19 of the best Burleigh Heads accommodation picks

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Score instant access to the Gold Coast’s trendiest bar and dining scene with one of the best Burleigh Heads accommodations.

Hip fashion and homeware boutiques, sensational coffee and exceptional nightlife make Burleigh Heads one of the Gold Coast’s must-discover locales. The best way to navigate things? Lock in Burleigh Heads accommodation now before global crowds wise up and everything’s snapped up all year round. From self-contained apartments and stunning Airbnbs, to beachside caravanning and luxury retreats, every option promises prime real estate in pure paradise.

1. The Seaport Burleigh Airbnb

Price: $$$

the living room interior at The Seaport Burleigh Airbnb
The interior features a dash of coastal elegance.

A beautifully decorated split-level apartment that sleeps up to four guests, The Seaport Burleigh is a standout Airbnb in Burleigh Heads. Featuring open-plan living and dining, the breezy space is dotted with coastal interiors and a warm colour palette, so you’ll be soothed from the moment you step inside. The bedrooms are particularly luxe, boasting King Koil mattresses, stonewash cotton bedding, block-out curtains and in-built storage. Inside the bathrooms, you’ll find fancy body and hair products. The attention to detail is a winning formula.

Address: Along Connor Street, Burleigh Heads

2. Burleigh Beach Tower

Price: $$-$$$

the living room interior with beach views at Burleigh Beach Tower
A blissful getaway awaits.

Before you fall for its ridiculously convenient beachfront location, all within a two-minute stroll to James Street’s epic shops and eateries, Burleigh Beach Tower’s ‘70s nostalgia branding and hippy sunshine artwork splashed across its Gold Coast Highway-facing façade, brings smiles to lips swiftly.

Nope, there’s not an inch of marble in sight, but you’ll sink right into the Burleigh Heads accommodation’s one or two-bedroom self-contained apartments, offering views right across the coastline and up to Surfers and Broadbeach.

Each apartment features all the creature comforts families crave, just make sure you go for the renovated options as the originals do indeed date back to the retro beach era. Expect balconies or patios, basic, clean bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, TVs, an outdoor swimming pool and spa, a tennis court, a gym, and free parking.

Address: 52 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

3. Bujerum Apartments on Burleigh

Price: $$$

a look inside one of the rooms at Bujerum Apartments on Burleigh
You’ll be transported to the beach the moment you exit the door.

Located right opposite the surf on a highly sought-after strip of real estate the Bujerum Apartments on Burleigh is a stellar holiday pick. With just five apartments up for grabs, the Burleigh Heads accommodation caters to families mostly, offering four two-bedroom stays and one three-bedroom penthouse.

The vibe is endlessly coastal and not just due to the lashings of light every apartment is treated to. Interiors span warm timber and pops of blue, creating a cooling oasis when you’re not outside sunning yourself.

There are no on-site facilities as it’s a renovated walk-up originally built in the 1930s but it’s arguably the best spot in town with Burleigh’s best shops, eateries and bars within walking distance.

Address: 26 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

4. Solnamara Beachfront Apartments

Price: $$$

an aerial view of the Solnamara Beachfront Apartments
Sleep right by the ocean at Solnamara Beachfront Apartments.

Showcasing the suburb’s staggering beauty in style, Solnamara Beachfront Apartments is located on the northern end of Burleigh Heads so you get a great view of Burleigh Hill and the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Offering Burleigh Heads accommodation in the way of two and three-bedroom configurations across 10 levels, the rooms feature large balconies with exceptional vantage points over the ocean.

Fully equipped kitchens, ensuite bathrooms and laundry facilities can be found inside and there’s an outdoor swimming pool, positioned on The Esplanade side, to extend your adventures under the sun even further.

Address: 202 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads

5. Burleigh Beach Tourist Park

Price: $-$$

a couple sitting outside a campervan at Burleigh Beach Tourist Park
The park is a winner for budget-conscious families. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Soak up the suburb’s natural splendour at Burleigh Beach Tourist Park, a stone’s throw from all the cafes and boutiques and housing an impressive range of camping options and self-contained cabins. Catering for tents, campervans, caravans, and camper trailers via powered sites and a dump point, camp kitchen, laundry facilitates and barbecues, the Burleigh Heads accommodation is a winner for budget-conscious families keen for an active escape.

The most comfortable digs come in the shape of two-bedroom cabins, each fitted with private patios and barbecues, open-plan living and dining, a fully functioning kitchen, and TVs. There’s also a games room and on-site kiosk to be explored.

Address: 36 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

6. 2nd Avenue Beachside Apartments

Price: $$$

Two swimming pools, a tennis court, two spas, a steam room and barbecue facilities — 2nd Avenue Beachside Apartments is a gem of a stay favoured by families. Location-wise, you’re also within a few steps from the sand and surf so there’s plenty of activity to soak up every day.

Choose from various one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments furnished with the basics every beach escape demands. Think private balconies overlooking the ocean, fully equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.

Address: 3 Second Avenue, Burleigh Heads

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7. Ambience on Burleigh Beach

Price: $$$

the dining area at Ambience on Burleigh Beach
Each accommodation is equipped with spacious living and dining spaces.

