The Ultimate Guide to Kayaking Brisbane

How Much Is Kayaking in Brisbane?

If you enjoy kayaking to discover cities and their surroundings, Brisbane offers plenty of choice. Numerous excellent canals and rivers allow you to experience everything from the city's diversity to the surrounding natural settings.

If you're looking for kayak hire in Brisbane, you can expect to pay between $35 and $50 for two hours, depending on where you hire from. Kayak trips are also available from any of the locations listed below if you prefer the knowledge and safety of group paddling. They can range from 30 minutes to a full-day kayak tour.

What To Pack for Kayaking Brisbane?

Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or just getting into the water for the first time in Brisbane, precise planning of what to take is essential for a fulfilling kayaking experience. A well-organized checklist ensures you have everything before starting your Brisbane kayaking excursion.

Kayaking in Brisbane provides a variety of experiences, including navigating the Brisbane River and exploring the city's calm waterways. Depending on your route, pack proper water-friendly gear, a sturdy kayak, and Jackery Portable Power Stations for a seamless blend of urban convenience and outdoor water adventures.

This checklist helps you plan your kayaking trip and avoid mistakes. Whether paddling through city watercourses or taking in the scenic beauty of Brisbane's waterways, prepare intelligently for an unforgettable kayaking adventure in the city's diverse aquatic landscape.

Portable power stations are ideal for kayaking because they provide a steady power supply when users run out of battery for their equipment, such as phones, headphones, fans, etc. When kayaking in Brisbane, these power banks provide a way to keep crucial devices working. For example, the Jackery Portable Power Station is a reliable portable solar power supply for any outdoor activity. It produces less noise and has a higher capacity, making it ideal for any adventure. The Jackery Explorer 500 or 300 Plus is a must-have piece of kayaking equipment that has helped to make kayaking more environmentally friendly.

Where to Go Kayaking in Brisbane? 

Paddling choices in Brisbane are numerous and diverse. From river excursions to islands, shipwrecks, and lake-like still water, there is something for everyone. The Brisbane River flows through our central business district, creating a plethora of canals dotted with subtropical sand islands. Brisbane's top kayaking places are only a stone's throw from the city. There is so much to see in such little time! We've done the hard work for you and curated a list of the most incredible spots to dip your toes and kayak in Brisbane.

1. Brisbane River Canoes

Location: 18 Lingard St, Woodend QLD 4305, Australia

Phone: +61 408 798 792

Website: Brisbane River Canoes

Best for: Kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding

Brisbane River Canoes offers the opportunity to explore the picturesque splendour of the Brisbane River. They provide kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding excursions on 138 Wights Mountain Road in Kobble Creek. Access is either above or below the final set of rapids at Lowood Bend. The point-in points are not enormous, but they are easily accessible. Cars must be moved away from entry points after unloading the paddle craft. This portion of the river is beautiful! It is a vast, slow-moving pool stretching about 6 kilometres to Twin Bridges. Sea eagles, cormorants, and kingfishers frequent the area, surrounded by bottlebrushes and prominent gums on both sides.

2. Kayak Fun - Adventure Tours

Location: 43-57 Valley Rd, Wellington Point QLD 4160 Australia

Phone: 0490 065 474

Website: Kayak Fun - Adventure Tours  

Best for: Guided kayak tours, sunset paddles, team-building events

Kayak Fun-Adventure Tours offers amazing kayak trips at Manly Boat Harbour. They provide guided kayak excursions, sunset paddles, and team-building events at 570 Royal Esplanade, Manly. For reservations and enquiries, call 0434 047 231 or visit the Kayak Fun - Adventure Tours website. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Brisbane's waterways and enjoy exhilarating kayaking adventures.

3. Nudgee Beach Canoe Kayak Landing Car Park

Location: 17 Fortitude St, Nudgee Beach QLD 4014, Australia

Phone: 

Website: Nudgee Beach Canoe Kayak Landing Car Park 

Facilities: Canoe and kayak launching area, car park, picnic facilities

Best for: Canoeing, kayaking, bird watching, fishing

Nudgee Beach Canoe and Kayak Landing Car Park, located on Nudgee Road, is a convenient starting point for exploring the waterways. It is a water enthusiast's paradise, with a designated launching location for canoes and kayaks and plenty of parking. The car park has amenities for a seamless experience, including picnic spots for those seeking to spend the day by the ocean.

