Colmslie Beach Reserve

Tucked away in a bend of Brisbane River is Colmslie Beach Reserve, aka the Octopus Garden Park. It’s so much fun and has something for everyone. It’s on the river, with a little sandy shore, so you can fish; there are quite a few picnic tables and barbecues (but get in early on weekends); there are wide open spaces for kicking a ball around and lots of shady trees to spread a picnic rug beneath. The funnest part, however is the kid’s playground. The Octopus Garden has lots wood and rope climbing areas, big sandpit, water play features, giant colourful fish and octopus play areas and a flying fox. For kids and kids at heart, this place has a lovely vibe, with a backdrop of the river and the Gateway Bridge in the distance, Brisbane City Council’s done a really good job here. Check it out.