The 7 best stargazing spots in and around Brisbane that capture the beauty of the night sky
Talk of stargazing takes me back to quiet nights at our local park with my dog. I remember lying on a clean patch of grass beside her, both of us gazing up at a dark sky filled with twinkling and steady dots—trying to tell the planets from the stars.
As I reminisce, I feel grateful to now be living in a place where I can keep doing that—perhaps with blankets and a big telescope next time. But the explorer in me longs to visit other places, too, and I heard Brisbane has a lot to offer.
So I researched about the best stargazing spots in and around Brisbane. From scenic lookouts to parks and an observatory that all capture the beauty of the night sky, I’m excited to share just how these places might deepen your love for the stars, the moon, and beyond.
1. Mount Coot-Tha Lookout
Media credit: saamtehraani
Address: 1012 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr
Contact details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 hours
Mount Coot-Tha Lookout gives you an incredible view—not just of the night sky, but of the city lights, too. Picture the stars and moon rising above Brisbane’s skyline, aligning with buildings that shine brightly into the night—you’ll see exactly what I mean.
Bringing the cosmos even closer are the astronomy exhibits at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, located at the base of the mountain. And for a warm drink or a meal before or after stargazing, the onsite Kuta Cafe and Summit Restaurant have you covered.
One more thing—the Brisbane Astronomical Society hosts public observation nights here once a month, allowing visitors to use telescopes and learn about stars and planets. Check their public events calendar to catch the next one!
Pro tip:
Since the lookout is an open area, evenings can be extra cold—so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout your stargazing session. Also, if you’re planning a personal viewing, bring binoculars or your own telescope to get a closer look at celestial objects.
2. Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park (River Terrace Park)
Media credit: brisbaneatnight
Address: 29 River Terrace, Kangaroo Point
Contact details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 hours
Set high above the river, standing at Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park is like looking up from a quiet balcony in the sky. Although the city lights may blur some stars, the view is still surprisingly impressive, with Brisbane’s illuminated skyline adding a picturesque touch.
Aside from astronomy fans, night photography enthusiasts love it here, too. And honestly, it’s also a nice place for a riverside picnic—where only the constellations can hear the stories you share with family or friends while stargazing overhead.
If you want, you can even hire a kayak from the Riverlife Adventure Centre to see the stars from the water. Or, for a bit more movement, let their twinkling light guide you as you bike along Kangaroo Point Bikeway or walk the Cliffs Boardwalk.
Pro tips:
- Timing: To get the clearest of the stars, try visiting during the new moon phase. The minimal moonlight helps counter the glow from city lights, allowing the sky to be darker and making constellations more visible.
- Equipment: While the view is great with the naked eye, a pair of binoculars or a telescope will give a closer, more detailed look at the cosmos. If you’re planning to take pictures, bring along a tripod to stabilize your camera for long-exposure shots.
- Refreshments: Stop by nearby cafes like Joey’s for a warm drink before heading to the park. A hot chocolate or tea can be the perfect companion as you settle in for the evening and wait for the stars to appear.
- Safety: Remember to stay on the well-lit paths for your safety. The cliff edges can be dangerous, especially after dark, so make sure to stay cautious and be mindful of your surroundings while you enjoy the night sky.
3. Redcliffe Peninsula
Media credit: kara_hanan
Website: https://www.visitmoretonbayregion.com.au/redcliffe
Address: 139 Redcliffe Parade
Contact details: +61 7 3205 0555
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 hours
Distance from Brisbane (by car): 38 mins
Just 38 minutes north of Brisbane, a waterside stargazing experience awaits you at the Redcliffe Peninsula. The gentle sea breeze, open skies, and soft wave sounds create a calm atmosphere that’s great for losing yourself in the stars.
Along the peninsula’s coast, you might end up at Suttons Beach, Scarborough Beach, or Clontarf’s foreshore parks—all of which reflect the night sky beautifully in their waters. The long Redcliffe Jetty completes the scene as if the stars are following you with every step.
Staying focused won’t be an issue here, either, with fewer crowds at night. While the skies stay dark, thanks to minimal light pollution, well-lit paths and nearby parking keep your stargazing trip easy and welcoming.
Pro tip:
Bring a foldable reclining chair for comfort, or make the most of the grassy areas by spreading out a blanket for stargazing or a quiet night picnic. There aren’t any food stands open late nearby as well, so be sure to pack snacks, water, or a warm drink in a thermos.
4. Dahmongah Lookout Park
Media credit: ruizu3
Website: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Sport-Recreation/Parks/Mt-Mee-Lookout-Dahmongah
Address: Mount Mee Rd
Contact details: +61 7 3205 0555
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 hours
Distance from Brisbane (by car): 1 hr
The Dahmongah Lookout Park—also known as Mt. Mee Lookout—may be about an hour’s drive from Brisbane, but believe me when I say that it’s worth the journey. Open 24/7, it’s a scenic place where the Milky Way makes an entrance on clear nights.
