Events at Clontarf, Clontarf

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About Clontarf

Clontarf is a coastal suburb on the Redcliffe Peninsula in the Moreton Bay region of Queensland, known for its laid-back seaside charm. Centered around the waterfront parks at the end of Hornibrook Esplanade, Clontarf is mostly open parkland and beaches rather than buildings. The suburb’s highlight is Clontarf Beach Park, right on Moreton Bay, which the local council describes as “a picture-perfect picnic area beside the ocean” (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). This grassy park overlooks calm, shallow bay waters that gently lap the sand – perfect for families with young children who want to wade safely in knee-deep water (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). In short, Clontarf offers a tranquil picnic and beach setting with coastal views of Moreton Bay (and on clear days the Glass House Mountains) that set it apart from neighbouring suburbs. Clontarf has a bit of history and unique character. Its name was taken from Clontarf in Dublin, Ireland (meaning “Plain of the Bull”), a nod to the sound of the waves rolling over the sandbanks here (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). Settled in the late 19th century, Clontarf became known as one of the first points you reach when crossing the old Hornibrook Bridge to Redcliffe – its wharves and parks were once gateway recreation spots. Today the area feels more like a community beachside park than a commercial entertainment hub. The signature features are all outdoors: picnic shelters, electric barbecues, walking tracks along the foreshore, and native trees for shade. One unmistakable draw is the daily wildlife – at Pelican Park in Clontarf, an information centre hosts a pelican feeding each morning, which has become a quirky local ritual (www.tripadvisor.ie). In short, Clontarf’s not a theatre or stadium but a beloved seaside park area with a distinctly local, family-friendly vibe – the kind of place where residents drop by with fish and chips for a sunset dinner or kids play on the grass while parents grill a barbecue (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au).

Events and Programming

Clontarf isn’t a formal event venue, but the parks here do host several activities and festivals. The most famous event is the **Redcliffe KiteFest**, held at Pelican Park, Clontarf each spring. This free community festival (usually in September) fills the sky with hundreds of colorful kites and draws huge crowds. For example, the 2023 KiteFest (September 16–17) boasted over 150 market stalls, massive kite displays, aerobatic kite exhibitions (even a pirate-ship kite!), live music and entertainment around the main stage (redcliffetoday.com.au). The 2024 KiteFest (September 14–15) continued the tradition – a highlight was ARIA-winning kids’ performer Emma Memma headlining the Sesame Lane stage (www.mustdobrisbane.com). In short, KiteFest turns Clontarf into a fun family carnival with action drones, carnival rides, character shows and plenty of South-East Queensland sunshine. Admission is free for all ages, and attendees line up for food trucks, novelty vendors, craft stalls and other pop-up attractions all weekend. Outside of KiteFest, Clontarf Beach Park and Pelican Park are used periodically for smaller community events and pop-ups. The Moreton Bay Council’s Pop-Ups program often brings exercise classes, local markets, craft fairs and outdoor fitness sessions to the open park lawns (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). For example, kayak tours, paddleboard clinics and even mobile coffee vans sometimes operate by permit along the foreshore. Because the space is essentially a public park with electric barbecues and picnic shelters, any organized events tend to be one-off or annual activities rather than regular shows. In short, visitors will mostly see people having picnics, flying kites, or attending an occasional festival. If planning around an event, check local listings or the Moreton Bay Council events calendar to see if KiteFest or other community celebrations are on (these typically have no ticket cost).

Tickets and Booking

No tickets are needed to visit Clontarf’s parks – entry is free. Clontarf Beach Park and Pelican Park are public open spaces that welcome visitors any day from early morning until late evening (Council parks generally are open from dawn to around 10pm). There is no box office or advance booking required for general beach or park use. For community festivals like KiteFest, admission has traditionally been free of charge with no tickets; attendees simply turn up and enjoy the entertainment. (Note: vendors and rides at KiteFest do charge for individual purchases, but park admission itself is free.) If planning a private function (for example a family reunion or birthday) at one of the picnic shelters or outdoor areas, you do not usually need to reserve space – it’s first-come, first-served. However, large groups or activities that require exclusive use (like a wedding ceremony at the boat ramp) may need a permit or booking through Moreton Bay Regional Council’s park facilities – contact the Council if you anticipate booking exclusive area use. Otherwise, just arrive at your chosen time. As of 2025, there are no entry fees or ticketing systems for Clontarf events or the park itself.

