Parents of little ones know the struggle: you need a safe, fun spot for your toddler to burn off energy (preferably without giving you a heart attack!). Luckily, if you’re searching for the best outdoor playgrounds in Redland Bay for toddler, you’re in the right spot. The Redlands Coast area of Queensland is home to some of the best toddler-friendly parks around! Think fully-fenced play zones, soft surfaces, mini slides, and even pirate ships. In this friendly guide, we’ll explore the top outdoor playgrounds in and around Redland Bay that are perfect for children aged 1–5. Grab your hats and snacks, and let’s go play!

Images and information courtesy of the organisations mentioned/linked below.

Thornlands Community Park, Thornlands

Thornlands Community Park is a toddler wonderland, fully fenced and packed with imaginative play zones. Both toddlers and parents fall in love with this place. It’s cleverly designed with all ages in mind, but there’s plenty here that’s pint-sized and perfect for the littlest park-goers. The entire playground sits on a soft rubber base and even features a sandy dinosaur “fossil dig” pit – yes, your mini paleontologist can unearth a dino in the sand! Kiddos can toddle from a mini farmer’s market cubby house to gentle climbing hills, while you relax on a bench (actually relaxing at a playground – imagine that!).

Toddler-Friendly Highlights:

  • Fully fenced perimeter – so no sudden toddler escapes. You can breathe a little easier.
  • Soft fall flooring – a rubber base cushions every tiny tumble.
  • Sand play & dino dig: A large sandpit with a buried dinosaur fossil (with digger tools) offers endless sensory play.
  • Water play area: A fun pump and pebble creek for splashing on hot days. (Don’t forget a towel!)
  • Mini farm market cubby: A toddler-sized play shop where little imaginations run wild.
  • Low climbing and slides: Gentle hills, small climbing mounds, and even a mini ninja course designed low-to-the-ground for safe adventure.
  • Facilities: Shaded picnic tables, clean toilets, and a large car park are on site for hassle-free visits.

Where to Find It: Thornlands Community Park is on Cleveland Redland Bay Road in Thornlands (near Waterline Blvd) – just a 10-minute drive from central Redland Bay (Google “Thornlands Community Park QLD” for the exact spot.) With its blend of safety and fun, it’s no wonder this park is often called one of the best toddler playgrounds in Redlands!

Raby Bay Esplanade Park, Ormiston

Raby Bay Esplanade Park boasts a beachside vibe and a towering play fort that even tiny tots can conquer. Located by the bay in Ormiston, this destination playground has something for all ages, but toddlers are far from an afterthought here. The star is a massive “Goliath” play tower that looks sky-high – yet it’s ingeniously accessible for little people, featuring low-level slides perfect for timid sliders. The whole playground sits in soft white sand (bringing the beach feels right underfoot) and even includes a cute imaginary “fish & chip shop” where kids can pretend to serve up lunch. A trickling pebble creek and water pump let toddlers splash safely, and there’s a 200m bike and scooter track adjacent with road signs for pint-sized cyclists – bring the balance bike and watch them zoom! 

Toddler-Friendly Highlights:

  • Soft sand base: The entire play area is built on sand, gentle for falls and great for sandcastle building
  • Low toddler slides on big tower: The giant fort has small slides halfway up, so brave toddlers can get a thrill without the spill.
  • Imaginative play shop: A pretend “fish & chips” kiosk and fishing boat play area spark creative games (“Order up, Mum!”)
  • Water play: A pump-fed water feature trickles into a pebble-lined stream – perfect for barefoot splashing and cooling off.
  • Toddler-friendly equipment: Separate small climbing frame, swings (including a nest swing), and a spring toy mean even tiny adventurers have options.
  • Amenities: Shaded picnic tables, on-site toilets, and ample parking make for a comfortable family outing. Plus, the adjacent grassy areas and nearby beach mean you can picnic or even dip little toes in the bay after playtime.

Where to Find It: Raby Bay Esplanade Park is at the end of Raby Esplanade in Ormiston (near 3 Grenoble Place). It’s about 20 minutes north of Redland Bay. Look for the tall play tower – your kids might spot it before you do! This park truly never disappoints – the hardest part is convincing your kids to leave at the end of the day.

