Since having my own kids, going to the beach became less relaxing with each visit, purely because it wasn’t just a chuck-your-togs-on-let’s-go type thing, it was a plan-ahead-pack-the-entire-house type event and although I’ve managed to nail the beach prep...
I grew up in the country and still remember the wave of excitement that would come over me when I spotted sand when would visit the beach (which was pretty rare). It wasn’t until we moved to Queensland when I was about to turn 13 that we really got to start experiencing the beach in general and as much as I had the shits with my folks when they moved us up here, I’m so glad that my kids get to grow up in such a beautiful state, with beaches in every direction, just a short drive away. Honestly, I still get that same excitement at 34. Nothing has changed, not even my height. (Short person joke).
Since having my own kids, going to the beach became less relaxing with each visit, purely because it wasn’t just a chuck-your-togs-on-let’s-go type thing, it was a plan-ahead-pack-the-entire-house type event and although I’ve managed to nail the beach prep now (only took me 11 years but we’re here), it’s been important to find beaches that make going to the beach a fun and mostly relaxing experience for the entire family!
Coop is one confident little bugger when it comes to the water, so finding flat and calm water is essential, as he does not hesitate to run into the surf. These days we opt for something that’s a little more chilled out, the water is flat and the kids can swim and have a play in more gentle waters.
Here are some of our faves:
KAL MA KUTA BEACH, SANDSTONE POINT
We came across this beach on our way to Bribe Island one day and it’s been our favourite ever since. Nestled in the little backstreets and down near the boat ramp, this has become a spot that we frequent as it’s not only beautiful, but I also feel confident taking 3 kids there on my own without chaos.
Gentle waters, views of all the boats, ice cream shop, playground, toilets and parking - seriously what more could you need! There’s even BBQ facilities if you’re keen to whip up some snags. We like to pack up a picnic and take it with us, as it’s very easy to stay here for a while, relaxing and having a swim with the kids.
Generally when we’ve been there, the tide tends to move up the edge of the sand around lunch time, so be sure to check the tide times before heading there unless you simply don’t give a shit and want to go anyway, you might just not have sand to run around on and set up camp.
This is 2 minutes away from Sandstone Point hotel and 3 minutes away from the other side of the Bribie Island bridge, so definitely an epic day out for the family, a relaxing one too!
BULCOCK BEACH, CALOUNDRA
Another family favourite of ours that the kids absolutely love. This beach is quite big, so there’s lots of room for everyone and the kids can run around for hours. Right off the main strip of Caloundra, this spot is surrounded by cafes, restaurants and of course, ice cream.
Flat, calm and gentle waters, an absolute winner.
Depending on what time you get here, parking can be hit and miss, so be sure to bring a wagon if you have one to make life easier. There’s also not a lot of shade around the beach itself, so an umbrella or cabana is essential, especially if you’re planning to spend a few hours here.
You’ll also find a playground next door, toilets and a little cafe right next to the facilities. A wonderful spot for a day out, even better if you’re lucky enough to be on holidays, this is the only spot you really need to soak up the sun and sand!
I know I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again, absolutely bring your own shade and honestly a wagon will really save you grief if you have to park a little walk away.
IAN DIPPLE LAGOON, BROADBEACH
We only discovered this spot a few weeks ago and honestly, I couldn’t believe that I had never been to Broadbeach before - it’s bloody wonderful!
There’s a long strip of beach here that’s so family friendly and such a great day out. Absolutely bring your own shade, as it’s a spot that you’ll want to stay for hours upon hours. The gentle waters and smaller beach areas are great for the kids to play and parents to relax while not being too far away, so the kids can have a little more independence and freedom while still being safe!
Parking is hit and miss, especially if it’s a peak period and be sure that you don’t park up on the grass because we have spotted parking rangers out and about, whacking tickets on anyone that isn’t parked in the right spot.
Pack a picnic or head over the road to Kokonut Willy’s, it’s a great spot to wind down after being out in the sun and they have colouring in for the kids too. That’s if you can get them off the ninja playground.
Absolute cracker of a spot, totally recommend.
THE SPIT, GOLD COAST
We found this one by doing some research and I never ever realised that there was a swimming spot down the road from SeaWorld! A beautiful calm spot with a beautiful view of all the boats and of course, the Goldy!
This one was pup friendly, as I think we were the only people there without two things: a dog and a cool cabana (it was on this day that I realised how popular those things are).
There’s a few different spots down this road, so if you’re there on a busy day, take the nearest walkway to where you can find a park. There’s also no toilet facilities or shade, so be sure to empty the bladder before heading here and bring your own shade too. (Maybe a cool cabana? LOL).
Another addition, bring lots of water. I went home with heatstroke after this day as it’s such a beautiful spot that you end up spending hours and hours here without even realising and without enough shade and water, you’ll end up like me.
The kids absolutely LOVED this spot, we next time we’ll be prepared!
MARGATE BEACH, MARGATE
The kids and I are always around Margate and this area and never knew that this beach existed. Bugger me right? What a beautiful spot to set down and chill out for a few hours in front of the water. Kudos to my sister for introducing me to it!
Definitely bring your own shade here, as this is a spot that’s very easy to see a few hours drift by and with the kids, a safe spot out of the sun to eat some snacks and build a sandcastle.
Here you’ll find parking, toilets and an epic spot to bring the boogie boards.
This one is much closer to Brisbane, so if you’re looking for something within a really short drive, this spot is one you’ve got to try. Then if you get hungry, there’s some pretty awesome restaurants/cafes down the road!
Again, shade. Gotta bring the shade.
This area has a strip of beach all the way down from Woody Point to Suttons Beach so you won’t be short of spots if a busier type of day.
These are just a few spots that we love to frequent, so if you ever have a suggestion to add, check out my kid friendly beaches post on the gram or shoot me an email, because we’re always looking for new suggestions to take the kids to! With summer pretty much already here without already being here, taking advantage of the beautiful South East Queensland is an absolute must.
Enjoy!
Lauren
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