Settlement Cove Huge Salt Water Swimming, Redcliffe
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Settlement Cove Lagoon Brisbane

4.5
·3k reviews·Redcliffe, Australia

A vibrant, free community lagoon with separate pools for all ages, BBQ facilities, and playgrounds. Open 24/7.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Settlement Cove Huge Salt Water Swimming, Redcliffe

Settlement Cove Lagoon Brisbane

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant, free community lagoon with separate pools for all ages, BBQ facilities, and playgrounds. Open 24/7.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"A wonderful public pool, situated at the edge of the bay. Settlement Cove is a good place to swim for families."

Vertical photo
TIP

Go Early for Peace

Arrive before 2:30 PM on weekdays to avoid school crowds. Weekends are best avoided. :clock1:

Pack Your Own Shade

Bring chairs, tables, and umbrellas as shade can be limited during peak times. :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lagoon Pools

Lagoon Pools

Main swimming area

Spacious pools with variable depths, perfect for a proper swim or just cooling off.

Reddit
Kids' Water Playground

Kids' Water Playground

Fenced area

A dedicated, fenced zone with a mushroom shower and shallow rock pools for little ones.

Reddit
Picnic & BBQ Facilities

Picnic & BBQ Facilities

Adjacent to lagoon

Enjoy a meal with family and friends at the available BBQ areas and picnic shelters.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

This popular spot gets busy, especially on weekends and during school holidays. For a more relaxed experience, aim for weekdays and arrive early before the school kids descend. Reddit

24/7 Access & Amenities

While the lagoon is open 24/7, the main car park and changing rooms/toilets have nighttime closures. Lifeguards are on duty during the day. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (weekdays)
Why
Before school rush, pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (off-season)
Why
Quiet, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Enoggera Reservoir - One of my favourite spots to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature 🌳 #brisbane #brisbanethingstodo #visitbrisbane #nature #queensland
@oliviamae18
24.3K likes • 251.5K views

Go Early for Peace

Arrive before 2:30 PM on weekdays to avoid school crowds. Weekends are best avoided. Reddit :clock1:

Pack Your Own Shade

Bring chairs, tables, and umbrellas as shade can be limited during peak times. Reddit :sunwithface:

Your complete guide to Brisbane ✨ #foryoupage #brisbane #guide #thingstodo #tourism #tourists #brisbanecity #tourguide
@jon.wyeth
13.3K likes • 226.1K views
M A S S B A P T I S M S S A L V A T I O N S & O P E N A I R W O R S H I P In our city on Saturday afternoon and night! The iconic sites of our city were home to Heaven’s declaration! Settlement Cove and the Redcliffe Amphitheater. It’s what we’ve dreamed and prayed for years. The sound reverberating through the streets! I had the heart-wrenching privilege of prophesying over the city and ...
karolinagrant_
210 likes • 0 views

Hygiene Awareness

While facilities are available, hygiene can be an issue. Consider bringing your own supplies. Reddit :toilet:

No Glass or Alcohol

Strict rules apply: no glass bottles or alcohol allowed on premises. Reddit :wine_glass:

#redcliffecore #lagooninfectionau should I make lore for this
redcliffecore
51 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Go Early for Peace

Arrive before 2:30 PM on weekdays to avoid school crowds. Weekends are best avoided. Reddit :clock1:

Pack Your Own Shade

Bring chairs, tables, and umbrellas as shade can be limited during peak times. Reddit :sunwithface:

Hygiene Awareness

While facilities are available, hygiene can be an issue. Consider bringing your own supplies. Reddit :toilet:

No Glass or Alcohol

Strict rules apply: no glass bottles or alcohol allowed on premises. Reddit :wine_glass:

Lifeguard Hours

Lifeguards are present during the day. Be mindful of nighttime swimming safety. Reddit :guards:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Settlement Cove Lagoon is a highly popular, free community swimming spot praised for its family-friendly design and spacious pools. Visitors love the dedicated kids' area and the convenience of BBQ facilities. However, some note that hygiene can be an issue during peak times, and it can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during school holidays.

"Settlement Cive Lagoon is ideally located at Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe QLD 4020.

