They’re bacon us hungry!
They’re bacon us hungry!
Breakfast and Burleigh go together like all of our favourite things. Bread and butter, eggs and bacon, macaroni and cheese, gin and tonic… you get this gist. And as you can probably tell, we’re partial to a good old breakfast.
What’s not to love about breakfast? And even more, what’s not to love about Burleigh? You’ve got sun, sand, surf and a boat load of egg-cellent spots to fill up and fuel up to get the day going. It is the most important meal of the day after all.
We took it upon ourselves to do the hard task of eating our way around one of our fave beachside suburbs to determine who exactly has the best brekky’s on offer and it did not disappoint. Here’s our pick of 10 of the best breakfast eats in Burleigh. Just don’t scramble to get to them all at once!
Commune
Back to where it all began, Commune has stood the test of time when it comes to bringing the breakfast goods and if you’ve been, you’ll know why. Recently taken over by the Blackboard crew, the menu is brimming with classics and new flavours. Their Eggs Florentine stacked on one of the best potato rosti’s going around is an all-time pick of ours. They’ve got acai bowls on tap along with their fan-fave chorizo burrito – it’s an IYKYK situation.
Where: 1844 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Palm Springs
You’ve no doubt seen this Palm Springs inspired brekky haunt taking pride of place on the Gold Coast Highway. It’s hard to miss the slice of California desert in the heart of Burleigh. Take it from us, the food is as fabulous as the space is gorgeous. Their Breakfast Tacos are an obvious front-runner for our favourite breakfast pick. We adore the Chicken & Waffles with southern fried chicken, chipotle mayo and maple syrup for a delicious taste of the US.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Tarte Bakery
It’s the spot that almost doesn’t need an introduction because if you haven’t been to the Euro-inspired café then where have you been?! They’ve been reinventing the breakfast game with dishes like their loaded bagels (hello Bullseye Bang) and their iconic Tomato Soup – if you’ve seen it, you’ll get it. If you’re more about a liquid breakfast then the Parisian Hot Chocolate is a no brainer, or the Breakfast Mary if you like a bit of a kick. We’re also pretty sure it’s illegal to leave without one of their baked goods. Get the strawberry muffin top and thank us later.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Local
Right in the heart of Burleigh you’ll find this spot that’s become a firm favourite among locals – that’s right, it’s not just in the name. It’s big, it’s busy and it serves up a mean breakfast – which is obviously a prerequisite on a breakfast list. Local is our go-to for those tried and tested brekky must-haves, think French Toast for the sweet tooth and Chilli Scramble (because what’s not to love). No acai bowl? No problem because they’ve done one better – the Acai Panna Cotta with coconut sorbet is the freshest twist on a GC staple but we’re into it.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Social Brew
James Street has long been the heart of Burleigh when it comes to all things food, fashion and fun and tucked away in the Big B Arcade is Social Brew. A bustling melting pot of Gold Coasters, from brekky dates to catch ups with friends and people working over a bite to eat, the people watching is almost as good as the food. Stay for a good time and a long time if that’s your vibe, with breakfast turning into lunch on the reg. The Truffle Mushroom Bruschetta and Nasi ‘Brew’eng are must-try’s for a reason.
Where: 34-36 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Paddock Bakery
Remember when Paddock Bakery changed the game with their epic sweet treats and loaded donuts? How could we ever forget, we’re grateful for it pretty much every day. But they’re so much more than just baked goods, tucked away in their little weatherboard haven is a bakehouse so as you can imagine – they’re big on bread and their menu shows. The best part? After you’ve filled up on food, you can take home some of their bakehouse goods – whether it’s an Almost Croissant Cookie or their signature Sourdough.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Two Yolks
If anyone knows a thing or two about eggs, it’s these guys – some may even call them eggs-perts. And what’s breakfast without eggs? As far as we’re concerned, even breakfast time is burger time so you bet we were pumped when we saw the menu loaded with things like the Triple B (Big Brekky Burger) and the Two Yolks Grande Burrito filled with scrambled eggs (naturally), tater tots, guac, bacon, halloumi and chipotle aioli. The unsung hero of their brekky menu is the Tater Tots aka potato gems though, get the morsels of crispy goodness as a side or you’ll have fomo later.
