Raby Bay in Cleveland is perfect for little ones, offering a genuine calm beach vibe. Its proximity to Brisbane has made it one of my top three favourite places to soak up the sunshine.

Colmslie Beach Reserve is an underrated gem that often gets overlooked. Its proximity to the recently renovated Colmslie Park makes it a perfect spot to soak up some vitamin D, especially at the right time of year.

Moora Park in Shorncliffe is a fantastic spot! I first learned about it when my husband suggested we head to Shorncliffe for breakfast. After a delicious meal at The Witchin’ Kitchen, we popped in the car drove down to the park and enjoyed a leisurely morning.

I first heard about Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary many moons ago from former industry colleagues, long before I became a parent. I kept this suggestion in my back pocket for a sunny family outing, and it certainly lived up to expectations! The sanctuary is home to numerous koalas and a wonderful variety of other animals to appreciate.

With so many parks in Brisbane, I’ve consciously decided not to try to explore them all. That list would never end, and there would be some thorns among the roses.

What makes a park enjoyable for everyone is subjective, but I love a space that’s age-appropriate for my son, features soft flooring instead of tanbark, and, most importantly, is fully fenced. If I come across all three, it feels like hitting the jackpot! That’s exactly how I felt when I first discovered Ascot Playground.

Tucked away on Wynnum Road, the Brisbane Bayside Railway Society hosts a delightful miniature railway that’s perfect for families, preschoolers and beyond! We discovered this charming spot after a friend recommended it, and we couldn’t have been happier with our visit. The train rides take place on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, so be sure to check their website for more details on opening times.

Pandanus Beach is a hidden gem nestled in Wynnum that I believe is somewhat underrated.

I especially love visiting during low tide—it's so much fun watching my son toddle between the natural tidal pools and the sandy shore. The surrounding pandanus trees provide a lovely spot to lay down a towel, perfect for playing with some beach toys and enjoying a few snacks

I’m excited to share one of my favourite hidden gems: the Joe Bradfield Centre Park! This charming spot is perfect for spending time on a trike or teaching your little ones how to ride their bikes. What makes it even more delightful are the adorable miniature traffic signs scattered throughout the park—perfect for helping kids learn about the real world while having fun!

I discovered this wonderful location by asking a friend in my mother’s group, “Where can I take my son to see baby chickens on Easter?” And voilà! She replied, “Capalaba Produce!” I had no idea this place existed, and my former child-free self would never have imagined the joy it would bring my little family.