A must-read guide to Brisbane markets by suburb

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Stock up on one-of-a-kind artisanal treasures and top-notch produce at the most plentiful Brisbane markets.

Peak fruit and vegetables enriched with reliably subtropical conditions. Pieces for the home, and your wardrobe, you can’t find anywhere else. Brisbane markets are a wonderland for unique collectables and spoils. Follow our list of the best to find one near you.

1. The Collective Markets

There’s really no escaping The Collective Markets at South Bank, one of Brisbane’s most popular visitor attractions, and even if you’ve wandered the stretch before, there’s always something shiny and new to stickybeak. As the name suggests, you’ll find arts and crafts, fashion, homewares and gifts galore at this Brisbane institute, plus there are always a few stalls dedicated to organic produce, condiments and the sweetest of treats.

When: Fridays from 5pm to 9pm, Saturdays from 10am to 9pm and Sundays from 9am to 4pm.
Address: Little Stanley Street, South Brisbane

2. West End Markets

Grab your morning elixir and seize the shade of a glorious Moreton Bay Fig tree at the West End Markets. It’s a relaxed way to kick off the weekend and once you’ve awakened bleary early eyes, there’s a maze of freshly farmed produce, second-hand books, local arts and crafts and delectable treats to navigate.

crowds of people shopping at West End Markets
Kick off the weekend at West End Markets. (Image: Supplied)

When: Saturdays from 6am to 1pm.
Address:
Davies Park at Montague Road and Jane Street, West End

3. Brisbane Genki Market

Get your Japandi fix at the Brisbane Genki Market, a hipster-cool laneway market that celebrates the best of Asian, especially Japanese, cuisine and crafty local makers. Naturally, you’ll find exceptional street food to transport you to the corners of your favourite cosmopolitan city plus there’s an impressive collection of plants, homewares, jewellery, art and vintage collectables. Takoyaki fans — those puffy Japanese octopus balls are also beckoning.

people browsing through the items for sale at Genki Market, Brisbane
Make a beeline for the hipster-cool laneway Brisbane Genki Market. (Image: Supplied)

When: Sundays from 10am to 3pm.
Address: 123 Charlotte Street, Brisbane

4. Riverside Markets

A laidback market surrounded by lush plant life, Brisbane’s Riverside Markets offers a beautiful morning out. Located within the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, the space is awakened through live music and plenty of fabulous stall-wandering fodder including international food, local arts and crafts and various coffee options. Even if you don’t spend a cent, this Brisbane market’s unique tranquillity often wins hearts.

Brisbane’s Riverside Markets
Brisbane’s Riverside Markets is a crowd favourite. (Image: Supplied)

When: Sundays from 8am to 3pm.
Address: Corner of Alice Street and Albert Street, Brisbane

5. Brisbane Suitcase Rummage

Nestled at the foot of the Victoria Bridge, around the corner from W Brisbane, lies a quirky Brisbane market dedicated to savvy fashion, vintage and bric-a-brac lovers.

The Brisbane Suitcase Rummage is exactly what it sounds like and while some vendors push the concept of a single suitcase into more of a truckload, there’s always plenty of gems to be found once you’re on your hands and knees. Don’t let the hard work deter you – designer labels are often spotted.

vintage items on display at Brisbane Suitcase Rummage
Get your hands on unique and limited edition gems at Brisbane Suitcase Rummage. (Image: Jorge Serra)

When: The first and third Sunday of every month from 12pm to 5pm.
Address: Reddacliff Place, Queen Street, Brisbane

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6. Jan Powers Farmers Market

Love cooking with seasonal ingredients? The Jan Powers Farmers Market is a sensory overload, brimming with quality produce and irresistible aromas.

farmgate flowers at Jan Powers Farmers Market
Select flowers fresh from the farm at Jan Powers Farmers Market. (Image: Rick Gates)

The Brisbane market launched more than 30 years ago and is readily considered the city’s first farmers’ market, leading to two additional venues in Manly and Mitchelton. Roam the dog-friendly set-up, located on the forecourt of Brisbane Powerhouse, one of Brisbane’s best art galleries, for stellar butchers, bakers, farmers and artisans, each armed with mouth-watering creations.

the artisan bread box at Jan Powers Farmers Market
Devour baked goods on offer at Jan Powers Farmers Market. (Image: Rick Gates)

When: Saturdays from 6am to 12pm.
Address: Lamington Street, New Farm

7. Northey Street Organic Farmers Market

Another fresh produce market flowing with great vibes, Northey Street Organic Farmers Market is part of any Windsor local’s (ideal) weekend ritual. Comb the relaxed stalls for all your favourite vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices, seafood, dairy, meats and carbs plus ethical gifts and homewares. There are even eco-conscious clothes and jewellery if you’re really in the mood to flex your card.

