Where to Go - Mainland : Cleveland
Cleveland is the civic heart of the Redlands, and boasts a cosmopolitan mix of cafés and shops overlooking the harbour.
The main streets of Cleveland feature public works of art, inscribed poetry, pocket parks and fountains. Cleveland’s streets display a variety of bronze and timber sculptures designed by local artists and craftspeople. Each work of art tells its own story and expresses a little of the Redland’s pride in its heritage, culture and future.
The Redlands Heritage Gardens on Delancey Street celebrate the history of settlement and the pioneers who farmed the land to create the Redlands "salad bowl" profile. The garden’s unique landscape design tells a story about the evolution of horticulture and agriculture in the region by European and indigenous communities - captured and preserved within a living museum.
A community project and public facility, the garden features seven themed areas, all focusing on stimulating interest through a mix of sensory experience and social interaction: The Snack Track, The Bush, The Formal Garden, Pioneer’s Walk, Maize Maze, The Salad Bowl and The Entry. Interactive walks and narratives will highlight the achievements and the diverse stories, beginning with the traditional owners’ cultural links to the land, tracing European settlement to the crops of today. Contact Redland Research Station (3286 1488) during business hours.
Cleveland was originally a bustling port area and the old lighthouse was built at Cleveland Point in 1864 to guide the ships of Moreton Bay. There is now a new modern lighthouse but Cleveland’s historical icon remains.
Raby Bay Harbour is a short stroll from the main street and a range of retail outlets, restaurants, accommodation, offices and more are situated right on the waterfront.
Raby Bay Promenade on Masthead Drive is a popular family picnic spot with its many facilities, including barbeques and safe sandy beaches nearby for children. The park is fast becoming a popular spot for the many kite flyers who enjoy the wide, open spaces of the parkland for their sport.
On Cleveland’s eastern seaboard, at the end of Middle Street, is Toondah Harbour - the gateway to North Stradbroke Island. Regular water taxis and vehicle barges depart from the harbour transporting visitors to their island destination. Information about accommodation packages and barge transfers is available through Redlands Tourism.
The Redlands is not only famous for its heritage and natural environment but is also known for its local produce. Cleveland has a number of restaurants offering fine food and great atmosphere.
Eating out in Cleveland can be as grand or as casual as you like. For special occasions, there are numerous restaurants which serve innovative meals made with the freshest ingredients from the land and sea. With Moreton Bay right on the doorstep, the local restaurants boast the very freshest seafood, including fish, crabs, prawns and of course Moreton Bay bugs. Combine this with the superb views of Moreton Bay and you have the recipe for a perfect dining experience!
For something exotic, Cleveland has a range of Indian, Chinese, Thai, Mediterranean and Mexican restaurants serving authentic cuisine. There are also a range of cosmopolitan cafés where you can dine alfresco and enjoy the region’s great weather.