Brisbane’s riverside hotspot is going bigger, bolder and better ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.
Few places capture Brisbane’s laid-back lifestyle quite like Howard Smith Wharves. Sitting pretty beneath the Story Bridge, it’s a go-to for sunset cocktails, long lunches and good times. And now, it’s gearing up for its biggest transformation yet.
Recently approved by the Brisbane City Council and state government, a $500 million redevelopment dubbed HSW 2.0 is bringing a boutique hotel, over-river pool and brand-new public spaces to this beloved riverside destination.
What to expect from HSW 2.0
Howard Smith Wharves wasn’t always the thriving lifestyle precinct it is today. Once a neglected stretch of land along the Brisbane River, it remained largely overlooked until 2015, when Artemus Group recognised its untapped potential and acquired the site.
The redevelopment includes a 106-key luxury hotel, over-river pool and upgraded outdoor spaces.
Following three years of extensive work, Howard Street Wharves opened in 2018, joining the Australian real estate development and hospitality group’s growing portfolio. Today, it’s one of Brisbane’s biggest drawcards.
But just over a decade on from its purchase, the iconic hub is preparing for a bold new chapter. With permission to proceed now secured, fresh insight into the ambitious redevelopment has been revealed – and why its completion date is no coincidence.
“The timing of this approval could not be more significant," says Howard Smith Wharves founder, Adam Flaskas.
“With Brisbane set to host the world for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, HSW 2.0 positions Howard Smith Wharves and the Brisbane River as a centrepiece of the city’s global moment. This is not just for Brisbane today, but for the world that will be watching in 2032."
Brisbane’s new boutique hotel will boast uninterrupted views of the Story Bridge.
Among the redevelopment’s most anticipated additions is a 106-room boutique hotel overlooking the Story Bridge, with unparalleled views across the Brisbane River and CBD.
While details remain under wraps, including the hotel’s design, amenities and eventual operator, it’s expected to raise the bar for luxury accommodation in Brisbane. The capital city’s first over-river pool only adds to the excitement, providing relief from the sweltering Queensland heat in spectacular style.
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More room to roam along the river
Beyond the new hotel, a range of expansive outdoor spaces and upgraded public infrastructure promise easy access to the river and an enhanced visitor experience.
Infrastructure across the precinct will be upgraded to improve the visitor experience.
Seamlessly meander between Howard Street Wharves and the water's edge.
Revitalised outdoor spaces encourage weekend walks along the river.
Chief among the additions is two new cliffside lifts, which will improve access to Howard Smith Wharves and create seamless connectivity between the precinct and the CBD. A huge set of riverfront steps will then cascade down to the water’s edge, making it easier than ever for locals and visitors to enjoy the river.
The redevelopment also includes an additional 8,500 square metres of public outdoor space, a 30 per cent increase on existing capacity. That means more room for weekend strolls, riverside picnics and community gatherings.
Felons Barrel Hall, one of Brisbane’s best breweries, will also undergo upgrades to accommodate an expanded music and entertainment line-up.
Visitors can soak up the sun at Brisbane’s first over-river pool.
A brand-new pontoon will support greater river-based tourism efforts, with infrastructure for private vessel mooring and improved water transport. Backed by the Queensland Government, it will be specifically designed and built to withstand flood conditions.
As Brisbane prepares to welcome the world in 2032, the redevelopment will ensure Howard Smith Wharves is ready for the spotlight. While an exact opening date has not been confirmed, CEO Luke Fraser says the project’s vision extends far beyond the Olympic Games.
“Every decision we’ve made in designing Howard Smith Wharves has been guided by asking: how do we create something that Brisbane will be proud to show the world in 2032 – and for decades beyond."
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Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to check out places like Scotland and North America, her favourite place to explore will always be her homeland.
From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.
Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.
Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.
1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island
Explore Bribie Island with G’Day Adventure Tours.
G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.
Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.
End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.
2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough
It doesn’t get fresher than Morgan’s Seafood. (Image: Ezra Patchett)
Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood. Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.
Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.
3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island
Hang 10, or relax, on Woorim Beach.
On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach: aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.
Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro. Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.
4. D’Aguilar National Park
Admire the landscapes of D’Aguilar National Park.
D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.
Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.
5. Arcade Wine Bar
Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.
Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar, one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.
Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.
Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.
6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail
Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail. Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.
Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.
7. Farm Visits
Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.
At White Ridge Farm, find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.
8. Miss Sprinkles
Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.
An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.
The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.
