Free Things to Do in Burleigh Heads
- Burleigh Gold Coast Motel
- Feb 6
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 hours ago
You do not need to spend money to have a good time in Burleigh. Some of the best stuff here costs nothing.
Beaches and swimming
Burleigh BeachNorth end is patrolled and good for families. South end near the headland has rock pools and fewer people. Get there early and you will have it to yourself.
Tallebudgera CreekIf the ocean is too rough or you have got little kids, this is the spot. Calm water, no waves, no rips. Pack a picnic. SUP and kayak hire is available if you want it, but swimming is free.
Walks and nature
Burleigh Headland National ParkIf you do one thing in Burleigh, do the headland walk. About 2.3km, takes an hour, and you get ocean views the whole way. Wallabies, bush turkeys, and sometimes dolphins or whales if you are lucky. Full walk guide here.
Three trails to choose from:
Oceanview Walk — follows the coastline
Rainforest Circuit — shaded, goes through the bush
Tumgun Lookout — short climb, views north to Surfers
Go early morning or late afternoon. Midday is too hot and too busy.
Burleigh Ridge ParkNot as well known as the headland but locals rate it. Bushland trails, birds, and quiet. Good for a morning run or getting away from the beach crowds.
Justins ParkRight on the beachfront. Grab fish and chips, find a spot on the grass, watch the sunset. Classic.
Whale watching
June to November, humpbacks pass through. Tumgun Lookout and the ocean walk are the best spots on the headland. Bring binoculars if you have them.
Markets
Sunday mornings at Burleigh Heads State School. Produce, handmade goods, food, live music. You will probably end up buying a coffee but browsing costs nothing.
First and third Sunday of the month. Arts, crafts, fashion. Good for a wander.
Window shopping is free. Get a takeaway coffee and walk past the cafes and shops. It is where everyone ends up on a Saturday.
Free live music
No entry fee on Friday and Saturday nights. Live bands, street food. You only pay for what you eat and drink.
BuskersMost weekends there is someone playing near the beach or at the markets.
Free fitness
Outdoor gym at Justins Park — right by the beach
Beach running — hard sand at low tide
Headland stairs — locals use them for cardio
Yoga on the grass — bring a mat, Justins Park
Sunrise and sunset spots
Sunrise at Burleigh Headland — Tumgun Lookout, sun coming up over the water
Sunset at Justins Park — golden light over the hinterland
Miami Headland Lookout — views from Burleigh all the way to Surfers
Weekday evenings are quieter. Better spots, fewer people in your photos.
Day trip — Springbrook National Park
Springbrook National Park is about 45 minutes from Burleigh. Natural Bridge is the highlight — a rock arch with a waterfall and a cave full of glow worms at night. Entry is free. Bring good shoes and check the weather before you go — the hinterland gets wet.
Day trip — Springbrook National Park
Springbrook National Park is about 45 minutes from Burleigh. Natural Bridge is the highlight — a rock arch with a waterfall and a cave full of glow worms at night. Entry is free. Bring good shoes and check the weather before you go — the hinterland gets wet.
Nearly free — under $10
Coffee — $5 to $6 at most cafes
Fish and chips at Justins Park — under $15 for a feed with a view
David Fleay Wildlife Park — well below the big theme park prices
Bus to Coolangatta or Broadbeach — 50 cents with a Go Card
Getting here and getting around
Everything above is walkable or a short bus ride from Burleigh. No car needed.
Bus stop is right out front of the motel.
FAQ
Is Burleigh Beach free to swim at?
Yes. Burleigh Beach is free and patrolled. North end is best for families. South end near the headland is quieter with rock pools.
Is the Burleigh Headland walk free?
Yes. Burleigh Head National Park has no entry fee. The main loop is about 2.3km and takes around an hour.
When is the best time to see whales at Burleigh?
June to November. Head to Tumgun Lookout on the headland for the best vantage point.
Is Springbrook National Park free?
Yes. Springbrook National Park has no entry fee. It is about 45 minutes from Burleigh by car.
Cheap accommodation means more money for doing things. We are a budget motel a short walk from the beach — clean rooms, free parking, free Wi-Fi, and a pool. No hidden fees.
Rooms from $145/night* Book direct at burleighmotel.com.au or call (07) 5576 3211. Best prices.
*Subject to availability. Current rates may vary. No booking fees when you book direct at burleighmotel.com.au or call (07) 5576 3211 to confirm.
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