Your Guide To Burleigh Heads, Queensland

Uncover where to eat, play and stay in this bustling Gold Coast beach town.

Sorry to burst your bubble if you’ve only just discovered this beautiful neck of the Gold Coast hood, but the secret’s been out for a while. Halfway between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta, holidaymakers have been flocking to Burleigh Heads in Queensland for more than a century to embrace its sun, sand, and sea.

Fast-forward to today and Burleigh Heads still boasts a predominately low-rise streetscape with throwback architecture, an abundance of green space, quiet pockets of beach, and an unpretentious vibe.

While this laid-back beachside town has long been a favourite in the getaway stakes, its cool factor has recently spiked with a recent influx of exciting new places to eat, drink and shop, meaning it’s well and truly emerging from the good old days.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about what to do, where to eat, and where to stay in Burleigh Heads.

Top things to do in Burleigh Heads

More than just a picturesque paradise (although lying by the beach there is lovely too!), you’d be surprised at how many things there are to do in Burleigh Heads. From guided walks and boutique shopping to a relaxing bathhouse and delicious food markets, here’s how to spend your time there.

1. Take to the surf in Burleigh

two people strolling along Burleigh Heads beach with their surfboards — There are plenty of waves to go around. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Whether you’re a complete beginner or more experienced, everyone is welcome to grab a board and hit the waves in Burleigh.

If you’re looking to learn, pro surfer Cheyne Horan offers a variety of surfing lessons so you can enjoy the water with confidence.

2. Burleigh Head National Park

two people walking along Burleigh Head National Park — Admire coastal views along Burleigh Head National Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Take a step back from the bustle and carve out some time to walk through Burleigh Head National Park . As you wander along the rocky foreshore, you have no choice but to soak in the spectacular views looking out to Surfers Paradise — you might even spot a whale!

3. Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

three people walking along a rainforest trail at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Go on an interactive walking tour with Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Join a guided tour at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre and learn about the Aboriginal history and culture of the Gold Coast while walking along a beachside rainforest walkway. Guests will also hear about traditional life, bush tucker, fishing, hunting, and important ecological practices.

4. The Village Markets

people buying seashell crafts at a beachside stall, Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets — Pop by the seaside market for all sorts of crafts. (Image: Supplied)

Set alongside the famous Surfers Paradise esplanade, the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets well-known for peddling slightly kitsch souvenirs and quirky arts and crafts. But its offerings have expanded in recent years, bringing essential oils, candles, hand-blown glass, hot doughnuts and local products such as macadamias and honey into the mix. Check out our guide to the top Gold Coast markets for more.

5. James Street

Stroll down to James Street in Burleigh Heads Village and browse the eclectic mix of boutique fashion shops, beautiful homewares, and gourmet goodies, followed by a coffee or freshly squeezed juice at a charming local cafe.

6. Golosi Food Emporium

a wide variety of beverage display at Golosi Food Emporium — Take your pick.

Also on James Street is Golosi , an emporium of all things delicious. Pick up some goodies for a picnic down at the foreshore.

Think freshly baked sourdough from Mullumbimby, delicious tapenades from nearby hinterland village Tyalgum, creamy handmade cheeses from South Australia, a banquet of mouth-watering sweet treats, and much more.

7. Greenhouse The Bathhouse

the exterior of Greenhouse The Bathhouse, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Pamper yourself at Greenhouse The Bathhouse.

Soak, steam, sweat, and swim; a session at Greenhouse The Bathhouse will have you feeling utterly rejuvenated. This communal bath house has hydrotherapy spas, a steam room, a sauna, a magnesium plunge pool, massage services, and a sun deck to enjoy a plant-based lunch and kombucha (or Champagne!) afterwards.

8. Burleigh Hill

This iconic landmark of Burleigh Hill is not to be missed. Pack a picnic and head there to watch the sunset over the beachfront view and Surfers Paradise skyline.

9. Miami Marketta

From Wednesday to Saturday at 5pm, Miami Marketta comes alive with street food from around the world. Expect a generous smattering of all your favourite cuisines from wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta to fried chicken, pad Thai, gyros, tacos, doughnuts, and more. They also hold ticketed gigs and events, so check the website before you go.

Top places to eat and drink in Burleigh Heads

By now you won’t be surprised to hear that Burleigh dominates the list of best restaurants to eat at on the Gold Coast so it must be pretty spectacular. From cafes to restaurants to breweries, do yourself a favour and drop into one of these top places to eat in Burleigh Heads – and if you’re after a cafe guide to the Gold Coast we’ve picked the best of the bunch for brunch too.

