Captain Burke Park, Brisbane - Close view from The Rotunda at Balmoral Beach. After its completion it was a very popular venue for brass band concerts for many years throughout the 1930s and 1940s.
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Captain Burke Park Brisbane

4.6
·2k reviews·Kangaroo Point, Australia

A scenic riverside park in Kangaroo Point offering breathtaking views of the Story Bridge and Brisbane skyline, perfect for picnics and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, magical night views

CrowdLow
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Captain Burke Park, Brisbane - Close view from The Rotunda at Balmoral Beach. After its completion it was a very popular venue for brass band concerts for many years throughout the 1930s and 1940s.

Captain Burke Park Brisbane

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, magical night views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic riverside park in Kangaroo Point offering breathtaking views of the Story Bridge and Brisbane skyline, perfect for picnics and family fun.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A small patch of paradise with a killer view that is best enjoyed after dark."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch the golden hour for stunning photos of the Story Bridge and city skyline.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Zone

Kids love the playground! Pack a picnic and enjoy the BBQ facilities.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Story Bridge Views

Story Bridge Views

Kangaroo Point

Iconic bridge illuminated at night, offering a breathtaking city backdrop.

Riverside Picnic Spot

Riverside Picnic Spot

Along the Brisbane River

Shaded benches and BBQ facilities perfect for a relaxed picnic with a view.

Children's Playground

Children's Playground

Within the park

A well-equipped play area that keeps kids entertained for hours.

Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Adjacent to the park

Offers panoramic city vistas and is a popular spot for sunset.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

For stunning cityscapes and the Story Bridge illuminated at night, plan an evening visit. Weekends can get busy, so consider a weekday evening for a more relaxed experience. Sunset offers a magical transition, making it a popular time for photographers and couples.

Park Amenities & Accessibility

Captain Burke Park offers playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and shaded benches, making it family-friendly. While street parking is available, it's ticketed on weekdays and can be limited. Consider using the free City Hopper ferry for an alternative arrival.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, magical night views
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family fun & picnics
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

So you only have 3 days in Brisbane! This is how I would do it! @VisitBrisbane AD #visitbrisbane
@joslaloh
41.9K likes • 6.3M views

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch the golden hour for stunning photos of the Story Bridge and city skyline. TikTok

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Zone

Kids love the playground! Pack a picnic and enjoy the BBQ facilities. Reddit

It’s the time of year again! Where will you be watching Riverfire this Saturday 6 September?! 🛩️Entertainment from 5PM 🎇Fireworks from 7PM Top viewing locations ✨Wilson Outlook Reserve ✨Howard Smith Wharves ✨Captain Burke Park ✨Kangaroo Poiint Cliffs ✨Botanical Gardens ✨Queen’s Wharf ✨South Bank ✨City Riverwalk (Riverside Centre - Howard Smith Wharves) 📍@Brisbane Festival #brisbane #riverfire ...
@brunch.is.served
23.8K likes • 333.6K views
Keseruan Semarak Asa akan berlanjut di Pesta Rasa 22 Agustus 2025 King George Square Brisbane Jangan lupa dapatkan tiketnya sekarang juga. #dirgahayu #indonesia #pesrabrisbane2025 #ppiaqueensland #ppiagriffith #isagu
ppiagriffith.isagu
65 likes • 3.9K views

🚶‍♀️ River Walk Adventure

Start your Brisbane River walk here, heading towards Southbank. Reddit

🎣 Potential Fishing Spot

Bull sharks have been caught from the beach here; check local regulations. Reddit

One of my favourite sunset spots im the city 🌇✨ #brisbane #PlacesToVisit #thingstodo #sunset #brisbane_australia
@pieterjohnsen
21.6K likes • 357.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch the golden hour for stunning photos of the Story Bridge and city skyline. TikTok

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Zone

Kids love the playground! Pack a picnic and enjoy the BBQ facilities. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ River Walk Adventure

Start your Brisbane River walk here, heading towards Southbank. Reddit

🎣 Potential Fishing Spot

Bull sharks have been caught from the beach here; check local regulations. Reddit

⛴️ Free Ferry Access

Catch the free City Hopper ferry from the park corner for easy river access. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Captain Burke Park's stunning views of the Story Bridge and Brisbane skyline, especially at night. It's praised as a family-friendly spot with excellent playgrounds and BBQ facilities, perfect for picnics. While parking can be a challenge on weekdays, the park's beauty and amenities make it a highly recommended, well-maintained destination.

