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.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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.

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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.

When the winter chill settles in, an escape to Hamilton Island’s year-round tropical shores is the only acceptable coping mechanism.

As a heliophile with the cold tolerance of a Mediterranean house cat, the arrival of winter tends to spark a particular panic. How will I survive? Must I really start layering? What do you mean, Aperol season is over? But there are far better ways to spend the cooler months than sulking in the depths of your doona.

Enter, Hamilton Island. With its year-round sunshine and permanent on-holiday atmosphere, this Whitsundays favourite promises a veritable slice of summer in winter.

Think salt-stiff hair and the smug pleasure of devouring seafood beside the water while friends back home are defogging their windscreens. Here’s why Hamilton Island should figure into your winter plans.

1. Year-round summer weather

A woman hiking along the Passage Peak trail on Hamilton Island. — Hike under sunny winter skies on Hamilton Island. (Image: Andrew Caitens)

In the crisper months, Hamilton Island offers perfectly mild, sunny weather (17-24°C) that lends itself to morning swims and afternoon spritzes. Better still, you can enjoy the island’s outdoor adventures – from hiking to mountain biking – without the humidity or rain you’ll often find in summertime. With direct flights from most major Australian cities offering ease of access, Hamilton Island is the ideal place to flee the cold.

2. Getting active without the humidity

A buggy parked overlooking Hamilton Island’s golf course, with sweeping views of the sea at Whitsundays in winter. — Zip around Hamilton Island by buggy. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Whether you’re hiking up to Passage Peak or exploring the island by buggy, tropical Queensland humidity is nobody’s friend. The one way to guarantee you will avoid the inevitable stickiness and fluffy hair? Visit during winter. There’s plenty to be enjoyed, from sunrise yoga at The Sundays (exclusive to guests of The Sundays) to playing golf on Dent Island.

3. Hamilton Island Race Week

Yachts racing across the sparkling Whitsundays during Hamilton Island Race Week. — Feel the thrill of Hamilton Island Race Week. (Image: Salty Dingo)

Taking place in August, Hamilton Island Race Week is a destination in its own right that attracts spectators and racers from around the globe. Boating enthusiasts and thrill-seeking holidaymakers flock to the island, which is palpably energetic as the first yachts set off for Dent Passage from Hamilton Island Yacht Club. The annual action-packed week, taking place from 15 to 22 August in 2026, offers an exciting calendar of on- and off-water events – spanning everything from celebrity chef dinners to golfing comps and wine tastings.

4. Best time for snorkelling

A woman snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef. — Explore Hamilton Island’s winter waters. (Image: Andrew Caitens)

While the crowds on Hamilton Island may disperse with the cooler weather, the marine life certainly doesn’t. Winter is widely considered one of the best times to snorkel and dive in the Whitsundays.

It’s down to a number of reasons: excellent water visibility, higher chances of seeing whales as they migrate north and – best of all – no nasty stingers. This means no need to wear those notoriously unflattering full-body wetsuits visitors have to wear in warmer months. On top of all this, you’ll find calm seas ideal for sailing and Great Barrier Reef tours.

5. Fewer crowds

People kayaking. — Experience a quieter Hamilton Island on a kayaking adventure. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Winter is often the quietest time to visit Hamilton Island, with the peak season crowds thinned to a relaxed trickle. You can snorkel or dive straight off the reef-laced waters of Catseye Beach, then swap fins for a buggy and zip between One Tree Hill, the marina and sunset cocktails without the usual summer queues. Active days stretch from kayaking, sailing and jet skiing to hopping over to famous Whitehaven Beach to witness those breathtaking white swirls of silica sand. You won’t have to elbow your way to the front of the crowd to get a good snap.

6. Delicious dining

The interiors of Bommie Restaurant, featuring modern coastal design with warm lighting and elegant detailing. — Treat yourself to Bommie Restaurant’s fine dining featuring fresh, seasonal Aussie produce. (Image: Nikki To)

The food on Hamilton Island tastes just as good any time of year, and winter is still perfect weather for sundowners. Start with an iced tea Negroni at harbourside Bommie Deck, before transitioning to Bommie Restaurant for a fine-dining feast centering on seasonal Aussie ingredients. Or perhaps enjoy a more casual poolside evening at Sails Restaurant, where plates of chermoula chicken skewers, baked cauliflower steak and crispy sumac squid come served with ocean views. From family-friendly pub meals to elevated wine tastings, there’s something for everyone.

5. Clear skies for idyllic views

The golden hour across the Whitsundays in winter. — End your day with golden Hamilton Island sunsets over the water. (Image: Hamilton Island)

Never let a cloud rain on the parade of Hamilton Island’s spectacular scenery. Winter brings clearer skies and more stable weather to the Whitsundays, meaning your picture-perfect sunset at One Tree Hill is likely to remain that way. And after putting in the legwork to hike to a scenic lookout, the last thing you want is a vista hidden behind low cloud and haze.

To learn more about travelling to the Whitsundays in winter, visit hamitlonisland.com.au.