1. Social Brew

Nestled in James Street, the light and airy Social Brew is perfect for a caffeine fix, smoothie bowl, and delicious daily bakes.

2. Commune Cafe

The lively Commune cafe with quirky vintage decor, serves light meals and coffee, with a focus on organic food.

3. Paddock Bakery

an al fresco dining setup at Paddock Bakery, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Have a little picnic at Paddock Bakery. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

A renovated old Queenslander home, Paddock Bakery creates what they believe to be the best wood-fired sourdough around. As a walk-in-only establishment, you’ll find plenty of seating available in their cottage, garden, rooftop, loft, and barn areas. Hot tip — the doughnut game is strong here!

4. Rick Shores

a beachfront dining setup at Rick Shores, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Enjoy beachfront dining at Rick Shores. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Location, location, location. The sleek, award-winning Rick Shores restaurant serves up pan-Asian flavours with front-row views of the rolling surf (bonus: the space’s tiered design means there are no bad seats). The menu has a focus on locally sourced produce, while the bar snacks – karaage chicken, barbecue pork steam bun, and the signature fried bug roll – are perfect to enjoy in the casual al fresco seating area with sandy feet. Book ahead; this place is buzzing.

5. The Tropic

a table-top view of the menu at The Tropic — Taste an array of bold flavours at The Tropic.

The view is extra special at The Tropic , known for its beautiful sunsets and Mediterranean flavours. With a shareable menu, mix and match small plates here like puff spiced bread, sweet peppers, roasted pumpkin hummus, and Ocean King prawns.

For a more laid-back vibe, side-step into its sister restaurant Burleigh Pavilion for wood-fired pizzas and all the classics.

6. Jimmy Wah’s

three plates of food at Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Dine on exquisite meals at Jimmy Wah’s.

This local favourite is the result of a five-week motorbike tour that Chef Jake Cooley took around Vietnam. Offering a flavoursome modern Vietnamese menu, it’s difficult to decide on what to order when you’re tempted by the likes of wok-seared squid, ong choy, chilli, crispy taro, and lime, or half chicken, morning glory, kaffir lime, and coconut cream.

7. Justin Lane

Food and drinks at Justin Lane Gold Coast — Throw back a hearty meal at Justin Lane.

Who doesn’t love a rooftop bar? Sundowners, balmy nights a tipple under the stars – Justin Lane combines all this with views out to the ocean and the Surfers Paradise skyline. Eat, drink, and be messy is the J. L motto and from their famous sourdough pizza and handmade pasta to signature cocktails and boutique wines, they pride themselves on the quality of their products. We’ve also rounded up more top bars on the Gold Coast if you’re venturing into other Gold Coast suburbs during your stay.

8. Restaurant Labart

a set meal at Restaurant Labart, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Pick from the set lunch and dinner menus at Restaurant Labart.

A modern Australian Restaurant in the heart of Burleigh Heads, Restaurant Labart showcases the best local produce of the area. Choose from the set lunch and dinner menus, or go à la carte and set your tastebuds to the Burleigh baker bread with caramelised butter, native rock oyster, or chocolate mousse with popcorn ice cream.

9. Willow Dining

a table-top view of meals at Willow Dining, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Willow Dining serves a mix of international cuisines.

An excellent family-friendly option is Willow Dining , known for its laid-back, easy food experience. With a cool, rustic vibe, Willow Dining mixes a feast of Mediterranean, European, Modern Australian, and Spanish cuisine, along with a fusion of Asian favourites together in Tapas style, so there’s something delicious for every person at the table. They’re temporarily closed while they hunt for a new location, so keep an eye on their website.

10. Iku Yakitori Bar

a Japanese dish at Iku Yakitori Bar, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Dine on authentic Japanese dishes at Iku Yakitori Bar.

With plenty of delicious pan-Asian share plates, Iku Yakitori Bar is the place to go for a feast. From Chef’s signature sushi maki and succulent Asian tapas to bigger plates of deliciousness such as black miso cod and crispy baby barramundi, you’ll be well looked after. Alongside adventurous cocktails and a seriously cool mix of silky-smooth jazz, new and old-school funk, and groove and soul music, you won’t want to leave.

