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Burleigh Heads Overview

Witness a world of rainforests, beaches, eucalyptus forests, rocky foreshore, pandanus groves, creeks, tussock grasslands, mangroves, and coastal heath at the iconic Burleigh Head National Park of Gold Coast. Situated in the Burleigh Head area amidst Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta Beach, the national park offers stunning nature trails where visitors can climb hills or go around headlands to explore Gold Coast’s unique flora and fauna.

When visiting Australia, Burleigh Heads is a definite stop on every tourist’s itinerary. Located on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Burleigh Heads stands right between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta. The cool beach of Burleigh Heads is the ideal spot whether you want to enjoy water sports or simply get tanned and this is one of the best places to visit in Gold Coast.

It is home to Burleigh Heads National Park that offers walking trails to enjoy nature and experience wildlife. Surrounded by pine trees, Burleigh Heads has a number of picnic spots to choose from. You can also spend time exploring the local markets that provide a wide variety of art and crafts.

When in Burleigh Heads, don’t forget to experience the many dining options. You can sit right in front of the ocean while you relax with seafood and beer, or you can enjoy the many sights of the city as you take a table at one of the many cafés in the area. And when you have had enough of the natural sights, spend quality time over luxury dining at the industrial park in West Burleigh.

Whether travelling with family and friends, or taking your first solo trip, Burleigh Heads ensures that you are not left disappointed. With a rich history, a number of heritage sites, and a population count of about 10,000 people, Burleigh Heads is a small town that is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Also Checkout: National Parks In Australia

Highlights

• Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Gold Coast at the Burleigh Head National Park that stands between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta Beach.
• Take your loved ones along for a memorable picnic atop a hill as you embark on Burleigh Head National Park tours.
• Start off on nature trails that promise wonderful sights of rainforests, beaches, eucalyptus forests, rocky foreshore, pandanus groves, creeks, tussock grasslands, mangroves, and coastal heath.
•  Hike, jog, and walk through the walking trails as you head off on the Rainforest Circuit and Ocean View Circuit.
• Spot migrating whales as well as Australian brush-turkey, sea eagles, brahminy kites, koalas, rainbow lorikeets, common ringtail possums, common brushtail possums, mountain brushtail possums, echidnas and lace monitors at Burleigh Head National Park.
• Explore local attractions like Burleigh Hill, Burleigh Heads Beach, Burleigh Markets, and Burleigh Golf Club, and Gold Coast destinations like Surfers Paradise, SkyPoint, Coolangatta Beach, and SeaWorld.

How To Reach

There are multiple ways of travelling from Gold Coast Airport to Burleigh Heads.

1. Bus: Bus No. 777 provides regular service from Gold Coast Airport to Burleigh Heads. This 15-minute ride is ideal if you want to save money and enjoy the local mode of transport.

2. Taxi: You can easily hire a taxi from the airport that will take you to Burleigh Heads. This is a little expensive way to travel, but will ensure that you can relax after a long flight.

3. Hire a car: If you are amongst those who like to drive then simply hire a car. Ask for directions from the locals and reach Burleigh Heads in no time.

4. Town car: If you want to travel in style, hire a town car. This is the most expensive mode of transport. But it is also the most luxurious mode.

Also Read: Best Places To Visit In Australia

Best Time To Visit

Since Burleigh Heads is a beach town, the temperature is never extreme. However, last week of March to first week of July and first week of August to mid-November are the best times to visit the town.

1. Fall (March to May): This is the off-season. Thanks to the humidity at this time, tourists avoid coming here. But if you don’t mind a little heat, and are looking for great deals on hotels, this is the best time of the year.

2. Winter (June to August): This is when the temperature is the most comfortable for all kinds of outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season for Burleigh Heads. If you wish to visit during these months, we recommend making your bookings well in advance.

3. Spring (September to November): This is when Burleigh Heads experiences both rain and snow. And that is what makes this little town even more attractive. Spring is the second most favoured tourist season for the town. Hotels may be a little high priced, but the experience is worth every penny.

4. Summer (December to February): If you like warm weather, then this is the ideal time to visit Burleigh Head. However, constant rain and snow may make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.

Also Checkout: Best Things To Do In Australia

Other Essential Information

Restaurants in Burleigh Heads

1. The Fish House: What if you could enjoy fine dining at the beach front? One of the most awarded restaurants in Gold Coast, The Fish House is the best place to try exquisite seafood dishes, paired with a world-class collection of wine. Don’t miss their John Dory cooked in white wine braise.

2. Rabbath: Looking for Lebanese cuisine? Head to Rabbath. This family-run restaurant serves the best of their cuisine, along with a range of cocktails and wine. Keeping alive their Lebanese and Syrian heritage, every dish is made from an original family recipe. Their four-course dining experience is highly recommended.

3. Justin Lane:  Whether you want food on the move, or a place to chill out, Justin Lane is the perfect choice. This pizzeria allows you to be at your messiest best. You can sit at the bar or enjoy the view from the rooftop. If pizza is not your thing, you can also try their range of pastas. With a cold beer in hand, you will not be disappointed.

