Discover Australia's Finest Beaches

Experience the pristine sands and crystal-clear waters of Gold Coast's most beautiful beaches

Explore Beaches

Best Beaches on the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast stretches along 57 kilometers of pristine coastline, offering some of Australia's most iconic beaches. From world-famous surf breaks to family-friendly swimming spots, the Gold Coast has a beach for every type of traveler. Each beach has its own unique character, facilities, and natural beauty, making this region a true paradise for beach lovers.

Beach Activities & Experiences

The Gold Coast offers more than just sunbathing and swimming. Discover a range of exciting beach activities and experiences that will make your visit unforgettable. From surfing lessons to coastal walks, there's something for everyone to enjoy on Australia's favorite coastline.

Surf lesson at Surfers Paradise

Learn to Surf

The Gold Coast is famous for its surf breaks, making it the perfect place to learn this iconic Australian sport. Professional instructors offer lessons for all ages and skill levels, with beginner-friendly waves at many beaches. Most lessons include all equipment and safety instructions, allowing you to focus on catching your first wave. Group and private lessons are available, with many schools guaranteeing you'll stand up on your first session. Experience the thrill of surfing in one of Australia's most beautiful coastal settings.

Book a Lesson
Beach yoga session at sunrise

Beach Yoga

Experience the ultimate in relaxation and wellness with beach yoga sessions along the Gold Coast. Classes typically take place during the magical sunrise or sunset hours, allowing you to connect with nature while practicing mindfulness. The sound of crashing waves provides the perfect backdrop for these rejuvenating sessions. Classes cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Regular sessions are held at Burleigh Heads, Currumbin, and Broadbeach, with mats provided. Combine physical exercise with the healing power of the ocean environment.

Join a Session
Stand-up paddleboarding on Tallebudgera Creek

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has become increasingly popular on the Gold Coast, especially in the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek and Currumbin Creek. This accessible water sport offers a full-body workout while allowing you to explore the coastline from a unique perspective. Equipment rental is available at numerous locations, with instructors on hand to provide tips for beginners. Early morning paddleboarding offers the chance to spot marine life, including dolphins and rays in the crystal-clear waters. SUP yoga classes combine two popular activities for an innovative beach experience.

Rent Equipment
Coastal walk at Burleigh Head National Park

Coastal Walks

The Gold Coast features stunning coastal walks that showcase the region's natural beauty. The Burleigh Head National Park walk is particularly popular, offering a 2.3km circuit with breathtaking ocean views, rainforest sections, and the chance to spot whales during migration season. The Oceanway is a 36km network of pathways connecting beaches from the Spit to Coolangatta, perfect for walking or cycling. These well-maintained paths provide access to lookout points, cafes, and rest areas along the way. Guided walks are available for those interested in learning about the local ecosystem and indigenous history.

Find Trails

Visitor Experiences

Hear from travelers who have experienced the magic of Gold Coast beaches. Their stories capture the essence of what makes this coastline so special and beloved by visitors from around the world.

Sarah from Canada enjoying Burleigh Beach

"I visited the Gold Coast during my Australian adventure and was completely blown away by Burleigh Heads Beach. The headland walk offered stunning views, and watching the surfers while enjoying coffee at a beachside café was the highlight of my trip. I even tried surfing for the first time with a local instructor who was incredibly patient. The Gold Coast beaches are truly world-class and exceeded all my expectations."

— Sarah, Canada

James from UK at Coolangatta Beach

"As an avid surfer, I've always dreamed of riding the famous breaks of the Gold Coast. I spent a week moving between different beaches, from Snapper Rocks to The Spit, and each offered something unique. The local surf community was welcoming, and the beach facilities are excellent. Beyond surfing, I loved the beach culture, the seafood restaurants, and the relaxed atmosphere. It's no wonder the Gold Coast is a surfing mecca."

— James, United Kingdom

The Nakamura family at Broadbeach

"We traveled to the Gold Coast with our two children and found it perfect for a family beach holiday. Broadbeach and Currumbin Creek were ideal for the kids with their calm waters and playground facilities nearby. The lifeguards made us feel safe, and we appreciated the clean beaches and public amenities. We joined a beach cleanup event during our stay, which was a great way to give back and teach our children about environmental responsibility. We'll definitely be back!"