Where: 13 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
Pretty Handsome
They’re baaaack and they’re better than ever, if we do say so ourselves. With a schmick fresh look and their ripper original menu – plus some new additions of course – Pretty Handsome has been a sight for sore eyes and we’re just pretty darn happy that we’ve got their Breaky Wrap Combo back. Seriously, what’s not to love about a wrap and a coffee combo for $12.50 – we’re in a cost of living crisis, people!
Where: 18 Christine Avenue, Burleigh Heads
Plantation House Cafe
This pretty little spot is all about great breakfast and gorgeous interiors, with fresh clean interiors, a lush green wall and of course, a hot pink neon it’s giving Instagrammable and we love it. The team at Plantation are big fans of a sweet breakfast moment and you will be too with Pancakes served with poached pear, salted caramel, crumble and ice cream – we’re drooling just thinking about it. If savoury is more of your flavour then try the Fritter Stack, we promise it won’t disappoint.
Where: 1/43 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads
Parlour Coffee
It might not be in the centre of the Burleigh hustle and bustle but does that mean we love Parlour Coffee any less? Absolutely not. In fact, that’s one of the things we love about it most. Seasonal menu. Tick. Epic coffee. Tick. Space to soak up the sunshine (with SPF obviously). Tick. Dog friendly. Tick. It’s got everything we look for in a brekky spot and more. Treat yo’self with the Benny Croissant and if that’s not enough indulgence, try a twist on your usual coffee with their Tiramisu Latte.
Where: 34 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
It's coffee time... all the time.
Is it ever too late for a cup of the good stuff? The haters will say yes, but the loyal bean lovers will argue otherwise and frankly – we agree!
For those who love themselves a coffee (isn’t that all of us?), getting yourself a cup of steamy — or icy — inspiration after 3pm is tough. We’re aware most cafes close around 1pm, or at a push 2pm. And that’s all perfectly well and fine. However, if your cravings for caffeine don’t have any sense of time, this situation undoubtedly causes you some unnecessary upset.
You want to organise an afternoon meeting but everywhere is closed? We hear you. Put down the Google search because we’ve done the heavy lifting and found the Gold Coast’s best spots serving up the good stuff after 3pm. These cafes recognise that coffee never sleeps and continue to serve it well into the afternoon, and in some cases, the evenings. So when those mid-afternoon caffeine withdrawals start to kick in, fear not, we got you.
You know, weekdays aren’t the only time you need a late arvo coffee moment – and Tarte Beach House understood the assignment. Your nights get later come Friday to Sunday so it just makes sense that they’re on the tools until 4pm – the perfect time for your last brew before you start taking your coffee in espresso martini form.
Where: Shop 1 2/4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin
The ultimate little coffee nook for your afternoon pick me up, Nook have been brewing the goods for as long as we can remember and lucky for us – they do it until 4.30pm every week day. Bonus points that it’s in primo location for the parents among us desperate for some coffee goodness post school pick up.
Where: Stocklands Burleigh, 149 W Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads
Southern Gold Coasters have we found a treat for you, one of the newest cafes on our foodie scene, Black Dingo is already loved by locals for pouring up cups of liquid gold until 4pm. Serving up fantastic coffee AND the most epic ocean views, we don’t need to convince you why to check this one out.
Where: 1 Tweed Terrace, Coolangatta
Our knight in shining coffee (and treaties), this Broadbeach institution is known for satisfying your coffee craving all. day. long. Fear not because their coffee machine is on until 6pm and bonus points for the fact that you can finish with a cookie croissant – if there’s any left, that is!
Where: Oasis Shopping Centre, 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Should you find yourself in Sanctuary Cove after a mini shopping spree, a game of golf, parking up your superyacht (same) or decadent dinner at one of The Marine Village’s iconic restaurants, this gelateria is serving up delicious gelato right up until late (9pm in fact). The same is said for their perfectly made coffee, which you can have poured over gelato. Just saying…
Where: Shop 39a Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove
Fixx my name, coffee fix by nature, one of our favourite spots inside QT Gold Coast just gets that once the clock strikes twelve we’re still looking for the good stuff aka coffee. Pop in for the crowd favourite high tea or if you’re on the run, takeaways are on the table until 4pm.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
With owner Davide holding a Diploma of Gelato making from the Gelato University of Carpigiani in Italy (no joke), you’d be right to have a sneaking suspicion the gelato here is likely out of this world. And in truth: it is! Mix it with all-day (until 9.30pm-10pm every night) served coffee utilising beans roasted in Italy, and you have a slice of Europe in Coolangatta. Bellissimo!
