Gold Coast's Best Beaches: A Local's Guide to Where to Swim, Surf, and Unwind
The Gold Coast, Queensland, is home to some of the most diverse and beautiful beaches in Australia — but ask any local, and they’ll tell you: it’s not just about the surf and sand, it’s about community, lifestyle, and knowing where to go depending on your vibe.
Whether you're looking for a dog-friendly beach, a safe swimming spot for kids, a vibrant dining scene by the water, or world-class point breaks, this guide breaks down the best local beaches on the Gold Coast — with insights that go beyond the usual tourist trail.
1. Palm Beach – Dog Beach, Surf, and Serenity in One
Location: Palm Beach
Best for: Dog-friendly days, surfers, long walks, and peaceful beach vibes.
Locals love Palm Beach for its wide sandy stretches, laid-back feel, and dedicated off-leash dog beach between Tallebudgera and Currumbin Creek — one of the best on the Gold Coast. With consistent surf, space to spread out, and a great mix of locals and families, it’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed beach day without the heavy crowds.
Why it’s great:
Dog-friendly beach access
Excellent surf conditions with fewer crowds
Long walks and a peaceful, community feel
Local cafés and eateries nearby
2. Tallebudgera Creek – Calm Waters for Kids and Paddleboarders
Location: Tallebudgera
Best for: Families with young kids, paddleboarding, picnics.
Tallebudgera Creek is one of the Gold Coast’s most loved calm water spots. Sheltered from the waves, it’s ideal for little ones, making it a go-to for local families. It’s also a hot spot for kayaking, SUP, and floating around all day in clear, turquoise waters. Shaded picnic areas and grassy parks make it perfect for a full day out.
Why it’s great:
No waves – safe for young children
Great for stand-up paddleboarding and swimming
Family picnic zones and shaded areas
Short walk to Burleigh Heads
3. Rainbow Bay – Safe for Kids, Epic for Surfers
Location: Rainbow Bay (Coolangatta)
Best for: Families, beginner surfers, point breaks.
Rainbow Bay offers the best of both worlds — calm, protected waters for swimming and family fun, plus world-famous point breaks that attract surfers from around the globe. Locals love it for its welcoming vibe, scenic views, and proximity to Snapper Rocks and Greenmount. It’s one of the Gold Coast’s most liveable surf zones for all ages and skill levels.
Why it’s great:
Family-friendly beach with gentle entry
Perfect waves wrapping around the point
Connected to Greenmount and Coolangatta boardwalk
Close to great local dining and shops
4. Burleigh Heads – Culture, Coastal Walks & Beachfront Dining
Location: Burleigh Heads
Best for: Surf culture, national park walks, beachside dining.
Burleigh is the cultural heart of the southern Gold Coast — home to iconic surf breaks, stunning headland walks through Burleigh Head National Park, and one of the best beachside restaurants in Queensland, Rick Shores. It’s where Gold Coast lifestyle truly comes to life, whether you’re catching waves, picnicking by the Norfolk pines, or grabbing a bite post-swim.
Why it’s great:
Authentic Gold Coast surf culture
Beautiful walks with ocean views
Direct access to Burleigh National Park
Dine beachfront at Rick Shores or Burleigh Pavilion
5. Broadbeach – Vibrant, Central, and Great for Families
Location: Broadbeach
Best for: Swimming, volleyball, shopping and dining access.
Broadbeach blends a vibrant urban energy with beachside charm. Locals love it for its family-friendly facilities, volleyball courts, and proximity to major precincts like Pacific Fair and The Star Casino. It’s one of the most walkable beach areas on the Coast, with grassy areas for picnics, a safe patrolled beach, and a buzzing café and dining scene.
Why it’s great:
Walk to dining, shops, and entertainment
Family-friendly parks and playgrounds
Volleyball courts and wide beach access
Close to light rail and major attractions
6. Kirra Beach – Laid-Back Surf and Swim Spot Near Coolangatta
Location: Kirra
Best for: Surfers, swimmers, and beachgoers after a local feel.
Kirra Beach is a local favourite thanks to its world-class right-hand point break and relaxed atmosphere. The beach has a unique mix of calm sections for swimmers and more powerful surf for the experienced crowd. It’s walking distance to the cafés and boutiques of Coolangatta, but still retains a peaceful, community feel.
Why it’s great:
Top-tier waves for surfers
Calm zones safe for swimmers
Less crowded than nearby Rainbow Bay or Snapper
Friendly, local atmosphere
7. Main Beach – Space, Surf and Upscale Dining Nearby
Location: Main Beach
Best for: Spacious beach days, dining, and walks.
Main Beach offers a great blend of wide open beaches, off-leash dog areas nearby, and close proximity to Marina Mirage and Tedder Avenue’s upscale cafés and restaurants. It’s perfect for those who want space, access to good food, and a bit more peace than Surfers Paradise.
Why it’s great:
Wide beach with fewer crowds
Excellent surf and beach access
Upscale dining and boutique shopping close by
Great walking and cycle tracks
8. Surfers Paradise – Iconic and Energetic
Location: Surfers Paradise
Best for: Tourists, first-time visitors, and nightlife lovers.
Yes, it's touristy — but it’s iconic for a reason. Surfers Paradise is the Gold Coast’s most recognisable beach, with its 3km stretch of golden sand, bustling esplanade, and buzzing nightlife. While locals tend to favour quieter beaches, Surfers is still a go-to for visitors and events.
Why it’s great:
Easily accessible with loads of amenities
Ideal for first-time visitors and tourists
Surrounded by entertainment, shopping, and dining
Great for a lively beach day or evening outing
Living the Local Beach Life on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is more than just beaches — it's about the communities that surround them, the lifestyle they offer, and the property opportunities they present. Whether you’re raising a family, building a portfolio, or simply want to know the best place to spend your weekends, understanding the nuances of each beach helps you live — and buy — better.
At Buywell Advocacy, we know the Coast like locals because we are locals.
Looking to buy near the best beaches on the Gold Coast?
Book your strategy session and let us help you find a property that fits your lifestyle and goals.