Take on canoeing and kayaking excursions, travelling through scenic river routes. The location is not only great for water sports, but it also provides opportunities for bird watching, as the surrounding area is abundant with birds. Fishing lovers will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere while trying their luck along the shoreline. While the car park does not have a phone number or website, its simplicity and accessibility make it an appealing destination for individuals looking for a peaceful vacation to engage in water-based sports and interact with nature in the Nudgee Beach region.

4. Redlands Kayak Tours - Adventure Kayaking

Location: Wellington Point Reserve, Shore Street North, Wellington Point, Queensland 4160, Australia

Phone: 0404 024 440

Website: Redlands Kayak Tours - Adventure Kayaking  

Best for: Guided kayak tours, eco-friendly adventures, team-building experiences

Redlands Kayak Tours-Adventure Kayaking will take you to Wellington Point and show you its magnificence. They provide guided kayak trips and eco-friendly activities at Wellington Point Reserve on Shore Street North. Engage in team-building activities while surrounded by the area's natural beauties. For reservations and enquiries, call 0404 024 440 or visit the Redlands Kayak Tours - Adventure Kayaking website. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and take daring kayak tours in the Redlands area.

5. Riverlife Adventure Centre

Location: Naval Stores Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point, Queensland 4169, Australia

Phone: (07) 3517 4954

Website: Riverlife Adventure Centre 

When to Visit: Summer to Autumn

Best for: Kayaking, abseiling, rock climbing, paddleboarding, Segway tours

Experience exhilarating thrills at Riverlife Adventure Centre, Naval Stores Kangaroo Point Cliffs. They provide a variety of activities on Lower River Terrace in Kangaroo Point, such as kayaking, abseiling, rock climbing, paddleboarding, and Segway tours. If you're looking for some nighttime excitement, the twilight kayak and grazing trip is the way to go. Spend some peaceful time kayaking along the river, followed by a snacking platter while admiring the beautiful city lights. For reservations and enquiries, call (07) 3517 4954 or visit the Riverlife Adventure Centre website. Whether you enjoy kayaking or other exciting activities, Riverlife Adventure Centre offers an adrenaline-pumping experience on the Brisbane River. 

6. Kayaks2Fish Brisbane Kayaks

Location: 28 Archerfield Rd, Darra QLD 4076, Australia

Phone: (07) 3088 7651

Website: Kayaks2Fish Brisbane Kayaks 

Best for: Fishing kayaks, recreational kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks, accessories

Kayaks2Fish Brisbane is located at 1/25 Counihan Road in Seventeen Mile Rocks and offers a wide choice of kayaks. They specialise in fishing, recreational, sit-on-top kayaks, and related equipment. For enquiries and information, call (07) 3088 7651 or visit the Kayaks2Fish Brisbane Kayaks website. Whether you're a fishing enthusiast or searching for a relaxing paddle, Kayaks2Fish offers high-quality kayaks for various water excursions in the Brisbane area.

7. Richardson Park

Location: 135-137 Brisbane Terrace, Goodna QLD 4300, Australia

Phone: (07) 3810 6666

Website: Richardson Park 

Facilities: Playground, picnic areas, tennis courts, public toilets

Best for: Picnicking, playground fun, tennis, relaxation

If you prefer big open spaces where you and your family can run, play football, kayak, and make noise, visit Richardson Park. Richardson Park, located at 135-137 Brisbane Terrace, provides an enjoyable outdoor experience for tourists. The park has a playground for families, picnic spots for leisurely lunches, tennis facilities for sports fans, and a river for kayaking. With public restrooms available, it meets the demands of park visitors. Water babies are also welcome, so bring your kayak, canoe, or small boat and launch quickly from the concrete boat ramp to enjoy a paddle, cruise, water ski, or relax and cast your fishing line in the Brisbane River. Contacting local authorities or the Warwick Visitor Information Centre may provide extra insight.

