Brisbane Guide: River Walks, South Bank and Day Trips

Brisbane is the river city that sneaks up on you. One minute you are standing beneath jacaranda blooms with a flat white in hand, the next you are crossing a glittering footbridge to a sandy inner-city lagoon. Calm, creative and wonderfully outdoorsy, Brisbane is built for walkers, cyclists and anyone who loves to mix culture with sunshine. This SEO-friendly guide brings together the best Brisbane river walks, must-see South Bank attractions and the most rewarding day trips, so you can plan an itinerary that flows as smoothly as the Brisbane River.

Whether you are in town for a weekend or a week, use this guide to discover where to stroll, what to see, and how to make the most of the subtropical vibe that makes Brisbane feel like a holiday, even on a Tuesday.

Quick Snapshot: Why Brisbane Now

• Year-round sunshine, an easygoing riverfront lifestyle, and a dense network of paths that connect neighborhoods by water.
• South Bank is a culture-packed playground with an inner-city beach, world-class galleries and dining that spills onto the river.
• Day trips put islands, rainforests and waterfalls within easy reach. Think snorkeling shipwrecks, glow-worm caves and ancient Gondwana forests.
• A modern transport system makes it simple to hop between ferries, footbridges and trains using a single tap-on payment.

Getting Oriented: The River Is the Star

Brisbane wraps around its river in a series of elegant bends. Bridges and boardwalks link city precincts, so you can zigzag across on foot or by bike and never be far from a shady bench with a skyline view. Ferries glide back and forth, including the free CityHopper that stops at key inner-city terminals from North Quay to Sydney Street. For longer journeys, the speedy CityCat stretches upriver to St Lucia and downriver to Hamilton.

The riverfront is not for swimming, yet it is the thread that ties Brisbane together. Anything you want to see, from the Story Bridge to South Bank, is framed by water. The smartest way to feel the city quickly is to walk or ride alongside it, then let a ferry carry you home as the city lights switch on.

Best Brisbane River Walks

These are the routes locals return to week after week. Lace up, bring a hat and follow the water.

Brisbane Riverwalk: New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves

This flagship boardwalk hovers over the water between leafy New Farm and the buzzing Howard Smith Wharves precinct. It is purpose-built for walkers, runners and cyclists, with separate lanes, seating nooks and spectacular views of the Story Bridge.

Why you will love it:

• Low effort, high reward. The route is flat, breezy and endlessly photogenic.
• It links right into New Farm Park, a picnic paradise with giant fig trees and a riverside playground.
• It delivers you directly to Howard Smith Wharves for gelato, craft beer, a rooftop spritz or a polished long lunch.

How to do it:

• Start in New Farm at Sydney Street ferry terminal or the New Farm Park side.
• Stroll toward the Story Bridge. Pause at the lookouts for bridge-and-city panoramas.
• Finish with a treat at Felons Brewing Co., Mr Percival’s or one of the riverfront bars.
• Time your return for sunset. The bridge lights shift from pink to blue as the sky fades.

Good to know:

• Pram friendly and wheelchair accessible.
• Shady in parts, but bring water and sun protection.

City Reach Boardwalk to City Botanic Gardens

From Howard Smith Wharves, continue beneath the Story Bridge and link to the City Reach Boardwalk. This timber walkway hugs the CBD’s river edge and slips by heritage wharves and sleek office towers before spilling into the lush City Botanic Gardens.

Highlights:

• Public art, pockets of mangrove habitat and café pit-stops.
• The City Botanic Gardens, a 19th-century oasis with bamboo groves, banyan figs and a riverside loop path.
• A quick hop across the Goodwill Bridge places you at South Bank in minutes.

Tips:

• Early mornings bring a golden glow on the water.
• If you are a runner, combine this with the Goodwill Bridge for a satisfying loop.

Kangaroo Point Cliffs and Captain Burke Park

Cross the Story Bridge on its pedestrian path and you will find yourself on the Kangaroo Point side. Below the volcanic cliffs is a wide boardwalk that curves beneath palms and past picnic lawns, ending in Captain Burke Park under the bridge’s northern span.

