Cool off at Brisbane’s beaches, along with lakes, waterfalls, and any other type of watering hole you could imagine. Some might require a bit of effort to get to, but it’s nothing a post-hike beer at a rooftop bar or laneway pub can’t fix.

You don’t have to go far to take a dip. In the middle of the city is Streets Beach, a stretch of trucked-in sand dotted with palm trees facing a sparkling blue lagoon. Head to Spring Hill Baths or Centenary Pool if swimming laps is more your thing.

Tropical fruit appears in just about every dish you could imagine every summer. Think mango smoothies, mango acai bowls, mango sorbets, mango salads, mango beer… You get the picture.

A summer bar crawl is the best way to check out the city’s craft beer breweries and sample some seasonal brews.

Everything about fall is particularly pleasant, including the mild temperatures, low humidity, and clear skies. Most importantly, the crowds are manageable, meaning more time and space for you to enjoy the oranges and golds of the foliage.

Get your steps in at Brisbane’s parks, reserves, wetlands, and forests. You can admire the fall colors from the cycling tracks at New Farm Park and the walking trails of Mt Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens.

Fall is a great time to explore Brisbane’s coastal areas. Stradbroke Island, or “Straddie,” is the go-to choice for many locals, but Moreton Island is a bit less busy, with cool spots to set up camp if you want to spend the night off the mainland.

Fall is prime festival time, and you can catch the commemorative marches of the Anzac Day Parade, stumble upon an impromptu performance during the Anywhere Theatre Festival, or join in for a pedal on the Tour de Brisbane.

Brisbane’s warm, sunny winters are great for those who hate the cold. All you need is a light sweater—or a “jumper,” as the locals say—and you’re all set to hit a beach or two. Yes, even during winter. We won’t go as far as to say you should actually go swimming, but they’re great to explore when the heat isn’t too bad. Just don’t forget the sunscreen, as the rays are still deceptively strong.

Brisbane is pretty much hot, hot, hot during other times of the year, so winter is a perfect time to tackle the trails. Join the crowds on the out-and-back trail up nearby Mount Coot-tha, or challenge yourself by climbing the massive sand dune known as Mount Tempest.

Migration season runs from June to October, so hop aboard a whale-watching cruise and spot southern humpbacks making their way through Moreton Bay. Two different types of dolphins also make frequent appearances.

Throw on your most eye-catching hat and join the well-dressed crowds at the annual Brisbane Winter Racing Carnival. Place your bets on some of the fastest thoroughbreds in the country.