Beth Boyd Park, Thorneside

Beth Boyd Park brings a seaside pirate adventure to toddler play, complete with a shipwreck fort and water splash zone. Set by the tranquil bay at Thorneside, this park recently got a fabulous makeover and is now a must-visit for families with young kids. The highlight is a big pirate shipwreck-themed playground that looks like a half-sunk boat in the sand. Toddlers can clamber on deck, man the pirate wheel, peek through portholes, or dig for buried treasure in the sandpit. There’s an interactive water pump that feeds a little stream running through the play area – perfect for a barefoot splash or rinsing off sandy hands. Thanks to an abundance of mature trees, much of the play space is naturally shaded, so your little buccaneers stay cool. With the bay’s shoreline just a few steps away, you can easily combine playground fun with a beach stroll (and maybe spotting a pelican or two).

Toddler-Friendly Highlights:

  • Pirate ship fort: A large multi-level ship playground, cleverly “shipwrecked” into the sand, complete with barrels, cannons, and a big boat hull for imaginative play (Toddler translation: EPIC hide-and-seek.)
  • Water play stream: Pump the water and watch it flow along a pebbled creek – a huge hit on warm days
  • Sand treasures: A dedicated sand dig area lets little ones hunt for “treasure” (or just make sand pies). Bring a bucket and spade!
  • Mini in-ground trampoline: Yes, there’s a tiny trampoline set flush in the ground – safe bouncing for smaller kids
  • Swings and slides: Toddler swings and low slides ensure even wobbly walkers can join the fun.
  • Shaded & scenic: Big trees provide ample shade over the playground, and the sea breeze keeps things comfy. You’re right next to the bay, so scenic views are a bonus.
  • Convenience: Accessible toilets on-site, picnic tables under shelters, and street parking along Mooroondu Road make it easy to spend a long morning here. Plus, a couple of cute nearby cafés mean coffee for Mum or Dad is within reach.

Where to Find It: You’ll find Beth Boyd Park at the corner of John Street and Mooroondu Road in Thorneside. It’s about a 25-minute drive from Redland Bay. This toddler-friendly playground is a little slice of paradise where play meets the bay – don’t forget a change of clothes if your child loves water play!

Apex Park, Wellington Point

Apex Park offers a magical forest fairy theme beneath shady trees – a quiet haven for imaginative toddlers. Tucked away in Wellington Point, this playground feels like an enchanted little world. It’s set well back from the road and blanketed by a canopy of leafy trees (plus extra shade sails), so it’s cool and comfortable even in summer. Toddlers can discover a charming gumnut fairy house, complete with tiny door and windows, and a mini dragonfly slide just their size. There’s a giant ladybug to climb, a little letterbox for “fairy mail,” and wooden balance beams that encourage wobbly walkers to practice their balance. One unique feature is the small in-ground trampoline – perfectly sized for toddlers to get some gentle jumps without bouncing out of control. And just beside the playground is a paved pump bike track with gentle hills; your under-5 rider might not tackle every bump, but they’ll love cruising the smaller dips and watching bigger kids zoom by.

Toddler-Friendly Highlights:

  • Fairy-tale theme: An imaginative gumnut cottage, oversized ladybug and dragonfly structures transport kids into a storybook setting. Don’t be surprised if they start talking to “fairies”!
  • Gentle play equipment: Low mini slide, tiny tunnels, and a crawl-through barrel ensure even new walkers can play safely.
  • Sand and nature play: A large sand pit invites digging and building, while logs and soft mounds let tots explore natural textures.
  • In-ground trampoline: A small trampoline set at ground level gives toddlers a safe bouncing experience (and burns energy fast!).
  • Adjacent bike track: A looping bike/scooter track next to the park provides extra entertainment. Little riders can try the smaller bumps or just watch in awe as bigger kids whizz past.
  • Shade galore: Huge trees and shade sails keep most of the play area nicely shaded throughout the day – a sun-safe play spot.
  • Amenities: Covered picnic tables and water fountains are available. Toilets are on-site and there’s a decent-sized car park so you won’t have to park blocks away.