"A stunning view of the Brisbane city as well as the story Bridge,
Also, kids and dogs friendly
An abundance of shaded benches and BBQ options.
Kids' playground keeps kids busy as well. Limited street car park spaces (ticketed during weekdays)"

S KC

"Lovely spot with beautiful view. The place has car park, children playground, picnic table, BBQ, public toilet.
It's great place for enjoying the amazing view, walking, jogging and picnic. Well maintained and clean."

M S (Nagmum)

"Brisbanes best kept secret! I came here for a picnic date and it did not disappoint. A small patch of paradise with a killer view that is best enjoyed after dark. The amenities are clean and convenient to access. If you haven't been you're missing out."

Tyler

What People Like

Spectacular city and bridge views
Family-friendly amenities
Clean and well-maintained

What People Dislike

Limited weekday parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Captain Burke Park is located in Kangaroo Point. You can drive and find limited ticketed street parking on weekdays, or consider using the free City Hopper ferry service which has a stop nearby. TikTok It's also a great starting point for the Brisbane River walk. Reddit

Yes, there is street parking available, but it can be limited and is ticketed during weekdays. Arriving early or on a weekend is recommended for easier parking. Reddit

Absolutely! The free City Hopper ferry service is a fantastic way to reach the park, offering scenic views along the Brisbane River. TikTok

The park is generally well-maintained with paved paths, making it accessible for wheelchairs and prams. The playground and BBQ areas are also designed for ease of use. Reddit

A helpful tip for navigating Brisbane is that female street names (like Charlotte, Queen, Adelaide) run north-south, while male street names (like Edward, Albert) run east-west. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Captain Burke Park is a public park and entry is free for everyone. Reddit

Captain Burke Park is open 24/7, allowing you to enjoy its views and amenities at any time. TikTok

While the BBQ facilities are available on a first-come, first-served basis, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak times, to secure a spot. Reddit

Captain Burke Park is a popular spot for events like Riverfire, offering excellent viewing opportunities for fireworks. TikTok

Yes, Captain Burke Park is a dog-friendly park, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the outdoors with their furry companions. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy picnics, BBQs, walking, jogging, and let kids play at the playground. It's also a prime spot for photography, especially of the Story Bridge and city skyline. TikTokReddit

The park offers fantastic vantage points for capturing the Story Bridge, especially when lit up at night. The riverfront also provides beautiful city views. TikTok

Yes, it's very family-friendly with a dedicated children's playground and ample shaded areas for picnics. TikTokReddit

Bull sharks have been caught from the beach at Captain Burke Park. Remember to check local fishing regulations and be mindful of boat traffic. Reddit

The park features playgrounds, BBQ stations, picnic tables, public toilets, and shaded benches, making it well-equipped for visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the park itself is great for picnics, the nearby Howard Smith Wharves offer a variety of dining options with excellent river views. Reddit

Yes, the park is equipped with BBQ facilities, making it a perfect spot for a casual cookout with friends and family. Reddit

Packing a picnic or using the BBQ facilities are the most popular ways to enjoy food here. The scenic views enhance the dining experience. Reddit

You can find cafes in the Kangaroo Point area or head across the river to Southbank or Howard Smith Wharves for a wider selection. Reddit

The nearby Howard Smith Wharves offer a range of cuisines, from casual pub fare to more upscale dining, all with stunning river and city views. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset and nighttime are ideal for capturing the illuminated Story Bridge and the Brisbane city skyline. TikTok