Why it is special:

• The cliffs rise dramatically above the path. Climbers scale them, and brave locals abseil down.
• At dusk, the city skyline shimmers across the water. This is one of the best free sunset spots in Brisbane.
• Plenty of barbecues and shaded tables. Bring supplies and linger.

Route idea:

• Start at South Bank and cross the pedestrian-only Goodwill Bridge to the Kangaroo Point side.
• Head north along the river to Captain Burke Park, then loop back via the Story Bridge walkway to Howard Smith Wharves.
• Celebrate with dinner by the water.

South Bank Arbour to West End and Orleigh Park

South Bank is a riverfront showpiece, but keep walking along the esplanade toward West End to discover a green and local stretch that visitors often miss.

What you will see:

• The iconic bougainvillea-laced Arbour and the Nepalese Peace Pagoda near the rain-forest walk.
• River Quay Green for picnics with city views.
• As you continue into West End, the river path widens and slows, with fig trees and jacarandas that frame the water. Finish at Orleigh Park for wide lawns and swings that face the skyline.

Why go:

• This is an easy half-day stroll if you want to blend South Bank’s attractions with a laid-back neighborhood vibe.
• Cafes in West End deliver excellent coffee and global eats.

Bicentennial Bikeway: CBD to Toowong and St Lucia

For walkers and cyclists who want a longer stretch, the Bicentennial Bikeway follows the river from the city toward Toowong and the University of Queensland at St Lucia.

Key points:

• Smooth surface, separate lanes and frequent river views.
• Access points near the Regatta Hotel at Toowong for a historic pub lunch, or keep going to the green UQ campus loop.

Insider tips:

• Mornings are best to avoid the heat.
• If you prefer a one-way trip, hop on a CityCat for the return.

Breakfast Creek to Newstead House and Gasworks

North of the CBD, the riverside path around Newstead is lined with history and harborside breezes.

What to look for:

• Newstead House, the city’s oldest surviving residence, set in landscaped gardens.
• Waterfront sculptures and easy boardwalks to Gasworks Plaza, where restaurants ring a dramatic light-filled structure.

Good pairing:

• Start with a leisurely waterfront brunch, then head into New Farm Park and the Brisbane Powerhouse for an art or comedy fix.

Running Loops and Golden-Hour Walks

If you want a ready-made loop:

• The Bridges Loop, about 5 to 7 kilometers depending on detours, links the Story Bridge, Goodwill Bridge and Kurilpa Bridge. Expect skyline views from every angle.
• South Bank to Kangaroo Point sunset loop, roughly 4 to 5 kilometers. Start at Streets Beach, cross Goodwill Bridge, walk to the cliffs, then return via the pedestrian-only Captain Cook Bridge walkway.

Best golden-hour spots:

• Kangaroo Point Cliffs for sunset picnic shots.
• Wilson Outlook Reserve in New Farm for Story Bridge photography.
• River Quay Green at South Bank for a skyline sundowner.

Accessibility:

• Major river walks are sealed and mostly flat. Look for elevators at bridge approaches and check local maps for accessible routes.
• Ferries have ramps and staffed assistance. Plan around the tide if mobility is a consideration, since some gradients feel steeper at low water.

South Bank Brisbane: Culture, Sand and Skyline

South Bank is where Brisbane’s playful side meets its cultural heart. Set across the river from the CBD, it combines galleries, a man-made lagoon, dining, markets and performance spaces in one walkable waterfront precinct.

Streets Beach and Aquativity

You read that right, there is a patrolled sandy lagoon in the middle of the city. Streets Beach and the adjoining Aquativity water play area are free and fun for all ages.

Why it works:

• Lifeguards patrol during the day.
• The skyline backdrop makes every swim or paddle feel special.
• Nearby cafés keep snacks and gelato close.

Tips:

• Arrive early on weekends or holidays.
• Pack a small towel and thongs so you can wander between the beach and the Arbour.

The Arbour, The Green and The Pagoda

• The Arbour stretches along South Bank in a graceful ribbon wrapped in bougainvillea. It is a signature Brisbane photo stop.
• River Quay Green is a lawn right on the river, ideal for picnics, lawn games and live music during events.
• The Nepalese Peace Pagoda is a hand-carved gem from World Expo 88. Step inside to momentarily swap city buzz for calm.

