Why Burleigh Heads is Australia’s coolest coastal escape

In the ’70s, the Gold Coast was leaning into a retro, Cali-cool aesthetic. Burleigh Heads attracted global attention as the centre of Australia’s surf scene with its big barrelling waves. While developers set up their dreams in Surfers Paradise and Sanctuary Cove, filmmakers and photographers flocked to Burleigh Heads, turning the locale into a creative hub built around the point break. It offered an alternative to the glitz that became synonymous with the Gold Coast, carrying a grungier, anti-establishment outlook.

Now, creativity is also channelled into inventive taprooms, wine bars and bakeries, contributing to Burleigh’s rising food scene in the last few years. The suburb is home to heavy-hitters such as elegant neighbourhood bistro Restaurant Labart, where you’ll find European-leaning plates like confit duck leg with onion soubise. There’s also nostalgia-powered bar Rosella’s, shaking Australiana-inspired cocktails such as the Blinky Bill and Fantales; and Lockwood, a speakeasy where you must request entry via text message.

The options make for a buzzing nightlife. A lot of the action is at the perfectly situated Burleigh Pavilion. Its uninterrupted ocean views are difficult to argue with. For something more casual and quiet, there’s modern Asian diner Light Years, and pizzeria and pasta bar Justin Lane. Or walk a few blocks back to Black Hops Brewing, a pioneer of craft beer in Australia.

During the day, there’s only one must-do: head to the beach. Burleigh Beach’s renowned strip of sand is cushioned by bushland, stretching from the coastal trails of Burleigh Head National Park on the headland to the quieter Burleigh Ridge Park. (The latter is where koalas are known to nest.) Both routes offer moderate walks with sweeping views of the water and city, and tree-shrouded pockets of calm – if the sea breeze alone doesn’t do the trick.

On the cafe front, Commune holds strong as one of the first in Burleigh’s wave of new food spots. Close by, Tarte Bakery & Cafe has become a popular spot for its French-inspired pastries and New York-style bagels. For woodfired bread and classic brunch fare served inside a weatherboard cottage, head to Paddock Bakery. (Takeaway bites are best enjoyed under the towering tree outside.)

On Saturday mornings, there’s a community market at Burleigh Heads State School where you can pick up farm produce and flowers, plus wares collected and made by locals. There’s often live music in the background and friendly dogs waiting for a pat.

If you’re looking to get active indoors, sweat it out at Pilates & Co or Peaches Pilates. A short drive will also get you to Greenhouse the Bathhouse, a tranquil spot in nearby Tallebudgera Valley that offers relaxation via a steam room, sauna, mineral spa and massage treatments.

Agent lens

with Braiden Smith from PRD Real Estate Burleigh Heads

We recently handled the off-market sale of a double-storey penthouse in 2024 for $5.775 million. The buyer was instantly drawn to the charm of the older-style layout and has since invested a further $2 million in capital to transform the space into a stunning modern skyhome they’ll enjoy for years to come. It’s been exciting to watch this remarkable transformation unfold. What’s clear is that demand for high-end, luxury apartments in Burleigh Heads continues to grow year after year, both from local buyers and interstate interest.

For sale in Burleigh Heads

CONTACT AGENT

1403/58 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220

3

4

2

View property

Experience resort-style apartment living at this beachfront home on the 14th floor of the Mondrian Gold Coast Residences. It features 18 metres of glistening ocean frontage and an al fresco terrace to soak in golden hour. Plus, enjoy in-house amenities like a pool, spa, steam room, gym, valet and housekeeping, as well as nearby dining in the adjoining restaurants.