Explore the Gold Coast by Tram: Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads

The Gold Coast just got even easier to explore, with the latest stage of the G:link tram network now connecting Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads. The new 6.7-kilometre extension adds eight stations along the southern Gold Coast, opening up easy access to some of the city’s best beaches, cafes, markets, restaurants, breweries, wellness experiences and natural attractions. Whether you’re planning a sunrise hike up Burleigh Headland, a leisurely day of markets and local eats, a beach-hopping adventure or a weekend of wining and dining, the tram makes getting around the Gold Coast a breeze. With frequent services, affordable fares and dedicated surfboard storage, you can leave the car behind and discover more of the coastline at your own pace. From where to hop off and what to see along the way, to handy travel information and ready-made itinerary ideas, here’s your guide to exploring the southern Gold Coast by tram.

Need to Know

🚊 The new stretch of the tram line connects Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads with eight new stations altogether. Mermaid Beach - Mermaid Beach South - Nobby Beach - Miami North - Miami - Christive Avenue - Second Avenue - Burleigh Heads.
🚊The tram journey from Broadbeach to Burleigh will take around 17 minutes. Trams will be operating every 7.5 minutes from 7am to 7pm, (less frequently outside these times with the last tram departing at 12.08am)
🚊 All public transport fares in Queensland are a flat rate of 50 per journey, no matter how far you go.
🚊Tap on and tap off with a go card or contactless payment, or purchase a paper ticket at the G:link station before you ride.
🚊The tram caters to travellers with mobility issues. See detailed information about accessible travel on the G:link network here. 

Tram Travel - Itinerary Ideas for Southern Gold Coast 

Make the most of this mode of transport and explore local attractions near each new tram stop.

Early Bird

Get the first tram to Burleigh to start the day off right. Get your steps up and take on the trails that lead up and around Burleigh Headland for pretty rainforest scenery, good inclines and spectacular views from elevated lookouts. Grab coffee or breakfast in one of the excellent cafes and bakeries along James Street in Burleigh. Try Tarte Bakehouse or Social Brew Burleigh. This is how we Get Up And Gold Coast.

Catch the Tram to the Markets

Visit the local farmers markets held at Burleigh Heads State School every Saturday  from 7am. On the last Sunday of every month from 8am - 2pm, Gold Coast Arts & Craft Market is held in the beachfront park on The Esplanade between First and Third Ave. For both of these markets, get off at Second Avenue Station.

Hop off at Miami North station and walk a few hundred metres to Miami Marketta. This versatile openair (but undercover!) laneway precinct is home to global street food markets, live music venues and boutique bars. Vist on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm. And every month or so, they host Love Me Again Markets on a Saturday morning, where  you can shop rocks of pre-loved fashion. 

Weekend Wellness 

Start your day with a session at Soak Bathhouse followed by a healthy wholesome breakfast at BSKT or House of Halsa.

Natural Attractions

Get off at Miami Station, walk along Santa Monica Rd to the beach then head south along the beachfront walking path. It will take you to the famous Rainbow Stairs at the base of North Burleigh  Headland. Climb them and you’ll find  yourself at Mick Shamburg Park lookout with sweeping vistas of the coastline. 

Fine Dining 

For an elevated dining experience, head to Light Years (Second Ave Station), Little Truffle (Mermaid Beach South), or take your pick from Burleigh’s offerings - Jimmy Wah’s, La bart,  Rick Shores or The Tropic (Burleigh Heads Station).

Craft Brewery Tour

Take the tram to explore some of the Gold Coast’s favourite boutique breweries. Precinct Brewing and Roji Cat are a short walk away from Christine Avenue Station and Padre Beer Co is close to Miami North Station. Drop in and sample a local ale.

Surf & Swim

Alight at any of the tram stops between Broadbeach and Burleigh and you’ll be within a few minutes walk from a stretch of golden sun kissed sand with your name on it. If you’re keen on a swim, stick to the patrolled parts of the beach and swim between the flags. Chasing some waves? No worries - the G:link tram has dedicated storage racks for surfboards.

Stroll Along the Shoreline

Catch the tram one way, and walk back along the beach, stopping for brunch and cold brews along the way.

Coming from Brisbane?

Catch the train to Helensvale Station then transfer to the G:link tram network for convenient travel from Helensval all the way to Burleigh Heads.

Need to know more? Check out our blog on Gold Coast public transport.