
Burleigh Heads Beach
A stunning Gold Coast beach with soft sand, great surf, and a vibrant atmosphere, backed by a national park and lively dining scene.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful beach, fresh air

Burleigh Heads Beach
Best Time
Peaceful beach, fresh air

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Gold Coast beach with soft sand, great surf, and a vibrant atmosphere, backed by a national park and lively dining scene.
"Burleigh Beach blends soft white sand, ocean views, and a city skyline—relaxed yet vibrant."

🚗 Parking Woes
Parking is notoriously difficult. Arrive early or consider public transport.
🚶♀️ Walkable Hub
Enjoy cafes, bars, and restaurants all within a short stroll.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Burleigh Heads National Park Walk
Headland
Stunning coastal walk with ocean views and glimpses of wildlife. A must-do for nature lovers.

Sunset Views
Beachfront
Magical sunsets paint the sky with golden hues over the ocean and Surfers Paradise skyline.

Surfing Conditions
Main Beach Break
A popular surf spot offering great waves for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Picnic and Relax
Beachfront Parklands
Spacious grassy areas perfect for picnics, with the beach and ocean as your backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Burleigh
Embrace the Burleigh Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking is notoriously difficult. Arrive early or consider public transport.
🚶♀️ Walkable Hub
Enjoy cafes, bars, and restaurants all within a short stroll.
☀️ Morning Bliss
Start your day with a refreshing walk and salty air. Always beautiful!
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The sunset views are spectacular, a photographer's dream.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking is notoriously difficult. Arrive early or consider public transport.
🚶♀️ Walkable Hub
Enjoy cafes, bars, and restaurants all within a short stroll.
☀️ Morning Bliss
Start your day with a refreshing walk and salty air. Always beautiful!
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The sunset views are spectacular, a photographer's dream.
🏄♀️ Catch a Wave
Burleigh Heads is a fantastic surf spot for all levels.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Burleigh Heads Beach is a beloved Gold Coast destination, praised for its beautiful scenery, excellent surf, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors rave about the stunning sunset views and the convenience of nearby cafes and restaurants. While it can get crowded, the overall experience is highly positive, making it a must-visit spot.
"Awesome beach. It can get a little crowded at times, but it’s a great spot to spend the whole day. Perfect for surfing too."
Alvaro Aparicio
"One of the most magical sunset spots on the Coast!
Burleigh Beach is such a beautiful place to be, especially at sunset. The view is amazing, with golden light over the ocean and the Surfers Paradise skyline in the distance.
It’s a great spot for a picnic, a walk along the beach, or just to sit and take in the scenery. The mix of beach, park, and headland gives it a really special feel."
Flying with Alvaro & Silvia
"Morning walks are just what the soul needs, sun, salty air and water! Always beautiful at any point of Burleigh beach!"
Jessica Rutland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burleigh Heads Beach is easily accessible by car, bus, or even a scenic walk from nearby areas. If driving, be prepared for limited and often paid parking. Public transport options are plentiful, with numerous bus routes stopping close to the beach.
Yes, there is parking available, but it is often in high demand, especially during peak times and weekends. Street parking and paid parking lots are options, but arriving early is highly recommended.
Absolutely! Burleigh Heads is part of the Gold Coast's extensive walking and cycling path network. It's a beautiful way to arrive if you're staying in a neighboring suburb. The boardwalk offers stunning coastal views.
The most convenient way is often by bus, with several routes connecting Surfers Paradise to Burleigh Heads. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service will get you there directly. The drive is relatively short.
While not explicitly designated 'park and ride' facilities, you might find parking in less central areas and then utilize local buses or walk the remaining distance to the beach to avoid the immediate parking crunch.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Burleigh Heads Beach is a public beach and is free to access. You can enjoy the sand, surf, and surrounding parklands without any admission cost.
Burleigh Heads Beach is open 24/7. However, facilities like public restrooms and picnic areas are typically accessible during daylight hours. Lifeguard services operate during specific times.
No, entry to Burleigh Heads National Park and its walking trails is free. You can explore the park at your leisure without needing to purchase tickets.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions. However, standard rules apply regarding responsible behavior, not littering, and respecting the natural environment. Lifeguard flags indicate safe swimming areas.
Dogs are generally not permitted on the main beach area. However, there are designated off-leash areas nearby, and dogs are allowed in some of the park areas on a leash. Always check local signage for specific rules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, surf, sunbathe, picnic, walk along the beach, and explore the Burleigh Heads National Park. The area also boasts numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Yes, Burleigh Heads Beach is a popular spot for swimming, with patrolled areas offering safety. The waves can be good for bodyboarding and surfing too.
The headland at Burleigh Heads National Park offers incredible panoramic views, especially at sunset. The beach itself, with the Surfers Paradise skyline in the distance, is also a fantastic photo opportunity.
Yes, Burleigh Heads Beach is patrolled by lifeguards. Always swim between the red and yellow flags for your safety.
You'll find public restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and barbecues in the parklands adjacent to the beach. There are also numerous cafes and shops nearby.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Burleigh Heads has a vibrant dining scene with many cafes, restaurants, and bars concentrated in a walkable area near the beach. You'll find options for all tastes and budgets.
Yes, the grassy parklands along the beachfront are perfect for picnics. You can bring your own food or grab takeaway from nearby eateries.
Expect a diverse range of cuisine, from casual beachfront cafes serving coffee and snacks to upscale restaurants offering modern Australian and international dishes.
Many of the cafes and restaurants in Burleigh Heads are family-friendly, offering relaxed atmospheres and kid-approved menus. Look for places with outdoor seating or a casual vibe.
Yes, Burleigh Heads is known for its health-conscious and diverse food scene, so you'll easily find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options at most cafes and restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is a prime time for photography, offering stunning golden light over the ocean and skyline. Early mornings are also beautiful for capturing the serene beach atmosphere.
The Burleigh Heads National Park headland provides breathtaking panoramic views. The beach itself, with the iconic Surfers Paradise skyline in the distance, is also a classic shot.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. It's essential to check with local authorities and adhere to any restrictions regarding drone operation in national parks and public beach areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting in the national park. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant ocean shots.
The contrast between the natural beauty of the headland and the urban sprawl of Surfers Paradise in the distance creates a unique photographic subject. The vibrant local street art can also be a fun element to capture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏄♂️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Burleigh Heads National Park
The park provides unparalleled panoramic views of the coastline, stretching from Coolangatta in the south to the glittering skyscrapers of Surfers Paradise in the north. It's a popular spot for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or simply to sit and soak in the natural beauty. The contrast between the vibrant green of the rainforest and the deep blue of the ocean is truly striking.
The Burleigh Heads Beach Experience
Beyond the surf, the beach is perfect for a relaxing day. You can spread out a towel, enjoy a picnic in the adjacent parklands, or take a leisurely walk along the shore. The mix of beach, park, and headland creates a unique and appealing environment that draws visitors for the whole day. Remember that the beach can get crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays, so arriving early is often advised.
Burleigh Heads Dining and Ambience
Whether you're seeking a casual coffee, a delicious brunch, or a more sophisticated dinner, Burleigh Heads offers a diverse culinary scene. You'll find everything from trendy cafes serving artisanal coffee and healthy bowls to restaurants offering fresh seafood and international flavors. The lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, adds to the overall appeal of visiting this popular Gold Coast destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit