Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads is built around its headland — a rocky, rainforest-covered point that separates the main surf beach from Tallebudgera Creek to the south. It's consistently rated one of the best point breaks in Australia, and the town that's grown up around it has kept a low-rise, independent feel that's harder to find further north.

The headland & national park

Burleigh Head National Park covers the headland itself, with an easy 2 km loop walking track through remnant rainforest and open coastal views — look out for the lookout points along the way, and keep an eye out for goannas. It's an easy 30–45 minute walk, doable in thongs but better in proper shoes.

The surf

The point break off the headland is the drawcard for experienced surfers — long, workable right-handers that pull a crowd, especially on a good swell. The main beach in front of the town is a gentler, patrolled option for swimming and beginner surf lessons.

The town

James Street, the main strip, is dense with cafés, breakfast spots and casual restaurants — this is where a lot of the coast's better coffee is. It's a genuinely walkable town centre, unlike the more spread-out shopping strips further north.

Getting there

The G:link tram network extends south to Burleigh Heads, connecting it directly to Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. It's about a 15-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport, making it a realistic base even without a car.