Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast

Burleigh Heads Beach

Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast

The Gold Coast has many hidden gems, such as Burleigh Heads, which is known for its picturesque backdrop and numerous activities along its pristine shores.

The Origins of Burleigh Heads

Initially occupied by the Kombumerri clan for thousands of years, Burleigh Heads was named “Burly Heads” by surveyor James Warner in 1849 due to its rugged appearance. It was later changed to Burleigh, with the town officialised in 1871.

Burleigh Heads Beach

Between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads Beach is famous for swimming and surfing. On more challenging days, there’s always a protected spot at Burleigh to dip.

Burleigh Board Riders Club, the longest running on the Gold Coast, gained fame during the 1977 Stubbies Surf Competition. This competition introduced the man-on-man format, which is still used today.

For more details about Burleigh Heads, including dining options, visit Destination Gold Coast.

Beach Usage

Burleigh Heads is one of the top five busiest beaches on the Gold Coast, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. It’s close to James Street and major commercial hubs, earning popularity among locals and tourists for exercise, play, and relaxation.

Surfing

Part of the World Surfing Reserve, Burleigh Heads offers excellent surf amenities. The headland is suited for experienced surfers, while the open beach breaks provide various conditions.

Swimming

Burleigh Headlands’ shape protects from southerly winds. Swim between the red and yellow flags indicating patrolled areas. Lifeguards patrol the Mowbray Park tower from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round.

Facilities

Burleigh Heads Beach has nearby parklands with toilets, BBQs, tables, playgrounds, and showers. The area also hosts a market every second Sunday.

Facilities include:

Beach wheelchairs, matting, and accessible amenities Public and accessible toilets For more information, download the Burleigh Heads mobility map.

Parking:

A surf club car park and on-street parking are available. Before heading to the beach, check parking signs and line markings. Note that parking can be limited on weekends and during school holidays.

Active Travel:

Use walking and cycling maps for the Southern Gold Coast to plan your route. Burleigh Heads offer protected waters, making it ideal for swimming and surfing. It’s also known for one of the most popular swimming and surfing stretches along the Gold Coast.

National Park

Near the beach, Burleigh Heads National Park features walking trails, wildlife, and exceptional ocean views. The foreshore, known for pine trees and parkland, is perfect for picnics and barbecues. Art and craft markets are held throughout the week.

Dining

Burleigh Heads offers numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes. Oceanfront dining, especially with fresh fish, is a highlight. The emerging café culture showcases some of Australia’s newest food trends.

Activities

John Laws Park offers stunning views and picnic spots with BBQs, while David Fleay Wildlife Park allows visitors to encounter native animals such as koalas, emus, kangaroos, and platypuses.

Shopping

Burleigh Heads boasts boutiques, arts and crafts stores, and weekend markets, such as The Village Market and Burleigh Farmers Market. Burleigh Heads is worth visiting for its landscapes, beaches, calm waters, dining, and diverse activities. Another tourist attraction is Surfers Paradise.

Leave a Reply