The best city hikes and walks in Queensland

Set along the river in New Farm Park, this jacaranda is part of a wider network of trees that have become closely tied to Brisbane’s identity. Introduced in the nineteenth century, jacarandas now mark the shift into spring, when their purple blooms briefly transform parks and streets across the city. Outside of bloom, the tree still stands out for its wide canopy and position along the water, offering shade and open views across the river.

The Gold Coast Oceanway is a paved coastal path that runs parallel to the beach, linking suburbs along the shoreline. This section near Surfers Paradise follows the edge of the sand, offering uninterrupted ocean views with the skyline rising behind you. The wide, sealed path is shared by walkers, runners and cyclists, so keep left and stay aware of faster traffic. Shade is limited along exposed stretches, making early morning or late afternoon a more comfortable time to walk.

Surfers Paradise Beach is a broad stretch of sand that faces directly onto the Coral Sea, with consistent surf and wide coastal views. The beach runs alongside the high-rise skyline, creating one of the Gold Coast’s most recognisable scenes. Swimming is safest between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards patrol. Conditions can change with swell and wind, and rips are present at times.

Narrow Neck Reserve sits between Surfers Paradise and Main Beach, where the coastline opens into a broad stretch of sand backed by dunes and parkland. From Esplanade, you can see the Narrow Neck artificial reef extending into the ocean, designed to improve surf conditions and help protect the shoreline from erosion. The reserve includes open grassy areas, picnic spots and direct beach access.

New Farm Park is one of Brisbane’s oldest and most popular riverside parks, known for its expansive lawns, mature fig trees, and formal rose gardens. Established in the early 20th century on former farmland, it has long served as a major recreational space for picnics, events, and community gatherings. The park also connects directly to the Brisbane Riverwalk, making it a key green space along the river corridor.

Howard Smith Wharves is a lively riverfront precinct under Brisbane’s Story Bridge, centred on a collection of restored heritage wharf buildings. Constructed in the 1930s as part of the city’s port operations, it is now a public space with dining venues including Felons Brewing Company, open promenades, and event areas along the river’s edge. It's a popular riverside destination and access point along the Brisbane Riverwalk with plenty of historic maritime character.

The New Farm Riverwalk is a sealed multi-use riverside path that links the inner-city area with the suburb of New Farm, offering scenic views of the river and skyline. It forms part of the larger Brisbane Riverwalk network, with sections like this one built on a suspended boardwalk above the water and segregated lanes for pedestrians and cyclists. Originally opened in the early 2000s and rebuilt after major flood damage, the current structure reopened in 2014 with a more resilient design and remains a popular commuting and recreational route.

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens is a heritage riverside park established in 1855 at the edge of the CBD, known for its mature trees, ornamental plantings, and mangrove boardwalks. Meandering paths connect lawns, ponds, and historic features, creating a shaded, peaceful stretch along the Riverwalk loop. Its location by the river serves as an important floodplain, emphasising the city's historical ties to the Brisbane River.