More People Are Moving To Brisbane’s Bayside – Here’s Why You Should Too
cool, calm, coastal
By Natalie McGowan | 21st April 2026It’s no secret that living in inner-city Brisbane has its perks. There’s always a new wine bar to try, a just-opened restaurant to book, and an undeniable convenience that comes with having everything at your doorstep. And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to live in Newstead?
But the pitfalls are getting harder to ignore, with a rising cost of living, traffic that can test anyone’s patience, and finding a rental – let alone something to buy – starting to feel increasingly out of reach.
Which is exactly why more and more locals are looking beyond the inner-city bubble, setting their sights on Greater Brisbane. More specifically, the vibrant Moreton Bay Peninsula.
The home of the Bee Gees, this coastal enclave sits just 40 minutes from the CBD and is made up of six waterfront suburbs: Redcliffe, Scarborough, Margate, Woody Point, Clontarf, and Newport, each offering its own distinct charm. For those craving a slower pace, a tight-knit community, and coastal living without cutting ties to the city, it’s a move that makes sense.
So, what’s the draw? Let’s get into it.
A food scene worth exploring
The peninsula’s dining scene is equal parts relaxed and refined; a mix of quirky cafés, neighbourhood bars, and fantastic restaurants.
Start with Butcher Baker Coffeemaker, a chic, all-day cafe with a focus on local and seasonal produce. Music lovers will find their groove at The Boneyard Espresso, a record store-meets-coffee spot made for sipping and browsing, while its sibling Boney’s Deli delivers stacked sandwiches and toasties.
The revamped retail hub Woody Point Marketplace has you covered for every craving from one-metre-long pizzas to an after-dinner gelato, while The Komo sets the scene for leisurely lunches with sweeping ocean views and a cocktail (or two) in hand.
The Belvedere has been a local favourite since its beginnings in 1901, and with its views across the peninsula, sun-drenched pavilions, mouthwatering food and drink offerings, and recent refurbishment, it’s easy to see why it remains a hotspot.
As for date nights, consider them sorted for the foreseeable future, with a plethora of local restaurants to choose from. Standouts, however, include Sunny’s Margate Beach, a classic for a casual bistro dining experience, and La Lanterna, a restaurant and wine bar inspired by the Mediterranean.
A new standard of coastal living
Perched on the southern tip of the Peninsula is the vibrant, up-and-coming seaside suburb of Woody Point. A laidback yet lively neighbourhood boasting beaches, a local yacht club perfect for Sunday boat watching sessions, and plenty of picnic spots to sit and whale watch, it’s a lifestyle representative of what people are craving right now: space, community, and a slower pace – all while staying well-connected to its surroundings.
And right in the heart of it sits The Alfred by Rogerscorp.
Launching to market soon, this new residential development is bringing a more elevated take on coastal living to the area at an affordable price point. With prices starting from $824k, the 104 residences range from one, two, and three-bedroom apartments to top-floor skyhomes. Whether you’re a first-home buyer after more bang for your buck, a sea-changer ready to trade city life for the coast, an investor, or simply looking to downsize, there’s a residence for you and your needs.
Inspired by the natural wonderland and the allure of coastal living, The Alfred leans into a wellness-first way of life. Residents will benefit from resort-style amenities and dedicated spaces for resting and rejuvenating: a rooftop club, heated pool, sun deck, sauna, cold plunge, and communal entertaining spaces including a pizza oven and barbecues, designed for easy al fresco entertaining.
Inside, the refined material palette of warm tones and natural textures creates a soothing ambience, while the premium finishes, carefully considered detailing, and European appliances create the feeling of sophistication. It’s all designed to make everyday life feel like a holiday, complemented by sweeping hinterland and coastal views.
Outside, you’re just 150 metres from the beach, steps from your morning coffee, and within easy reach of shops, schools, and everything else you need.
Arts, culture, and community
Beyond the beaches, The Alfred, and the food scene, the peninsula has a thriving creative community.
Redcliffe Art Gallery anchors the local arts scene, with a rotating program of exhibitions showcasing emerging and established Australian artists. For something a little more eclectic, THE LOFT Gallery & Coffee House blends art, antiques, and café culture into one inspiring space to eat, admire, and shop. And if you’re feeling hands-on, The Craft Haven offers pottery painting in a relaxed, sunlit studio, ideal for a low-key weekend activity or a creative night out.
And then there’s the events calendar. From the Moreton Bay Food & Wine Festival to the weekly Redcliffe Markets and the Jetty 2 Jetty Fun Run, there’s always something bringing the community together and encouraging you to embrace the great outdoors.
A wellness-first lifestyle
On the peninsula, wellness is very much part of daily life. Studies show that being close to water (particularly the ocean) is good for the mind and body, resulting in people, on average, being happier, more social, and more active. And in the Moreton Bay Region, that rings true.
At Apex Park, gather along Hornibrook Esplanade for a shady hangout spot overlooking the water. Further down the esplanade, you’ll find families and big kids at heart at Aqua Warrior, an inflatable obstacle course on the water, while Scott’s Point Beach offers calm waters, perfect for fishing and swimming. The Moreton Bay Cycleway connects it all, stretching along the coastline and offering uninterrupted views, whether you’re walking, riding, or jogging.
Speaking of walking, many of the area’s cafés, beaches, parks, and local hangouts are within walking distance, making it easy to leave the car at home and lean into a more active, more connected way of living. And of course, there’s the water itself. Living this close to the ocean means your weekends can be spent paddleboarding, kayaking, or swimming. If it’s an active lifestyle you’re after, there’s no better place to lean in.
The takeaway
The Moreton Bay Peninsula offers something different to Brisbane’s inner-city: slower days, a stronger sense of community, and a lifestyle that puts wellbeing first. For those ready to make the move, The Alfred by Rogerscorp is a compelling place to start. Register your interest or learn more here.
Imagery: Supplied (The Alfred)
