday Afternoons Go Sailing), where new sailors can join the crew for free.

Learn to sail

After watching the sails glide across Moreton Bay, you may be tempted to give it a go yourself. Sailing lessons are available at the Manly Marina from Southern Cross Yachting, the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Sailing Academy or South Passage – Adventure under Sail. Before long, you’ll be the captain of your own yacht!

Catch fish on a charter tour

Gather a group or jump aboard a fishing charter and head out into Moreton Bay for a day on the water. From reef fishing to offshore adventures, there are plenty of opportunities to test your skills, cast a line and experience the bay from the water. 

Nature & outdoors

Take a walk along Wynnum Mangrove Boardwalk

Follow the Wynnum Mangrove Boardwalk through a maze of mangroves and uncover one of its hidden gems. Along the way, spot the local wildlife, read the display boards that help identify the flora and fauna and explain the importance of mangroves to the Wynnum and Manly foreshore.

The pooch is always welcome

With plenty of dog-friendly activities to do across Brisbane and the bayside, there is no reason not to bring your pup along for the trip. Take a stroll along the waterfront and let them play in Elanora Dog Park before heading to the dog-friendly Jan Powers Manly Farmers Market. Finish the journey off with a coffee at Frenchies Café, Manly Boathouse or ilo bakehouse, where all coffee and animal lovers are welcome. For more dog-friendly adventures, explore our guide to things to do with your four-legged bestie!

Drive your way through Southern Moreton Bay

Hit the road and discover more of Brisbane’s southern bayside on the Southern Moreton Bay tourist drive. Stretching from Logan City through to Redlands Coast before finishing in Wynnum and Manly, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the changing nature of Brisbane.

Shopping & markets

Eat your way through the Manly Farmers Markets

From farm fresh fruit and cakes, handcrafted goods, fashion, fresh seafood and coffee, the Jan Powers Manly Farmers Market are a treasure trove of local creativity and produce! Held on the first and third Saturday of every month from 6am to midday along the Esplanade. For even more local creativity, browse the stalls at the Manly Creative Markets, where you'll find handmade goods, artwork, homewares and unique gifts – on every Sunday from 8am to 2pm.

Book crawl in Wynnum

Discover your next favourite read at one of two independent bookshops. Mad Hatters at Manly has created an enchanting space for minds to escape to, while Wynnum’s Little Gnome stocks a wide range of Australian self-published authors and its cosy on-site cage serves Montville coffee.

Shop the local goods

Wander through the bayside’s range of boutique stores for unique fashion and lifestyle finds. Discover must-have pieces for you and your home at Cultivate Design Co and Ebb and Flow, or support Australian artisans and designers with a visit to The Collective. It's the perfect excuse to slow down and browse the local shops that give Wynnum and Manly their character.

Hunt for vintage treasures

Continue your shopping stroll and uncover one-of-a-kind finds at Do-Op Shop. Filled with pre-loved fashion, homewares, books and hidden treasures, browse each aisle and see what catches your eye!

History & culture

Try not to get spooked on St Helena Island

Once a high-security colonial prison, St Helena Island is now one of Moreton Bay’s most fascinating historical attractions. Join a guided day or night tour to learn the colourful history of the island through stories of tour guides and costumed performers. If you love a good ghost story, choose the night tour for a ghostly experience and prepare to hear the tales of prisoners who continue to haunt the island.

Hear the history of the Great War

Acting as Brisbane’s front line of defence from 1881-1930 in the Great War, Fort Lytton now hosts immersive night tours that bring local history to life. Follow the story of decorated war hero Lieutenant Stanley, a first-hand perspective, with some of Stanley’s own photographs and the atmospheric fortifications that once protected Brisbane’s shores.

Walk the Wynnum Heritage Trail

Step back in time and discover the stories that have shaped Wynnum's bayside character on the Wynnum Heritage Trail. Winding through the suburb's historic streets and waterfront, the self-guided trail highlights significant buildings, local landmarks and stories from Wynnum's past. It's a fascinating way to uncover the area's history while exploring the bayside at your own pace.