Burleigh Heads Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Burleigh Heads in the Gold Coast with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in this stunning Australian coastal town.


Introduction to Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads is a small coastal town located in the southern part of the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning natural scenery, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s no wonder why so many travelers choose to visit Burleigh Heads each year.

This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Burleigh Heads. From attractions and activities to food and accommodations, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your time in this beautiful town.

List of Places to Visit in Burleigh Heads

Here are some of the top places to visit in Burleigh Heads:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre: Learn about the history and culture of the local Yugambeh Aboriginal people through interactive exhibits, workshops, and tours.
  • David Fleay Wildlife Park: See a variety of native Australian wildlife up-close, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and crocodiles.
  • Burleigh Head National Park: Explore the stunning natural scenery of Burleigh Head National Park, which includes a rainforest, rocky headlands, and scenic coastal views.

Natural Attractions of Burleigh Heads: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Burleigh Beach: Relax on the warm sand and take a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Burleigh Beach.
  • Tallebudgera Creek: Go kayaking and paddleboarding on the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek.
  • James Street: Stroll along James Street for a range of quaint boutiques and restaurants for the day.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the beach, rainforests, and other natural scenery. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Burleigh Headland Track: This beautiful hike takes you through the rainforest and along the coast, providing scenic views of the ocean and the coastline.
  • Tallebudgera Creek Circuit: This easy 4-kilometer bike ride takes you along the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek, through the scenic wetlands and parklands of Burleigh.
  • Oceanway Path: This 36-kilometer path takes you along the Gold Coast coastline and is perfect for biking, walking, or running.

Best Things to Do in Burleigh Heads: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Burleigh Heads. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Surfing lessons: Burleigh Heads has some of Australia’s best surfing locations, and there are plenty of surfing schools to choose from for those interested in learning how to surf.
  • Yoga sessions: Take a yoga class in one of the yoga retreats in Burleigh Heads and connect with your mind, body, and soul.
  • Whale watching: Take a tour boat and get up close with the largest mammals on earth as they migrate through the warm waters of the Gold Coast.

Week-Long Itinerary for Burleigh Heads

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Burleigh Heads, here’s an itinerary to make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Visit the David Fleay Wildlife Park and take a walk on the Oceanway Path.
  • Day 2: Tour the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre and explore Burleigh Heads National Park.
  • Day 3: Take a surfing lesson and relax on Burleigh Beach.
  • Day 4: Go shopping and dining at James Street, then do some yoga in the evening.
  • Day 5: Take a whale watching tour, then explore Tallebudgera Creek by kayak or paddleboard.
  • Day 6: Visit the local farmers’ market in the morning, then hike the Burleigh headland track in the afternoon.
  • Day 7: Relax on the beach and enjoy a sunset dinner at one of the many beachside restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads has a vibrant food and drink scene with plenty of world-class restaurants, charming cafes, and boutique bars.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fresh seafood: Grab a seafood platter and drinks at one of the many beachside restaurants.
  • Veggie bowls: Try a nutritious and refreshing veggie and quinoa bowl from one of the local cafes.
  • Acai bowls: Try a refreshing acai bowl from one of the many beachside Kiosks.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer: Try a selection of craft beers from the Burleigh Brewing Company.
  • Coffee: Sample the delicious coffee at one of the many local cafes.
  • Cocktails: Enjoy a refreshing cocktail on the beachfront balcony at Burleigh Pavilion.

Where to Stay in Burleigh Heads: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Burleigh Heads has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From luxury hotels to budget hostels, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay.

Some of the best hotels in Burleigh Heads include:

  • The Burleigh Pavilion: A beachfront hotel with stunning views and a range of amenities.
  • The Esplanade House: A charming guesthouse with a laid-back atmosphere and great location.
  • Gemini Court Holiday Apartments: Self-contained apartments with stunning ocean views and great facilities.

What to Buy in Burleigh Heads: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Burleigh Heads include:

  • Artisan chocolates from the Burleigh Chocolate Factory
  • Handmade soaps and skincare products from the Burleigh Soap Company.
  • Beautiful handmade pottery from the local studios.

Local Culture and Customs of Burleigh Heads

The lifestyle in Burleigh Heads is laid-back and focused on spending time in nature. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the town has a strong connection to its Aboriginal heritage.

Best Time to Visit Burleigh Heads

The best time to visit Burleigh Heads is during the summer months of December to February when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is a great destination all year round, with plenty of festivals and events taking place throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Burleigh Heads

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Burleigh Heads:

Do:

  • Respect the environment and leave no trace.
  • Sample the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Go outside and explore the natural beauty of the town.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or in the national park.
  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.
  • Leave your belongings unattended on the beach.

Safety and Health

Safety in Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads is a safe town, but it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings while at the beach and in crowded areas. Be aware of potential rip currents when swimming and always swim between the flags.

Health in Burleigh Heads

There are no known health risks in Burleigh Heads. However, sunscreen and protective clothing are recommended when spending time in the sun, as well as having bug spray as mosquitos can tend to be around the Creek area.

Getting to Burleigh Heads: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Burleigh Heads

The closest airport to Burleigh Heads is Gold Coast Airport, which is about a 20-minute drive from the town center.

Bus Stations Near Burleigh Heads

The Translink bus service offers regular buses to Burleigh Heads from Brisbane and other Gold Coast suburbs.

Other Options

Many people choose to rent a car and drive to Burleigh Heads to have the freedom to explore the surrounding areas, or use ride-share services such as Uber or Ola.

How to Get Around in Burleigh Heads

The best way to get around Burleigh Heads is on foot or by bike. There are plenty of pedestrian walkways and bike paths that make it easy to explore the town and its surroundings. Alternatively, it is easy to book a ride-share service to your destination.

Where to Go Next from Burleigh Heads: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Springbrook National Park: Explore the stunning rainforest walks and waterfalls in this nearby national park.
  • Surfers Paradise: Take a short drive north to the famous Surfers Paradise, known for its buzzing nightlife and relaxed beach scene.
  • Byron Bay: Just over the state border in New South Wales, Byron Bay has stunning beaches, a laid-back atmosphere, and plenty of adventure activities to enjoy.

Conclusion

Burleigh Heads is a charming coastal town with stunning natural scenery, world-class dining options, and plenty of things to do and see. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to have the trip of a lifetime to Burleigh Heads in the Gold Coast.

Entrance to Burleigh Head NP Entrance to Burleigh Head NP