Where: 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Being one of the Gold Coast’s best roasters and dispensaries of magnificent coffee is not enough for these guys, oh no. They also have an adjoining café space with out-of-this-world sweet treats and coffee flowing till 5pm during the week (4pm Sundays) – we’ll cheers to that.
Where: Shop 3G10, Capri Via Roma, Surfers Paradise
If coffee is a happy part of your life (and if it isn’t, are you okay?) then you’ll want to pay a visit to these guys in Southport for you CBD folks. With pretty much every known piece of coffee apparatus under one roof, you can’t go wrong. They also roast on-site and serve coffee right up till 6pm most days (5.30pm Sundays), so you know it’s good.
Where: Brickworks Ferry Road, 107 Ferry Rd, Southport
All that walking (or running if that’s what tickles your fancy) is thirsty work so before you hit the pavement, we’re guessing you’re going to need a cheeky caffeine hit. Enter: The Kiosk Burleigh, answering our coffee prayers all the way up until 7pm – never too late for a latte if you ask us.
Where: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Sourdough dreams and coffee schemes, Burleigh Baker has both rising to perfection. This village gem keeps the espresso flowing until 4pm, making it the perfect pitstop for a post-surf latte or an afternoon loaf run. With their “food integrity” mantra and artisan bread at the heart of everything they do, you’ll leave feeling nourished, caffeinated, and maybe a little smug about your healthy gut.
Where: 13/50 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Never too late for a latte, and definitely never too late for a croissant. Luna’s Deli in Coolangatta keeps the coffee machine humming until 5pm (closed Mondays), so your arvo caffeine (and pastry) fix is well and truly covered. Think golden croissants, glossy pains au chocolat, and silky flat whites that’ll carry you right through to knock-off. Add in the ocean breeze and a cabinet of buttery treasures? Oui, chef.
Where: 7/120 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Night owls, rejoice, your coffee cravings don’t have to clock off at 3pm. Marketta Coffee Bar is fuelling the laneway with smooth brews from 5pm ‘til late (every Wednesday – Saturday), whether you’re after a straight-up espresso, a cheeky boozy iced coffee, or a Biscoff milkshake that deserves its own fan club. They’ve even got traditional affogato on the menu (because coffee + dessert = love story). Using top-notch beans from That’s Whyld Coffee Roasters, this spot proves caffeine after dark is always a good idea.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski and Belinda Symons
From brunch bites to cocktails – Local Burleigh can do it all.
There for us through thick and thin with an ice cold bevvy in hand – a trip to our beloved local should feel like a warm embrace from an old friend, no? While our beloved parmy isn’t going anywhere anytime soon (you’ll have to pry it out of our cold, dead hands, first) – we can all agree the triumphant transformation of our national pub scene into slick Kingfish Ceviche and cocktail slinging havens is the plot twist we are absolutely here for.
If it’s elevated eats, sips and good vibes without gatekeeping you’re craving, Local Burleigh is one such dependable yet dapper drinking hole, serving up the full gastro-pub experience from breakfast through dinner (and beyond… think drool-worthy midnight bar bites!).
With multiple airy and light-filled spaces, and the only beer garden in Burleigh Heads, parched and peckish punters can bid adieu to sticky-floored dungeons of yore and say hello to a versatile sip spot to bookend their day. From freshly-brewed coffee and Mimosa Carafe studded brunch feasts of Crab Benedict and Tropical Bircher that morph effortlessly into knock-off froths, Charcuterie and sundowners as the afternoon looms – Local is sure to have the tonic to what ails you.
Located a stone’s throw from Justin’s Park, Local is right in the heart of all the beachfront action, ready and waiting with your preferred libation at a moment’s notice. Providing that perfect balance between chic and laidback vibes we can never resist. Whether you want to perch in the sunny beer garden or venture inside to enjoy the skylight-studded modern industrial interior dripping in greenery. Or for those who just want to shoot the breeze over a sneaky brew or two, you can’t beat the prime people watching vantage of the high top seating in the leafy, front terrace surrounds.
