What are the best beaches on the Gold Coast

With several kilometres of coastline to choose from, there will definitely be a Gold Coast beach to suit your mood. If you want to soak up some atmosphere as well as the sun’s rays, go to Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, or Broadbeach. If you want a more relaxing swim, try Palm Beach or Burleigh Heads. If you’re after some invigorating waves, try Currumbin or Coolangatta. Wherever you choose to go, you can always enjoy the fine white sand and beautiful blue waters of all Gold Coast beaches.

Surfers Paradise

True to its name, Surfers Paradise is a haven for anyone looking to catch waves. It's also a good place to watch the beautiful people go by as there are plenty of beachgoers, providing a festive vibe. Don't forget to go on a boardwalk stroll, indulge in some retail and dining therapies, or check out the indoor sporting attractions.

Surfers Paradise

Main Beach

Named after the fact that it's the main beach of Southport, this seaside stretch is a great place to enjoy some time in the sun. There are a lot of beachfront hotels and dining establishments to relax at after swimming. If you're holidaying with your canine companion, take them to The Spit at the northern end of Main Beach to meet other dogs.

Main Beach

Broadbeach

With its wide expanse of sand and proximity to important locations, Broadbeach is one of the best places to soak up some sun. Watch the sunrise and go for a swim before heading off to Pacific Fair for some shopping or the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre. In the evening, visit Jupiters Casino to try your luck and have a good time.

Broadbeach Gold Coast

Burleigh Heads

Burleigh's headlands provide both an exposed area that treats surfers to good waves as well as a protected beach that's ideal for a gentle swim. There's also a walking trail that goes around the headland and towards Tallebudgera Creek, a great spot for a dip after the walk. The commercial centre at Burleigh Heads has a lot of excellent places for eating and shopping.

Burleigh Heads

Currumbin

If you're only just starting your surfing adventure, come to Currumbin and learn from one of the surfing schools based here. They take advantage of a surf break known as “The Alley” that provides good conditions for longboarders. The suburb is also known for its wildlife sanctuary. Nearby Currumbin Creek provides protected waters and is an ideal spot for kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding.

Elephant Rock Currumbin

Coolangatta

The Gold Coast Airport is located at Coolangatta, so the suburb's beaches are often the first stop for visitors. Because of its good surfing conditions, many competitions are held here yearly. If you're visiting during the cooler months, take a long stroll around Snapper Rocks and you might just catch a glimpse of whales making their annual migration.

Coolangatta

Palm Beach

If you're looking for a more peaceful place to swim, try Palm Beach. Here you'll see beach shacks instead of skyscrapers in the background, making it feel more laidback. Palm Beach has thrice been named as Australia's cleanest beach, and its locals hold regular clean-ups to keep the area tidy.

Palm Beach