11. Black Hops HQ

a guy getting beer on tap at Black Hops Brewery, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Pour some beer on tap at Black Hops Brewery. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Rated among Australia’s top 10 breweries, Black Hops Brewing is all about keeping it real. It’s understated, yet somehow that makes it all the more trendy. Grab a tasting paddle and a bite to eat from the on-site food trucks every Friday and Saturday. If you fancy a change of pace, make sure to taste their refreshing Ginger Cider.

12. Burleigh Brewing Company

drinks lined on the table at Burleigh Brewing Company, Burleigh Heads Queensland — Raise a glass at Burleigh Brewing Company. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

There have been stacks of World Beer Award Gold Medals along the way for Burleigh Brewing Company and today, their brewery is one of Burleigh’s trendiest spots, hosting live music on the weekend and food trucks. You can even bring your four-legged friends along! If you’re keen to brewery hop your way around the coast, we’ve also rounded up the top Gold Coast breweries for you.

Top Burleigh Heads accommodation

Looking for Burleigh Heads accommodation? There are so many beautiful options, it really is difficult to choose. Take a look at the following options.

1. Burleigh Beach Tourist Park

two people sitting outside a caravan at Burleigh Beach Tourist Park — Camp in a caravan at Burleigh Beach Tourist Park. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

People have been visiting Burleigh Heads for camping and caravanning holidays since the early 1900s and now you can do it too with an upgrade. Grab a two-bedroom cabin at Burleigh Beach Tourist Park and be at the centre of everything Burleigh Heads has to offer.

Address: 36 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

2. Bujerum Apartments on Burleigh

Featuring high-quality fit-out and finishes, enjoy modern conveniences in the luxury apartments at Bujerum Apartments on Burleigh .

Address: 26 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

3. 2nd Avenue Beachside Apartments

beach view from the balcony of 2nd Ave Apartments, Burleigh Heads — Catch majestic sea views from your balcony at 2nd Avenue Beachside Apartments.

Stay just moments away from Burleigh Beach at 2nd Avenue Beachside Apartments . With spacious, fully self-contained rooms and private balconies, as well as ocean views and resort facilities, you won’t want to leave.

Address: Second Ave, Burleigh Heads

4. Burleigh Esplanade Apartments

Stay in a superior bedroom lounge with beach views at Burleigh Esplanade Apartments.

Experience the beauty of Burleigh Heads at Burleigh Esplanade Apartments , known for its generous space so the entire family has plenty of room to enjoy their holiday.

Address: 146-156 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads

5. Burleigh Surf – Esplanade Burleigh Heads

a rooftop pool and sauna at Burleigh Surf — Soak up the sun in your rooftop pool at Burleigh Surf.

Another Burleigh Beach location contender is Burleigh Surf , a stunning high-rise complex with impressive panoramic views. Individuals, couples, and families will all find the perfect self-contained apartment here.

Address: 238 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads

6. Solnamara Beachfront Apartments

Another luxurious option is Solnamara Beachfront Apartments , which offer fabulous ocean views from both the living areas and from your own private balcony – in some apartments you can even view the ocean from your bedroom.

Address: 202 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads

7. Burleigh Mediterranean Resort

a living room with a balcony and ocean views at Burleigh Mediterranean — Get front-row views of the Gold Coast at Burleigh Mediterranean.

Located directly opposite the patrolled North Burleigh Beach, soak up the holiday atmosphere at Burleigh Mediterranean Resort . With rooftop areas boasting 360-degree views of the Gold Coast and a resort-style 20-metre pool, spa, and sauna, it’s the ideal base for your Burleigh escape.

Address: 220 The Esplanade, North Burleigh

When you’re ready to branch out from Burleigh Heads, explore more of the other Gold Coast beach towns.

City buzz, gourmet trails, surf breaks and art scenes are all at your fingertips.

When it comes to planning a trip, picking a holiday destination is the easy part. The real dilemma is where to set yourself up for the night. Do you go coastal, city, or countryside? Somewhere remote and rugged, or right in the action? Luckily, the Sunshine Coast, and huge number of amazing Sunshine Coast day trips, have kindly made the choice for you.

Ditch the hotel-hopping and suitcase-lugging. Instead, base yourself at Novotel Sunshine Coast or Mantra Mooloolaba , where big-city culture, vine-covered valleys, and theme parks are all within a two-hour drive.

