Home » Things to do » Family Fun Days Out » Day Trips

REVIEW: Redcliffe Lagoon | A family friendly destination for kids

Have you visited Redcliffe Lagoon also known as Settlement Cove Lagoon in Redcliffe? We have and we LOVED it! Find out why…

History of Redcliffe Lagoon

The Redcliffe waterfront underwent a major redevelopment during the late 1990’s, the focus of which is the rebuilt Redcliffe Pier and seaward breakwater, and the Settlement Cove lagoon located between the pier and southern Redcliffe Point. Wedged in on the south side of the pier is an 80m long pocket of nourished white sand, that now forms a separate small beach. It is backed by a stepped seawall and walkway. Most people however swim at the lagoon which has excellent shade and all facilities, including pockets of sandy shore. If you want to swim in the ocean, check out the tide and water reports here.

Redcliffe Lagoon IS Settlement Cove and it’s a slice of heaven in Brisbane’s north

If you’ve not been to this idyllic location than you truly don’t know what you’re missing. Redcliffe Lagoon and Settlement Cove are at the base of Redcliffe’s cliffs (in case you didn’t know where the suburb name came from!) and are a gorgeous tropical oasis. The combination of shallow water, a hot day, beautiful views and sea breezes makes this the number one splash spot for a Brisbane family with kids of any age!

How do I get to Redcliffe Lagoon & Settlement Cove?

Settlement Cove and Redcliffe Lagoon can be found on Marine Parade in Redcliffe. Parking can fill up quick, particularly on a scorcher, so make sure the family is in the car early and that you’ve packed some patience along with your sunscreen.

Settlement Cove seating and artificial rocky stream

Is Redcliffe Lagoon good for little kids?

If your parenting experience has been anything like mine, I often find that when I’m at big attraction areas like this I worry about my small child being caught up in big-kid-rough-stuff. This swimming area, however, is tailor-made for families with younger children.

settlement cove

Very shallow water is the home of waterjets, toadstools and happy bugs that squirt water – much to the delight of any child playing with them. The wading pool and nearby high-quality children’s play area, accompanied by shaded seating and eating spots, makes this a great place for some manageable time with little ones.

Settlement Cove in Redcliffe

If you have bigger, more capable children then the Redcliffe Lagoon is a deeper waterhole that they might find more enjoyable and suitable.

Walking tracks around all sides and grassed areas enhance the relaxed nature of this idyllic spot.

Are there family-friendly facilities at Redcliffe Lagoon?

Sure are! Toilets (family and wheelchair accessible), showers, change rooms, ramps. Everything you wish other places like this had but didn’t can be found at Settlement Cove. This place was designed with families in mind.

There are eateries a walking distance away but you can always bring your own food along depending on what you feel like doing. Bring the bikes as well so kids can take advantage of the pathways while you soak up the view across Moreton Bay.

The Cove and Lagoon are patrolled during the hotter months. As always, Families Magazine reminds you that your children are YOUR responsibility and absolute vigilance is required at all times to ensure they are water-safe.

Make a splash at the Redcliffe Lagoon!

Our family could happily swim at the Redcliffe Lagoon at nearly any time of year. This is a gorgeous, family-friendly environment for kids – the kind of place that makes you thank your lucky stars that this is the city your kids get to grow up in.

If you don’t live around these parts – check out accommodation here.

What are you waiting for? Redcliffe Lagoon awaits!

Photo of author

Janine Mergler

Janine Mergler is a veteran Queensland teacher, graduating from QUT with a BEd majoring in Social Sciences. After many years in the classroom, Janine moved on to academia. She has proudly trained new generations of teachers in her role as a lecturer at Queensland University of Technology Faculty of Education. She has also worked in the Queensland Government as an education specialist, developing education resources and delivering community awareness programs to help families conserve water. Currently she is the owner and editor of Families Magazine, a publication specifically targeted at parents who value a quality education for children.  Janine leads a team of professionals who write about family lifestyle, early childhood, schools and education information and family-friendly events.

Leave a comment