4 Easy Access Lookouts Near Brisbane & The Sunshine Coast
Glass House Mountains Lookout
Every parent has been there—it's the witching hour (around 6pm), the moment when the kids are cranky, and you're just about ready to collapse from the demands of the day. What if a brief drive to a beautiful lookout, a relaxing snack or dinner, and a quiet moment in the great outdoors could be all you need to recharge and reconnect as a family.
Hop in the car, wear something comfy, and take a short, scenic drive. No long hiking trails, no complicated plans—just a quick getaway without any pressure.
Here’s the secret: you don’t need a detailed itinerary. Grab a simple meal (sandwiches, takeaway pizza, or even something as easy as fruit and crackers) and set up a cozy space in the back of the car. Maybe you spread out a blanket, or perhaps your kids bring their favorite stuffed toys—whatever makes them feel comfortable.
If this sounds like the kind of reset your family needs, here are four easily accessible, family-friendly lookouts near Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast that are perfect for a quiet evening retreat:
Dulong Lookout (Sunshine Coast)
Accessibility: A short, paved drive from the Sunshine Coast with a spacious car park, Dulong Lookout is perfect for families, including those with strollers.
View: Offering expansive views of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, this lookout faces west, providing breathtaking sunset views.
Family-Friendly: Peaceful, quiet, and spacious—this spot allows your children to enjoy the view while you relax in comfort.
Glass House Mountains Lookout (Sunshine Coast)
Accessibility: A short walk from the car park, the Glass House Mountains Lookout is easily accessible for families with strollers or limited mobility.
View: The dramatic peaks of the Glass House Mountains provide a striking sunset backdrop, with golden skies lighting up the rugged mountain silhouettes.
Family-Friendly: Ample space, seating, and easy access make this spot ideal for families looking for a peaceful moment together.
Mount Cootha Lookout (Brisbane)
Accessibility: Just 15 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD, Mount Cootha Lookout is an incredibly convenient location with a large car park and a paved path to the viewing platform.
View: Enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of Brisbane, with the city skyline and surrounding mountains offering a stunning backdrop for sunset.
Family-Friendly: The large viewing platform, nearby café, and plenty of space for kids to roam make this a fantastic spot for a relaxing family outing.
Mount Gravatt Lookout (Brisbane)
Accessibility: A short drive and paved path make Mount Gravatt Lookout an easy-to-reach spot for families.
View: Offering sweeping views of Brisbane and Moreton Bay, the west-facing lookout is ideal for watching the sunset over the city.
Family-Friendly: A popular spot with plenty of seating and a picnic area, it’s a perfect place for families to gather and enjoy the sunset together.
Simple, Slow and Joy-Filled Family Moments
Instead of rushing through another chaotic evening, why not create a simple, joyful family ritual that leaves everyone feeling connected?
A trip to one of these beautiful lookouts near Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast allows you to slow down, enjoy each other’s company, and reset for the evening ahead—all with minimal effort.
And who knows? Maybe it will inspire you to embrace the benefits of nature play for your kids—allowing them to enjoy even more simple, grounding moments outside.
How do you reset as a family during the witching hour? Share your favourite peaceful spots or family bonding rituals with us!