Seating and Layout

Clontarf’s parks are mostly open, grassy areas with scattered seating and shelters. There are no fixed theatre seats or stage platforms; instead visitors spread out on picnic blankets, lawn chairs or use the park's picnic tables. Many electric barbecue stations have adjacent picnic tables and low shelters with benches. Those tables and the native-timber seats (shown in park photos) are the main formal seating. Pelican Park (on the water side) also contains a covered playground with shade roof – parents often sit nearby on surrounding benches. For general viewing, any spot along the foreshore or under the trees is good. The best “seats” to watch kite-flying or bay views are on the open lawn facing northeast toward the water. The play area has seating around it, so families with kids often congregate there. Sightlines are wide open – you won’t have obstructed views anywhere. The shoreline is gently curved, so even the far end of the beach park gives expansive vistas. If visiting at night or dusk, the park paths are lit and those tables also face the lights along Hornibrook Esplanade. Acoustically, keep in mind everything is outdoors. Any music or announcements (at festivals) is heard through loudspeakers spread around the park. In normal (non-festival) use, the area is very quiet except for children playing, birds, and offshore waves. There is no echo or reverb; sound carries out to sea. On windy days you may hear wind noise, but normally conversations and small group music played from portable speakers are audible in picnic zones. As for areas to avoid: there isn’t an official “bad seat.” The only caution is sun exposure. Some picnic areas are in full sun (especially in the middle of the day), so if you want shade sit under a large tree or the covered shelters. Also, right at high tide the sandy beach can be narrower (on very high spring tides), so during those times you may prefer the grassy edge of the park. Other than that, every spot has a nice view of the bay or the playground – it’s all open ground with no real obstructed corners.

Getting There and Parking

Clontarf is located about 25–30 km north of Brisbane CBD (by road). The easiest car route is via the Houghton Highway (Redcliffe Bridge) – cross into the peninsula, then follow signs to Clontarf. The main access road along the bay is Hornibrook Esplanade. The park address is **66 Hornibrook Esplanade, Clontarf QLD 4019** (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au) (map coordinates are available on Google or council site). Parking is generally free. Pelican Park has a large car park adjacent to the playground and boat ramp with “plenty of parking” even for big events (www.tripadvisor.ie). Clontarf Beach Park has parking along Hornibrook Esplanade and in several marked bays by the barbecue area – on busy days you may need to circle once or park on the grass verge (please avoid blocking driveways). Council maintains the lots and they are flat, paved, and close to the amenities. For families, the playground parking is convenient. Rideshare drop-offs and taxis can let passengers out right at the main pedestrian access near the BBQ shelters. Public transit is also an option. TransLink local buses run along Hornibrook Esplanade. For example, the Route 690 bus (Sandgate <> Redcliffe) stops at “Hornibrook Esp at Clontarf Beach West,” which is a short walk from the park (jp.translink.com.au). Other routes (696/698) service Kippa-Ring and Redcliffe but generally you’d transfer in Redcliffe or Sandgate. The nearest train line is at Kippa-Ring Station (Redcliffe line); from there you take a quick bus to Clontarf. Overall, buses come roughly every 15–30 minutes during off-peak, so public transit is a viable way to reach Clontarf Beach. Walking or cycling to Clontarf Park is also popular for locals. A waterfront path links Clontarf to nearby Pelican Park (via the boat ramp area) and even segments of the old Hornibrook bridge for scenic bike rides. Safe pedestrian crossings and sidewalks run along the Esplanade, making access easy on foot. As a tip, if you arrive by car in summer afternoons, a short walk south around the houses can often find shaded street parking closer to the beach pavilion than the main lot.

