By Ashleigh Howarth

If your idea of a perfect getaway swings between adrenaline rushes, slow soul-soothing moments and everything in between, it’s time to set your sights on Redland City.

This May, the region transforms into a full-blown playground as it hosts the second annual Redlands Coast AdventureFest, and trust me, you’ll want to be part of it.

Running from May 15-24, this 10-day celebration is less of a festival and more of an open invitation to explore - think sparkling bays, island escapes, rugged mountains, lush conservation reserves, and charming village pockets- all woven together through an epic lineup of experiences designed for every kind of traveller.

Whether you’re chasing heart-pounding adventure, craving a digital detox in nature, ticking off a bucket-list endurance challenge, or simply indulging your inner foodie, AdventureFest delivers.

The program is stacked with more than 100 events, spanning everything from high-energy outdoor activities to arts and culture, scenic nature walks, gallery and museum hopping, and unforgettable family-friendly fun.

Planning a romantic escape? There’s something for couples. Travelling with kids? Sorted. Flying solo? You’ll still leave with stories worth telling. This is one of those rare festivals where you can fill your days to the brim or leave space to wander and discover something unexpected.

So, clear your calendar, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready, because for 10 unforgettable days, Redlands Coast isn’t just a destination…. it’s the experience.

An epic lineup of events

With so much packed into just a few days, figuring out where to begin might be the hardest part.

Do you jump straight into the action, take it slow with something scenic, or map your schedule around the best bites in town?

Honestly, there’s no wrong way to do it.

To make things easier, I’ve pulled together a selection of standout experiences from Redlands Coast AdventureFest - the ones worth locking into your plans before they fill up.

Here’s a taste of what’s waiting for you:

Straddie Salute Triathlon Festival – May 15-17
Redlands Mountain Bike Rumble – May 15-17
Redlands Coast AdventureFest Fun Day – May 16
Environment and Community Fair Eco Markets – May 23
Redlands Coast Gallery and Museum Hop – May 23-24
Brisbane Water Lantern Festival – May 23-24
Sirromet Wine Blending Experience – May 15-24
V2 Helicopters – Wines to Waves – May 15-June 30
Scenic Boat Cruise Experience – May 16
MG Car Club of Queensland Mount Cotton Hill Climb – May 16-17
Ormiston House After Dark – May 16
Peel Island Adventure Sailing Day – May 17-22
Redlands Coast AdventureFest Discovery Tour – May 18-22
Haunted Redlands Ghost Bus Tour and Dinner at the Grand View Hotel – May 23
Night Sky Viewing with the Redlands Astronomical Society – May 23
PuppaPalooza – May 17
Explore King Island: A morning with Ranger Stacey – May 22

To see the full lineup of event, log onto Visit Redlands Coast.

Photo: Supplied by Redland City Council.

How to get there

By car

If you’re road-tripping, you’re in luck. Redlands Coast sits just a breezy 30-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD, or around 50 minutes from the Gold Coast. Perfect for a day trip… or a spontaneous detour that turns into a weekend stay.

By train

Prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride? Hop on the Cleveland line from Brisbane and you’ll arrive in about an hour. With frequent services and ultra-affordable fares, it’s one of the easiest (and most relaxed) ways to get there.

By bus

Public transport makes things simple, too. TransLink runs regular services between Brisbane Transit Centre and Redlands Coast, as well as routes connecting the region’s charming villages. Travelling from the Gold Coast? You can easily connect via Brisbane.

By air

Flying in? You’re closer than you think. Redlands Coast is roughly a 30-minute drive from Brisbane Airport and about an hour from Gold Coast Airport, making it an effortless add-on to your Queensland itinerary.

By boat

For a true escape, set your sights offshore. The stunning islands of Redlands Coast are only accessible by water, with regular passenger ferries and vehicle barges linking the mainland to these laid-back, sub-tropical gems. Some islands even offer local buses and taxis, so you can explore with ease once you arrive.

Extend your stay

One of the best things about visiting the Redlands Coast is that you can shape your stay to match your mood.

‍Craving a peaceful hinterland escape? Or dreaming of waking up to salty sea breezes? Here, you don’t have to choose - this region serves up both in equal measure.

‍You’ll find everything from unique camping and luxe glamping experiences under the stars to stylish resorts, cosy boutique B&Bs, and a huge selection of holiday homes that instantly feel like your own. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends, or bringing the whole family along, there’s a stay to match your vibe.

Click here for more info on where to stay.

‍ ‍

100-plus events, 10 days of fun: Redlands Coast turns into epic outdoor playground for AdventureFest