Scarborough Beach

3.52 votes
On-LeashFamily FriendlyToiletsParking
Beach Information

Beach Information

  • πŸ–οΈ Best Time to Visit: September to May for warm, calm bay days.
  • 🐠 Marine Stingers: Low risk; remain stinger aware in summer.
  • 🚩 Lifeguard Patrol: Patrolled seasonally/holidays (check local signs).
  • πŸ• Dog Friendly: On‑leash on main foreshore; Dogs are allowed off-leash on the sand and water specifically at Queens Beach North (stretching along Flinders Parade between the access stairs and the northern rock groyne). Note that the main Scarborough Beach Park and the grassed areas nearby strictly require a leash
  • πŸ› οΈ Facilities: Toilets, showers, BBQs, shaded parks, cafΓ©s, playgrounds.
  • β™Ώ Accessibility: Good promenade access; flat paths to amenities.
  • 🐊 Wildlife Awareness: No crocodiles. Deadly snakes extremely rare.
  • πŸ“ Distance to Brisbane: Approx. 35–40 km (about 45 min drive).
  • 🏘️ Closest Town: Scarborough β€” Distance: ~0 km
  • ✈️ Closest Airport: Brisbane Airport β€” Distance: ~30 km
  • 🌦️ Typical Weather: Subtropical; warm summers, mild winters, coastal breezes.

For the latest official beach conditions and safety information, check Beachsafe.

Discover Scarborough Beach, a peaceful family-friendly foreshore on Brisbane’s northern Moreton Bay with calm waters, shady picnic areas, playgrounds and sweeping bay views β€” perfect for day trips, kayaking and relaxed weekend picnics.

🏝️Why Visit Scarborough Beach?

Scarborough Beach offers a unique blend of calm bay waters and well-equipped foreshore facilities. Unlike the surf beaches further north and south, Scarborough is sheltered, making it perfect for young children, families, and those who enjoy quiet seaside escapes. With its shaded parks, playgrounds, and stunning views across Moreton Bay, it’s the ideal place for picnics, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water.

πŸ–οΈThings to Do at Scarborough Beach

  • Swimming & Water Fun: Calm bay waters suitable for children and casual wading.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Launch from the beach into Moreton Bay for a peaceful paddle.
  • Fishing: Cast a line from the foreshore or nearby rocky points.
  • Family Picnics: Shaded parks, BBQs, and playgrounds make it a popular family day out.
  • Relax & Explore: Coastal walks, grassy parklands, and scenic bay views.

The beach is well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful sunsets, making it a must-visit for photographers, locals, and visitors.

Family walking along the sand at Scarborough Beach, Brisbane, carrying a blue kayak past shaded picnic shelters and trees on the Moreton Bay foreshore.
People swimming in the calm turquoise waters of Scarborough Beach with seagulls on the sand and Norfolk pines lining the Moreton Bay shoreline.

πŸ›οΈFacilities & Accessibility

Scarborough Beach is well-equipped for visitors with plenty of amenities:

  • 🚻 Toilets & showers
  • πŸ– BBQs & shaded picnic tables
  • πŸ› Children’s playgrounds along the foreshore
  • β˜• CafΓ©s, shops, and dining options nearby
  • πŸ• Dog-friendly: On-leash areas on the foreshore; signed off-leash zones nearby
  • β™Ώ Wheelchair accessible paths with flat access to picnic areas

🌀️Best Time to Visit Scarborough Beach

The best time to visit Scarborough Beach is from September to May, when warm days and sea breezes create perfect foreshore conditions.

🌑️ Weather: Subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters

🌊 Marine Stingers: Low risk in Moreton Bay, but remain stinger-aware in summer

πŸ›Ÿ Lifeguards: Patrolled seasonally and during holidays – check local signage

πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

πŸš— Driving: Scarborough Beach is located at the northern tip of the Redcliffe Peninsula, about 45 minutes north of Brisbane CBD via the Houghton Highway Bridge. Follow Anzac Avenue through Redcliffe and continue onto Landsborough Avenue to reach the Scarborough foreshore.
🚍 Public Transport: Take the train to Kippa-Ring Station, then connect via bus Route 690 to Scarborough Village, just a short walk from the beach and parklands.
πŸ…ΏοΈ Parking: Free parking is available along Landsborough Avenue and nearby side streets. Additional bays and shaded parking can be found at Scarborough Beach Park and Thurecht Parade.

πŸ’‘ Info correct at time of writing β€” check Translink for latest bus and train timetables before travelling.

πŸ’‘ Local Tips

πŸŒ… The Scarborough Beach Park area is ideal for families, with playgrounds, picnic shelters, and calm waters for kids.
🐬 Dolphins are often spotted offshore early in the morning.
🍽️ Try the waterfront cafΓ©s and fish-and-chip shops that line the village strip β€” popular with locals on weekends.
πŸš΄β€β™€οΈ Bring your bike or scooter to explore the scenic path connecting Redcliffe, Margate, and Suttons Beach.
πŸ“Έ For panoramic photos, walk to the end of Scarborough Point at low tide to capture the Glass House Mountains across the bay.

Sunny view of Scarborough Beach on Moreton Bay with calm turquoise water, sandy shoreline, people walking and a white picnic tent beneath a row of Norfolk Island pines.
Family picnic under large Norfolk pines at Scarborough Beach, Brisbane, with camping chairs overlooking the calm blue waters of Moreton Bay.