Inside the Venue

Entering Clontarf Beach Park or Pelican Park feels like walking into a small seaside reserve. There are no gates or ticket booths; you simply step inside the park and feel the bay breeze. Expect a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere – you’ll see picnic groups gathering under trees, kites flying, kids on the playground, and anglers using the boat ramp. There are no formal security checks and, on non-event days, very few staff. (During large festivals like KiteFest there will be volunteers or council staff helping with logistics and crowd safety, but while general council regulations apply, there’s no heavy-handed security.) As you enter, note that all social laws still apply: the park is public, so normal park rules (no glass, dogs on leash, etc.) are in effect. In fact, Clontarf lets well-behaved dogs on the beach – just keep them on-leash as posted (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au) and bring a poop bag. Amenities inside the park include: **Electric barbecues** for public use (you can barbecue almost any time) (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au); **picnic shelters and tables** (often next to the barbecues) (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au); **seating benches** scattered along the paths; **covered kids’ playground** (Pelican Park south side) (www.tripadvisor.ie); and **toilet/amenity blocks** with accessible stalls (www.tripadvisor.ie). Water fountains to fill bottles are also installed, so you can stay hydrated (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). There are trash/recycle bins by the walkways and barbecue areas. You’ll also find a boat ramp and fish-cleaning station on the southern end (www.tripadvisor.ie), which is handy for local fishermen (and a nod to the foreshore’s boating theme). Expect a festive or holiday vibe. On a typical afternoon you might see people playing beach cricket on the sand, kids chasing seabirds, families cooking snag and steak on the barbies, and others strolling the foreshore trail. Ambient noise is mostly just conversation, seagulls, and waves. If a community event is on, you’ll hear amplified music or announcements, but in general it’s peaceful. (One exception: a pelican feeding toward dawn can be loud as the birds chatter.) **Food and drink:** There is no on-site café or restaurant in the park itself. Visitors usually bring their own food and drink in coolers, or grab take-out from nearby shops. The designated barbecues encourage cook-your-own meals – packs of meat and veggies can be heated on the spot. (Just remember to clean up after using them.) At festival events like KiteFest, food trucks and market stalls set up on lawns, but on a random day you should plan to bring snacks and water. Fortunately, there are benches and picnic tables where you can eat. Water fountains are labeled for safe drinking (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). Otherwise, the nearest cafés and take-away shops are a short drive away in Kippa-Ring or Redcliffe. **Power and Wi-Fi:** Clontarf Park does not offer public Wi-Fi. Mobile phone reception is generally good (Telstra/Optus 4G), but no dedicated network. There are no power outlets for visitors; you must rely on battery power for sound systems or lights. In practice you won’t find a “phone charging station” here. **Accessibility:** The park is largely wheelchair and stroller accessible. The main pathways are paved concrete or packed gravel, with ramps into shelters. The amenities building has accessible toilets. Picnic tables have cutouts for wheelchair spaces. While some foreshore areas are natural grass, most of the high-traffic zones (BBQs, toilets, playground) are level and barrier-free. Always check signage on-site, but the park is designed to be inclusive for family needs. **Other Facilities:** There is no official merchandise or souvenir shop. If you visit during KiteFest or another pop-up event, you might find local artisans selling crafts or festival gear under council permits (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). Otherwise, there is no coat check, cloakroom or lost-and-found desk – lost items are usually turned in at Council or nearby police. Also note that Clontarf has no dedicated parking attendants or car parks requiring payment; parking is first-come-first-served and free.

Nearby Amenities

Clontarf itself is mostly residential, so dining and accommodation options are just outside the park area. Within walking distance (1–2 km) you’ll find a few local cafés and take-away shops. For example, popular review sites list places like **Neli Coffee** and **Charlie’s Raw Squeeze** among the top local cafés (www.tripadvisor.ie). These are small, family-run spots serving coffee, breakfasts and simple lunches. There’s also a fish-and-chip shop a short drive away. However, for a wider range of dining (and any indoor sit-down restaurant), you’ll drive a few minutes to nearby Kippa-Ring or Redcliffe City. - *Redcliffe City* (6–8km south) has excellent seafood haunts and pubs. The Redcliffe Peninsula is known for its waterfront dining at Scarborough or along Anzac Avenue in Redcliffe, with outdoor verandahs and sea-views. Just across the bridge into Woody Point/Redcliffe you’ll find places like the floating seafood boats or pubs with bistros. - *Outdoor Markets:* On weekends, Redcliffe hosts a Sunday market (Suttons Beach markets, not far away) and outdoor dining events. Clontarf itself has fewer shops, so many visitors pre- or post-beach choose to explore these Redcliffe spots, or drive a bit west to Kippa-Ring. For *nightlife*, Clontarf has minimal late-night venues. The closest bars and clubs are again in Redcliffe City or nearby Clontarf Beach Hotel (also known as the “Belvedere Bar & Grill” on Redcliffe). If you’re at Clontarf Park after 8pm, it’s mostly locals winding down; there aren’t any 24-hour facilities here. *Accommodation:* Clontarf has no major hotels inside the suburb, but Redcliffe has some good options. Within 5–10 km of Clontarf, you’ll find motel-style lodging and holiday apartments. For example, the Redcliffe Village Motel, the Redcliffe Casino (now The Peninsula Hotel), and holiday units near the war memorial (Suttons Beach) are popular and affordable. There are also caravan parks in the area. Many visitors who want to stay by the water simply book in Redcliffe or Scarborough and drive to Clontarf for day visits. In summary, Clontarf’s immediate vicinity has modest dining and lodging, so plan to make a short drive north or south for more options. Early arrival is wise if you plan a picnic, so you have time to cook and enjoy the view before heading out for dinner or evening fun elsewhere.

