Exploring Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: October 12, 2017

Reading time: 3 mins

One of the most popular suburbs of Queensland, Burleigh heads is the true heart of the Gold Coast!

Burleigh Heads sits in the picturesque surrounds of the Gold Coast, and is a cultural suburb of Queensland. It stretches towards Miami Headland in the north and Tallebudgera Creek, Palm Beach, in the south. Within its confines, there are shopping and industrial areas, a man-made lake, and plenty of parks and gardens to explore. At the centre of the town you’ll find James Street, where there are lots of cafes, delis, shops, and restaurants to enjoy.

  • The Surfing

    Burleigh Heads is best known for its exceptional surf break, which attracts keen surfers from all around the Gold Coast and beyond. The headland, known as “The Point”, there are always barbecues and cricket matches being held and, on Sunday afternoons, the area comes to life with local music and fire-twirlers. It is this festive atmosphere that makes Burleigh Heads such an exciting place to explore. Because it is set on the coast, Burleigh Heads boasts a typical beach culture, where there are plenty of activities to keep you busy on the pristine shores. Aside from the obvious water-based activities, like surfing and swimming, there are numerous walks that take you are Burleigh Point and along the beach. There, you can enjoy a spot of lawns bowls or simply watch life unfold around you.

  • The Lifestyle

    Elsewhere in the town, you can wander along the pretty, tree-lined promenade and soak up the sights and sounds of vibrant Burleigh life. Try alfresco dining at the many cafes and restaurants on the beach, too, and bed in for sunset with a cocktail or two for magical views.

    There are lots of boutique shops and stores dotted around, and James Street is filled with dining options to refuel after a hard day’s shopping.

    Burleigh Heads is the perfect place to go to experience both beach and town life along the Gold Coast. It’s perfect for all the family, with plenty of activities to keep even the youngest members occupied. As well as the pristine expanse of the beach and its many water-based activities, there is tons to get stuck into inland as well, whether you want to shop until you drop, try out the local cuisine, or simply wander along pretty roads soaking up local life.

  • The Culture

    Learn about the Aboriginal community of the region at Jellurgal Cultural Centre. Named after the Indigenous word for ‘the headland’, the information centre offers the city’s most fascinating cultural experience. Offering visitors a better insight into the traditional owners, the Yugambeh people of the Gold Coast. As well as showcasing traditional art, a Walkabout Tour and even a dance performance by the Yugambeh Aboriginal Dancers.

If you’re looking to discover everything the Gold Coast has to offer, Burleigh Heads is a great place to start, as you’ve got both the beach lifestyle and local town life to keep you busy. Regardless of your travel tastes, this region of Queensland is for you!

Related article: Where are the best views on the Gold Coast?

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.