The Gold Coast, Australia has no shortage of golden sands and sparkling blue waters. Each beach has its own personality, making each type of person drawn to different ones.Are you after family fun, world-class surf, bohemian vibes, or a quiet spot away from the crowds? Get ready to roll out your towel and discover your new favourite seaside escape with this ultimate local’s guide to the best beaches on the Gold Coast.
Tallebudgera Creek Beach
A jewel-toned estuary fringed by calm waters, Tallebudgera Creek is where locals head for a fuss-free beach day. Its protected shallows make it a favourite for families, stand-up paddleboarders, and even yoga enthusiasts.
🌿 Local tip: For the best first glimpse, start at Burleigh Hill and follow the 15-minute coastal track around Burleigh Head National Park until the creek comes into a breathtaking view.
🍴 Recommended eats: Grab a Portuguese tart from Custard Canteen or fuel up with brunch at Espresso Moto. Later, head to Wildernis or rooftop hotspot The Collective Palm Beach.
Surfers Paradise Beach
The world-famous heart of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise is an essential stop. It will enthrall you with its golden sands, palms framing your photos, and a lively boulevard buzzing with skaters, cyclists, and holiday vibes. Despite the crowds, there’s always room to lay down a towel.
🌅 Local tip: For unbeatable views, head up 270 metres to SkyPoint Climb. Beach matting and wheelchairs are also available from September to May (ask at Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club).
🍴 Recommended eats: The dining options are endless, from casual eats at BMD Northcliffe Surf Club to seafood feasts at Seascape.
Main Beach
With its sweeping sand dunes and mellow vibe, Main Beach offers a calmer alternative to bustling Surfers Paradise. Stretching north to The Spit (a dog-friendly haven), this beach is great for long walks, surf lessons, and glimpses across to South Stradbroke Island.
🚴 Local tip: The Gold Coast Oceanway, a 36km walking and cycling path, kicks off here.
🍴 Recommended eats: Classic fish and chips by the sea or something fancier overlooking the yachts at Glass Dining.
4. Broadbeach
Slightly less hectic than Surfers but still glam, Broadbeach is loved for its wide sands, lively events, and family-friendly Pratten Park with playgrounds and BBQs. If you’re looking for luxury accommodations and buzzing nightlife with a mix of relaxed coastal living, Broadbeach is a great pick.
🎶 Local tip: Time your visit with festivals like Blues on Broadbeach or Groundwater Country Music Festival for beachside tunes.
🍴 Recommended eats: Start your day at Elk Espresso or Cardamom Pod, sip beers at The Loose Moose, and dine around the globe with restaurants like Kiyomi (Japanese), Orzo (Italian), or Mamasan (Asian fusion).
5. Mermaid Beach
Another great option for those looking for a seaside calm, Mermaid Beach is down-to-earth with quiet sands and squeaky-fine grains. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and lower-rise development, Mermaid Beach offers a peaceful alternative to the bustling areas of Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.
🌊 Local tip: Wander south to Nobby Beach and Miami for local vibes and headland views.
🍴 Recommended eats: Treat yourself at Bam Bam Bakehouse, Bonita Bonita for Mexican, or hit Miami Marketta for a buzzing night market experience.
6. Burleigh Heads
Ask any local, and they’ll say: Burleigh is magic. This surfy-meets-boho enclave is framed by Norfolk pines and backed by lush Burleigh Headland. Chase the perfect waves, have lazy picnics on Burleigh Hill, or boutique browsing on James Street–Burleigh has it all.
Local tip: Have a picnic at the Burleigh Point Lookout while taking in the beachfront view.
🍴 Recommended eats: Rick Shores, Burleigh Pavilion, and The Tropic are just as iconic as the beach. Add rooftop bars and cosy cafes into the mix, and you’ve got a foodie paradise.
7. Currumbin
For a slower pace, Currumbin is a coastal gem with a charming, small-town feel. Currumbin Creek is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, while Currumbin Alley is beloved for its mellow waves, suited to all surfing levels.
🍺 Local tip: Don’t miss Balter Brewing—started by pro surfers, it’s the ultimate tank-to-tap craft beer experience.
🍴 Recommended eats: Brunch at The Salt Mill or casual beachfront dining at Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Club.
Final Dip
From glitzy Surfers Paradise to serene Tallebudgera Creek and bohemian Burleigh, the Gold Coast has a beach for every vibe. If you’re around to surf, swim, or simply soak up the sunshine with a good coffee in hand, pick a beach that best suits what you’re looking for and prove for yourself what the locals know: life’s better by the beach.