4. Rick Shores: Rick Shores is not just popular for its delicious food, but also for the fact that it cooks with local, seasonal produce. Famous chefs Ben Bertei and Jake Pregnell cook up the best of Pan-Asian flavours. Take a pick from Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, and Japanese dishes, and pair them with coast-inspired cocktails.

The red duck curry and the sticky pork belly will leave you asking for more.

5. Restaurant Labart: This French-style bistro is relatively new on the food scene. But, thanks to the seasonal dishes and great ambience, it has quickly become a favourite with both locals and tourists. The maiden venture of star chef, Alex Munoz Labart, offers an intimate setting and fine dining.

Ready to seat only 60 at a time, their barbecued king prawn, coated in shellfish butter is a crowd-puller.

6. Harry’s Steak Bistro: When craving for some good steak, Harry’s Steak Bistro is the answer to all your prayers. With a full steakhouse style menu on offer, the place also serves cold craft beer. Four premium cuts of beef on a plate is their signature dish. But we recommend going on a weekday. Weekends often witness long lines.

7. Ze Pickle: The first dedicated craft beer bar on Gold Coast, Ze Pickle is run by three friends who love their beers and burgers. In fact, due to their consistent quality and variety, locals often call it the best burger place in South East Queensland. Give yourself a challenge, and try the STFU, the tallest burger in the house.

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Travellers tips before visiting Burleigh Heads

1. If planning to avail local transport, it is best to get a Go Card.

2. Hire a car if you want to travel quickly between tourist spots and interiors of the town.

3. Carry lose clothes and flip-flops so that you can travel comfortably in the heat, and on the beach.

4. Ask the locals for recommendations. There are a number of hidden gems that a guide book will not list.

5. Don’t forget to carry your camera; there is so much to capture.

6. Pack a sunscreen and a light jacket. Yes, they sound opposite to each other, but the beach sun can get a little too hot, and the nights can get a little chilly.

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Point of Interest for Burleigh Heads
Surfers Paradise Beach
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Surfers Paradise Beach

With three-kilometre of golden sand, and a picture postcard beauty, Surfers Paradise Beach is one of the most iconic beaches of Australia. Whether you want to take a stroll, and enjoy the natural beauty, or go for a swim, the clear water of the beach is inviting.

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SkyPoint Observation Deck
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SkyPoint Observation Deck

Situated on the 77th floor of Q1 building, Sky Point is the only beach side observation deck in Australia. Nearly 230 meters above ground, get a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city below. If you stay on for dinner, Sky Point will convert into a lounge bar with live music.

Click Here to Book Now: Skypoint Observation Deck Tickets

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
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Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

The perfect getaway for families, especially if you have children. From daily shows to walkways that let you experience some of the most exotic species in their natural surroundings, the place has something for everyone. Don’t miss their Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show.

Click Here to Book Now: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Tickets

Coolangatta Beach
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Coolangatta Beach

This is where Gold Coast ends. This is the ideal place if you want to go swimming, diving, or fishing. Whale watching is the major attraction of Coolangatta Beach. Simply, take a cruise from Tweed Head jetty, and experience whales and dolphins in their natural surroundings.

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Sea World
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Sea World

If you get to enjoy rides and spend time with sea creatures under the same roof, what more could you ask for! The perfect place for family outings, Sea World offers exhibitions, shows, rides, and animal adventures. Feed dolphins, and meet your favourite Nickelodeon characters for the perfect holiday.

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Warner Bros. Movie World
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Warner Bros. Movie World

This movie-based theme park is a must-visit for every Warner Bros. fan. From thrill rides based on your favourite movies to meet-n-greet with your favourite characters, this theme park is sure to bring out the child in you. This is also the location for NYFA Australia shoots. So, you may just get a chance to meet your favourite stars.

Click Here to Book Now: Warner Bros. Movie World Tickets

 Lamington National Park
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Lamington National Park

This World Heritage Area is home to lush green rainforests, ancient trees, and walking tracks that will give you the complete experience of being with nature. The park is made up of two parts - Green Mountains and Binna Burra. Camping is allowed inside, but it is best to check with the authorities for details.

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Lip Falls
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Lip Falls

This secluded waterfall and swimming hole is one of Australia’s best kept secrets. Perfect to cool down on a hot day, Lip Falls also provides scenic locations for those instagramable holiday pictures. Don’t forget your camera, and beware of snakes.

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Purling Brook Falls
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Purling Brook Falls

Surrounded by ancient forests, and Purling Brook Falls is located inside the World-Heritage Gondwana Rainforest in Springbrook National Park. Sit down and relax in the shade of eucalyptus forest, and ancient lepidozamia. Take the 265-step trail to reach the falls, and cool down after a tiring day.