Local is more than just a pretty face with an impressive selection of brews. The menu ticks all the boxes, too. Classic pub mainstays like house-made Chicken Schnitzels and Parmys mingle alongside inventive pub grub takes like vego-friendly Pumpkin Parmies and Salmon Niçoise Salad, served with flaked Atlantic salmon, kipflers, green beans, kalamata olive, cherry tomatoes, cos, anchovy mayo and a soft-boiled egg. If you’re feeling particularly fancy (or famished) – indulge in a feast fit for a king, with options like Kingfish ceviche, Oysters, and Black Onyx Wagyu Rump, served with shoestring fries.
If crafted bevs are the way to your heart, just wait til you feast your eyes upon the whopping selection of shaken and stirred concoctions, such as the Lamington Martini or Peanut Butter Old Fashioned. The good vibes are guaranteed to be flowing just as freely as the frosty refreshments, with live music going down weekly at Local Friday–Sunday afternoons ’til late.
Phwoar… Local, we’re in love.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
When: 6.30am – late, Wednesday – Sunday
Words by Kellie Leader
STORY SPONSORED BY LOCAL BURLEIGH
Bug rolls, the beloved hill and local brews.
Oh, Burleigh, you little beauty, what’s not to love, right? Since the dawn of time (or the dawn of the GC at least), Burleigh has been one of the most-loved suburbs amongst a slew of strong contenders.
Sure, the beach is beautiful (that Hill is iconic for a reason) and James Street boasts all the best eats and acai bowls galore, but it’s more than that. Burleigh has a soul of its own born of cruisy, barefoot, salty sea breeze vibes you simply won’t find anywhere else. Gushing aside, we’ve found the best of Burleigh so you don’t have to.
Here’s our guide to the best eats, bars, shopping spots and places to visit so you can see why the locals love it and you should too (or else). We always say, when in Burleigh, do as the locals do.
Perched three floors high, within the stunning new Mondrian Gold Coast, is Haven. What is the Haven, you ask? It’s a nothing-short-of-exceptional beach club, spanning a refined yet relaxed dining room, private cabanas, a full-service pool club and a sunset bar. Whether you’re brunching in your bikini or toasting at twilight, Haven is where it’s at. As the sun sets, the evening comes alive with a soundtrack of DJs, curated playlists and live performances.
Where: Level 3/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Literally opening out onto the sand at Burleigh Beach, Rick Shores is loved not just by locals but globally for its stunning sunset views and those tiny little taste sensations, otherwise known as Bug Rolls. If you’ve never tasted one, you’ve been wasting your life (seriously). Make a booking RIGHT NOW and order like 5. Wash them down with one of Rick’s signature cocktails, and you’re a bona fide Burleigh-ite.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If you’re looking for fancy food but with the relaxed vibe that’s quintessentially Burleigh, look no further. The stunning space offers incredible Vietnamese dishes inspired by trips to Vietnam, tasting some of the very best street food in the world every single day. Sounds epic! It’s a refined style of dining paired with mouthwatering cocktails and a sleek, pared-back vibe. Jimmy Wahs is one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive eateries, and we are big fans.
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
The fine dining venue has become part of the fabric of Burleigh’s bustling heart, but it’s also become one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations. Tucked away on West Street, the five-star, seasonal-produce-led restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Trust us, your dining experience here won’t be easily forgotten. The produce is sustainable, and the wine list features some of the most stunning natural wines in the world. The service is impeccable too, but in a fun, not-too-formal way. We LOVE.
Where: 2A/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Après Surf is your friendly neighbourhood bar in Burleigh. If a crisp beer, indulgent pub-style eats, and DJ beats sound like your pint of lager, this place is for you. It’s plain ol good vibes from 5pm daily (except Tuesdays) with DJs every weekend! Head there on a Thursday for $1 dumplings and free stand-up comedy from 8pm! Doesn’t get much better than that, and Burleigh locals know it.
Where: 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
They started off as a taco-slinging hole-in-the-wall in Palm Beach in 2021, instantly becoming a cult favourite. Now, they’ve levelled things up with a move to Burleigh. Think bigger and better space, with the same beloved laid-back Aussie beach culture, and big Mexican flavours we all know and love. The new location invites you to settle in, sip a marg (or three) and let the good vibes take you to Mexico. Batanga, anyone?
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Looking for a Burleigh locals’ guide to the best fish and chips in town? Look no further. And this place doesn’t just stop at fish and chips (even though we wouldn’t recommend going past them). They also serve fresh poke bowls and vibrant superfood bowls, plus a range of Bali-inspired dishes that reel in people from all over; they’re that good. Think flavour-packed Gado-Gado, nasi goreng and Bali satay chicken sticks. Wash it down with a premium cocktail and watch Burleigh come to life (this place is in a prime people-watching locale).