The Cultural Precinct: QAGOMA, Museum and QPAC

Across the pedestrian bridge from South Bank sits one of Australia’s top cultural collections.

• QAGOMA, the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, hosts rotating exhibitions with an international outlook and a strong Asia-Pacific focus. Installations regularly spill into public spaces with interactive pieces for families.
• Queensland Museum houses natural history, First Nations stories and the popular Sciencentre exhibits for curious kids.
• State Library of Queensland offers design-forward reading areas and river-view terraces that double as quiet work spots.
• QPAC, the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, brings in major musicals, symphony performances and contemporary dance.

Make a day of it:

• Start with coffee at Fish Lane, walk the river to QAGOMA, spend an hour at the museum, then book an evening show at QPAC. Finish with a late dessert by the water.

Dining and Nightlife: River Quay, Little Stanley Street and Fish Lane

South Bank’s food scene pairs relaxed outdoor seating with city views.

• River Quay is elegant and breezy. Think seafood platters, crisp wines and grass picnics.
• Little Stanley Street is for grazing. Choose from Asian street food, tapas and classic Australian grills.
• Fish Lane, a short walk away in South Brisbane, lines up small bars, laneway art and chef-led restaurants in a compact, creative corridor.

Nearby, Howard Smith Wharves on the opposite bank is a natural add-on, connected by ferry or footbridge. Book a table at Mr Percival’s for elevated river watching or grab a casual pizza at Felons and call it a perfect Brisbane evening.

Markets, Events and Family Tips

• The Collective Markets pop up at South Bank from Friday to Sunday with local crafts, fashion and street eats.
• Riverfire, part of Brisbane Festival in early spring, lights the sky with citywide fireworks. South Bank lawns are prime viewing territory, so arrive early.
• Families can blend aquativity time with visits to the Sciencentre, playgrounds and the Wheel of Brisbane for a breezy view from above.

Sample Itineraries

24 Hours in Brisbane

• Morning: Walk the Brisbane Riverwalk from New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves, then brunch by the water.
• Midday: Ferry to South Bank. Swim at Streets Beach, wander the Arbour and enjoy a casual lunch on Little Stanley Street.
• Afternoon: Explore QAGOMA, then walk the Goodwill Bridge to the City Botanic Gardens.
• Evening: CityCat cruise at sunset and dinner at Howard Smith Wharves or River Quay.

48 Hours: The Classic Weekend

Day 1:

• Breakfast in New Farm, then the Riverwalk to Howard Smith Wharves.
• City Reach Boardwalk to the City Botanic Gardens, then over the Goodwill Bridge to South Bank.
• GOMA and museum visit, followed by a sunset picnic at River Quay Green.
• Nightcap along Fish Lane or a performance at QPAC.

Day 2:

• Morning climb of the Story Bridge or a serene kangaroo point cliff walk.
• Lunch at Eat Street Northshore on weekends for container-park fun and global bites.
• Late afternoon at Kangaroo Point Cliffs with a barbecue or pizza delivered to the park.
• Finish with a twilight ride on the Wheel of Brisbane.

3 Days: City and Nature Blend

Day 1:

• CBD and river walks, Howard Smith Wharves, City Botanic Gardens, sunset ferry.

Day 2:

• Full South Bank culture immersion, swim and gallery hopping, then dinner with live music.

Day 3:

• Day trip to Moreton Island for snorkeling and sandboarding, or to Mount Tamborine for waterfalls and wineries.

Iconic River Experiences

• CityCat sightseeing: Buy a two-hour fare and sit at the front for the best breeze. Hop on and off around the inner city, then relax as the river reveals neighborhood after neighborhood.
• CityHopper free ferry: Ideal for short hops between North Quay, South Bank, Kangaroo Point and New Farm. Great for a loop without spending a cent.
• Story Bridge Adventure Climb: Strap in for one of the most uplifting views of Brisbane. Sunset climbs are especially dazzling.
• River to Lone Pine cruise: Combine a relaxing cruise with a visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to see koalas, kangaroos and native birds. It is a Brisbane classic for good reason.

