Most of the Gold Coast’s beachfront has development right up to the shore, but right on the point of Burleigh Heads lies a pocket of dense greenery that offers scenic walkways and an impressive lookout that offers a great vantage spot to take in the magnificent coastline in either direction.
From whale watching to cultural tours, swimming holes and surfing, Burleigh Headland has the goods to keep most families entertained.
The Burleigh side of the Headland offers a world famous surf break, swimming beach and indoor swimming centre, expansive grassy area great for picnics, BBQ facilities and a children’s playground. While the point itself has plenty to offer more experienced surfers, children are often found learning to surf at the rock break near the shores of the patrolled beach. Kids also love trawling among the rocks here at low tide to see all kinds of shells and little sea creatures.
From time to time the headland is also home to surfing contests and music concerts. Check the What’s On guide at More Gold Coast to see if there’s anything brewing.
At the top carpark you’ll find the entrance to the headland walking path. Take the high road (Rainforest Track 2.3 km return, 45 mins) to access the lookout, or the low road (Oceanview Track 1.2 km one way, 30 mins) to walk around the base of the headland. (Note: the lower of the two roads is stroller accessible, but the high road to the lookout is only accessible from the Tallebudgerra side as the Burleigh side has stairs)
Both walkways can also be accessed from the Koala Park/Tallebudgera Creek side of the headland.
This side of the headland offers lots of gorgeous little hidden beaches (one called Echo Beach) popular for swimming/fishing – just watch the tides here, as they can be deceptively strong. There’s a safer patrolled beach on the other side of the creek.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre is also positioned on the Tallebudgera Creek side carpark, and offers insight into the cultural history of the area and the Yugambeh Aboriginal people, one of the oldest living cultures in the world. Kids will love the artworks and artefacts, and there’s a little café in there too. No admission fee, open Mon – Fri 8am-3pm ( More details at www.jellurgal.com.au)
Getting There:
[tick]- To reach the northern entrance, turn off the Gold Coast Highway into Goodwin Terrace and follow it to the top of the headland.
- To reach the southern entrance at Tallebudgera Creek, turn into the carpark at the Ikkina Rd intersection on the Gold Coast Highway.
- Note: Parking on both sides can fill up on quickly on weekends/school holidays/events/anytime the surf is good, with limited options in the surrounding backstreets. Be warned!
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