Where: 1716 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is run by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Rebecca Heininger, alongside their daughter, Jaime. Since opening in late 2025, they’ve been serving scoops of authentic, 100% natural Italian gelato to Burleigh locals (and visitors), and we cannot be more thankful. The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate-hazelnut scoop made with homemade hazelnut paste from Piemonte, Italy. Then, for those who like to gulp down their gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. Can we get a hell yeah?
Where: 7/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
As you cruise down the GC Highway, the striking red and white umbrellas and festoon lights grab your attention and give you a whiff of what awaits inside. Crispy Italian is where to head when you’ve got a hankering for wood-fired pizza done insanely well. You’ll get a fun, laid-back vibe and a menu stacked with la pasta, la pizza, woodfired gnocchi and desserts impossible to resist. Did someone say Aperol spritz? Oh yeah, that was us.
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Local is one of those venues that just gets it. Equal parts polished and laidback, this Burleigh favourite nails the brief from morning through to late arvo and beyond, making it the kind of place you pop into “just for one” and somehow leave with a full camera roll and a new core memory. With multiple spaces to suit every vibe, from the fairy light–lit beer garden and fully stacked tinnie bar to plush indoor booths and a main bar made for game days, Local is built for long hangs, big feeds and even bigger catch-ups. The menu covers all bases (classic pub grub, elevated plates and a few fancy moments for good measure) and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s a good reason this gem is heaving at all hours: the home of the iconic muffin top (IYKYK) and some of the best coffee in town. It’s not just locals who love it – you’ll find Gold Coasters and beyond flocking here for a taste of the goods. Come for a coffee and to get around their huge menu with something for everyone – literally, it’s impossible to not love something. Plus, we’re pretty sure it’s mandatory to leave with a pastry in tow – go on, you deserve it.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Locals know the only thing loose in this (top) paddock is scrumptious, buttery baked goods. Since opening its charmingly renovated doors in 2014, Paddock has been the ultimate spot for brunch, lunch and sweet treats that keep us coming back daily. With lush gardens, a cottage, loft, rooftop and barn to hide away in, the menu is just as endless as the spots to enjoy it – perfect for indulgence, people-watching, or a little bit of both.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
A local newbie that’s already earned its rightful place on this list (which is saying something). Start with a coffee- because there’s no other way, and theirs is superb- before diving deep into their menu full of hearty but totally healthy eats. Think Shakshuka Scramble with charred eggplant, peppers, tomato chilli salsa & charred bread. Chef’s hot tip: add brisket. Or, indulge yourself in a croque monsieur made with ham and gruyere, fried eggs, cheese sauce, green pea chef salad and parmesan that will blow your beret off. Everything here is made fresh, seasonal, and irresistible.
Where: 4 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Serving Southern California vibes (think cactus, umbrellas, pastel greens) all day long, alongside morning margaritas (you read correctly), epic eats and epic coffee. If you didnt catch on, Palm Springs does things a little differently, and Burleigh locals love them for it. They said, ” We will give you avocado smash and serve you one better”. Better in the form of a morning marg with breakfast tacos. It may sound rogue, but don’t tell us it isn’t exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Ideal hangover feed, perfect weekend brunch. Thank us later.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
This small but mighty wine bar has one of the largest selections of boutique wines (we mean, it is in the name) with some seriously epic eats to accompany. We can’t go past the cheeseburger – seriously, don’t sleep on this – and if you don’t know where to start on what to sip, the expert team always nail the reccos. Pop a Pet Nat on your must-try for something a little bubbly, or if you’re more of a red drinker, their signature chilled reds are the ultimate for a hot summer’s day.
Where: 12 James Street, Burleigh Heads
It’s the good time, slightly fancy Australiana bar of your dreams, and it is perfectly at home in Burleigh Heads. Rosella’s is a local haunt that’s been a firm favourite since its opening. With both a drinks and a food menu made entirely of Australian produce, we are in heaven. They’ve got cocktails inspired by Fantales, Blinky Bill and Bondi Beach, all the very best Aussie beers and some of the tastiest eats to pair. It’s refined, beautifully decked out and created by a couple of absolute legends. Love.