Where to Find It: Apex Park is at 8–12 Starkey Street, Wellington Point, behind the Wellington Point community hall. It’s roughly 25 minutes from Redland Bay. This park is a hidden gem with a relaxed vibe. Perfect for a quieter playdate or a picnic under the trees while the kids play make-believe in fairyland.

Wellington Point Recreation Reserve, Wellington Point

Wellington Point Reserve isn’t just a playground – it’s an adventure destination for little ones! Set right by the beach at Wello Point, this playground combines nature play with classic equipment under the sprawling branches of enormous fig trees. For toddlers, there’s a dedicated smaller play structure featuring a little pirate ship wheel and low slide, all oriented toward the sparkling bay. Scattered wooden huts and climbing frames invite creative play – one moment your child is in a house, the next it’s a boat or a shop depending on their imagination. Swings, including toddler swings, nestle under the leafy canopy, and a mini climbing wall gives budding climbers a safe challenge. The whole area has a wonderfully natural vibe – big tree roots to step over, leaves to crunch, and plenty of sticks and shells to collect.

One of the coolest bonuses of Wellington Point Reserve is the famed King Island walk: at low tide, a sandbar emerges leading across the bay to a tiny island. It’s an easy 1km walk (or paddle) that even toddlers can attempt with hand-holding – they’ll be amazed “walking on water”. Just plan around the tides and have towels handy! After playtime, families often spread a picnic rug on the large grassy area or splash in the calm beach shallows.

Toddler-Friendly Highlights:

  • Nature-inspired play: Play huts, wooden climbing frames, and a sandy floor let kids blend playground fun with nature exploration
  • Toddler play ship: A little pirate wheel and boat-shaped structure facing the bay give tots a seafaring pretend-play experience without leaving shore
  • Swings and mini climbs: Toddler swings, a small slide, and a low climbing wall offer age-appropriate challenges under the trees
  • Massive shade: The gigantic Moreton Bay fig trees form a natural umbrella over the playground, so it’s shady and cool (plus kids love climbing on the fig tree roots!).
  • Beachside fun: A safe swimming beach and the famous walk to King Island make this park extra special – a chance for a mini beach adventure during your playground visit
  • Facilities: Heaps of parking and a large overflow lot for busy weekends, BBQs and gazebos, toilets and outdoor showers (to rinse off sandy toes), and even a little café/kiosk nearby for coffee or ice cream.

Where to Find It: The reserve is at 2A Main Road, Wellington Point, at the very end of the Wellington Point peninsula. From Redland Bay it’s about a 30-minute drive. If you want a mix of toddler-friendly playground and natural seaside exploration, Wellington Point is a must-visit.

Capalaba Regional Park, Capalaba

Capalaba Regional Park is the ultimate all-abilities playground, and it’s terrific for toddlers too. This large park in Capalaba features an expansive fenced playground with a soft rubber and bark surface that’s easy on little feet. The main play area boasts a wooden fort structure with wide ramps and low platforms – great for toddlers still finding their balance. There are built-in shopfront cubbies at ground level of the fort, so your tiny ones can play shop or “house” safely on the ground floor. Climbing nets, swings, and musical play elements (like steel drums to bang) provide sensory fun. Don’t miss the “musical forest” – a section with outdoor instruments that toddlers can happily clank and toot! The park also has gentle hills with built-in slides, a sandpit area, and a sensory totem maze for curious explorers.

Outside the fenced zone lies a beautiful parkland with duck ponds, bridges, and walking paths. It’s perfect for a pram walk or letting toddlers observe ducks and turtles after playground time. You truly can make a day of it here: play, nature walk, picnic, repeat!