people shopping at Northey Street Organic Farmers Market
Spend your Sunday picking up fresh produce at Northey Street Organic Farmers Market. (Image: Supplied)

When: Sundays from 6am to 11am.
Address:
54 Northey Street, Windsor

8. Redcliffe Markets

If the sun’s shining, get moving to Redcliffe Markets overlooking the golden sands of Redcliffe Beach in Brisbane’s north. It’s a picture-perfect morning call filled with stellar coffee, great fruit and veg, artisan condiments and gifts and some good quality breakfast options inspired by far-flung corners of the globe. Grab your favourite flakey/saucy delight and sit out by the water for shimmering views.

crowds of people shopping at Redcliffe Markets
Redcliffe Markets has something for everyone. (Image: Supplied)

When: Sundays from 8am to 2pm from March to November, and Sundays from 7am to 1pm from December to February.
Address: Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe

9. Eat Street North Shore

Brisbane night markets make the most out of the city’s long, warm evenings and Eat Street North Shore is one of the standouts. Located right on the banks of the Brisbane River, it’s an epic location to get lost in a maze of fairy-lit, neon-splashed stalls spanning every imaginable international cuisine. Dialling up the fun further are several stages dedicated to local and touring bands and performers, making it a sure-fire great night out no matter when you visit.

Eat Street North Shore market in Brisbane
Eat Street North Shore is a standout Brisbane market. (Image: Supplied)

When: 4pm to 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 4pm to 9pm on Sundays.
Address: 221D MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton

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10. Love Me Again Market

Fashion fanatics can find a pre-loved bargain (or few) at the Love Me Again Market set across two venues in Brisbane. Browse the racks for a seriously good selection of designer labels spanning clothing, accessories, shoes, handbags and beyond. There’s also a handful of food stalls and coffee options to help fuel this ultra-stylish shopping expedition.

people browsing through the clothes on display at Love Me Again
Squeeze in for some great fashion finds at the Love Me Again Market. (Image: Supplied)

When: Sundays from 8am to 12pm.
Address: 31 Wolverhampton Street, Stafford and 46 Douglas Street, Milton

11. Saturday Fresh Market

It’s a 20-minute drive from the CBD but journeying out to Saturday Fresh Market on the weekend is always worth a little effort. Boasting Brisbane’s largest collection of food (spanning deli delights, fresh produce, baked treats, delicious cheese and more), the undercover space is home to more than 100 individual stalls. There are plenty of other locally crafted, or locally sourced, gems but it’s best known for its food-driven hauls, so find some reusable shopping bags – you’ll need them.

the fresh produce stalls inside Saturday Fresh Market, Brisbane
The Saturday Fresh Market boasts Brisbane’s largest collection of food. (Image: Supplied)

When: Saturdays from 6am to 12pm.
Address: 385 Sherwood Road, Rocklea

12. Brisbane Flower Market

Bringing the most beautiful (and affordable) blooms to the city, the Brisbane Flower Market houses five flower wholesalers and florists and also opens its doors to the public.

the view in front of Brisbane Flower Market
Head to the Brisbane Flower Market from Monday to Saturday. (Image: Supplied)

Be it decorating your weekend soiree or fitting out the wedding of your dreams, this Brisbane market is crammed with the prettiest of peak seasonal varieties, making it impossible to leave empty-handed. There’s designated parking right out the front of the market so getting your bounty into your car quick sticks is surprisingly straightforward.

Fresh flowers at Brisbane Flower Market
Pick fresh blooms at Brisbane Flower Market. (Image: Supplied)

When: 4.30am to 3pm on Mondays and Thursdays; 5am to 3pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and 6am to 1pm on Saturdays.
Address: 385 Sherwood Road, Rocklea

13. Global Food Markets

Exotic produce gems are an absolute must-purchase at Brisbane’s Global Food Markets where multicultural influences fuse to create a diverse one-stop shop. Think street food talents serving authentic cuisine and Greater Brisbane’s hard-working farmers rolling peak produce out the side of their trucks. Undoubtedly, it is the place to go to find international recipe ingredients that typically aren’t stocked in the major supermarkets.

Brisbane’s Global Food Markets
Brisbane’s Global Food Markets are a diverse one-stop shop. (Image: Supplied)

When: Sundays from 6am to 12pm.
Address: Corner Croydon Road and Station Street, Woodridge

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Why Hamilton Island is perfect for multi-gen travel

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

Getting there, and around

Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy
Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

Where to stay

Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel
Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island
Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

Where to eat

coca chu on hamilton island
Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

Catseye Pool Club hamilton island
Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

Where to explore

hamilton island couple running on trail
Explore the island’s walking trails.

There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

E-mountain biking on hamilton island
Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

Where to play

heart reef
Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.