— The Nakamura Family, Japan

Michael from USA at Surfers Paradise

"As a photographer, I was drawn to the Gold Coast for its stunning landscapes. The contrast between the natural beauty of the beaches and the modern skyline created the perfect subject. I spent dawn at Currumbin Alley capturing surfers in the golden light, afternoons at Burleigh Head for the panoramic coastal views, and evenings photographing the sunset behind Surfers Paradise. The changing colors and moods of these beaches provided endless inspiration."

— Michael, United States

Beach Events & Festivals

The Gold Coast's beaches come alive with events throughout the year. From world-class surfing competitions to community festivals, there's always something happening on the golden shores.

January

Australia Day celebrations on the beach

Australia Day Beach Festival

Join the celebrations at Kurrawa Beach, Broadbeach for a day of live music, beach games, and spectacular fireworks. This family-friendly event features sand sculpture competitions, beach volleyball tournaments, and traditional Australian barbecues. The event concludes with an impressive fireworks display over the ocean, creating a magical atmosphere. Local artists perform throughout the day, showcasing Australian music talent.

March

Professional surfing competition at Snapper Rocks

World Surf League Championship

Watch the world's best surfers compete at the legendary Snapper Rocks in Coolangatta. This prestigious event draws international competitors and spectators to witness incredible surfing action. The competition is part of the World Surf League Championship Tour and showcases both men's and women's events. Beyond the competitive action, there are beach festivals, live music, and opportunities to meet professional surfers. The event highlights the Gold Coast's reputation as a world-class surfing destination.

June

Ocean Festival with conservation activities

Gold Coast Ocean Festival

This environmentally-focused festival at Burleigh Heads celebrates our oceans with conservation activities, educational displays, and beach cleanups. Visitors can learn about marine life, sustainable practices, and participate in workshops led by environmental experts. The festival includes ocean-themed art exhibitions, documentary screenings, and talks by marine biologists. Children's activities focus on educating the next generation about the importance of ocean conservation. Local sustainable businesses showcase eco-friendly products and services.

September

Australian Sand Sculpting Championships

Australian Sand Sculpting Championships

Marvel at incredible sand creations at Surfers Paradise Beach during this annual competition. International artists transform tons of sand into elaborate sculptures that defy belief. Visitors can watch the artists at work, vote for their favorites, and even participate in amateur competitions. Evening lighting creates dramatic effects on the sculptures, offering a different perspective after sunset. Sand sculpting workshops are available for those inspired to try this unique art form. The event attracts thousands of visitors and is free to attend.

December

Christmas Carols by Candlelight on the beach

Carols on the Beach

Experience the magic of Christmas Australian-style with carols by candlelight on Surfers Paradise Beach. This beloved community event brings together thousands of locals and visitors for an evening of festive performances against the backdrop of the ocean. Families bring picnic blankets and enjoy traditional carols performed by local and national artists. As night falls, the beach is illuminated by thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere. Santa arrives in true Gold Coast style – on a surfboard! The event concludes with a spectacular fireworks display.

Our Beach Partners

We work with trusted local businesses and organizations to enhance your Gold Coast beach experience. These partners help us provide quality information, services, and sustainable beach initiatives.

Surf Life Saving Queensland logo and lifeguards

Surf Life Saving Queensland

Our primary safety partner ensuring all visitors can enjoy the beaches with peace of mind. Their professional lifeguards patrol the Gold Coast beaches year-round.

Gold Coast Eco Rangers conducting beach cleanup

Gold Coast Eco Rangers

Dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of our beaches through regular cleanups, dune restoration, and environmental education programs.

Surfing Queensland logo and event

Surfing Queensland

The official governing body for surfing in Queensland, organizing competitions and promoting surf culture across the Gold Coast.

Tourism and Events Queensland logo

Tourism & Events Queensland

Supporting beach tourism initiatives and promoting the Gold Coast's beautiful coastline to domestic and international visitors.

Helpful Beach Resources

Planning your perfect Gold Coast beach vacation? These trusted resources provide valuable information to enhance your experience and help you make the most of your time on Australia's spectacular coastline.

Gold Coast Travel Tips & Guides

Prepare for your Gold Coast beach vacation with our expert travel guides and insider tips. These resources will help you plan the perfect trip to Australia's premier beach destination.