Toddler-Friendly Highlights:

  • Partially fenced play area: The main playground is fenced on most sides for peace of mind (though do watch the exits).
  • Soft surfaces: Mix of rubber flooring and bark mulch under equipment, plus ramps for pram and wheelchair accessibility
  • Toddler-safe fort: A big wooden fort with easy ramps and wide platforms – no scary high drops – plus tiny shop windows underneath for pretend play
  • Musical and sensory play: Drums, chimes, and a spinning sound wheel let toddlers make joyful noise. The sensory maze of poles is great for a little hide-and-seek.
  • Sand & water: A sand pit invites digging (bring toys!), and sometimes there’s water play elements active (check for a pump or damming games).
  • Swings and slides: Standard swings, toddler bucket swings, and several slides (including short hill slides) to keep them busy.
  • Wide paths for bikes: Flat, paved paths weave through the area – perfect for beginner bikers or scooter riders to practice in a safe environment
  • Facilities: Toilets (with baby change) are close by and accessible. Shaded picnic shelters and BBQs surround the playground, and there’s plenty of grassy space for running or kicking a ball. A large car park is adjacent, and the park is right next to Capalaba’s shopping centre if you need to grab lunch or extra wipes.

Where to Find It: The park is located off Pittwin Road North, Capalaba – about 25–30 minutes west of Redland Bay. Look for the signs for Capalaba Regional Park or follow the laughter of kids! It’s one of the most toddler-friendly playgrounds in Queensland, offering a fantastic blend of play equipment and natural surroundings.

Jingeri Park, Shoreline (Redland Bay)

Jingeri Park is a brand new playground in Redland Bay’s Shoreline community, featuring a unique 8.5m lighthouse play structure that will wow kids of all ages. This park is a showcase of community spirit and local culture – even its name “Jingeri” means “greetings” in the local Indigenous language. For toddlers, Jingeri Park provides plenty of safe adventures. The signature red-and-white lighthouse tower is big and eye-catching, but little ones can explore it via gentle ramps and stairs, and there are two slides (one enclosed) coming down from different heights to accommodate the tiny tots as well as older siblingsThe playground design incorporates local coastal themes: there’s a mini jetty-style boardwalk to toddle on, boat-shaped elements, and even carved wooden animals hiding around. Soft landscaping and sand underfoot keep things safe. Parents will love the thoughtful touches – shaded picnic areas and mature fig trees transplanted into the park provide shade and a connection to nature

This playground was created in partnership with Quandamooka traditional owners, so you’ll also find beautiful Indigenous art murals and native plants throughout, making it a subtly educational environment too. But for your 2-year-old, it’s just pure fun – climb, slide, repeat! After a play session, you can take a stroll on the walking paths or grab a coffee at the Shoreline estate café (if open) while the little ones nap in the car.

Toddler-Friendly Highlights:

  • Multiple mini slides: The lighthouse play tower offers smaller slide options so little kids can enjoy the big feature safely. No need to climb too high for a thrill!
  • Climb and explore: Low climbing nets, bridges, and ramps are built into the design, encouraging gross motor play for young ones. It’s designed with toddlers in mind, despite the tall centerpiece.
  • Theming and visuals: Bright lighthouse, jetty and boat-themed play pieces spark imaginative play – your child might pretend to sail the bay or be a lighthouse keeper “helping ships.”
  • Shaded picnic spots: Shade sails and large transplanted fig trees provide shade over parts of the playground and lawns. Perfect for a snack break in the shade.
  • Gardens and nature: Native plants and a storytelling mural along the park walls add visual interest (and opportunities to talk to your child about local animals or colors).
  • Quiet paths: A paved loop around the park is great for little bikes or a calming walk when playtime winds down.
  • Facilities: The park is so new that facilities are still being added, but currently you’ll find picnic tables, bins, and plenty of open space. (Public toilets are not on-site yet – plan a pit stop beforehand just in case.)

Where to Find It: Jingeri Park is located in the Shoreline development at Redland Bay (near the end of Serpentine Creek Road, then into Shoreline Drive – look for Jingeri Street). It’s right in Redland Bay, so local families have a fantastic new toddler spot close to home. This park is a fresh addition to the Redlands Coast, combining cultural storytelling with playground fun – definitely put it on your list for a visit!