1. Sunshine Coast to Brisbane

Drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes (105km)

Shake off the sand from your sandals and swap the beach for the throb of the Queensland capital. Ease in gently with a bougainvillea-filled stroll through South Bank, iced latte in hand, before cooling off at Streets Beach lagoon – Brisbane’s answer to the coast (but without the waves).

Once firmly in big-city mode, hit up the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) , home to Australia’s largest collection of modern and contemporary artworks. Dive into the past at the Queensland Museum, where prehistoric fossils of Australian dinosaurs and megafauna collide with First Nations cultural collections and interactive science exhibits.

All this learning got you hungry? Howard Smith Wharves calls. Here, riverside dining delivers breweries with meat-forward menus, Japanese fine dining and overwater bars. If you’ve got room for more, Fortitude Valley’s shopping boutiques await you and your wallet.

woman walking around Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) — Wander the Gallery of Modern Art. (Image: TEQ)

2. Sunshine Coast to the Scenic Rim

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (170km)

Make your way inland to the Scenic Rim for the state’s best vineyards and age-old volcanic slopes. Start your day early (like, sparrow’s breakfast early) at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in Lamington National Park . Here, take a treetop walk through the canopy and hand-feed the wild birds who flock here.

Next, it’s your turn to eat. Here, the food scene operates where locally sourced produce is an expectation, not an exception. Order a picnic basket crammed with regional wine and cheese to devour next to the creek at Canungra Valley Vineyards . Or perhaps a grazing platter of vegan and non-vegan cheeses at Witches Falls Winery .

Feeling bold? Tackle the Twin Falls circuit in Springbrook National Park. Or keep the gourmet life going with a Scenic Rim Brewery tasting paddle, best enjoyed while taking in the rise of the Great Dividing Range.

woman with cheese and wine at Witches Falls Winery — Enjoy a cheese platter at Witches Falls Winery. (Image: TEQ)

3. Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast

Drive time: 2 hours (180km)

Surf, sand and sparkling skylines might be the Gold Coast’s MO, but there’s more to Surfers Paradise and beyond. Kick things off with a beachfront coffee at Burleigh Heads, then hike through Burleigh Head National Park to look over the ocean and whale sightings (dependent on the season, of course).

Cool off in the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek before chowing down on the famously buttery Moreton Bay bug rolls at Rick Shores . Travelling with the kids? Then you can’t miss Australia’s theme park capital, with Dreamworld ’s big rides and Warner Bros. Movie World ’s Hollywood treatment at hand to keep the family entertained.

aerial view of Tallebudgera Creek — Dive into Tallebudgera Creek. (Image: TEQ)

4. Sunshine Coast to Tweed Heads

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (200km)

Dare to cross enemy lines? Then welcome to New South Wales. Tweed Heads blends the laid-back attitude of the Northern Rivers with high-quality dining, experimental art, and farm-fresh indulgence – a combo worth the drive.

Start strong with a long, lazy brunch at Tweed River House , then swing by Tropical Fruit World for exotic finds like red dragon fruit, handfuls of lychees and black sapote. Next, hit M|Arts Precinct – an art deco hub of micro galleries, artist workshops and one-off boutiques.

Round off the day with sunset drinks at Husk Distillers among the glowing cane fields, and order one with their famous Ink Gin. You’ll thank us later.

exterior of Husk Distillers — Taste the famous Ink Gin at Husk Distillers. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Drive time: 1 hour (70km)

Strap on those hiking boots and make tracks inland, where volcanic peaks, misty rainforest and hinterland townships beckon. Ease in with the Glass House Mountains Lookout Walk, or, if you have energy to burn, tackle the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk for a 360-degree sight of the surrounding summits.

Next: Montville. This township delivers European-style architecture and old-world appeal. Nearby, settle in at Flame Hill Vineyard, where a large pour of estate-grown wine comes with encompassing views of the countryside.

Not ready to leave the hinterland villages just yet? Of course not. Meander past art galleries and indie shops at Maleny. Nab some fudge from Sweets on Maple for a sweet fix. Or go salty at Maleny Dairies with a farm tour and a chunky wedge of their deliciously creamy cheese.

End the day among the eucalypts and rainforests of Kondalilla National Park. Here, the Kondalilla Falls Circuit winds down through trees humming with life to a rock pool beneath a waterfall – as if designed for soaking tired feet before heading back to the coast.

view of Mount Ngungun on the scenic rim queensland — Take on the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk (Image: TEQ)

Start planning your Sunshine home base at all.com.