Top 5 Beaches on the Gold Coast

Australia's Gold Coast is known for its sandy white beaches.

2 min readFeb 5, 2018By Zoë Smith

A surfer rides the waves on a Gold Coast beach

Hi, I'm Zoë!

Zoë Smith is a British travel writer, editor, and digital content creator who has lived, worked, and traveled over six continents, and is currently based near Nantes, France. She has written for Rough Guides, CNN, and Culture Trip, and is digital editor at FrenchEntrée.

With long stretches of white sand, year-round sunshine, and hoards of sun-bronzed surfers, the Gold Coast is everything you’d expect from one of Australia’s most famous vacation spots. Whether you’re seeking surf breaks, family entertainment, or beachfront parties—here’s what to know about beaches along the Gold Coast.

Why you are seeing these recommendations

Surfers Paradise

An aerial view of Surfers Paradise.Photo credit: Martin Valigursky / Shutterstock

With its gorgeous sandy beach, gleaming high-rises lining the seafront, and 24/7 entertainment, Surfers Paradise is the quintessential Gold Coast beach. Surfers Paradise Beach is the place to get your adrenaline pumping, so join a surf class, take a thrilling jet boat ride, or try water sports like jet skiing or flyboarding.

South Stradbroke Island

South Stradbroke Island surfers explore the waves.Photo credit: Mitchell Dann / Shutterstock

Located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, South Stradbroke Island is the ideal day trip destination. Head there on a guided tour to swim and snorkel along the beaches; kayak around Wavebreak Island; or spot dolphins and whales along the coast. With included transportation, equipment and expert guidance and commentary, a tour eliminates the hassle of arranging the trip yourself.

Broadbeach

Broadbeach is a popular spot on the Gold Coast.Photo credit: Darren Tierney / Shutterstock

Kurrawa Beach at Broadbeach is one of the Gold Coast’s most popular family beaches, with grassy picnic areas, lifeguard-patrolled swimming areas, and beach volleyball facilities.

Main Beach

An unspoiled stretch of Main Beach.Photo credit: Fotoaray / Shutterstock

The northernmost beach of the Gold Coast, Main Beach is generally less crowded than Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise, making it a good choice for families or beachgoers who want more space. It’s also home to Sea World, one of Queensland’s most popular attractions.

Burleigh Heads

A surfer checks out the view at Burleigh Heads.Photo credit: Visual Collective / Shutterstock

A local favorite, Burleigh Heads has pristine beaches, great surf, and the Burleigh Heads National Park right on its doorstep. Head there on a Sunday to browse the famous markets, take a walk along the coast or head south to Snapper Rock, one of Australia’s most prized surf beaches. Or visit with a driver-guide as part of a Gold Coast tour and soak in the area’s beauty without worrying about navigation, parking, or car rental.