Best Spots in Brisbane to Exercise

New year, new me is so not the vibe going into 2025. Last year’s you? Perfect. Spectacular. Give us 14 of them right now.

We get it though, there’s just something about coming into a new year that brings a feeling of change and a desire to whet our appetite with something new.

Luckily, we’ve got the perfect remedy - a way to discover Brisbane as you’ve never seen it before and get your heart-racing at the same time.

We’ve collected the best spots in Brisbane to move your body without spending the big bucks. Whether it’s swimming, biking or taking a casual stroll, we’ve got something for you.

Murarrie Recreation Reserve International Cycle Park

Level: All

Train like an Olympian at the newly renovated Murarrie Recreation Reserve Cycle Park facility. The 1.4km international-standard cycling circuit is designed for professionals and amateurs alike. So, grab your bike, trike, rollerblades or skateboard (there’s an excellent skate park there too) and enjoy this spacious new addition to Brisbane’s world-class sporting facilities.

Moreton Bay Cycleway

Level: Moderate

For those looking for a longer ride (say, 150km long) the Moreton Bay Cycleway is one to check out. Stretching from Bribie Island to Redland Bay, the ride weaves along the Brisbane coastline. This leisurely trek takes riders through the scenic Redcliffe peninsula, Boondall Wetlands and the waterfront around Redland Bay. Enthusiastic riders might like to tackle this one in a day, while recreational riders can experience it a few kilometres at a time. It’s noteworthy that some sections involve road or footpath connections, as well as paths shared with pedestrians.

Brisbane River Loop

Level: Any

If Mr and Mrs Heeler were looking to explore Brisbane via bike, we know they’d choose the Brisbane River Loop. From Southbank to Indooroopilly and back again, this loop snakes from the Brisbane River through to shady residential areas of the inner western suburbs allowing glimpses of heritage houses. The full loop is 40km with a hilly end (if you go clockwise) but never fear, there’s respite in the form of a downhill roll on Dornoch Terrace. If you’re planning on bringing the pups for a pedal, try the mini loop (under 20kms) that cuts the ride in half.

Mt Gravatt Lookout

Level: Expert

For Southsiders looking to improve endurance, fitness and overall quad-power, Mt Gravatt Lookout is the ride for you. If road riding at an elevation is your thing, start off at the bottom of Mt Gravatt Outlook Dr and pace yourself as you climb the gradual ascent to the top (2km). To push this ride further, begin your journey in Brisbane City and head towards Mt Gravatt via the Veloway. This loop takes you up to enjoy the breathtaking summit, overlooking views of Brisbane City and back through stretches of open road to where you began. This loop switches between pathways and roads so confidence riding alongside traffic is a must.

Southbank pool

For a touch of the coast without leaving the city, head to the Southbank pools. Visit Australia’s only inner-city, man-made beach, Streets Beach, and soak up the sun on the sandy shore or relax in the lagoon. For those with little ones in tow, right next to the beach you’ll find Aquativity, a fun, interactive water-play zone. If you’re looking to lap it up without getting sandy feet, head to the Boat Pool and relax amongst the sub-tropical plants.

Settlement Cove Lagoon

This massive tropical lagoon is a favourite of families and locals who want to cool off on a hot day. Located on the Redcliffe shorefront, the lagoon is made up of shallow wading spots, sandy bays and rocky inlets with an island, perfect for exploring, in the middle. The pool is also very well-shaded with lots of places to chill out if you’re not keen on getting wet.

Enoggera Reservoir

Visit the first major dam constructed in Queensland, heritage-listed Enoggera Reservoir. Nestled amongst hoop pines, ficus and weeping lilly pilly, the dam is a shady spot to stop - even if you want to stay dry. Soak up the rays and relax in the designated swimming area or kick your day up a notch and bring your kayak, paddle board or canoe for an aquatic adventure. Note: the dam’s closure periods can be affected by rainfall so it’s best to check out council alerts before you make the trek!

Daisy Hill Conservation Park

Level: All

Hike where the koalas live at Logan's Daisy Hill Conservation Park, where a sprawling network of shared trails meander amongst towering eucalypts and melaleuca wetlands. There are walks here for all ages, fitness and accessibility levels, from long hikes like the 5.5-hour Buhot Creek Circuit through to the DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) compliant Paperbark Trail.

Mt Coot-tha

Level: All

Brisbane's best views and some of its best hikes? Sign us up! It's only a stone's throw from Brisbane's bustling CBD, but Mt Coot-tha's rainforest gullies and eucalypt forests couldn't feel further away. With hikes for every fitness level, you can choose your own adventure or go with the crowd favourite - the Summit Track. Start at JC Slaughter Falls and tackle the short but leg-burning hike, and reward yourself with sweeping views from the lookout over the city skyline and Moreton Bay.

Mt Barney Summit

Level: Expert

Want to really get the legs burning? Look no further than Mt Barney in the Scenic Rim. One of Queensland's most spectacular peaks, Mt Barney's summit trails offer a gruelling challenge, with strenuous climbing and rock scrambling that'll get your heart rate going. This hike is as tough as they get - you'll feel like a gold medal winner when you make it to the top.