1. Burleigh Heads Beach
Nestled between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads Beach offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and local charm. The headland provides protection from strong winds, making it ideal for swimming and picnics. The backdrop of Burleigh Head National Park creates a stunning contrast of lush greenery against golden sand.
Local Tip: Visit on a Sunday afternoon when locals gather on the hill for picnics and live music. Grab a coffee from Borough Barista beforehand and watch the surfers tackle the famous Burleigh break.
2. Tallebudgera Creek
While technically not an ocean beach, Tallebudgera Creek deserves its spot on this list for its calm, crystal-clear turquoise waters. Located between Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach, this tranquil inlet is perfect for families and those seeking respite from the waves.
Local Tip: Visit during mid-week to avoid crowds, and bring a stand-up paddleboard to explore the creek’s peaceful waters. The northern side tends to be less crowded than the southern beach.
3. Currumbin Beach
Currumbin offers a stunning stretch of coastline with the iconic Elephant Rock and Currumbin Rock creating natural landmarks at either end. The beach is renowned for its clean sand, clear waters, and the perfect balance between surf conditions and swimming areas.
Local Tip: Pair your beach visit with an early morning stop at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to watch the wild lorikeet feeding, then head to the Vikings Surf Life Saving Club for lunch with panoramic ocean views.
4. Rainbow Bay
The southernmost beach on the Gold Coast, Rainbow Bay, is a protected corner of paradise. Its sheltered position makes it perfect for swimmers of all ages. The beach curves around to Snapper Rocks, home to the world-famous surf break and the starting point of the Superbank.
Local Tip: Take the stunning oceanfront walk from Rainbow Bay to Point Danger for breathtaking views across the Queensland/New South Wales border. Afterwards, treat yourself to lunch at Rainbow Bay Surf Club.
5. Coolangatta Beach
With its north-facing aspect, Coolangatta Beach is sheltered from the southerly winds that can affect other Gold Coast beaches. This makes it an ideal year-round destination with gentle waves perfect for swimming and beginner surfers.
Local Tip: Visit during the full moon to witness the spectacular “staircase to the moon” – a natural phenomenon where the moonlight reflects across the calm waters of Coolangatta beach, creating a magical illusion.
When to Visit
While the Gold Coast enjoys sunshine nearly year-round, the best time to enjoy these pristine beaches is from March to May (autumn) when the water is still warm from summer but the holiday crowds have dispersed. Early morning visits (6-9 am) offer the most serene experience and the best lighting for photographs.
Getting Around
The Gold Coast light rail (G: link) connects many northern beaches, while buses service the southern beaches. For maximum flexibility, I recommend renting a car to explore all these pristine locations at your own pace.
Conclusion
As a local who’s spent decades exploring these shores, I can honestly say that each of these beaches offers something unique. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or the perfect Instagram backdrop, these five pristine Gold Coast beaches deliver unforgettable Australian coastal experiences.
Written by Michael Bankier Gold Coast