Denham Boulevard Park, Redland Bay

Denham Boulevard Park is a hidden gem in Redland Bay – a quiet neighborhood playground that’s especially great for toddlers and preschoolers. It may not have the giant towers of the bigger parks, but it shines in toddler-friendly design. Much of the play equipment here is undercover, with shade sails covering the slides and swings to keep kiddos sun-safe. Speaking of equipment, there’s a little bit of everything: modern climbing frames, a small flying fox (yes, a mini zip-line that even cautious toddlers can try with help), slides, and toddler swings. The playground is set next to a scenic wetland, so you might spot ducks paddling nearby as you play, adding a nice nature touch. Two spacious sheltered picnic tables sit right next to the play area – convenient for supervising parents to relax (and perhaps enjoy that takeaway coffee). There’s also an adjacent grassy field that’s perfect for kicking a ball or spreading a picnic blanket.

One thing to note: Denham Boulevard Park is a neighborhood park, so it’s not fully fenced and doesn’t have toilets on-site. You’ll want to keep a close eye on little runners since the park is open to the surrounds (though it’s set back from the road), and plan potty visits in advance. On the plus side, there’s a water bubbler for drinking water and even some outdoor fitness equipment for parents to use (or for toddlers to amusingly attempt mimicry). For a low-key, local outing this park is just the ticket.

Toddler-Friendly Highlights:

  • Sun-safe play: Many of the play structures are covered by shade sails, a huge bonus on hot or bright days. No hot slides or overheated kiddos here – it’s a true “Sun Smart” playground.
  • Age-appropriate gear: The climbs and slides are just the right size for younger kids. Nothing too towering or daunting – perfect for building confidence.
  • Mini flying fox: A small flying fox (zip-line) with a bucket seat lets adventurous toddlers swoop low to the ground. It’s gentle but exciting – likely to be ridden over and over!
  • Swings and spinners: Toddler bucket swings and a couple of spring riders give variety for those who love motion.
  • Picnic & play: Two undercover picnic areas sit right next to the playground. You can literally sit at the table and be within arm’s reach of your child on the equipment. Ideal for snacks or a mini lunch break.
  • Wildlife spotting: The adjacent wetlands mean ducks and water birds are frequent visitors. A short stroll on the path might become a mini bird-watching adventure with your little one. 
  • Quiet location: Being nestled in a suburban area, this park is usually peaceful and not overcrowded – great for toddlers who can get overwhelmed by big, busy playgrounds.

Where to Find It: Denham Boulevard Park is on Denham Boulevard in Redland Bay’s newer estate area. It’s roughly a 5-minute drive from Redland Bay town center. You can park along the street nearby. This little park is proof that sometimes the simple local playgrounds are the best for toddlers – easy, calm, and just plain fun.

(Pssst, also in Redland Bay: check out Neville Stafford Park on Banana Street for a waterfront playground option. It’s an unfenced bayfront park with a basic playground and gorgeous views of the bay – perfect for a stroller walk and play, especially if you fancy a ferry-watching with your little one.)

Time to play!

From pirate ships to fairy forests, the Redland Bay area has an incredible variety of toddler-friendly playgrounds waiting to be explored. These outdoor parks cater to what parents care about most: safe play equipment, shaded spots to beat the Queensland sun, soft surfaces for those inevitable tumbles, fences (where we need them), nearby amenities, and plenty of engaging fun to keep our little scholars busy and happy. The best part? Watching your child’s face light up as they conquer a new slide or dig up “dinosaur bones” in the sand – those moments are priceless.

So pack the sunscreen, strap on those tiny sandals, and head out to enjoy the best playgrounds in Redland Bay for toddlers.  We’d love to hear from you: Which playground is your family’s favourite? Did we miss a great toddler spot in or around Redland Bay? Let us know on socials @littlescholarsearlylearning! 

If you’re after the best childcare in Redland Bay, look no further than Little Scholars. We have two beautiful centres in the heart of Redland Bay – Little Scholars Redland Bay and Little Scholars Redland Bay South. Contact us or book a tour today to ensure your little one gets the best start to life that they can.