Things to do

Geological processes continue as the masses of hexagonal basalt columns, once part of a lava flow from the Tweed Volcano, become exposed to weathering and erosion from the ocean and elements.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Watch for humpback whales during winter and spring.

Photo credit: © Darren Jew/Tourism and Events Queensland

Camping and accommodation

Camping

Camping is not permitted in Burleigh Head National Park.

Other accommodation

There is a wide range of holiday accommodation on the Gold Coast.

For more information see the tourism information links.

Walking

• Burleigh Head National Park map (PDF, 112.3KB)
• DANGER boulder fall zone, Restricted access area—Oceanview track (PDF, 100.9KB)
• DANGER boulder fall zone, Restricted access area—Rainforest circuit (PDF, 99.6KB)

Graded walking tracks give easy access to the park’s most interesting features. Each track is classified according to Australian Standards.

Key to track standards

The classification system is based on Australian Standards. Please note that while each track is classified according to its most difficult section, other sections may be of an easier level.

Grade 2 track

• No bushwalking experience required.
• The track is a hardened surface and may have gentle hill sections and occasional steps.

Grade 3 track

• Suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
• Some bushwalking experience recommended.
• Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface and many steps.

Oceanview walk (Grade 2)

Distance: 1.2km one-way

Time: Allow about 30min walking time

Details: This track skirts the coastline leading around the rocky headland from Tallebudgera Creek to the southern edge of Burleigh Heads township.

You can look at the tumbled masses of six-sided basalt columns, and relax by the creek at Echo Beach. You can either return by the same path or via the Rainforest circuit and Tumgun lookout.

For the safety of visitors, a section of Oceanview walk may be temporarily closed before, during and after severe weather, due to the increased risk of rock falls. Go to Park alerts to check the latest information on track closures.

Rainforest circuit (Grade 3)

Distance: 2.3km return

Time: Allow about 45min walking time

Details: Most of this track is an easy grade, but there is a steep section in the middle near Tumgun lookout. The lookout is a good place to watch for humpback whales splashing offshore in winter and spring.

Picnic and day-use areas

A council picnic area and toilets are located near the northern entrance to the park along Goodwin Terrace. Toilets are also located near the southern entrance in the car park—these are managed by the Gold Coast City Council.