Where: 6/1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
This fam-and-friends-run distillery from husband-and-wife duo Justin and Lana Bell is serving up elevated cocktails designed specifically for sipping (and swooning), paired with snacky plates that absolutely understood the assignment. The space is a moody, deep-green, tropical-tiki dream and the drinks are bespoke and downright dangerous in the best way. Oh, and they’re big on collabs too, teaming up with like-minded legends to keep things fresh and fun, so consider this your official cue to keep a very close eye out for their next one. It’s intimate, it’s stylish, it’s packed with heart (and gin), and it’s proof that when you mix great spirits with great people, magic happens.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
If Burleigh had a local hall of fame, Burleigh Pavilion would be its MVP. This beachfront institution sits right above the sand at Burleigh Heads, serving up panoramic ocean views, sunset vibes and reliably good times from arvo cocktails to dinner dates and everything in between. Within its sprawling space you’ve got casual beach-bar energy, breezy terraces and The Tropic, the coastal-meets-Mediterranean restaurant where you can settle in for a sun-soaked lunch or a long, leisurely dinner with views literally stretching to the horizon. Whether you’re here for the drinks, the eats, the views, or just to feel like you’re living your best summer life year-round, Burleigh Pavilion is basically Burleigh’s living room with a better wine list.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If there’s one thing Burleigh deserves (the big legend), it’s a brewery, and Burleigh Brewing Co. certainly delivers. since opening in 2006, Burleigh Brewing Co. has produced a lineup of delicious drops – all perfectly Burleigh. Get a sixer for Netflix and chill, or head into the brewery from Friday to Sunday afternoons to get amongst it.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
This place is the ideal setting for a lil cocktail and antipasti moment. A wine with your significant other, cocktail hour with the gals, or dare we say, a quick shot to kick off an epic night. Alongside wines, beers, margs and cocktails, they serve ‘a quality shot’ for those who value efficiency or are known to be fashionable-late and need to catch up, as they say. That’s definitely not us…Okay, it’s totally us.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Hidden inside the opulent Mondrian hotel, Ciel Spa is the city’s first bio-wellness spa blending high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury. Forget cucumber slices and pan pipe music, here you’re getting a serious glow-up down to a cellular level. From zero-gravity dry float sessions and Himalayan salt rooms to LED facials and cosmetic doctor appointments, they have it all. It’s a bit of a treat-yo-self moment.
Where: Level 2/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Well, hasn’t this simple little piece of Mother Nature become an icon? No matter the day of the week (but particularly Sunday arvos), “the hill” as it’s affectionately known, is packed with picnic rugs, ball games and groups of revellers basking in the sunshine. Looking out over the ocean and with the city in the distance, it’s the perfect spot for a late afternoon lemonade or early morning coffee date with the crew. Order some of your fav takeaway from James Street, and perch up on a picnic blanket to soak up the scenery. Better yet, sunset.
Where: The south end of The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
If you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll around Burleigh Hill to Talle Creek for some Insta-worthy rainforest scenery. Or if you’re game, head up the vertical trail for a hill climb that’s rewarded with an epic view. Yes, some sweat may be involved, but it’s all in the good spirit of exploration. Cool down after with a swim at Burleigh Beach or Talle Creek, wherever you end up.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
A relaxing little beachside club loved by young and old alike, Burleigh Bowls has been around since 1937 and is certainly a prime piece of real estate these days. Barefoot Bowls rolls on from 12–5pm every Sunday, and it’s a measly $10 per person, including coaching and bowls (AKA ball whipper snappers). Get down and support your local while sipping on a schooner.
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
If you’re in need of some retail therapy, then James Street is the only place you need to go. The range of shopping has everything you need, whether you’re looking for some new additions to your home from Maison & Maison or to update your wardrobe at Emte, you’re guaranteed to leave suitably more stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect piece of art to dress your walls at work or home, Art Yarramunua is our pick for their incredible collection of expertly curated indigenous art.
Where: James Street, Burleigh Heads
Everyone’s favourite Saturday morning market adventure. Get up early, grab your basket and set out in search of fruit, veggies and of course, your first coffee of the weekend. These days, the farmers market also boasts locally made clothing and homewares, flowers, meat and seafood and delicious breaky and lunch options. Happy days! Open every Saturday from 7am–12 ‘rain, hail or shine’.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
