Golden beaches, ancient rainforest walks, iconic surf breaks, Tallebudgera Creek, vibrant markets and world-class dining — just 15 minutes from Gold Coast Airport.
Nestled between Miami and Palm Beach on the Gold Coast's southern stretch, Burleigh Heads blends surf culture, rainforest, wildlife, and world-class food into one compact, walkable suburb. Locals call the "Burleigh vibe" relaxed, outdoorsy, and food-focused — and return visitors consistently say it feels like home.
Patrolled golden sands with crystal-clear Pacific waters, ideal for families, swimmers, and beginner surf lessons. Swim between the flags and check conditions before hitting the waves.
Burleigh Point is home to one of Australia's most iconic right-hand point breaks, officially designated a World Surfing Reserve. It hosts the annual Gold Coast Open surf competition.
Ancient coastal rainforest, pandanus groves, volcanic rock platforms, and sweeping ocean lookouts — all within a 2 km circuit from the beach.
The sheltered, crystal-clear creek just south of Burleigh is a favourite for families — ideal for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and lazy riverside picnics.
James Street's award-winning cafés, bakeries, and restaurants make Burleigh one of the Gold Coast's best dining destinations — from Paddock Bakery croissants to Rick Shores' famous bug roll.
Spot dolphins from the headland, visit David Fleay Wildlife Park, watch humpback whales during migration season (June–November), and explore Kombumerri cultural heritage on guided walks.
Stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable coastal experiences waiting for you.
Burleigh Heads sits on land traditionally owned by the Kombumerri people of the Yugambeh language region. The headland and surrounding areas were used for fishing, seasonal hunting, and cultural gatherings for thousands of years before European settlement. Local Indigenous knowledge is preserved through cultural tours and interpretive signage within the national park.
European settlement intensified in the mid-1800s. The area's rugged headland led early surveyors to call it "Burly Heads," later softened to Burleigh. Surf culture in the 20th century cemented its reputation — the Burleigh Board Riders Club, founded in the 1970s, helped create an enduring surf community, and the headland became synonymous with memorable breaks and competitions.
James Street evolved from a small town centre into a thriving precinct of cafés, bars, artisans, and independent retailers. Today Burleigh balances a strong local community with a lively calendar of events — farmers markets, coastal festivals, and the annual Gold Coast Open surf competition.
In 2014, the Gold Coast — anchored by Burleigh Point — was officially designated a World Surfing Reserve, one of only a handful worldwide. The designation recognises the cultural importance of the point break to Australian surf culture and the ongoing conservation of the surf ecosystem.
Not sure where to start? Here are three proven ways to make the most of Burleigh Heads.
Morning surf or swim at Burleigh Beach, followed by the 2 km Rainforest Circuit in Burleigh Head National Park to Tumgun Lookout. Finish with coffee on James Street and a relaxed beachfront lunch.
Start at Burleigh Beach and Tallebudgera Creek, visit David Fleay Wildlife Park, then drive to Tamborine Mountain or Springbrook National Park for glow worms, waterfalls, and rainforest walks.
Cooee Tours guided option: hotel pickup, headland walk, Tallebudgera Creek swim stop, market visit, and drop at key Gold Coast sites — ideal for corporate groups, school trips, and special events.
From pristine beaches to craft breweries and twilight markets — Burleigh offers an outstanding variety of experiences for all ages and interests.
The Gold Coast's best-loved beach — broad golden sands, patrolled swimming, a grass park with BBQs and playgrounds, and beginner surf lessons. The beach hosts the annual Gold Coast Open surf competition.
💡 Swim between the flags, especially during Queensland school holidays when currents can be stronger.
A compact but biodiverse reserve with the 2 km Rainforest Circuit and headland tracks leading to Tumgun Lookout — the best whale-watching vantage point on the southern Gold Coast (June–November).
💡 The headland is perfect for sunrise photography and spotting sea eagles.
Just south of Burleigh, this sheltered tidal creek is crystal clear and calm — the Gold Coast's best family swimming spot. Hire kayaks and paddleboards, or simply wade and picnic on the grassy banks.
💡 Access via the southern end of Tallebudgera Creek Road or along Ocean View Track from the headland.
Burleigh's buzzing social heart — excellent cafés, boutique retailers, artisanal bakeries, and award-winning restaurants lining this vibrant block. The anchor of the "Burleigh vibe" and the ideal spot for brunch or evening dining.
A conservation-focused park a short drive inland, offering close encounters with koalas, emus, kangaroos, and the elusive platypus. Ideal for families wanting to see native Australian fauna up close.
