Bustling Burleigh Heads

Famous for its surf breaks, towering pine trees and bustling cafe and dining options, Burleigh Heads is a place that has something for everyone—locals and holidaymakers alike.

Starting at North Burleigh, otherwise known as Miami Hill or Little Burleigh Head, the popular surf club offers programs in surf sports, features a cafe open seven days a week, and boasts a restaurant and bar where kids eat free on Monday and Tuesday nights. Climb Miami Hill and check out the sweeping views north to Main Beach or south to Coolangatta from the summit platform of Mick Schamburg Park. Alternatively, head down the other side of the hill to explore the well-known Nobby Beach.

Burleigh has a wealth of accommodation options, including camping, caravanning and family-friendly apartment stays. For those seeking luxury, Cashelmara, Sandbar and the world-famous Mondrian are worth a look for a lavish getaway complete with multi-million-dollar views.

Many parts of this stretch of the “Goldie” are incredibly relaxed, with families regularly picnicking at John Laws Park on Burleigh Hill. The park features large, sheltered picnic areas, barbecue facilities, water fountains, refill stations, and a viewing deck with a telescope. Thanks to the century-old Norfolk Island pines, there are also plenty of shaded spots for those who prefer to sit or lie on the grass. Similarly, on the northern side, Justins Park offers further shaded options just a stone’s throw from some of the suburb’s best eateries. If you happen to be in Burleigh on the last Sunday of the month, Justins Park hosts the famous Art and Craft Markets, which boast an eclectic selection of stalls showcasing the region’s best artisans, produce farmers and souvenir sellers.

Your taste buds will be spoilt for choice by the plethora of cuisines on offer, from casual fish and chips or burgers at Red Hot Cod to premium fine dining at Rick Shores or Jimmy Wah’s. As the sun sets, Burleigh’s vibrant nightlife erupts with energetic party bars, pubs, sports bars and live music, at either the Terronia, Pink Monkey, or Justins Lane alleyway dive bar, Nightjar. The Burleigh Pavilion remains one of the hottest day-round venues on the entire Gold Coast.

During the day, James Street plays host to trendy shops and boutiques perfect for a relaxed shopping spree, a coffee or a casual lunch. Meanwhile, Burleigh Brewing Company, Precinct Brewing Co. and Granddad Jack’s Craft Distillery—located in the neighbouring suburb of Miami—offer adults (18+) an immersive look into the craft of brewing and distilling.

Start or finish your day with a stroll along Burleigh’s beach-lined esplanade. Take it further and explore the Oceanview track of the Burleigh Head National Park. The path skirts the rocky headland coastline to the southern entrance, offering excellent lookout spots for seasonal whale watching and sightings of soaring sea eagles.

Close Gold Coast Airport, the area will soon be even more accessible. Burleigh marks the final section of the Gold Coast’s new 27-kilometre light rail network, running from the northern end through Southport, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach before terminating right by the Burleigh Heads Bowls Club. It’s the perfect getaway—and a classic Aussie rite of passage.