Burleigh Heads Surf Guide | Explore The Best Surf Spots Without a Car

An Introduction to Burleigh Heads Surf

Burleigh Heads Surf Point with clear blue waters and clear skies
Burleigh Point - Gold Coast

Burleigh Heads surf is a must-see on the Gold Coast, offering surfers easy access to world-class waves in a stunning and convenient location

The iconic Burleigh Point offers consistent waves for intermediate to advanced surfers and is just a 10-minute walk from the town centre.

For beginners, North Burleigh Beach is a convenient spot right in the town centre, while Miami Beach and Nobby Beach, approximately a 30-minute walk away, offer perfect beach breaks for intermediate surfers.

With a pedestrian-friendly layout, bike paths, and easy public transport, Burleigh Heads is an ideal base for surfers wanting a seamless experience on the Gold Coast without the need for a car.

In This Guide

Best Time For Burleigh Heads Surf

Seasons:

  • Autumn (March-May): Consistent swells with offshore winds.
    • Attire Needed: 2mm shorty or boardshorts/bikini.
  • Winter (June-August): Large, powerful swells, ideal for advanced surfers.
    • Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit.
  • Spring (September-November): Moderate swells with warmer water.
    • Attire Needed: 2mm shorty or boardshorts/bikini.
  • Summer (December-February): Smaller, consistent surf, great for beginners.
    • Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini.

Surf Conditions:

  • Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 2 to 8 foot, best with southeast to east swells.
  • Break Type: Point break with long, powerful, & fast rides.
  • Tide & Wind: Best at mid to high tide, with southwest or west winds keeping the waves clean.
  • Skill Required: Suitable for all levels, though Burleigh Point is best for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Surfer executing a backhand turn with sunlight reflecting off the waves, surrounded by surfers Burleigh Point, Gold Coast
Burleigh Point - Gold Coast

Burleigh Heads Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius

Best Surf Spots Distance from Burleigh Heads Wave Size Wave Quality Skill Level
Burleigh Point
Approx. 1km (0.6mi)
2-8 foot
Classic right-hand point break
Intermediate to advanced
North Burleigh Beach
In town centre
2-4 foot
Beach break with occasional barrels
Beginner to intermediate
Miami Beach
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) north
2-5 foot
Exposed beach break with consistent waves
All levels
Nobby Beach
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) north
2-4 foot
Fun beach break with occasional barrels
Beginner to intermediate
Palm Beach
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) south
2-6 foot
Long, mellow beach break
All levels
Perfect wave with sunlight reflecting on the water at North Burleigh Beach, Gold Coast
North Burleigh Beach - Gold Coast

Access To Burleigh Heads Surf Spots

Best Surf Spots Walking Time Biking Time Public Transport
Burleigh Point
Approx. 10 min.
5 min.
Not required
North Burleigh Beach
In town centre
Not required
Not required
Miami Beach
Approx. 25 min.
Approx. 10 min.
10 min. (Bus routes from Burleigh Heads available)
Nobby Beach
Approx. 30 min.
15 min.
15 min. (Bus routes from Burleigh Heads available)
Palm Beach
Approx. 45 min.
20 min.
15 min. (Bus routes from Burleigh Heads available)

Accommodation in Burleigh Heads

Accommodation Type Description Price Range per night (EUR) Price Range per night (USD)
Hostels
Dormitory-style accommodation
N/A
N/A
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units
€90 to €180
$100 to $200
Luxury Stays
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments
€250 to €500
$270 to $550

How To Get To Burleigh Heads

How to get to Burleigh Heads from Gold Coast (Coolangatta) Airport (OOL)
The most convenient way to get to Burleigh Heads is to fly into Gold Coast Airport known as Coolangatta Airport (COO) & then use one of the following transportation options to complete your journey.

Distance: Approx. 12km (7.5mi)

  • Taxi or Ride-share:
    • Time: 20-25 min.
    • Cost: Approx. $25-$40 USD
  • Public Transport (Bus) (Best Option):
    • Time: 30 min.
    • Cost: Approx. $3.50 USD per person 
  • Shuttle Service:
    • Time: 20 min.
    • Cost: Approx. $10 USD per person 

How to get to Burleigh Heads from Brisbane Airport (BNE)
You may find a more affordable option by flying into Brisbane Airport (BNE). Below are the estimated costs & various transportation options to reach the Gold Coast from BNE.

Distance: Approx. 80km (50mi)

  • Taxi or Ride-share:
    • Time: 60-75 min.
    • Cost: Approx. $85-$120 USD
  • Public Transport (Train + Bus):
    • Time: 1.5-2 hrs.
    • Cost: Approx. $16-$30 USD per person 
  • Shuttle Service:
    • Time: 60 min.
    • Cost: Approx. $22-35 USD per person 

Discover Burleigh Heads: What to Do When the Waves Are Flat

When the waves aren’t on, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy around Burleigh Heads. Here are 5 recommended activities to keep you busy. 

Burleigh Head National Park
Hike scenic trails with breathtaking ocean views, rainforest surroundings, and opportunities to spot wildlife.

James Street
Wander through this lively precinct filled with boutique stores, trendy cafes, and great dining options.

Tallebudgera Creek
Swim, paddleboard, or kayak in the calm, clear waters of this beautiful creek, perfect for a peaceful beach day.

Burleigh Farmers Market
Visit the Saturday market for fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and live entertainment.

Burleigh Brewing Company
Enjoy locally brewed craft beers at this popular brewery, offering tastings, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Aerial view of Tallebudgera Creek at Burleigh Heads, showcasing the ocean and clear blue skies
Tallebudgera Creek - Burleigh Head

Exploring Gold Coast: The Best Sights and Landmarks to Visit

If the surf conditions aren’t ideal, you can easily head to Surfers Paradise or explore the nearby Gold Coast hinterland for rainforests, waterfalls, & tranquil nature reserves.

Visit Lamington National Park:
A UNESCO World Heritage site, with hiking trails, waterfalls, & rare wildlife.

Explore Surfers Paradise:
Famous for its bustling nightlife, shopping, & beachside attractions.

SkyPoint Observation Deck:
Enjoy panoramic views of the Gold Coast from the Q1 building, one of the tallest residential towers in the world.

Pacific Fair Shopping Centre:
A premier shopping destination with luxury boutiques, cafes, & entertainment options.

Waterfall cascading in Lamington National Park, Gold Coast, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant rainforest scenery
Lamington National Park - Gold Coast