10 Ways To Make The Most Of Summer In Brisbane
Summer, the Brisbane way
By Bianca Licina | 11th November 2025Summer in Brisbane just hits different. The air hums, the sun lingers longer, and the city shines bright for the festive season. Mornings start earlier with the smell of coffee and sunscreen, while afternoons blur into river breezes and cheeky wines with friends.
Whether you’re staying put this Christmas break or playing tour guide for family and friends, there’s no shortage of sunny mischief to get up to. From morning cliff walks to moonlight movies, art escapes, and fairy-lit gardens, here’s your guide on how to make the most of summer in Brisbane.
HGW at Kangaroo Point Cliffs
If there’s one Brisbane ritual that never gets old, it’s a hot girl walk (HGW) along the Kangaroo Point cliffside. Early morning stroll or pre-sunset run, the city looks cinematic – ombre skies, river shimmer, and a skyline that stretches for miles. Start from the bottom path or brave the stairs – it’s the perfect backdrop for a good chat with your gal pals. Don’t rush it; this is Brisbane’s version of meditation. While you’re at it, stop by Joey’s for a coffee and a tasty refuel.
Brisbane’s museum escape
When the sun is too hot, retreat to the cool, hushed halls of GOMA. They’re latest exhibition, Olafur Eliasson Presence, is launching on 6 December and is a Brisbane-exclusive, multi-sensory exhibition featuring three decades of work, immersive installations, and interactive experiences inspired by Icelandic landscapes and urban futures. Across the river at City Hall, the Museum of Brisbane showcases First Nations designers in the Stories You Wear: Magpie Goose capsule. Air-con, art, and a little introspection – Brisbane’s museums are the most culturally enriching escape from the heat.
A perfect picnic at New Farm Park
A true Brisbane summer includes sprawling under a fig tree at New Farm Park with a picnic basket packed to the brim. Kid- and pet-friendly, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the summer spirit with your favourite people.
Drinks at The Wharves
Howard Smith Wharves is the ultimate summer playground for the social butterflies. Overlooking the Story Bridge, enjoy long lunches at Greca, sunset sips at Mr Percival’s, or a cold beer at Felons. It’s the city at its best, perfect for toasting to summer.
Get festive in Brisbane City
For those who want to get fully immersed in the Christmas spirit, Brisbane City delivers. From fashion shopping at QueensPlaza, Uptown, Edward Street, and Wintergarden, to Christmas markets, tree displays, and seasonal eats, the city has something for everyone. Read all about how to spend Christmas in The City here.
Shopping spree at James Street
Nothing says summer like a James Street shopping spree. Grab an iced matcha from The Green, ēmmē, or James & Antler, and stroll down the strip of understated luxury. Pop into boutiques like Venroy, St Agni, Camargue, SIR, and Bec + Bridge to tick off those wishlist pieces. Refuel at Sunshine for Mediterranean bites, Bianca for Italian, or Lobby Bar for a lighter option. Even if your wallet stays closed (and we doubt it will), the vibe is worth every step.
Outdoor cinemas
There’s something special about movies under the stars. Roma Street Parkland’s Moonlight Cinema nails it – picnic rug, buttery popcorn, and a summer breeze – with Christmas flicks screening from 9 to 23 December. For retro vibes, head to Yatala Drive-In, where choc tops and car speakers complete the experience. Perfect for date nights, girls’ hangouts, or family fun.
The Enchanted Garden at Roma Street Parkland
Don’t miss Brisbane’s most anticipated light show. From November 21 to December 20, the park transforms into a dreamscape of glowing canopies, twinkling paths, and whimsical sculptures. Bring your camera, grab some gelato, and let the lights do the talking. This is a festive must-see. Get all the info here.
Bounce Away at Urban Xtreme
For families, the dreaded “I’m bored” echoes often in summer. Urban Xtreme saves the day with trampolines, ninja courses, rock walls, and even indoor skiing. Kids stay entertained for hours while adults can join in – or just sip a coffee and watch on. Everyone wins.
Day Trip to Tangalooma
Just a ferry ride from the city, Tangalooma delivers all the tropical vibes you could dream of, without having to go far. White sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters line the western side of Moreton Island, making it the perfect spot for a sun-soaked weekend with family or friends. Dive into snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply kick back on the sand with a cold drink in hand. It’s effortless escapism – the kind of day trip that makes you forget you’re right near home.
With that said, go off and soak up the summer!
Imagery: @jamesstbne, @joeys.bne, @howardsmithwharves