πŸ“Nearby Attractions & Activities

Scarborough is part of the Moreton Bay Region, offering plenty of nearby attractions:

  • Scarborough Village: CafΓ©s, seafood restaurants, and weekend markets right by the foreshore.
  • Redcliffe Jetty (5 km): A historic pier and local events hub.
  • Other Beaches: Redcliffe Beach and Suttons Beach for family-friendly swimming.

πŸ“† Events & Markets Nearby

Scarborough sits at the northern end of the Redcliffe Peninsula and hosts some of the region’s most popular markets and community events.

  • πŸ›οΈ Redcliffe Markets (Sundays): A vibrant seaside market with artisan stalls, produce, handmade goods, boutique food stalls, and live entertainment.
  • 🎈 Scarborough Sounds Festival (seasonal): Local musicians, market stalls, food trucks, and community entertainment on the waterfront.
  • 🐯 Redcliffe KiteFest (September): One of Queensland’s biggest family festivals with giant kites, performers, carnival rides, markets, and kids’ shows.
  • 🍀 Moreton Bay Food & Wine Festival (August): A huge peninsula event featuring gourmet stalls, seafood, wine tastings, and celebrity chef demonstrations.
  • 🎭 Redcliffe Festival of the Arts (annual): Celebrating creativity with exhibitions, artists’ markets, and performances across the peninsula.

For a full list of what’s on in the area, visit the
πŸ‘‰ Brisbane Attractions | Best Things to Do Near Brisbane Beaches

πŸ•οΈAccommodation Near Scarborough Beach

Visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options nearby, including:

  • 🏨 Hotels & serviced apartments in Redcliffe
  • β›Ί Caravan parks and holiday parks in Scarborough & Redcliffe
  • 🏑 Short-term rentals & seaside holiday homes

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πŸ’‘ Please note: Full names and emails are kept private β€” only your chosen Display Name will appear publicly with your review.

🍴 Places to Eat & Drink

Scarborough Beach is a favourite bayside spot for dining, with waterfront cafΓ©s, seafood restaurants, and relaxed bars lining the foreshore. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, casual brunch, or sunset drink overlooking the marina β€” then share your favourite food and drink experiences below!

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πŸ’‘ Please note: Full names and emails are kept private β€” only your chosen Display Name will appear publicly with your review.

🧭Plan Your Trip to Scarborough Beach

Whether you’re planning a short day trip or a weekend getaway, Scarborough Beach, Moreton Bay is the perfect bayside escape. With its combination of family-friendly facilities, calm bay waters, scenic parks, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s no wonder Scarborough is one of the most popular beaches in Brisbane’s northern bayside. Add it to your Queensland beach itinerary for a relaxing coastal experience.

Scarborough Beach foreshore park with shaded playground, trees, and views of the sandy beach and Moreton Bay in the background, Redcliffe Peninsula, Brisbane, Queensland.

πŸ’¬ Share Your Scarborough Beach Photos & Reviews

πŸ“Έ We’d love to see your favourite moments from this beach! Upload your photos, share your experiences, and leave a review to help other beach lovers discover the best of Brisbane.

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πŸ’™ Explore More Beaches Nearby

Discover more of the Redcliffe Peninsula’s coastal favourites:
Redcliffe Beach ➜ | Suttons Beach ➜ | Margate Beach ➜ | Shorncliffe Beach ➜

🌊 About This Beach Directory


🌴 Note: This directory doesn’t include every beach in Queensland β€” there are simply too many! We’ve selected the most significant and unique beaches based on a range of factors including natural beauty, accessibility, and local popularity.

πŸ’Œ If you think we’ve missed one that deserves to be featured, we’d love to hear from you!

πŸ“§ Email us at Admin@QldBeach.com with your photos and tell us why your favourite beach should be added.

β˜€οΈ Happy surfing, swimming and sunning from the Queensland Beach Guide team!

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Last updated: June 2026

Is Scarborough Beach good for families?

Yes – it’s one of the best family beaches near Brisbane. The large beachfront park features two popular themed playgrounds (Pirate Place and Railway Place), picnic tables, BBQs, shady Norfolk pines, and a calm swimming area.

Are there facilities at Scarborough Beach?

Yes. You’ll find toilets, picnic tables, electric BBQs, sealed pathways, viewing decks, accessible parking, and plenty of shade. Cafes and takeaway options are right across the road.

Is there parking at Scarborough Beach?

Yes, there is ample free parking available along the foreshore and near Scarborough Beach Park (entrance via Kennedy Drive / nearby streets). Accessible parking bays are also provided.

Can you swim at Scarborough Beach?

Yes. The beach offers generally calm water suitable for swimming, especially for families. Always check local conditions and any signage on the day.

Are dogs allowed at Scarborough Beach?

Dogs must be on-leash on the main Scarborough beaches. Dogs are allowed off-leash on the sand and water specifically at Queens Beach North (stretching along Flinders Parade between the access stairs and the northern rock groyne). Note that the main Scarborough Beach Park and the grassed areas nearby strictly require a leash

What else is there to do near Scarborough Beach?

You can enjoy foreshore walks toward Newport or Redcliffe, visit local cafes and seafood spots, explore the boat harbour, or continue along the Redcliffe peninsula coastal path. The famous Bee Gees house is also a short walk away.

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