Explore Burleigh Heads in 24 Hours: Where to Dine, Shop, Swim and Stay

Discover all the best spots to explore in Burleigh Heads in this 24-hour itinerary. Stroll through the National Park, surf the point break, explore some of the best bars and restaurants, bask on the beach and soak up the laidback coastal vibes and natural beauty that this Gold Coast suburb is famous for.

Sunrise: Burleigh Point

Start your day with a dramatic dose of natural beauty watching the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean from John Laws Park on Burleigh Headland. Watch as the first beach-goers head for their morning swim (or join them!), take in the beautiful surrounds and breathe in the salty sea air. 

If you're feeling energetic, take a walk or a run through Burleigh Heads National Park. Follow the Rainforest Circuit to Tumgum Lookout and keep an eye out for humpback whales as they travel along the Queensland Coast on their annual migration from June – November. Naturally, surfers will be keen to take on the waves at the world-famous point break. 

9am: Breakfast at Commune

For breakfast head to Commune. This eclectic vintage café serves up rustic organic meals and a great atmosphere. It’s a constant favourite with locals and has achieved cult status in both Burleigh Heads and the wider Gold Coast region. Commune is a place to hang out with your friends or family, strike up a conversation with a local and tuck in to healthy, wholesome breakfast with coffee of course.

10am: Burleigh Farmers Market

These popular farmers markets are held at Burleigh Heads State School every Saturday from 7am - 12pm. Browse stalls fo fresh farm produce, organic fruit and veggies, gourmet food, flowers, plants and arts and crafts. Soak up the coastal vibes, meet our local growers and enjoy delicious eats, quality coffee and live music in the sunshine.

12:30pm: Lunch at Rick Shores

Indulge in a delicious lunch at this beloved beachfront venue where you're so close to the sea it almost feels like you're on a boat. Rick Shores offers a pan-Asian fine dining menu brimming with fresh, locally sourced produce. Meals here are made to share but you'll definitely want a Moreton Bay Bug Roll all to yourself - this dish has achieved cult status for good reason. Linger awhile with signature cocktails and front row beach views.

2pm: Browse boutiques in James Street

Wander down the central strip of James Street and soak up the seaside village feel. Lined with charming cafes and gelato shops, inspiring restaurants and wine bars, emerging fashion brand boutiques and contemporary art and homeware hubs, James Street embodies coastal luxe.

3pm: Beach time

After some retail therapy, it’s time to hit pause and head to the beach for a relaxing afternoon. The Gold Coast is famous for its glorious beaches and Burleigh Heads is one of the best. Stroll along the sand up to North Burleigh or take a dip, being sure to swim between the flags where life guards can ensure your safety. Then spread your towel out on the sand, lie back and luxuriate in doing absolutely nothing for a while.

5pm: Sundowners with the locals

Indulge in a refreshing beverage at one of Burleigh's favourite beachside bars as the sunsets. Whether you love a locally brewed  beer or a non-alcoholic option, head to one of Burleigh's beachfront venues for the perfect sundowner. Burleigh Pavilion is a favourite for it's buzzing atmosphere and absolutely beachfront location. For a slightly quieter vibe with the same epic outlook, Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park Surf Life Saving Club is always a hit, or pull up a stool at The Crab Pot, a smaller sports bar on the ground floor.

7pm: Dinner at Jimmy Wah's

Send your taste buds into sensory heaven via the exquisite food served up at Jimmy Wah’s - fine dining Vietnamese with an Australian twist. Opt for the Feed Me banquet so you don’t have to deliberate over which dish to try - this way you get seven courses, share plate style. Tempura oysters, betel leaf Barramundi and caramelised pork belly are a good example of the delicacies on offer. Your dining experience will be enhanced by the 5 star service (the staff here are absolute pros) and the incredible cocktail list.

9pm: Explore the bar scene

For post-dinner drinks (or pre-dinner for that matter) you’re spoilt for choice. Burleigh's bar scene is popping off. Check out Justin Lane - a popular rooftop bar with adjoining pizzeria. For creative cocktails in a stylish boutique bar head to Malibu Racquet Club or Rosella's (pictured) and for some late shennanigans, Nightjar or Lockwood is where you want to be. 

Overnight

Burleigh Heads offers a range of accommodation to suit every budget from luxury apartments to camping. Indulge with a stay at Bujerum Apartments on Burleigh Point or book a cabin or campsite at Burleigh Beach Tourist Park, just a stone's throw from the shore. 

Keen to explore more? Check out some of the epic events coming to the Gold Coast in 2025.