Best Day Trips from Brisbane

Brisbane’s day trips are outstanding. With islands to the east and mountains to the south and west, you can swap city cafés for coral bays and rainforest trails in under two hours.

Moreton Island, Mulgumpin

A pure-sand island with crystal-clear water and dramatic dunes. The Tangalooma Wrecks are the headliner, a cluster of scuttled ships that now host glittering fish and coral.

What to do:

• Snorkel or paddle around the wrecks. Join a guided tour for currents and safety.
• Try sandboarding on the giant dunes. Expect squeals and a little sand everywhere.
• Swim in Champagne Pools at the island’s northern tip on extended tours.

Getting there:

• Passenger ferries and day tours depart from Brisbane’s east side. Many include transfers, snorkeling gear and lunch.

North Stradbroke Island, Minjerribah

A local favorite with wild surf beaches, calm coves and a spectacular cliff-top walk.

Highlights:

• The North Gorge Walk at Point Lookout, where you can spot turtles and, in season, migrating whales offshore.
• Cylinder Beach for family-friendly swimming in patrolled zones.
• Amity Point for dolphins at dusk and fishing off the jetty.

How to go:

• Drive or train to Cleveland, then take the ferry to Dunwich. Buses meet the ferry and connect beaches and villages easily.

Tamborine Mountain

Cooler air, rainforest walks and artisan food make Tamborine a perfect escape.

Do not miss:

• Curtis Falls and the Witches Falls circuit for fern-fringed cascades.
• Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, an elevated forest experience.
• Gallery Walk for local fudge, cellar doors, craft breweries and boutique shops.

Tip:

• Combine waterfalls with wine tasting and a long lunch.

Lamington National Park

An ancient rainforest world within World Heritage-listed Gondwana landscapes.

Why go:

• Hike the Border Track or box forest circuits to see cascading creeks and giant trees.
• Visit O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat for bird feeding and a short treetop suspension bridge experience.
• Summer brings cool forest shade, while winter mornings deliver moody mist.

Travel time:

• About two hours from Brisbane by car. Winding mountain roads, so plan a leisurely schedule.

Springbrook National Park

Waterfalls in every direction and a natural bridge that glows with tiny blue lights after dark.

Essential stops:

• Purling Brook Falls for a dramatic loop that passes behind a curtain of water.
• Twin Falls circuit with mossy rock ledges and swimming holes after rain.
• Natural Bridge, where glow-worm tours operate in the evening.

Note:

• Check track updates after heavy rain and bring grippy shoes.

Sunshine Coast: Noosa and Eumundi

A bright beach day with a national park headland walk and artisan markets.

• Noosa National Park coastal track slips between coves with possible koala sightings in the treetops.
• Eumundi Markets, on specific days, feature artists, street food and live music.

Travel:

• Around two hours by car from Brisbane. There are also coach day tours that handle logistics.

Gold Coast: Burleigh Heads and Currumbin

Big beaches and relaxed surf towns make the Gold Coast an easy day trip.

• Walk the Burleigh Heads Oceanview Track where pandanus trees frame turquoise water.
• Stop at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to meet iconic Australian animals.
• Finish with a beachside dinner as surfers ride the point into golden light.

Redlands Coast Islands

Under-the-radar islands offer simple pleasures.

• Coochiemudlo Island is family-friendly with calm beaches and easy cycling.
• The Southern Moreton Bay Islands, like Macleay and Russell, offer mangrove-fringed walks and old-school charm.

Australia Zoo

Made famous by the Irwin family, Australia Zoo mixes wildlife conservation with interactive shows.

• Catch the Wildlife Warriors show in the Crocoseum for crocs and birds of prey.
• Hand-feed kangaroos and meet friendly keepers.

Getting there:

• Drive about 1 hour north, or take a train from Brisbane with a connecting zoo shuttle.

Scenic Rim: Mountains, Wineries and Balloons

This inland arc of peaks and valleys is a region of farm-fresh produce and volcanic vistas.

• Hike Mount Cordeaux or Mount Barney for summit views.
• Taste small-batch wines, cheeses and craft beers.
• Hot air balloon rides at sunrise offer dreamy farmland panoramas.

Where to Stay in Brisbane

Match your base to your travel style.

