Brisbane is a strange, cute, small city. Small if you compare with the other States. In Australia is the 3rd biggest city. 🙂
There is art beneath the underground as well. The valley is an artistic, punk suburb of Brisbane.
As well Brisbane has a CBD with skyscrapers, shopping centres,but no beaches all around.
You should go to the North : Sunshine coast , Bribrie Island, North Stradbroke island, or to the South: Surfer Paradise, the Gold Coast to find beaches all around 1 or 2 hrs far by car at least ….
Sunshine coast has very very beautiful beaches : if you are looking for more natural wild beaches and pristine water I suggest you to go to the Sunshine coast.
If you are looking for lifestyle, shops,tourism,restaurants,Surfer Paradise is a mix of all of this.