Keen to keep the family sorted but craving a little luxe? Ambience on Burleigh Beach’s two contemporary towers offer self-contained apartments that take a little from column A and a little from column B.

The Burleigh Heads accommodation houses one, two and three-bedroom stays, each featuring sizable lounges (don’t you hate it when hotel couches are tiny?), ocean views, fully equipped kitchens, dining tables, separate baths and showers, flat-screen TVs, tons of natural light and private balconies.

The feel is minimalist whereas the 25-metre pool downstairs is extra. Sun lounges, umbrellas, barbecues, an outdoor dining space, landscaped gardens, a sauna, a spa, and a steam room add the glamour, plus there’s a gym on-site to help you stay match fit. You’re also a short walk from Burleigh’s hottest entertainment and eateries.

Address: 2-14 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads

8. Boardwalk Burleigh Beach

Price: $$$

Take your pick from one and two-bedroom apartments as well as an extremely roomy three-bedroom stay at Boardwalk Burleigh Beach. Clean and contemporary, the vibe is great for groups and families looking for an affordable escape, and you’re right across the road from the beach.

You’ll find modern facilities at this Burleigh Heads accommodation, including a heated outdoor swimming pool and spa, barbecue area, yoga terrace and gym. Plus, there’s underground parking, which is a massive plus in this well-trodden corner of the ever-booming Gold Coast.

Address: 1877-1879 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

9. Sandbar Burleigh

Price: $$$-$$$$

the living room overlooking the beach at Sandbar Burleigh
Sandbar Burleigh is just a short walk from the beach.

A little more upmarket than the suburb’s usual beachfront apartment suspects, Sandbar Burleigh offers elegant spaces just a short walk from the thick of the action. While it’s a little quieter, it’s also a little swisher, with each one-, two- or three-bedroom apartment flowing with luxe, coastal-inspired furnishings and modern kitchens.

The ocean view picks are obviously coveted so reserve your stay nice and early. You’ll be thankful for the on-site lap pool, fitness centre, covered barbecue space, yoga deck and lounge area also found on-site.

Address: 1969 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

10. Outrigger Burleigh

Price: $$

Just a short drive from the Burleigh buzz is an affordable family-friendly spot within walking distance to the beach. Tribes with toddlers will appreciate the Outrigger Burleigh’s catering-to-all-ages swimming pools, featuring an itty bitty one designed specifically for tiny tots. Offering clean studio-style rooms that sleep up to five guests, the accommodation is a long-serving oasis for families, located across the road from a Coles and a Dan Murphy’s, and a two-minute walk from kids’ playgrounds and patrolled surf.

The smallest rooms feature balconies or courtyards, bar fridges, separate dining areas and tea and coffee-making facilities, while the larger options include added lounge areas. In addition to the kiddy pool, there’s a regular-sized heated one plus a spa, underground parking, and free wi-fi to soak up as you sit back and do a whole lot of nothing.

Address: 2007 Gold Coast Highway, Miami

11. The Coconut Crib

Price: $$$

Malibu Barbie goes full Gold Coast at The Coconut Crib, an Airbnb in Burleigh Heads that’s freckled with 50 shades of pink and a healthy dose of tropical palms. We’re talking the fridge, the old school rotary phone, a neon sign reading ‘Rose all Day’, the blinds, the plant pots, the bathroom amenities, the bed sheets… it’s all fairy floss pink, spliced with palm-printed cushions and wallpaper, and it’s glorious.

The two-bedroom unit, offering ocean views from a narrow balcony, is the perfect home for a girls’ weekend away or family getaway and you’re a short walk away from the best of Burleigh’s nightlife too. The flat itself features a fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge area and open-plan dining, plus there’s a swimming pool, enclosed spa, sauna, and gym to get lost in.

Address: Along Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

12. Burleigh Gold Coast Motel

Price: $

a self-contained apartment at Burleigh Gold Coast Motel
Stay in squeaky clean self-contained apartments.

You’ll struggle to find a more affordable four-walled lodging (no tents here) than Burleigh Gold Coast Motel, offering Burleigh Heads accommodation at the suburb’s northern end, close to the very cool suburb of Miami. And it’s truly a gem because most of the rooms are more modern than many of the self-contained apartments on the market.

Double, Triple, Quad and Family rooms are available, each fitted with bar fridges, microwaves, TVs, all linens, ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning, there’s free wi-fi, a swimming pool and coin-operated laundry facilities. Miami is jumping with excellent bars so you’re only a couple of minutes’ walk from hydration elation, plus the dining scene rivals Burleigh’s so finding a decent feed is effortless.

Address: 1908-1910 Gold Coast Highway, Miami

13. Swell Resort Burleigh Beach

Price: $$

Located right on the fringe of Burleigh Heads’ swarm of bars, restaurants, and stores, Swell Resort Burleigh Beach is a great option for families and groups. Offering one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments, the Burleigh Heads accommodation is basic but extremely comfortable and convenient.

