Sandgate is situated on the coastline, along Bramble Bay part of Moreton Bay. The western border of the suburb is marked by the Gateway Motorway. Most of Sandgate's facilities are located along Brighton Road, the main street in Sandgate, which include numerous banks, shops, services and a small shopping centre anchored by a supermarket. Recreational facilities in Sandgate include numerous parks, walking and bike tracks, and a municipal swimming pool on Flinders Parade. The Deagon Wetlands are in the west of the suburb, they are part of the North East Wetlands of Brisbane.

Located 80.7km (38.6 miles/ 57 mins) from Village Roadshow Studios. The nearest airport is Brisbane Airport (BNE). The closest POH, Brisbane City, is 19.8km (2 miles/ 32 mins) away.