What Makes This Venue Special

Several unique features make Clontarf stand out from a generic public park. First, the natural setting is exceptional. Unlike many beaches on Queensland’s coast, Clontarf’s shoreline is protected by sandbars, so the bay is calm. The quiet surf (as noted above) produces the very sound that inspired its name (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). Families love how safely kids can splash here, and sunset strolls reveal pelicans and other birds on the sand. The combination of parkland, water view and mountain silhouettes gives the place a postcard quality. Second, Clontarf is one of the few places where *wildlife is part of the experience*. The Pelican Park feeding is a local tradition – daily put-out fish scraps feed the resident pelicans each morning (www.tripadvisor.ie). On any visit you’ll see pelicans gliding low over the water or hopping along the shore. Many visitors time their arrival for this show. People also spot turtles, rays, herons and rosellas around the mangrove edges, making it feel a bit like a suburban wildlife refuge. Third, Clontarf has a relaxed suburban ethos that artists and audiences unexpectedly appreciate. While it’s not a theatre or museum, local storytellers and musicians have occasionally used the lawn for acoustic concerts or outdoor cinema nights. The park’s broad acoustics and open sky mean that a guitar strum or a storyteller’s voice can carry effectively in the evening air – making it a surprisingly intimate yet open-air “venue” for small community gatherings. (Ask around at community noticeboards – local groups sometimes promote spontaneous gigs here.) Historic moments also pepper Clontarf’s character. For instance, the beachfront area was among the first recreation reserves when Redcliffe was founded, and many old-timers remember fishing off the rock walls of the old bridge. During World War II, the activities here were modest, but the bridge made Clontarf a strategic link. Today the bridges themselves (the Hornibrook and Houghton highways) loom above the park as iconic structures – their arches framing the sky over the bay. Finally, the cultural significance of Clontarf lies in grassroots community life. Locals often hold “troopies” (military reunion picnics) and school group gatherings on these lawns. It’s a place where every weekend you’ll see the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal families of Moreton Bay mixing together at barbecues, speaking to each other, or walking dogs harmoniously (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). In that way, the park quietly embodies a slice of modern Queensland culture – one of inclusion, family, and outdoor living. In summary, visitors love Clontarf for its laid-back, natural ambience and local spirit as much as for any physical facility. The combination of sheltered bay, daily birdlife routines, and that special quiet history (“Plain of the Bull” thunder of waves): these make Clontarf feel special. Artists (from amateur kite flyers to barbecue chefs to community bands) all find something here. And every visitor, artist or audience member, tends to leave feeling a little closer to the classic Queensland beach lifestyle.