8. Kookaburra Park - West

Location: 54 Caringal Dr, Karana Downs QLD 4036, Australia

Phone: (07) 3403 8888

Website: Kookaburra Park - West 

Facilities: Playground, BBQ areas, walking trails, open spaces

Best for: Picnicking, playground fun, nature walks

Kookaburra Park-West, located at 54 Caringal D, provides a pleasant outdoor escape. The park has a playground for children, BBQ spots for picnics, natural walks, and open spaces for leisure activities. Picnic with family and friends, let the kids play on the playground or go for a leisurely walk along the designated pathways. In the beautiful riverside community of Karana Downs, Kookaburra Park-West has long been a popular destination for local families. With the creation of a brand new bike riding track, it has attracted a new wave of visitors. There is also a range of climbing and bouncing playground equipment scattered across the extensive parklands, excellent picnic facilities, direct access to the Brisbane River, and kayaking during the summer.

9. Gold Creek Reservoir

Location: Gold Creek Road, Upper Brookfield, Queensland 4069, Australia

Phone: 1800 771 497

Website: Gold Creek Reservoir 

Facilities: Picnic areas, walking trails, birdwatching platforms

Best for: Picnicking, bushwalking, birdwatching, photography, kayaking

Gold Creek Reservoir, located on Gold Creek Road in Upper Brookfield, provides a tranquil, natural respite. Picnic spaces for alfresco meals are available near the reservoir, as are bushwalking pathways and birdwatching platforms for seeing local species. Picnic in the natural setting, explore the numerous walking trails, enjoy birding, and capture gorgeous moments with photography. Gold Creek Reservoir is a quiet spot for individuals looking to connect with nature. Seqwater is one of Australia's few bulk water providers that manages open catchments, allowing residents to enjoy recreational activities on and around the dams and lakes that supply our drinking water. The dam and recreation facilities are available to the public seven days a week.

10. Cobb & Co Nine Mile Camping Grounds

Location: Kangaroo Point Cliffs, River Terrace, Kangaroo Point, Queensland 4169, Australia

Phone: 07 3403 8888

Website: Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park 

Facilities: BBQ areas, picnic tables, exercise equipment, climbing walls

Best for: Picnicking, BBQ gatherings, fitness activities, rock climbing

Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, located on River Terrace, has breathtaking views of Brisbane's cityscape and River. The park has BBQ places for outdoor gatherings, picnic tables for casual dinners, gym equipment for fitness enthusiasts, and legendary climbing walls for daring souls. Cobb and Co Nine Mile is nestled on 50 acres to explore and is ideal for the active family. The billabong is suitable for swimming or kayaking (if you bring your own). There are also walking trails and a fantastic bike track on the property for children (and parents) to burn off some energy. 

Jackery Solar Generators for Kayaking Brisbane

Jackery Portable Power Station can improve your Brisbane kayaking vacation. Jackery Portable Power Stations are designed for outdoor enthusiasts in Brisbane who value convenience and sustainability. They provide a reliable supply of energy for various electronic devices during kayaking expeditions.

Jackery, a well-known producer specialising in high-quality solar goods, offers a steady and dependable power source with lithium batteries in their Portable Power Stations. Adding Jackery Solar Panels increases solar energy utilisation, providing an environmentally friendly power solution for your kayaking adventures in Brisbane.

These compact Portable Power Stations are designed to power basics like smartphones, navigation systems, and other electrical equipment needed for your kayaking trip. With enough storage capacity to charge your gadgets during the expedition, Jackery Portable Power Stations become an invaluable friend for kayakers exploring Brisbane's waters. Discover various charging methods, including collecting solar energy with connected power stations and panels and using a carport or an AC adaptor.  

Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station is the perfect solution for charging low- to high-power equipment on long trips or as a dependable emergency backup. With an outstanding battery capacity 518Wh, this power station is built for convenience. The foldable handle and ergonomic design make it ideal for kayaking enthusiasts and those looking for a reliable backup power source at home.

The Jackery Explorer 500 is equipped with industry-leading BMS (Battery Management System) technology, ensuring optimal performance and safety during every use. Its lightweight build, at only 6.4 kg, contributes to its portability, making it exceptionally easy to transport wherever your adventure takes you.

Whether you're kayaking, camping, trekking, or planning for unforeseen power outages, the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station can fulfil your energy needs. Experience the freedom of powering various appliances for extended periods while maintaining a compact and efficient design. With the Jackery Explorer 500 portable power station by your side, your travels and backup plans will become much more manageable. 