• South Bank: Best for families and culture lovers. Walk to Streets Beach, GOMA and QPAC. Plenty of apartments and river-view hotels.
• CBD: Close to shopping, restaurants and ferry hubs. Ideal for business-meets-leisure trips.
• New Farm and Teneriffe: Leafy, stylish and quiet at night. Great for longer stays with parks and the Riverwalk.
• Fortitude Valley: Nightlife central with boutique hotels, rooftop pools and easy access to Howard Smith Wharves.
• West End: Bohemian and foodie-friendly, with a short stroll to South Bank and river paths.

Booking tips:

• Look for riverside rooms or balconies for sunset watching.
• If you plan a lot of ferry travel, choose a spot near a CityCat terminal.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Brisbane Trip

Getting Around

• Ferries: CityCat services are frequent and fast. The free CityHopper is perfect for inner-city sightseeing.
• Trains and buses: Use a contactless card or Go Card to tap on and off across all Translink services.
• E-scooters and bikes: Lime and Neuron operate widely. Observe speed limits on shared paths.
• Airport to city: Airtrain connects the terminals to the CBD in about 20 minutes. Rideshare and taxis are readily available.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring and autumn offer warm days with comfortable humidity. Winter is mild and sunny, excellent for walking. Summer delivers tropical energy with afternoon storms and balmy evenings.
• Jacaranda season, late spring, paints parks and riverbanks purple, especially around New Farm Park and UQ.

Safety and Sun Sense

• The river looks inviting, but it is not for swimming. Use patrolled beaches like Streets Beach or head to the coast for ocean swims between the flags.
• Sun is strong. Wear SPF 50 sunscreen, a hat and light layers. Reapply often.
• Hydrate and carry a reusable bottle. Fill up at public fountains along the river.

What to Pack

• Breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear for Streets Beach and a light rain jacket in summer.
• A small daypack for ferry trips and snacks.
• A compact picnic blanket for lawns at South Bank or Kangaroo Point.

Accessibility

• Major attractions include ramps, lifts and accessible facilities. Ferries and bridges are designed with accessibility in mind.
• Check venue-specific pages for detailed maps and elevator locations, especially around South Bank and cultural institutions.

Events to Watch

• Brisbane Festival and Riverfire in spring, with light installations and fireworks that reflect on the river.
• Ekka in August, a classic Queensland show with rides and local produce.
• New Year’s Eve fireworks that center on the river and South Bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in Brisbane?

• Two to three days covers river walks, South Bank and a river cruise. Add a day trip for a taste of islands or rainforest.

Is Brisbane walkable?

• Yes, especially along the river. Bridges and ferries make it easy to link neighborhoods without a car.

Can you swim in the city?

• Swim at Streets Beach in South Bank. For ocean swims, head to the Sunshine Coast or Gold Coast.

What is the best Brisbane river walk for first-timers?

• The New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves Riverwalk. It is flat, beautiful and connects directly to dining and the city boardwalk.

What is the easiest day trip without a car?

• North Stradbroke Island via train to Cleveland and ferry to Dunwich. Buses meet the ferry and cover the beaches. Australia Zoo is also straightforward by train and shuttle.

A Local-Style Brisbane Itinerary Flow

• Start your days with river walks that build your sense of place. The water guides you.
• Let South Bank be your cultural anchor and your swim break.
• Use ferries like locals do. They are transport and sightseeing in one.
• Slot in a day trip for a nature hit, islands east or rainforest south.
• Finish nights at the water’s edge, a cold drink in hand and the skyline sliding into neon.

Conclusion: Let the River Lead

Brisbane rewards curiosity. Follow the river and you will find neighborhoods with personality, art that spills into the streets, and parks that persuade you to slow down. South Bank rolls culture and play into a single waterfront sweep, while day trips unlock islands with translucent water and rainforests that hum with life. This is a city where you can walk for hours, ferry home at sunset and feel like you have lived a little larger than usual.

If you are planning a visit, build your days around river walks, give South Bank a generous slice of time and choose one or two day trips that fit your travel style. Book a table by the water, pack a hat, and let Brisbane’s easy rhythm carry you along. The river is ready. The rest falls into place.