Kayaking in Brisbane has become a popular pastime and there are some great places for kayaking south east Queensland.
There are many kayaking locations around Brisbane for those who already have kayaks and wanting to try some of the unique locations in and around Brisbane. However, if you don’t have the equipment why not start by hiring some of the many different types of kayaks or canoes on offer, or enjoy a guided tour.
Where can I kayak in Brisbane?
The QLD kayak industry has expanded in recent times and it can be confusing as to what equipment you need. Thus, hiring is a great alternative, so we have included options below on where to find some equipment that you can try before you buy.
From single to double kayaks, canoes and even fishing kayaks Brisbane has it all! In our article we show you some of the ways in which you can enjoy kayaking in Brisbane and a little further afield for an alternative great day out with the family!
Kayaking clubs Brisbane
If you decide you have fallen in love with kayaking, you could join a kayaking club Brisbane and the surrounding areas. There are a number to choose from and plenty of activities and planned days out. Each club will have its own membership fees and rules and regulations so it is best to research exactly what you are after and the activities that they indulge in.
A quick google search will help you find a local kayaking club near you.
The Woody Point/Clontarf/Redcliffe area
Approximately 40 km north of Brisbane CBD is Woody Point/Redcliffe area. Kayak in Redcliffe is great for a day out with the family, there are a number of kayaking/canoeing clubs that will help with rental of equipment if needed.
Check out the Redcliffe Outrigger Club as a good place for beginners to start.
Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island
Brisbane kayaking adventures don’t come much better than this, with some wrecks to explore as well as the kayaking! So much to see at this location…. Bring your snorkel gear and explore what lies beneath the water with fish aplenty in an array of colours and species!
Check out these day trips over to the island that include kayaking!
Springfield Lakes
This up and coming area in the western suburbs some 40 km of Brisbane, has a number of artificial lakes. The waterways are calm, so this is great for those new to kayaking. There are approximately 23 hectares of lakes to try so you are unlikely to run into lots of people. There are also great picnic spots and parks close to the water so you can stop and let the younger members of the family have a break!
Boondall Wetlands
Brisbane kayaking spots include this beautifully tranquil location 15 km north of Brisbane. If you enjoy adventuring in the mangroves, wetlands, enjoy watching birdlife and the peace and quiet, this is a great location to trial. There are walking tracks and an environment centre to check out.
Find out more about the Boondall Wetlands here.
Wellington Point
This seaside destination is just 40 minutes drive north of Brisbane and a well known kayaking and fishing spot with the locals. There are many who have been able to spot dolphins, turtles and other wildlife, so a great place to kayak.
Find out more about Wellington Point here.
The Brisbane River Canoe Trail
Canoeing Brisbane River, as the name suggests, this trail runs from Brisbane Valley at the base of Wivenhoe Dam to Kholo Bridge which is approximately 54km. A picturesque location taking in plenty of countryside and rural locations enroute.
Wivenhoe Dam
Brisbane River kayaking provides a great backdrop, the pinnacle of which can be located at Lake Wivenhoe. This is a little further out from the CBD, approximately 80 km, but well worth the visit. The Damn has camping and many other outdoor activities, including fishing so you could set up camp and spend days getting out on the water, fishing, kayaking and enjoying family time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Can you kayak on the Brisbane River?
YES!, Well that’s the short answer anyway! And there are many options on how to organise just that.
Where can I hire a kayak in Brisbane?
To enjoy the many kayaking spots Brisbane has to offer, there are a few locations where hiring equipment is an option. We have put together a list of some of the options available in and around the area that can provide both hire and information relating to kayaking.
Kayaking Brisbane River activities are numerous and here are a few options:
Kayak Fun, Brisbane
Kayaking in Brisbane River options are covered in a number of ways such as hiring the equipment and guided tours. On these tours you can take in the popular Brisbane sites such as Kangaroo Point, Story Bridge, and a number of other bridges. Safety is well covered and the instructors are very helpful and informative.
Night kayaking Brisbane is also available and a different way to see this magnificent city all lit up. The tours usually take up to two hours and range from $65 for a day tour to $88 for a night tour. Kayak hire is also available for children and adults (children of 8 years and above). The hire is for a two hour window at a rate of $45 a single kayak or $90 for a double.
Brisbane Adventure Kayaking Tours
Riverlife Adventure Centre, Brisbane
Kayaking in Brisbane River activities are also available at Riverlife Adventure Centre. They offer school group activities, hiring of equipment and tours for family and friends.
Brisbane kayak adventures include both day and twilight tours if night kayaking Brisbane is more your style.
Different group packages are available from individuals (including children from 8 years and above) to family packages, prices starting from $55 for a child and $65 for an adult. Tours are available Tuesday to Sunday.
If Brisbane river kayak adventures is something you would prefer to do in your own group, then you are able to hire the equipment for a two hour hire window at $35. Safety briefings are always included from the instructors who will be able to answer any queries that you have before setting off.
Walkabout Creek Adventures – Enoggera Reservoir
Whether a first time kayaker or an experienced paddle-pro, the Enoggera reservoir gives a relaxing still water experience with plenty of time to intimately get to know the local critters.
Walkabout Creek Adventures hires kayaks to families with children 5 years of age and older. Childrens aged 5-7 years must be accompanied by an adult in a tandem kayak. All kids 8-12 years of age will require an adult to join them on the water (single or tandem).
Kids aged below 17 years of age will require a parent or legal guardian to complete the indemnity form.
You can hire your kayaks from Walkabout Creek Adventures here.
TangaTours, Tangalooma Island
Kayak tours Brisbane is an adventure and there are a few on the outer reaches of Brisbane that offer something a little different. Clear bottomed kayaks is a twist on the usual kayak hire Brisbane has to offer.
The tour takes you to the famous wrecks close to Tangalooma Island and there you will transfer from a boat transfer into a kayak and spend time looking at the many varieties of fish on display! A fun activity for all the family but note that this is only available for children aged 8 years and over.
Bribie Island Hut Hire, Bribie Island
Kayaking Bribie Island also has a number of different options available. Different types of equipment is available to hire, so if you have tried all the kayaking Brisbane tours already and other places to kayak Brisbane and other surrounding locations, why not try pedal kayak in Bribie?
Pedalling a kayak, or waterbikes, are available to hire at Bribie Island along with Hobie Eclipse Pedalboards (looks like a surfboard with a scooter handle attached!). There are also varieties of transport for hire out of the water including electric bikes and scooters, so this is definitely the place to check out if you are looking for a transport related activity both on and off the water!
If you are heading further north, you may want to read our Kayaking Sunshine Coast article too!
Kayaking Brisbane options
Kayaking is a great family friendly activity and a fantastic way to see and enjoy all that the Brisbane region has to offer!
