Burleigh Heads Beach

Burleigh Heads is the Gold Coast's answer to those who find Surfers Paradise too loud — a genuinely beautiful surf beach with a relaxed, community-centred character that has earned it recognition as one of Australia's most liveable beach suburbs. The beach faces northeast and is framed at its southern end by Burleigh Head National Park — a 27-hectare volcanic headland covered in subtropical rainforest, one of only a handful of national parks anywhere in Australia that physically juts into the surf zone.

The surf at Burleigh Heads is powered by a classic right-hand point break that wraps around the headland and produces consistent, long walls ideal for intermediate and experienced surfers. When a good south or east swell is running, Burleigh can produce some of the best waves on the Queensland coast. Big wave events have been held here when conditions align. Regardless of surf size, the beach has a magnetic quality — the combination of national park, golden sand, headland rock pools, and perfect aspect makes it a stunning place to simply sit and watch.

The James Street dining precinct a block from the beach has become one of Southeast Queensland's best food strips — excellent coffee, brunches, and restaurants. The Burleigh Farmers Market (held the first Sunday of each month) is a major local event. Loggerhead turtles nest on the beach from November to January — a genuinely rare experience for a beach this close to a major urban area.