Visitor Tips and Information

- **Accessibility:** Clontarf is mostly flat and easy to navigate. Wheelchair users and families with strollers will find ramps and smooth paths around the main picnic and playground areas. The toilets include accessible stalls. Paths to the water are hard-packed. However, keep in mind the sand can be uneven for wheels, and some older wooden picnic tables may be a bit low. If in doubt, plan to stay on the paved paths (the boat ramp and nearby paths are fully wheelchair-friendly). - **What to Bring:** Pack everything as if going on a full beach outing. Bring **sun protection** (hats, sunscreen) and **insect repellent**, since late afternoon mosquitoes can emerge among the trees. Water bottles are a must (drink fountains (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au) are available but are sometimes slow to flow). If you plan to barbecue, bring tongs, foil pans or skewers, and any food/drink you want, since there is no shop on site. Picnic blankets or fold-up chairs improve comfort. Families should bring buckets/toys if kids want to play in the sand (shovels and buckets make the shallow water fun). Also consider towels or a parasol for additional shade. - **Leaving Valuables:** Treat Clontarf as any public beach. Don’t leave valuables unattended on blankets. There are no security guards roaming the park. Visitors often place their bags right next to their picnic setup. If you bring electronics or keys, keep them on you or lock your car. - **Best Times to Visit:** Morning and late afternoon are lovely (cooler and quieter). The sun rises over the water (from the east), so the early morning light is beautiful for photography. Mornings are also when the pelican feeding occurs. On weekends and holidays the park can get busy after lunchtime, so arriving early secures the best spots. Sunset is also picturesque (the swim perspective looks west if cloudy). Avoid the middle of summer midday if you want shade – by then it’s hot. - **Weather Considerations:** Clontarf is open air, so rain or storms will send everyone packing since there’s limited shelter (a couple of roofs cover a few picnic tables). Check the weather – thunderstorms can come in quickly. If a storm rolls in, head to your car or nearest covered area. The beach itself is not patrolled by lifeguards, so after a big storm be aware there may be more debris or stronger currents; swim with caution or not at all if seas look rough. - **Pets:** Dogs are permitted on the beach but must be kept **on-leash** (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au) at all times. Please do not let dogs roam freely – it’s unsafe near traffic and can disturb wildlife. Always have a leash and waste bag; bins are provided in the park. - **Children:** There is no enclosed playpen area, so keep young kids within sight. The playground is visible from the picnic shelters, but toddlers should be supervised (guests have reported it’s shady and traffic-free, which is good for kids). The water is shallow near shore, but parents should still watch children – there are no lifeguards. The boat ramp area (at Pelican Park) can be slippery, so caution if kids venture too close. - **Safety Concerns:** Swimming is generally safe in the bay but is always at your own risk (no patrol). There can be drop-offs in some parts of the shallow bottom, so go slowly with non-swimmers. Watch for slippery rocks on the jetty and wear water shoes if exploring. Sunburn and heatstroke are bigger risks – wear hats and drink water. Mobile coverage is good, but if you need emergency services call 000. Park management has an AED on site at the information centre near the playground (for KiteFest days) – note its location landmark if needed. - **Common Mistakes to Avoid:** Don’t plan on using the park after dusk. While some lights exist, the beach isn’t illuminated like a city park, and mosquitoes come out after sunset. Also, don’t rely on on-site refreshments – bring everything you need. If visiting during the KiteFest or other large events, don’t expect typical parking; allow extra time or come early. And remember, barbecue grills operate on a switch – they heat up with a flip of a button (no charcoal needed). - **Dress Code:** This is an informal park/beach setting – flip-flops or sneakers and handy shorts/t-shirts are fine. There is no formal dress requirement. Some visitors wear swimsuits if they plan to wade, but others just wear casual clothes even on the sand. Dress for the weather (rain jacket if clouds). - **Connectivity:** There’s no public Wi-Fi. If you need internet, you should rely on your mobile data plan. There are no charging stalls – so bring a battery pack if you’ll rely on your phone all day (especially for photos or navigation). - **With Pets:** Clontarf Beach is one of the dog-friendly beaches in Moreton Bay. Dogs must be on-leash at all times (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au), even in the water. Avoid bringing pets to peak events (dogs near kites or carnival rides can get nervous). - **Covid-era Tip:** There are no current entry restrictions or check-in requirements. Just follow general health guidelines (wash hands at restroom, etc). - **Community Etiquette:** Clontarf is beloved by locals. Try to keep noise reasonable (most people are there to relax). Clean up after yourself – bins are plentiful. Be mindful of wildlife (don’t feed birds by hand outside the official pelican feeding – it can be dangerous). - **First Aid:** There is no permanent first-aid station at Clontarf Park. For minor cuts/use kits from your car. If someone is injured, dial emergency services. These tips should help ensure a smooth visit. In essence: treat Clontarf like a fellow Queenslander would – with casual respect for nature, preparation for sun and mosquitoes, and enjoyment of family time on the water’s edge.

Is there an entry fee or ticket needed to visit Clontarf Beach Park?

No. Clontarf Beach Park and Pelican Park are public spaces with **no entry fee**. You can visit anytime (usually dawn to dusk) without buying tickets. Festivals like the Redcliffe KiteFest are also free events – visitors simply walk in without paying (redcliffetoday.com.au). Even on event days, general park access is free.

What kinds of events happen at Clontarf?

Clontarf’s parks mainly host outdoor community events. The biggest is the annual *Redcliffe KiteFest* at Pelican Park (usually in September), which features vibrant kite flying, live entertainment and market stalls (redcliffetoday.com.au). You’ll also see occasional pop-up markets, outdoor fitness classes, or school picnics here. However, day-to-day the parks are used informally (barbecues, family picnics, flying kites on weekends).

How do I get to Clontarf Beach Park by public transport?

You can take Brisbane’s public buses. For example, TransLink Route 690 stops at “Hornibrook Esplanade at Clontarf Beach West” near the park (jp.translink.com.au). This route connects Clontarf with Sandgate, Scarborough, Woody Point and Redcliffe. If coming by train, the nearest station is Kippa-Ring (Redcliffe line); from there, transfer to a bus (like 696/698) or a short taxi ride. Buses run around every 15–30 minutes on weekdays.

Is there parking available at Clontarf?

Yes. There are free parking lots and street parking surrounding both Clontarf Beach Park and Pelican Park. Pelican Park has a large car park adjacent to the playground and boat ramp, which on reviews is said to offer “plenty of parking” (www.tripadvisor.ie) even for festival crowds. Clontarf Beach Park has marked bays on Hornibrook Esplanade and some grass verge parking. No payment or permits are required. On very busy days or events, arrive early to secure a spot.

Where exactly is Clontarf Beach Park located?

The park’s public address is 66 Hornibrook Esplanade, Clontarf QLD 4019 (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). It’s at the northern tip of Clontarf on the Redcliffe Peninsula, just before the old bridge to Brisbane. If you’re using GPS, searching this address or “Clontarf Beach Park” will take you to the right spot. The Hornibrook Highway (New & Old bridges) leads directly to Clontarf, so follow signs for Redcliffe/Clontarf and turn off onto the Esplanade.

Is Clontarf Beach Park wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Clontarf Park is mostly wheelchair/stroller-friendly. The main pathways around the park and to the playground are paved or firm, and there are ramps. Accessible toilets are available in the amenity block (www.tripadvisor.ie). Picnic tables have wheelchair cutouts. The only limitations might be sandy areas (beach edge) which can be harder to traverse. Overall, people have generally found the park easy to navigate with a mobility device.

Are there restroom and drinking facilities on site?

Yes. Restroom facilities (toilets) are provided in an amenity block near the main playground area (www.tripadvisor.ie). These are clean and include accessible stalls. Drinking water fountains are also installed in the park (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au) so you can refill bottles with safe drinking water. Outside of those, there are no shops or food trucks on site unless there’s a special event.

Can I bring a dog or other pet to Clontarf?

Yes, dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). The beach is dog-friendly for walks and wading, provided they’re leashed. Make sure to clean up after your pet and be cautious near playgrounds or crowds. (Note: some nearby parks on the peninsula are off-leash zones, but Clontarf Beach Park itself requires leashes.) Cats or other pets are less common to see, but the same leash rule would apply.

Is there an electric or gas BBQ on site?

Yes – the park provides **electric barbecue grills** for public use (www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au). These are powered (you flip a switch) and work quickly, so you can cook your own food on site. It’s a popular spot for beach picnickers who bring meat and veggies to grill. Just be sure to clean the grill plate when you’re done. (Tip: You do not need to bring charcoal. The park also supplies picnic tables nearby.)

What should I avoid bringing to the park?

Clontarf Beach Park is like any public park, so don’t bring anything that could litter or damage the area. Do not bring glass bottles (for safety) or fireworks (illegal in parks). Because it’s a wildlife area, please don’t feed birds by hand except during the organized pelican feed. Also, avoid flying drones or kites outside of designated areas (the KiteFest area is cleared for large kites; if you fly your own, stay on the grass away from crowds). In short: leave your valuables at home, and nothing illegal or hazardous.

Is swimming allowed at Clontarf Beach?

Yes, swimming is allowed in the bay here. The waters are generally shallow and calm, making it safe for wading and light swimming. However, there are no lifeguards on duty at Clontarf Beach (it’s not a patrolled surf beach). Swim at your own risk, and keep an eye on children. There are occasional shallow drop-offs, so it’s not a designated “swim supervised” zone. If in doubt, stick to the shallows and always have someone on shore watching.

How crowded does Clontarf get on weekends?

