Northern Moreton Bay Tourist Drive, QLD

Driving at your own pace is a great way to explore the beach and bayside peninsulas of Moreton Bay. All with their own personalities and remarkable settings, the coastal villages offer warm and friendly surroundings, which are great for relaxing.

Start at Scarborough Harbour, a commercial fishing hub with two marinas that attract international yachtsmen annually.

Redcliffe is the site of Queensland's first European settlement in 1824 and is situated on a peninsula just 35 kilometres north of Queensland's capital city Brisbane. This cosmopolitan seaside village has alfresco dining overlooking boardwalks and stunning views of Moreton Bay. Safe, sandy beaches and picturesque parks wrap 22 kilometres of glorious coastline with rocky red headlands that give the area its name.

Suttons Beach is a haven for sun and sea, while Settlement Cove Lagoon is a water playground with a tropical themed swimming pool, children's playground, wading pool and swimming lagoon.

Woody Point is a relaxed seaside village and a renowned aquatic playground with fishing, sailing and wildlife. Woody Point offers two points of historical interest - the Woody Point Jetty and the wreck of the "Gayundah", located below the Woody Point cliffs. A visit to the Gayundah Coastal Arboretum is certainly worthwhile and is perfect for picnics with its views to Moreton Island and its array of rare plant species.

Cross the bridge, leaving Moreton Bay and head to Sandgate, a popular seaside destination for Brisbane's colonial settlers in the late 1800s. Its rich heritage is a feature of the area today, with many homes and buildings reflecting the classic architectural styles of this bygone era.

Shorncliffe is one of Brisbane's hidden gems with expansive views across the bay to Moreton Island. Sunset over the Shorncliffe Pier is a spectacular sight while during the day you can explore the beautiful walkways and cycleways.

Boondall is home to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, which hosts international musicians, shows and sporting events. Although a quiet suburban oasis, it has a lovely lake to enjoy a barbecue, with good facilities provided.