Ask anyone around here, and they’ll tell you that surfing is part of who we are as Gold Coasters, and we still get a thrill pointing out the spots that make this coastline so special. The Gold Coast surf scene is the quiet mornings in Miami, the glassy rights in Burleigh Point, and the relaxed sessions at Currumbin Alley.
For every seasoned surfer, a family is finding their feet with a surf school. If you’re staying in Burleigh, you’re in the sweet spot. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the beaches locals love and show you how to make the most of the coast, on and off the board.
Chasing the Gold Coast Surf
No matter your skill level, the Gold Coast surf has something for everyone. It all starts right here in Burleigh. Here’s where to paddle out, depending on what kind of waves you’re chasing.
Big, clean, and always a crowd.
This is the one people talk about. Burleigh Point wraps around the headland and throws up some of the cleanest rights on the coast. When it’s pumping, you’ll hear it before you see it.
- Best for surfers who know what they’re doing.
- You’ll need to work for your spot in the lineup. It’s busy.
- But when you catch one? You’ll understand why surfing in Burleigh Heads is a rite of passage.
Gentle. Friendly. Always someone learning.
The Alley is where a lot of Gold Coast surfers started. It’s softer than most, with plenty of space and slow-breaking waves that give you time to stand, fall, laugh, and do it all again.
- Families love it. So do first-timers.
- You’ll see plenty of surf lessons on the Gold Coast happening right here.
- It’s got that relaxed, beachy energy that makes you forget time.
This is where the serious stuff happens.
Snapper is loud. Not just the waves, but the energy. If the swell’s right, it draws people from all over. It’s the real deal.
- Experts line up. Locals know every inch of the break.
- It’s where the Gold Coast Pro kicks off around March.
- Even if you don’t surf, just watching a set roll through is something else.
The Gold Coast, Australia, waves don’t get more dramatic than this. It’s fast, technical, and a bit wild when it’s on.
Slower pace, same coastline.
Five minutes from Burleigh, the mood changes. The creek mouth is mellow. There’s room to mess around, try new moves, or just float through a few small peaks.
- Great for beginners or cruisy surfers
- No ego in the water, just people enjoying the day
- A good way to ease into Burleigh surf conditions before hitting bigger breaks
Simple. Consistent. Underrated.
Miami’s a good call if you’ve had enough of the crowds or just want a clean, quiet wave. The breaks here aren’t flashy, but they’ve got heart.
- Lefts and rights, it’s easy to find a corner for yourself
- Works well when the swell’s up and other spots are packed
- A local favourite for midweek surfs and early finishes
The Gold Coast wave setup at Miami won’t win awards, but sometimes that’s the best kind.
Surfing Burleigh Heads
You’ll see people surfing Burleigh Heads like it’s their daily routine, which for a lot of them, it is. Boards balanced under arms, walking barefoot down the Esplanade. Some know the break like a second home. Others are just giving it a go for the first time.
The Burleigh Heads surf beach stretches out in front of the headland, and depending on the day, you’ll catch a real mix.
What’s great about this beach is that you don’t need to be a pro. There’s room for everyone. And when the sun’s out (which is most days), it feels like the whole community is here.
- James Street and the Surf Vibe
A few blocks back from the water, James Street is where everyone ends up at some point. Need a bite after a surf? You’ll find it here. Looking for new wax or a board leash? There’s a surf shop for that.
Places like Rhythm have been part of the scene for years, run by people who live and breathe it. Cafés spill onto the pavement, people are in no rush, and it feels like someone’s always laughing or playing an old record behind the counter. It’s Burleigh, through and through.
Things to Do Around the Waves
Surfing might bring people here, but there’s plenty to keep you around. The list of Gold Coast things to do near Burleigh is long, but you don’t need to tick them all off.
Some of the local favourites?
- A walk through Burleigh Head National Park just after sunrise.
- Grabbing fish and chips and heading down to the beach wall to watch the sets roll in.
- An early dinner at one of the hilltop restaurants while the sky changes colour.
- Markets, live music, and occasional pop-up stalls selling boards or second-hand fins.
All of it adds to the experience. These Burleigh Heads attractions are easy to stumble into if you’re open to a slower kind of day.
Catch Your Wave at Burleigh
Surf’s up. Time to take your break? Burleigh Surf Apartments puts you where you want to be. Roll out of bed and hit Burleigh Point before the crowds show up. Spend all day chasing waves, then soak those tired muscles in our heated spa.
Our fully equipped kitchens mean post-surf feasts without the fuss. The tennis court and pools keep the whole crew happy when arms need a break from paddling. Grab your board and make our place yours. The ocean views never stop, and neither does the fun.
Image Credit: Boost Surfing
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