Australia's Champion Brewery, Black Hops, has its original taproom in Burleigh — ideal for craft beer tastings and tours. The Village Markets and Burleigh Farmers Market showcase local produce, artisan crafts, and handmade goods.
Known locally as "Burleigh Hill," the Mick Schamburg Park viewpoint at the northern end offers spectacular coastal panoramas from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta. A favourite spot for picnics and sunsets.
The iconic Burleigh Pavilion sits right on the beachfront — a heritage venue housing a restaurant, bar, and event space with uninterrupted ocean views. Book well ahead for sunset sessions on the deck.
Burleigh's coastline is diverse: broad sandy beaches for family days, a protected headland with rocky foreshore, and Tallebudgera Creek to the south — a sheltered tidal inlet perfect for kids, kayakers, and paddle boarders.
Burleigh Beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers year-round, with extended hours during Queensland school holidays. Always swim between the red and yellow flags and follow lifeguard directions. Check local surf cams before snorkelling or kayaking.
The Burleigh foreshore includes toilets, beach showers, picnic tables, BBQs, playgrounds, and accessible matting for wheelchair users in designated areas. Parking can be limited on weekends — arrive early to secure a spot near the surf club or James Street.
The sweet spot — warm water, fewer crowds (aside from Easter), consistent surf swells, and comfortable temperatures. Best season for surfers.
Mild and crisp — perfect for headland walks, hinterland hikes, and whale watching (June–November). Light crowds and excellent visibility.
Warming days, fewer tourists than summer, wildflowers in the national park. Great all-round time before the busy Christmas period.
Burleigh Heads is famed for its right-hand point break — a long, perfect wave that draws surfers from across Australia and the world. The area is part of the Gold Coast World Surfing Reserve, one of only a handful of designated surf reserves globally, reflecting its cultural importance and exceptional wave quality.
Burleigh Beach hosts the annual Gold Coast Open surf competition — a highlight on the Australian surf calendar. If you're visiting during competition season, this is an incredible free spectacle. Check local event listings for dates.
Experienced surfers will relish the headland break on medium to large swells — autumn is the best season for consistent swell. Beginners should stick to the open beach sections or book a lesson with a local surf school; board hire is available along the foreshore. Respect priority rules and give way to locals.
Follow standard priority rules: the surfer closest to the peak has right of way. Keep clear of swimmers in designated zones, never drop in on another surfer's wave, and ask locals about current conditions before paddling out at the point.
Burleigh's food scene has matured into one of the Gold Coast's very best — from cult-favourite bakeries and single-origin coffee to fine dining with Pacific views. James Street is the social heart, while the beachfront strip offers relaxed sunset dining.
Paddock Bakery — the Gold Coast's most Instagrammed café, home of the cruffin and famous dippy eggs. Commune on James Street offers funky décor and excellent coffee. Tarte Bakery for artisan pastries and a beautiful New York-meets-Australian menu. Expect weekend lines — it's part of the charm.
Rick Shores pan-Asian restaurant on the beachfront is iconic — book well ahead for an oceanfront sunset table and don't miss the famous bug roll. The Tropic next to the Burleigh Pavilion offers Mediterranean plates and cocktails with uninterrupted ocean views.
Black Hops Brewery — Australia's Champion Brewery, with their original Burleigh taproom. Try rotating seasonal taps and light bites. Justin Lane for wood-fired pizza and an extensive bar. Hidden cocktail bar NÂAMi offers Vietnamese-inspired cocktails and weekend DJs.
The Burleigh Village Market and Burleigh Farmers Market are essential visits — taste local produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, freshly prepared meals, and handmade goods from local makers. Perfect for picnic supplies or a leisurely Saturday morning browse.
Burleigh Heads and the surrounding hinterland are rich in wildlife and outdoor experiences. The headland is a prime spot for sea eagles, dolphins, and migrating humpback whales. Nearby reserves offer walking, canyoning, and night-time glow worm tours.
From June to November, humpback whales migrate past the Gold Coast. The Burleigh headland offers excellent shore-based viewing. For a closer experience, several Gold Coast operators run whale-watching boat tours.
Ideal for families, this conservation-focused park gives visitors the chance to see native species — including the rare platypus — and learn about breeding and protection programs. A must for wildlife lovers.
The 2 km Rainforest Circuit in Burleigh Head National Park is family-friendly. For longer treks and waterfalls, Springbrook and Lamington National Parks in the hinterland are within easy driving distance and offer spectacular scenery.
