Queensland

Six Gold Coast beaches to visit other than Surfers Paradise

The water at Greenmount beach in Coolangatta

Jenna Meade

Posted February 09, 2020

Take the beach less travelled. These stunning Gold Coast beaches are a shore thing.

Sure, Surfers Paradise is a deserving poster child for the Gold Coast’s heavenly beach havens. But with 57 kilometres of coastline to explore, it would be a sin to leave ‘The Goldie’ before visiting its sandy suburban neighbours.

From breathtaking blue estuaries and secret beaches to cosmopolitan coastlines and world-class surf breaks, here are the other coveted coves begging you to dive right in.

(More: It's 'The Goldie', but not as you know it. Here's how the Gold Coast became the cultural and culinary hub of Queensland.)

Six of the best beaches on the Gold Coast
 

Burleigh Heads Beach

With its bohemian vibes and border of Norfolk pines, Burleigh is the Gold Coast’s version of Byron Bay.

It’s where you’ll find the locals – and the waves, with the protected right-hand break serving up satisfying swell for surfers. Settle into a spot on the two-kilometre stretch of sand, take a refreshing dip in the patrolled waters, or down some fish and chips from nearby Fish Mongers.

Once you’re done on the beach, beeline for the boutiques on the James Street shopping strip.

Main Beach

Despite its name, this northern slice is anything but mainstream. It’s where you’ll get everything you want from a Gold Coast beach, without the usual crowds.

Lay down your towel, head out for a surf lesson or climb aboard a yacht cruise. If sand isn’t your thing, explore the playground, picnic area and stretches of grass at nearby Hollindale Park.

Be sure to drop by the former bathing pavilion, Pavilion 34, which has been transformed into a seaside cafe selling all the classics. We see you, Chiko Rolls.

Currumbin Beach

It takes a village to maintain a close-knit beach community feel like Currumbin. World champion surfer Joel Parkinson touts this patch as having the most small-town feel of any suburb on the Gold Coast.

Framed by clifftop houses, the calm oasis is a magnet for local families. First impressions are strong, with Currumbin Creek and the Alley ocean entrance offering a protected and patrolled place to have a go at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking.

Depending on your itinerary, both Balter Brewery and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary are worth a stop on the way home.
 

Dive into the surf at Burleigh Heads. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland
Coastline at Tallebudgera. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland
The beach at Coolangatta. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland
A cold drink at sunset in Coolangatta. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

Tallebudgera Creek

Sandwiched between Palm Beach and Burleigh Heads lies this serene spot with pristine sandbanks and tranquil waters.

Swim, picnic, kayak or fish away from the crowds at the charming estuary where freshwater meets seawater, then settle in afterwards for a beachside barbecue.

Make the trek via the Ocean View Track to hidden gem Echo Beach for an extra pocket of peacefulness. Fingers crossed you might even score a private patch all to yourself.

Coolangatta Beach

Don’t forget to stop by the south. Whether it’s the legendary surf break Snapper Rocks or the seemingly endless stretch of golden sand, there’s a decidedly slower pace down by the border.

The family-friendly shallows make for a memorable day out, and there’s plenty of nature-filled walks for those feeling more adventurous. Take the easy stroll from the Point Danger viewpoint all the way to Kirra, weaving past Froggies Beach, Greenmount and the cosmopolitan esplanade – perfectly positioned for a coffee or wine pit stop.

Nobby Beach

You’ll find the quiet, secluded and affectionately dubbed Nobby’s nestled in Mermaid Beach. Get there before dawn and you’ll be treated to a spectacular sunrise over the sea.

Throw in a line and try your luck at catching a bream, dart or whiting that you can throw on the barbie for dinner – or take your surfboard and enjoy a low-crowd wave.

There’s a host of culinary talent squeezed into one postcode, but it’s hard to beat Nobby’s Beach Surf Club. The local go-to serves up post-swim pub classics – and 180-degree views from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta.
 

Escape to the Gold Coast with a getaway at the RACV Royal Pines Resort
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