Clontarf can get busy on sunny weekends, but it’s not usually jammed. Early morning and late afternoons remain quiet. If the weather is warm, families arrive after breakfast for a day of barbecues and beach play, so by late morning you’ll see many groups at the tables. Peak times can fill the main parking and picnic spots (especially near the playground). On KiteFest weekends, expect very large crowds over the festival area (tens of thousands of people). If you want a quieter experience, try weekday mornings or slip in after lunchtime on weekends.

Are there any age restrictions or dress codes?

No. People of all ages are welcome (there are no adult-only restrictions). You’ll see babies, elders, kids, and teens. Dress code is very casual — beachwear, shorts and t-shirts, swimsuits, etc. Some visitors do go barefoot on the grass and sand. The only expectation is to have clothing on in public areas (but yes, swimsuit attire is common in this beach park setting). Essentially, wear what you would to any seaside picnic or water park.

What if it rains or storms suddenly?

Clontarf is open air, so there isn’t much shelter for heavy rain (only the few roofed picnic tables). Check the weather before going. If a storm rolls in, it’s best to pack up and leave quickly. Move to your car or a solid shelter (no paths lit beyond a certain point after dark). For lightning safety, do not linger near the water or under isolated trees. If you’re caught by surprise, the nearby shelter structures can provide brief cover, but ideally don’t rely on them long-term.

Is photography or drone flying allowed?

Yes, visitors often take photos of the beach and wildlife. For personal photography (smartphones or cameras), it’s fine. The only caution is with drone use. The park has no official no-drone sign seen, but general Australian air rules apply: you must keep drones below 120m, at least 30m away from people, and not fly over crowds or wildlife. Because pelicans and kites might be startled, it’s safest to check with Council if you plan to fly a drone here. (Practically speaking, most people just enjoy the view without one.)

Where is the nearest medical facility or pharmacy?

The nearest hospital is the Redcliffe Hospital (Pine Rivers Rd, Kippa-Ring, about 6 km away). For minor issues, there are chemists and urgent care in Redcliffe City (also ~6 km away) or Kippa-Ring. Closer by, there are a few general stores with basic first-aid supplies. We recommend packing a simple first-aid kit for cuts or insect bites. In an emergency, call 000 immediately; ambulance response times are typically decent in the metro area.

Does Clontarf Beach Park get jellyfish or marine stingers?

Marine stingers (like box jellyfish) are a concern in northern Queensland waters; in Moreton Bay they are rare, but small stingrays or bluebottles (Portuguese Man O’War) can appear. There is no stinger net here. We suggest wearing protective clothing for swimming if you’re concerned, and checking for any local alerts on Moreton Bay’s beach safety app. For most visitors, even bathing suits are fine and the risk is low, but keep an eye on pets and children in the water just in case of a stray sting. (Life rings are provided near the boat ramp in case of any water emergencies.)

Is Clontarf near any public transportation to Brisbane or Sunshine Coast?

Clontarf itself is on the local Redcliffe peninsula transit network. To travel to Brisbane, you would typically take a bus to Sandgate or Kippa-Ring train station and then connect. For example, Bus 690 connects Clontarf to Sandgate, where you can transfer to a train south to Brisbane. For the Sunshine Coast, most people drive via the motorway north to Kybong – there are no direct trains from Redcliffe. In practice, most day-trippers from Brisbane drive here or catch a direct airport/blueline coach to Redcliffe and then a local bus.

Are there any special rules or permits required for fishing or boating?

Fishing is very popular here (the historic jetties and boat ramp attract anglers). No special local permit is needed beyond the standard Queensland fishing license if you’re an adult. The fish-cleaning tables are a hint that casual fishing is expected. Small private boats/kayaks can launch from the ramp at Pelican Park. If you have a registered boat and marine gear, you can use the public ramp. No extra permits are required for a casual day launch (other than your boat registration sticker). Just be mindful of swimmers when launching/retrieving. For jet skis or boats in open bay, you still need a Boating License and must follow QLD waterways regulations.

What kind of wildlife might I see here?

You will definitely see *pelicans* – they practically live here (www.tripadvisor.ie). Herons, cormorants and seagulls are common too. Sometimes you’ll spot a turtle swimming near the shore or stingrays gliding by in shallow water (so mind your feet while paddling). In winter, mindwild dolphins occasionally swim in the bay (though usually farther off). On land, there are brush turkeys and rainbow lorikeets among the trees. It’s a small urban ecosystem, but surprisingly lively – some visitors come armed with a camera lens just for the birdlife.