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Tallebudgera Creek
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Tallebudgera Creek

Ideal for those who love fishing, Tallebudgera Creek is home to bream, flathead, whiting, and bull shark. You can go swimming, or hire a stand-up paddle board. You can also go boating, water skiing, waterboarding, and tubing. If looking for thrill, go bridge jumping while your friends get the barbeque ready.

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Burleigh Head National Park
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Burleigh Head National Park

A prominent landmark in Gold Coast, Burleigh Head National Park is a must-visit for all nature lovers. Covering an area of 27 hectares, inside the national park you will find rainforests, eucalyptus forests, pandanus groves, tussock grassland, coastal heath, mangroves, creeks, rocky foreshore, and beaches.

Although camping is not allowed inside the park, there are a number of nature trails. You can choose to go up the hill and follow the Rainforest Circuit, or go around the headland, and take the Ocean View Circuit. Don’t miss the sigh of the migrating whales. Approach their information centre for any help that you may require.

Picnic at Burleigh Hill
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Picnic at Burleigh Hill

When getting away from a busy life, what better than enjoy a picnic with your loved ones. The iconic Burleigh Hill is the ideal spot for family picnics. Surrounded by pine trees, and with the amazing view of the hills, you can even host a barbeque in the parklands.

Wait till evening to catch the most breath-taking sunset you have ever seen. Stand at the top of the hill and you can see till Surfers Paradise. If you wish to enjoy the place all by yourself, we recommend avoiding weekends and public holidays. The huge playground nearby makes sure that kids can also have their share of fun.

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 Burleigh Heads Beach
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Burleigh Heads Beach

One of the cleanest and children-friendly beaches in the world, Burleigh Head Beach is a 2-km long stretch. There are a number of activities to enjoy at the beach. Go for a swim, or hire a surfing board. Enjoy long walks with your special someone, or by yourself.

Fall asleep on the warm sand as you get that delectable holiday tan. Head here on a weekend to enjoy local artists and fire-twirlers. You are welcome to jam with the musicians, and join in with the singers.

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Burleigh Markets
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Burleigh Markets

Held every Sunday, the Burleigh Markets are your best bet to find local art and craft, and take your pick of fresh local produce. With more than 150 stalls to choose from, you are welcome to bargain to get the best price. Hosted from 8 am to 2 pm, you will find everything from clothes to accessories, from handicraft to home-made baked goodies.

Take your time to explore the stalls before you make your purchase. Since the market attracts both tourists and locals, you will find that the prices are not too high. We recommend making friends with the locals to get the best bargains.

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Burleigh Golf Club
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Burleigh Golf Club

This 18-hole golf course is ideal for both beginners and professionals. With the sound of the beach waves in the background, Burleigh Golf Course is open to everyone. Since the place is frequented by tourists, you will find that the staff is more than helpful if this is your first time on a golf course.

From the right clothes to the right etiquette, they will help you with everything. If you have always wanted to try golf, this is the best place to start.

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Tourism Board Alliances

Burleigh Heads FAQs

How far is Burleigh Heads from Surfers Paradise?

The distance between Burleigh Heads and Surfers Paradise is 12 kms (approx.). There are multiple ways of travelling between the two destinations. Depending on the mode of transport that you choose, it can take you anywhere from 15 minutes to 1.5 hours to reach Surfers Paradise from Burleigh Heads. You can take a taxi and save time, or you can take the tram line and bus to enjoy the local sights of the place.

How far is Burleigh Heads from Brisbane?

The distance between Burleigh Heads and Brisbane is 88 kms (approx.). There are multiple ways of travelling between the two destinations. Depending on the mode of transport that you choose, it can take you anywhere between an hour to three hours to reach Brisbane from Burleigh Heads. You can simply drive down to Brisbane, or take a combination of tram, train and bus, and travel like the locals do.

How far is Byron Bay from Burleigh Heads?

The distance between Burleigh Heads and Byron Bay is 82 kms (approx.). There are multiple ways of travelling between the two destinations. Depending on the mode of transport that you choose, it can take you anywhere between an hour to two hours to reach Byron Bay from Burleigh Heads. You can hire a taxi, or you can sit back in a bus while it winds its way through the picturesque roads surrounded by nature.

How was Burleigh Heads formed?

Burleigh Head was formed from molten lava produced during the eruptions in Mount Warning around 20 million years ago. Flowing lava reached the shore and formed Burleigh headland and Point Danger. It was this lava that became responsible for the vegetation, and ecosystem of the town. Geological surveys and groups of students have been visiting Burleigh Heads since the 1920s to further discover its history.

What does Burleigh mean?

It is believed that in 1840 J.R. Warner was commissioned to survey the area near Moreton Bay. Warner named the area Burly Head due to its huge appearance. Over time, Burly changed to Burleigh. Another legend tells the same story but credits Robert Dixon for naming the town.

How long is Burleigh Beach?

Burleigh Beach is a 2-km stretch that offers a number of activities and water sports to enjoy. You can also lie on the beach and get a beautiful tan.

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