Product	Jackery Explorer 500
Image
Capacity	518Wh (21.6V/24Ah)
Life Cycle	800 cycles to 80%+ capacity
Battery Cell	NMC battery
Dimension	24.2x19.3x30cm
Recharging Methods	Explorer 500 + SolarSaga 100W: 9.5H; AC Adapter: 7.5H; 12V Car Adapter: 7.5H
Output Ports	1*AC Output: 240V, 500W (peak 1000W); 1*DC Output: 12V⎓7A; 3*USB-A: 5V⎓2.4A; 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station is a tiny powerhouse designed to revolutionise outdoor charging. This portable power station, with a large capacity of 288Wh and a fantastic 300W power output, is designed to suit the diversified energy needs of explorers on the move.

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus, with dual PD ports capable of up to 100W output, allows for fast charging of several devices simultaneously, making it a versatile and efficient option. Its small and lightweight design makes it ideal for outdoor charging, providing a dependable kayaking power source.

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus provides various charging choices, allowing you to power your phones, lights, radios, and more wherever you go. This portable power station combines performance and mobility, ensuring your electronics remain charged during outdoor adventures. Please remember that the data supplied is based on laboratory test findings and is intended solely for reference purposes, demonstrating Jackery's dedication to transparency and dependability.

Kayaking Tips: What Tips for Kayaking in Brisbane?

There is nothing more important than being safe on the water. The environment can change instantly, so being prepared and carrying the necessary safety equipment can help you return safely from your excursion. Brisbane has its maritime safety agency, and Queensland's agency of Mains Road and Transport has an excellent checklist to assist you in preparing for your next boat excursion.

• Plan your trip and launch spots to ensure a safe and fun voyage.
• Are you planning to explore tidal waters? Working out when and where you're paddling is usually tricky, but checking the tides can make your trip much easier and safer. If you are launching in tidal areas, attempt to schedule your travels and destinations around the tides.  
• Before leaving for the day, check the weather, as it may have altered overnight, potentially putting you in danger.
• Before using your kayak, perform an operational check-up to ensure it's in good condition.

What Things To Do in Brisbane?

Nestled along the winding Brisbane River, the dynamic city of Brisbane provides a wide selection of activities for inhabitants and visitors. Discover the finest of Brisbane with these exciting experiences:

1. Kayaking on the Brisbane River: Glide down the famed Brisbane River in a kayak for a unique city view. Paddle beneath the Story Bridge, see the skyline and enjoy the quiet beauty of the lake. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner, kayaking in Brisbane is a fun and energetic way to interact with the city.

2. South Bank Parklands: Explore the South Bank Parklands, a riverbank paradise with lush gardens, leisure areas, and spectacular city views. Stroll down the riverfront, enjoy the colourful markets, or rest on the artificial beach - the ideal place to unwind in the heart of Brisbane.

3. Cultural Precinct: The South Bank Cultural Precinct allows immersing oneself in the city's cultural landscape. Visit the Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Queensland Museum. The area accommodates a variety of events and exhibitions, creating a diverse tapestry of cultural and intellectual experiences.

4. Mount Coot-tha Lookout: From the overlook, you can enjoy panoramic views of Brisbane. It's a popular place for locals and tourists and an excellent destination to photograph spectacular cityscapes while relaxing in nature.

5. Riverfront Dining: Experience Brisbane's flourishing culinary scene with riverfront eating options. Many restaurants and cafes along the river serve beautiful meals with a view. Whether for a simple breakfast or a romantic dinner, dining by the river is a pleasant experience. Brisbane's dynamic mix of outdoor experiences, cultural exploration, and natural beauty guarantees something for everyone. Explore the river, soak up the cultural diversity, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this Australian metropolis. 

Final Thoughts

Kayaking in Brisbane is a unique and refreshing way to experience the city. Paddle through the Brisbane River, passing by prominent monuments and enjoying nature's tranquil splendour. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced kayaker, Brisbane's waterways offer a fun journey combining urban excitement and natural tranquillity. So grab a paddle, pack a Jackery Portable Power Station, view a different perspective on Brisbane's cityscape, and let the waterways guide you to a memorable experience.