While Paradise Point is usually known for its epic waterfront playground, there is a smaller but just as enjoyable experience just down the road – and generally, away from the crowds! Jabiru Island Park is a popular spot with the boaties and fishermen, but also makes for a wonderful spot for an outing with the family.
When you arrive, there is a large carpark next to the boat ramp, so park here and grab your picnic baskets and bikes and head down the pathway. Emerging from the shade of the trees, you’ll find plenty of space to set up your picnic blanket right by the water. The kids will love splashing about in the swimming enclosure, and there is a nice stretch of sand to play on. Perched just beside the beach is a small playground – while it won’t be winning any awards for design, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a day by the water!
The facilities available at Jabiru Island Park include picnic tables under shelters, electric barbeques, a modern toilet block and plenty of bike friendly paths. If your kids are interested in dropping in a line to see what they can catch, there are plenty of sheltered shoreline spots and a few jetty and boardwalk options to try.
Many visitors to Jabiru Island Park don’t venture too far, but the reward for taking a stroll a bit further is huge! Follow the pathway under the bridge and you’ll find yourself entering Phil Hill Environmental Park. Here you’ll find a short nature walk that takes you above the water and through mangroves out to the Coomera River. It’s only 300 metres long, so is perfect for those wanting to connect with nature and explore, without the long bushwalk. A word of warning for those with little ones though, only do this part of the walk if you are confident you can keep up with your toddler. There are no railings along the boardwalk and a fall could see your child end up in the water!
We ventured along the boardwalk, looking out for soldier crabs in the mangroves and fish in the water. At the end of the boardwalk it opens up to a miniature headland, with a small sandy beach under a few trees (look up and you might even spot the eagle’s nest!). You’ll be guaranteed to spot a fisherman here, and it’s a nice spot to pop down the picnic blanket and let the kids explore.
Jabiru Island Park and Phil Hill Environmental Park is a great place for a family outing that is all about getting back outdoors. Come prepared to get wet and sandy, pack your lunch and bring the bikes. There is so much to explore!
Need to know:
- Address: Oxley Drive, Paradise Point
- Facilities: Toilets (with outdoor shower to rinse sand off), electric BBQs, bike paths, pram friendly
- What to bring: picnic blanket, food, change of clothes, swimmers