This unique lagoon is a very popular family-friendly place where the earlier you arrive, the better it is due to its popularity.

Settlement Cove Lagoon has swimming 🏊‍♂️ & wading pools & also a fenced off water playground area for the younger children to enjoy 😉

There are adequate shade areas on the seafront area of the lagoon.

This community swimming lagoon is opened to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with dedicated lifeguards onsite during the day.

There is also no diving into the lagoon or running allowed in & around the lagoon area.

There is also onsite security surveillance & security guards onsite on a 24/7 basis 😳

There are on-site services available, with BBQ facilities onsite along with wheelchair access available ♿️

Designated car parking, with disabled parking, is also available near Settlement Cove Lagoon, making it very convenient for people with disabilities.

Steet parking along with the various cafes,hotels & restaurants are also available, again within walking distance from this public swimming lagoon.

There are public toilets 🚻 & showers 🚿 available at the lagoon, but at times, due to its popularity, hygiene issues can arise, particularly with the toilets 🚻
Due to the popularity of Settlement Cove Lagoon, my advice would be to take your own chairs & picnic tables & umbrellas for shade as required.

Please note: There are no dogs allowed onsite 😢
Achohol & smoking restrictions also apply!"

John O'Brien

"Clean, plenty of space, lifesavers on duty, deep enough for a 'proper' swim. For smaller kids, the water park area is a winner. Free."

El Bee (elbee13)

"A wonderful public pool, situated at the edge of the bay. Settlement Cove is a good place to swim for families. The pool has variable depths that mimic a natural waterway and gets quite deep, so little ones will need a parent in the water, but it's a truly great day for the kids."

Stefan Pulpitel

What People Like

Free entry
Family-friendly
Kids' water playground

What People Dislike

Crowded on weekends
Hygiene concerns
Limited shade

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Settlement Cove Lagoon is located at Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe QLD 4020. It's easily accessible by car, with designated parking available. Street parking and nearby cafes/hotels also offer options. Public transport via the 310/315 bus to the CBD is also an option. Reddit

Yes, there is designated car parking, including disabled parking, conveniently located near the lagoon. Street parking is also available. Reddit

The lagoon itself is open 24/7, but the main car park and changing rooms/toilets are locked between 11 PM and 4 AM. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination from Brisbane, offering a refreshing escape with plenty of amenities for a full day of fun. TikTok

Driving is the most convenient option. If you're coming from Brisbane, it's about an hour's drive. Public transport is available but takes longer. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Settlement Cove Lagoon is a free public facility, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for families and individuals. Reddit

The lagoon is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, lifeguards are only on duty during the day, and some facilities have nighttime closures. Reddit

No booking is required as it's a free public space. However, arriving early is recommended due to its popularity. Reddit

Yes, there are restrictions on glass bottles and alcohol. Dogs are also not allowed on the premises. Reddit

Yes, there is onsite security surveillance and guards are present on a 24/7 basis. Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

You'll find swimming and wading pools, a fenced water playground for kids, BBQ facilities, picnic shelters, showers, and public toilets. Reddit+1

Yes, it's very family-friendly with a dedicated water playground area featuring a mushroom shower and shallow rock pools perfect for toddlers and young children. Reddit

Yes, the main lagoon pools are deep enough for a proper swim, offering a refreshing experience for all ages. Reddit

Lifeguards are on duty during the day to ensure safety. Reddit

No diving or running is allowed in or around the lagoon area. Adhere to general safety guidelines and the no glass/alcohol rules. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a dedicated cafe within the lagoon, there are BBQ facilities for you to cook your own food. Nearby cafes, hotels, and restaurants are also within walking distance. Reddit

Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. However, glass bottles are prohibited. Reddit

Yes, BBQ facilities are available onsite for visitors to use. Reddit

The area around Settlement Cove Lagoon has various cafes, hotels, and restaurants offering a range of dining choices. Reddit

Given its popularity, bringing your own picnic is a great idea, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant blue waters, the unique architecture of the lagoon, and the happy faces of families enjoying the facilities. The surrounding esplanade also offers scenic views. TikTok