The riverfront offers unobstructed views of the Story Bridge and the city. The park's trees are also beautifully lit up at night. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in Brisbane. Always check with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and local council rules before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views and the Story Bridge. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light photography at night. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Captain Burke Park is a fantastic destination for families. The well-equipped children's playground is a major draw, ensuring kids stay entertained for hours. With BBQ facilities and shaded picnic tables, it's the perfect spot for a relaxed family outing. The open grassy areas also provide space for children to run around and play. Reddit

Consider bringing a picnic or using the BBQ to make a full day of it. The park's dog-friendly nature means your furry family members can join in the fun too. The proximity to the river also offers opportunities for a gentle stroll or a ride on the free City Hopper ferry, adding to the adventure. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Captain Burke Park is a gem for budget-conscious travelers. Entry is free, and it offers stunning views of the Story Bridge and Brisbane skyline without any cost. TikTokReddit Packing your own food for a picnic or utilizing the free BBQ facilities can save significantly on dining expenses. Reddit

Furthermore, the park is a starting point for the free Brisbane River walk and is accessible via the free City Hopper ferry service. TikTok This allows you to explore the city's highlights and enjoy its natural beauty without spending a fortune on transportation or attractions. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Captain Burke Park is a dream location, especially during sunset and at night. The illuminated Story Bridge provides a dramatic and iconic subject, beautifully complemented by the glittering Brisbane city skyline. TikTok The riverside setting offers clear, unobstructed views perfect for capturing panoramic shots. Reddit

Consider bringing a tripod for low-light photography to capture the bridge and city lights in all their glory. The park's elevated position in Kangaroo Point also provides a slightly different perspective compared to ground-level views. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the park itself, with its lit-up trees creating a magical ambiance after dark. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Brisbane River Walk

Captain Burke Park serves as an excellent starting point for the popular Brisbane River walk. This scenic route allows you to experience the city from its beautiful waterway. Following the path from Captain Burke Park, you can meander along the river, taking in views of the Story Bridge and the city skyline. Reddit

This walk can lead you towards Southbank, a vibrant precinct with man-made beaches and cultural attractions. Along the way, you might pass by Howard Smith Wharves, a lively area with restaurants and bars offering great views. The path is well-maintained, making it suitable for walking, jogging, or cycling, and offers a refreshing perspective of Brisbane's urban landscape. TikTokReddit

For those looking for a more extensive exploration, the walk can continue along the New Farm River walk, eventually looping back across the Story Bridge. This comprehensive route provides a fantastic overview of the city's riverside attractions and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Reddit

Captain Burke Park as a Riverfire Viewing Spot

Captain Burke Park is a highly recommended location for watching Brisbane's spectacular Riverfire event. Its proximity to the Story Bridge and the Brisbane River provides excellent, unobstructed views of the fireworks display. TikTok

Being situated in Kangaroo Point, the park offers a unique vantage point, allowing spectators to see the fireworks reflected in the river. The atmosphere during Riverfire is electric, with crowds gathering to witness the dazzling pyrotechnics. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot, as it's a popular choice for many. TikTok

Beyond the fireworks, the park's amenities like playgrounds and BBQ areas make it a comfortable spot for families to spend the evening. The illuminated Story Bridge itself adds to the visual spectacle, creating a memorable experience for all attendees. TikTok

Fishing Opportunities at Captain Burke Park

For anglers, Captain Burke Park offers a surprising fishing opportunity, particularly for bull sharks. Reports indicate that bull sharks have been caught from the beach area within the park. This makes it an interesting spot for those looking to try their luck in the Brisbane River. Reddit

When fishing in the Brisbane River, it's crucial to be aware of and adhere to all local fishing regulations. This includes understanding size and bag limits, as well as any specific rules for the area. Additionally, boat traffic is a significant factor in the river, so anglers must always give way to vessels and be prepared to move their gear promptly when a boat approaches. Reddit

Other popular fishing spots in Brisbane include the various 'River Hubs,' which are public access pontoons. Researching the locations of these hubs can provide further fishing opportunities. Always prioritize safety and responsible fishing practices when enjoying these urban waterways. Reddit

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