Burleigh is an exceptional base for exploring the wider Gold Coast and beyond. Whether you want rainforest, mountain lookouts, island beaches, or Byron Bay's laid-back culture, there's a day trip to suit every taste.
About 40–50 minutes inland. Rainforest walks, glow worm caves, artisan shops and cellar doors. Gallery Walk is a highlight for local arts, crafts, and distilleries.
Famous for Natural Bridge glow worms, waterfalls, and ancient Gondwanan rainforest. Scenic lookouts and short walks make it a superb full-day or half-day option — 45 minutes from Burleigh.
Just 90 minutes south, Australia's most iconic alternative beach town offers Cape Byron Lighthouse walks, crystal-clear snorkelling, world-class yoga retreats, and the famous Byron Bay markets.
The Gold Coast hinterland's crown jewel — Binna Burra and Green Mountains offer ancient rainforest, waterfalls, and 160 km of walking tracks through World Heritage-listed wilderness.
Dreamworld, Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Wet'n'Wild are all within easy driving distance — making Burleigh an excellent base for families planning multi-attraction Gold Coast holidays.
Catch a ferry from Brisbane for sand tobogganing, snorkelling around historic shipwrecks, and wild dolphin feeding at Tangalooma. An unforgettable full-day adventure for families and snorkellers.
Burleigh Heads is easy to reach from anywhere on the Gold Coast and is just 15 minutes from Gold Coast Airport.
Just 15 minutes south of Burleigh Heads. Serviced by Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Rex with domestic and international connections.
Approximately 65 km south via the Pacific Motorway (M1). Allow 60–75 minutes from Brisbane CBD. Weekend traffic can extend this considerably.
Join a guided tour with hotel pickup from Brisbane or Gold Coast. We handle all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
The G:link tram connects Helensvale to Broadbeach South. From Broadbeach, local buses (Route 700/704) run along the Gold Coast Highway through Burleigh.
Parking along the Esplanade and James Street can be limited on weekends and public holidays. Arrive before 9 am to secure a spot near the surf club. The Gold Coast Highway also has paid parking options during busy periods.
"Cooee Tours made our Burleigh Heads trip effortless. The coach was comfortable, the driver knowledgeable, and the itinerary had the perfect mix of beach time and sightseeing. The Tallebudgera Creek stop was a highlight!"
"We took the family day tour and everyone — from the kids to the grandparents — had an amazing time. David Fleay Wildlife Park was incredible and the guide knew exactly where to spot the platypus."
"Punctual, professional, and genuinely passionate about the region. Cooee Tours made organising a group trip completely painless. Highly recommend the Burleigh headland walk with commentary."
Cooee Tours' guided Burleigh Heads tours start from $79 per person for group tours. Private charters and custom packages are available on request — call us on (07) 4194 3333 or email contact@cooeetours.com.au for a tailored quote.
Yes! We specialise in private group tours, weddings, corporate events, and school excursions. Our fleet ranges from minibuses to luxury coaches. Contact us for a personalised package and quote.
Absolutely. Burleigh Heads is ideal for families with children of all ages. We provide safe, air-conditioned vehicles with space for prams and child seats on request. Tallebudgera Creek, Burleigh Head National Park, and David Fleay Wildlife Park are all family favourites.
Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is just 15 minutes south of Burleigh Heads, making it one of the most accessible beach destinations in Australia. Brisbane Airport is approximately 1–1.5 hours north by car or bus.
Autumn (March–May) is widely considered the best surfing season — consistent swells, warm water, and fewer crowds than summer. Winter (June–August) also brings good waves and is excellent for whale watching from the headland.
Our tours operate in most weather conditions. In the event of extreme weather, we'll reschedule or provide a full refund. Burleigh has excellent indoor options including cafés, galleries, Black Hops Brewery, and the Burleigh Pavilion for rainy day alternatives.
Yes, selected vehicles in our fleet are equipped with wheelchair access and accessibility features. Please inform us of your requirements when booking so we can allocate the most suitable vehicle for your needs.
We offer flexible cancellation policies. Cancellations made up to 48 hours before your scheduled tour receive a full refund. For last-minute changes, contact us and we'll work with you to find alternative solutions.
Book a guided day trip with Cooee Tours — expert local commentary, comfortable coaches, hotel pickup options, and flexible itineraries for groups of all sizes.
📞 (07) 4194 3333 · ✉ contact@cooeetours.com.au · 7 days a week