It can be challenging during peak times. Visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon will offer fewer people in your shots. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon generally offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photographic opportunities. Reddit

There are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use, but always be mindful of other visitors' privacy. Reddit

Drone usage is typically regulated in public spaces. It's advisable to check local council bylaws regarding drone operation in Redcliffe. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Settlement Cove Lagoon is a dream destination for families! The dedicated water playground with its mushroom shower and shallow rock pools is a huge hit with little ones, offering a safe and engaging space to splash around. Reddit The main lagoon pools are also great for older kids and adults who want a proper swim. Reddit

Pro-tip: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as while there are BBQ facilities, bringing your own picnic is often easiest. Also, consider bringing your own shade, as it can get quite sunny. Reddit Visiting on a weekday morning is your best bet to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This lagoon is a fantastic find for budget-conscious travelers! Entry is completely free, making it an accessible and enjoyable activity for everyone. Reddit You can spend hours here without spending a dime on admission. Reddit

To keep costs down, take advantage of the free BBQ facilities and pack your own picnic. Reddit Instead of paying for parking, consider street parking if available or utilizing public transport options if coming from further afield. Reddit It's a great way to experience a popular Queensland attraction without breaking the bank.

☀️ Day-Trippers from Brisbane

Settlement Cove Lagoon is an ideal day trip from Brisbane, offering a refreshing escape from the city. It's about an hour's drive, making it easily manageable for a full day of fun. TikTokReddit

Plan your visit: Aim for a weekday morning to avoid the weekend rush and enjoy the lagoon with fewer people. Reddit Pack your swimwear, towels, and a picnic to make the most of the free BBQ facilities. Reddit Remember to bring your own shade, as it can get quite hot. Reddit You can easily spend several hours here swimming, playing, and relaxing before heading back to Brisbane.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Lagoon's Waters

Settlement Cove Lagoon offers a unique swimming experience with its variable depth pools that mimic natural waterways. The main lagoon area is deep enough for a proper swim, making it suitable for adults and older children. For families with very young children, the fenced water playground is a highlight. This area features a mushroom shower and shallow rock pools, providing a safe and fun environment for toddlers to build confidence in the water. Reddit

It's important to note that while the lagoon is designed for enjoyment, no diving or running is permitted to ensure everyone's safety. Lifeguards are present during the day to oversee activities and assist if needed. Reddit

Community feedback suggests that while the lagoon is generally well-maintained, hygiene can sometimes be a concern, particularly with the toilets, due to its high usage. Reddit Visitors are advised to be prepared and bring their own essentials if needed.

Community Vibes and Etiquette

Settlement Cove Lagoon is a beloved community hub, attracting a diverse range of visitors. While many praise its family-friendly atmosphere and free access, some Reddit users have noted that it can sometimes attract a 'feral' element, particularly on weekends and during school holidays. Reddit This often involves younger crowds engaging in boisterous behavior. Reddit

To ensure a pleasant experience, Redditors strongly advise visiting on weekdays and arriving early, ideally before 2:30 PM, to avoid the peak school rush. Reddit This allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable time. The lagoon is technically open 24/7, and some locals have enjoyed nighttime swims, but it's important to be aware that facilities like toilets and changing rooms may be locked after dark, and there are no lifeguards on duty. Reddit

Respecting the rules, such as no glass bottles or alcohol, is crucial for maintaining the lagoon as a welcoming space for everyone. Reddit Security is present, so adhering to guidelines ensures a smooth visit for all.

Beyond the Lagoon: Redcliffe's Charm

While Settlement Cove Lagoon is a major draw, Redcliffe offers more for visitors. The esplanade provides a lovely setting for walks or bike rides, with plenty of cafes to stop at. Reddit For those interested in local culture, the Redcliffe Library is noted as being large and well-equipped. Reddit

If you're looking for active pursuits, bringing a bike is recommended, as there are opportunities for riding along the coast. Reddit Fishing off the remnants of the Hornibrook Bridge is another local pastime. Reddit

For a bite to eat, the Dolphins football club is mentioned as a good spot for grub, and the general area boasts various cafes, hotels, and restaurants within walking distance of the lagoon. Reddit

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