Generous living rooms, dining tables, full kitchens, cushy king or queen beds, free wi-fi, laundry facilities and carpeted floors feature throughout the apartment block, plus there’s a heated magnesium swimming pool, heated spa, gym, tennis court, barbecue facilities, undercover outdoor dining space, and an on-site lash and brow bar to keep holidaymakers looking their finest.

Address: 1 Ocean Street, Burleigh Heads

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14. Gemini Court Holiday Apartments

Price: $$$

a bedroom with beach view at Gemini Court Holiday Apartments
The bedroom windows boast postcard-worthy views.

If you don’t mind being a little further back from the sand, Gemini Court Holiday Apartments offers incredible ocean views from its multi-bedroom stays, perched up high on Burleigh Headland and right next door to Burleigh Head National Park.

The self-contained Burleigh Head accommodation caters for singles, couples, families, and groups, providing plenty of space in each of its offerings, balconies to catch the sun sink of an afternoon, fully equipped kitchens with dishwashers, flat-screen TVs, and cushy beds.

They’re styled more homely than trendy, creating warm sanctuaries you’ll struggle to drift away from. When you do, there’s a heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, barbecues, and a tennis court on-site, plus you’re still within walking distance from the action.

Address: 45 Hayle Street, Burleigh Heads

15. Southern Cross Beachfront Holiday Apartments

Price: $$-$$$

a bedroom with beach view at Southern Cross Beachfront Holiday Apartments
The two-bedroom stay suits those who can’t get enough of the beach.

A hit with families, Southern Cross Beachfront Holiday Apartments’ two-bedroom stays provide simple yet comfortable lodgings across the road from the beach. The star of the show is the outdoor swimming pool, located right off The Esplanade where envious onlookers stroll right on past, and sun lounges keep guests on show for hours.

The rooms themselves feature private balconies and basic amenities including full kitchens, dining tables, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Plus, there’s a tennis court if getting active is part of your holiday itinerary.

Address: 114-124 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads

16. Luana Airbnb

Price: $$$$$

the pool at Luana Airbnb
Cool off in the outdoor pool.

A spectacular home away from home within a short walk from James Street’s hip boutiques and eateries, Luana is a Burleigh Heads Airbnb that will undoubtedly take your breath away.

Sleeping up to eight guests, the four-bedroom home is a British Colonial-style masterpiece, complete with lush greenery and spacious gardens.

The kitchen features a butler’s pantry (it’s that kind of lavish), the outdoor dining space features a bar fridge, and there’s even a cinema room.

The outdoor pool is begging to be lounged around, plus there’s a fire pit zone fitted with comfy seating, however, every inch of this exceptional Burleigh Heads accommodation is worthy of an Instagram Story or few.

Address: Along Acanthus Avenue, Burleigh Heads

17. Cashelmara Beachfront Apartments

Price: $$$

Cashelmara Beachfront Apartments.
Escape to the beach that’s right next to Cashelmara Beachfront Apartments.

A retro gem refurbished with contemporary-cool rooms, Cashelmara Beachfront Apartments offers comfortable Burleigh Heads accommodation.

And the best bit? If your beach escape is smashed with three consistent days of rain, the team give you a free night the next time you visit. A fabulous initiative, we say.

Pick from one of 16 two- or three-bedroom apartments dressed in rattan furnishings and comfy couches, while fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas cater to all the holiday nothingness you and your clan are craving.

Address: 170 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads

18. La Pacifique Holiday Apartments

Price: $$-$$$

A long-standing stay on the most scenic strip in the suburb, La Pacifique Holiday Apartments is a Burleigh Heads accommodation institution. While the self-contained units are basic, they sort all your creature comforts. Select either a two- or three-bedroom apartment fitted with separate living and dining spaces and fully equipped kitchens while on-site facilities include a heated outdoor pool and spa, a gym and a tennis court.

Address: 60 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

19. Crystal Pacific

Price: $$$

the bed at at Crystal Pacific Gold Coast
Find stylish boho-chic rooms.

While it’s not technically Burleigh, Crystal Pacific is a stand-out stay within a five-minute drive from Burleigh Heads so if you’ve got a set of wheels, it’s well worth considering. It’s awash with creams, rattan and earthy textures, working stylishly to unwind you from the moment you arrive.

All six of the two-bedroom apartments feature top-floor queen bedrooms and double-bunk (sleeping three people) bedrooms with the queen opening to a wooden deck fitted with an extraordinary, suspended daybed. The open-plan lounge and dining area is dotted with books, a massive TV, and throw cushions for days, the kitchen is fully equipped and there’s a private courtyard with a barbecue and dining setting.

A mineral magnesium pool is begging to be played in, surrounded by sun lounges and fringed umbrellas, plus you’re a short stroll from Tallebudgera Creek, Tallebudgera Surf Club and Custard Canteen, selling up famed Portuguese tarts and legendary caffeine.

Address: 1445 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Why Hamilton Island is perfect for multi-gen travel

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

Getting there, and around

Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy
Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

Where to stay

Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel
Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island
Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

Where to eat

coca chu on hamilton island
Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

Catseye Pool Club hamilton island
Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

Where to explore

hamilton island couple running on trail
Explore the island’s walking trails.

There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

E-mountain biking on hamilton island
Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

Where to play

heart reef
Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.