Clontarf, Redcliffe Peninsula – A Bayside Haven of Coastal Beauty and Laid‑Back Adventure

Nestled at the southernmost tip of the Redcliffe Peninsula, Clontarf is a serene seaside escape where sparkling blue waters meet wide‑open skies and the gentle rhythm of coastal life sets the pace. With its sprawling network of bayside walkways, breezy bikeways, lush parks and family‑friendly foreshore, Clontarf is the perfect place to unwind, explore and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re travelling with kids, friends or your four‑legged companion, this charming waterfront destination offers a full day of relaxation, discovery and unforgettable views.

A Foreshore Made for Wandering

Clontarf’s esplanade is one of the peninsula’s most inviting outdoor spaces. Kilometres of scenic paths hug the shoreline, ideal for leisurely strolls, invigorating bike rides or simply soaking up the salty air. Shaded picnic areas, playgrounds and designated off‑leash zones make it easy to settle in for a long, lazy day by the water. The atmosphere is peaceful yet vibrant, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the sunshine, sea breezes and sweeping views across Bramble Bay.

Walk the Iconic Hornibrook Bridge

No visit to Clontarf is complete without experiencing the old Hornibrook Highway Bridge, now a dedicated pedestrian and cycling route. Closed to traffic and stretching gracefully across the bay, the bridge offers one of the region’s most spectacular vantage points. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, when the sky glows with soft pastels or fiery golds and the water mirrors the changing light. It’s a moment that captures the essence of Clontarf—calm, scenic and deeply connected to the sea.

Pelican Park – A Tribute to Coastal Wildlife

Clontarf is famous for its resident pelicans, often seen perched proudly on the light poles along the bridge or gliding effortlessly above the water. Their presence is so iconic that Pelican Park was named in their honour. Each morning at around 10am, local volunteers gather to feed the pelicans and share fascinating insights into their behaviour and history. This daily ritual offers a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent birds up close and learn more about their role in the coastal ecosystem.

Pelican Park also features a spacious Visitor Information Centre, a modern playground complete with an accessible swing for people with disability, and a popular boat ramp that provides easy access to the calm waters of Bramble Bay.

A Kite Flyer’s Paradise

Thanks to its wide‑open foreshore and consistently favourable winds, Clontarf has become a beloved destination for kite flying. On most days, colourful kites dance across the sky, adding a playful splash of colour to the horizon. Each May, the area comes alive with the annual KiteFest, a vibrant celebration that attracts kite enthusiasts, performers and families from across Australia. With giant show kites, live entertainment and hands‑on activities, it’s one of the region’s most anticipated events.

Things to Do in Clontarf

• Walk or cycle the Hornibrook Bridge for panoramic sunrise and sunset views
• Visit Pelican Park for the daily pelican feeding and wildlife education
• Enjoy a picnic by the water at one of the many foreshore parks
• Let the kids play at the accessible playground
• Launch a boat or kayak from the local ramp
• Fly a kite along the breezy esplanade
• Explore the bikeways that connect Clontarf to the wider Redcliffe Peninsula

How to Get There

Clontarf is conveniently located just north of Brisbane.

• By car: Approximately 35 minutes from Brisbane CBD via the Houghton Highway.
• By public transport: Regular bus services connect Clontarf with nearby train stations on the Redcliffe Peninsula Line.
• By bike: The peninsula’s extensive bikeway network makes Clontarf easily accessible for cyclists.

Best Time to Visit

Clontarf is a year‑round destination, but the most pleasant conditions are from autumn to spring, when temperatures are mild and the coastal breezes are refreshing. May is a particularly exciting time to visit thanks to the annual KiteFest, while summer offers long, sun‑soaked days perfect for waterfront picnics and outdoor play.