Seasonal beach guide showing different Gold Coast beaches through seasons

When to Visit: Seasonal Beach Guide

The Gold Coast enjoys a subtropical climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year, but each season offers a different beach experience. Summer (December-February) brings warm water temperatures perfect for swimming but also larger crowds. Autumn (March-May) offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. Winter (June-August) provides clear, mild days ideal for beach walks and whale watching. Spring (September-November) brings warming temperatures and blooming coastal vegetation. This guide helps you choose the perfect time for your visit based on your preferences.

Download Guide
Beach safety guide with flag explanations

Beach Safety Essentials

Safety should be your priority when enjoying Gold Coast beaches. Always swim between the red and yellow flags, which indicate areas patrolled by lifeguards. Learn to identify rip currents, which appear as deeper, darker water with fewer breaking waves. Apply sunscreen regularly, wear a hat and sunglasses, and stay hydrated to prevent heat-related issues. Be aware of marine creatures like bluebottles (Portuguese man-o-war) which can appear seasonally. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to stay safe while enjoying the sun, sand, and surf.

Download Guide
Beach accommodation options from budget to luxury

Where to Stay: Beach Accommodation Guide

The Gold Coast offers accommodation options for every budget and preference. Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach feature high-rise apartments and hotels with ocean views and excellent amenities. Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta offer a more relaxed atmosphere with boutique hotels and vacation rentals. Budget travelers can choose from backpacker hostels or the excellent camping facilities at Tallebudgera Creek and Burleigh Heads. For luxury seekers, five-star resorts in Main Beach and Palm Beach provide exclusive experiences. This guide helps you find the perfect place to stay based on your preferred beach location and budget.

Download Guide
Family-friendly beaches and activities guide

Family-Friendly Beach Guide

Traveling with children? This guide highlights the most family-friendly beaches and activities on the Gold Coast. Currumbin Creek, Tallebudgera Creek, and Palm Beach offer calm, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers. Learn about beaches with nearby playgrounds, picnic facilities, and shade options. The guide includes family-friendly cafes and restaurants close to beaches, as well as rainy day alternatives like the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Sea World. Discover tips for beach days with infants and toddlers, including the best times to visit and essential items to pack.

Download Guide

Behind the Scenes: Preserving Our Beaches

Discover the dedicated efforts that go into maintaining the pristine condition of Gold Coast beaches. From early morning beach cleaning to dune conservation, many people work tirelessly to ensure these beaches remain beautiful for generations to come.

Daily Beach Cleaning Operations

Before most visitors arrive, a fleet of specialized tractors comb the sand, removing debris and maintaining the pristine condition of Gold Coast beaches. These machines operate from 4:00 AM, sifting through the sand to remove litter, seaweed, and other waste. The City of Gold Coast employs dedicated teams who work year-round to ensure beaches remain clean and safe. During peak tourist seasons, additional cleaning runs are scheduled throughout the day. This behind-the-scenes operation is vital to maintaining the Gold Coast's reputation for beautiful beaches.

Dune Conservation Program

The Gold Coast's fragile dune systems are crucial for beach stability and biodiversity. Conservation teams work to protect these ecosystems by planting native species, installing protective fencing, and creating designated walkways to prevent erosion. Volunteer groups participate in regular dune care activities, removing invasive plants and collecting data on native wildlife. These dunes act as natural buffers against coastal erosion and provide habitat for numerous plant and animal species. Educational programs teach visitors about the importance of staying on designated paths to protect these valuable ecosystems.

Water Quality Monitoring

Scientists regularly test the water quality at Gold Coast beaches to ensure safe swimming conditions. These tests measure bacteria levels, clarity, and other parameters that indicate ocean health. Results are publicly available through the Healthy Waterways initiative, allowing visitors to make informed decisions about where to swim. When water quality issues are detected, authorities respond quickly to identify and address the source of pollution. This constant monitoring helps maintain the Gold Coast's reputation for clean, safe beaches and protects both human health and marine ecosystems.

Contact Us

Have questions about Gold Coast beaches or need assistance planning your beach vacation? Our team of local experts is here to help. Fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you with personalized recommendations and information.

Visit Our Information Center

2711 Cavill Avenue
Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Australia

Open daily: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Contact Details

Phone: +61 7 5581 5000

Email: [email protected]

Connect With Us