Visit with your special someone, and you might find yourself imagining a wedding in the designated ceremony area. Though dark, the stars may just light up the gazebo and grassy areas enough to help you picture where your family and friends could gather.
But if you’re just there for the fun of stargazing and nothing more, that’s fine, too. With tables, toilets, a car park, and electric barbecues available, you’ve got everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing night under the stars.
Pro tip:
Check the weather forecast before heading out to ensure clear skies for a potential Milky Way sighting. Don’t miss the chance to capture it on camera; if you have binoculars or a telescope, that’s even better!
5. Springbrook Research Observatory
Media credit: eric_b_photography
Website: http://www.springbrookobservatory.com.au/
Address: 2337 Springbrook Rd
Contact details: +61 400 789 451
Operating hours: Friday and Saturday – 7 PM onwards
Distance from Brisbane (by car): 1 hr 28 mins
Like Dahmongah, the Springbrook Research Observatory is an hour away from Brisbane—but a drive that pays off. Astronomy lovers, families, and friends who come out here to watch shooting stars, planets, and nebulae never leave disappointed—and you likely won’t either!
The observatory’s public viewing nights let you peer through advanced telescopes, including a 0.7m CDK700 system, for detailed views. Passionate and knowledgeable astronomers lead the sessions, engaging you with fun and interesting facts about the cosmos.
As for the entrance fee, it’s $25 for adults and $15 for kids under 12 years old. These prices guarantee a peaceful environment, where you can stargaze surrounded by Springbrook’s ancient rainforests and free from city pollution.
Pro tip:
Call the observatory ahead of time, ideally around 5 PM, at +61 400 789 451 to check on the weather and confirm availability for a 7 PM start. Don’t forget to wear layers (like jackets or scarves), as it can get chilly in the evenings.
6. Poverty Creek Campground, Bribie Island
Media credit: melz_camping
Website: https://parks.desi.qld.gov.au/parks/bribie-island/camping/poverty-creek
Address: Poverty Creek Road, Welsby
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 hours
Distance from Brisbane (by car): 1 hr 33 mins
You’re in for an hour or so of scenic driving before setting foot in Bribie Island’s Poverty Creek Campground. Once there, you can enjoy a sky full of stars while camping, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Because it’s well within Bribie Island National Park, there’s little to no light pollution here—constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way stand out clearly on particularly cloudless nights. Add in the stillness around and the soft sounds of nature for you to take it all in.
Not to mention the open spaces near the campground, where people often set up blankets or reclining chairs for uninterrupted stargazing. And if you need a quick refresh before or after, there are cold showers in the area.
Pro tips:
- Access requires a 4WD or boat: It’d be hard to reach the campground if you’re not on a four-wheel vehicle or a boat. Plan ahead by making sure your tires are in good condition or check the tides before visiting.
- Book a campsite in advance: As it gets crowded in Poverty Creek, especially on weekends and holidays, it’s best to secure your spot early. Each site costs $7.25, with check-in at 2 PM and check-out at 11 AM.
- Pack your own gear: Bring your own food, water, lights, tents, and a telescope or binoculars if you have them. Keep in mind that the campground is remote and has basic amenities only (toilets and picnic tables).
- Stay overnight: If it’s too late to drive home or everyone’s feeling tired, take advantage of your campsite and tents. It’s also a great chance to soak in the dark skies—and catch the sunrise come morning.
7. Maleny Golf Course
Media credit: mountain_moxie8
Website: https://www.malenygolfclub.com.au/
Address: 15 Porters Ln, North Maleny
Contact details: +61 7 5499 9960
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 6 AM – 5:30 PM
Distance from Brisbane (by car): 1 hr 55 mins
Maleny Golf Course may be the farthest on this list—almost a two-hour drive—but don’t let the distance stop you. Its rural setting is a stargazer’s dream destination, with some of the darkest skies you’ll find in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Home to the Maleny Observatory, operated by the Brisbane Astronomical Society, the course is another location where they set up telescopes for public viewing. But if you’re not attending a formal event, watching the stars from the grassy areas isn’t so bad, either.
The surrounding hills add to the calm, quiet vibe—on some nights, the stars even feel close enough to touch thanks to the lack of light pollution. For those bringing telescopes, parking along Porters Lane gives you easy access to set up nearby.
Pro tips:
- Attend public stargazing nights: As mentioned, the Brisbane Astronomical Society hosts monthly public viewing events here. Check their event calendar for dates and details.
- Mind the lighting: To preserve night vision and minimize light pollution, use red lights directed downward. It’s also a good time to disconnect from your phone for a while, as the glare from the screen can disrupt your ability to see fainter stars.
- Come prepared: Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop at night. Also, consider bringing a blanket or foldable reclining chair for comfortable viewing.