Fuel Bakehouse opens in Burleigh.
Fuel Bakehouse opens in Burleigh.

If you’re a certified (coffee) freak, 7 days a week then you’ll want to get a loaf of this because Fuel Bakehouse has arrived in Burleigh.
If you’ve bean waiting to get a taste of Fuel Bakehouse then the wait is over. The Southern GC’s best brew and flaky bites have made their way (slightly) north, calling Burleigh home with their third location officially open.

The brainchild of hospitality dynamos Emma McPherson, Ben Edwards and Luke Finter, these guys have been taking the Southern GC hospitality scene by storm and now it’s Burleigh’s time to get a bite of the best.
Tackling takeaway head on to make sure you’ve got the best feed each and every time, we’re here for their less frills and more fills approach to food and bev.
Because different is always beautiful, passion is addictive and freshly baked is the only way, as they say and we couldn’t agree more.

The whole menu is designed to grab and go, so you can spend less time sitting, waiting, wishing and more time chowing down on your treaties beachside. Or at the park. Or at home. Choose your own adventure we say.
Our picks? Coffee is the obvious answer, duh, supplied by local roasters Social Espresso.
But if you’re talking food, well we’re a sucker for a breakfast burrito – or any burrito tbh – so catch us digging into a Pulled Pork Burrito because a burrito a day keeps the doctor away or something like that.
And it would be un-Australian of us to not mention the pies. Pure flaky goodness.

If something sweet (like you) is more up your alley then you’ve come to the right place because there’s a Bounty of goodies to gas you up – did someone say Nutella Donuts? We’ll take 10, thanks.
But of course they’ve got all of the classic baked goods bready to go for you too because sometimes you’ve just got to keep things simple and we get that.

Starting from humble beginnings with their first location in Currumbin, the Fuel team have been making their mark on the hospo scene for a little while now with another spot to Fuel up in Cabarita, they’ve also been supplying some of your favourite cafes across the Coast and Northern Rivers and after their expansion their Currumbin store is one of the biggest takeaway spots in the area.
Impressive, huh?
Now the crew at Fuel Bakehouse have set up shop right among all the action in Burleigh, right in the heart of James Street.
So why Burleigh? Other than the obvious, being one of the most iconic locations on the GC, the team had been keen to get in on the hustle and bustle of the beachside burb for a little while and it’s a big yes from us.

You don’t need us to tell you what all the fuss is about, if you’ve been to any of the Fuel Bakehouse locations you’ll know what we mean when we say it’s good vibes guaranteed. Always. And the Burleigh spot is no different.
They’ve mastered those old-school bakery vibes you know and love, like when you pop in for your morning brew and the crew already knows your name and your order.
We love to see it.
Where: 1/23 James Street, Burleigh Heads
When: 4.30am – 4pm daily.
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Because you only dessert the best!

Are you the kind of person who skips right to the desserts page of a menu? Yep, well, you’re not alone. Taking tactical consideration of what sweet things can and will follow is a clever move by anyone’s standard. Luckily we are spoilt for choice with sweet treats and desserts on the Gold Coast.
Why not seek to fix that sweet craving you have? Here’s our list of the best places on the Gold Coast to grab a dessert, worthy of that extra time on the treadmill!

As if all self-control didn’t already tank at the mere sound of the word Tarte, our reigning pastry queen Chloe Watts is taking over the Gold Coast sweet scene with Tarte in Burleigh and Tarte Beach House in Currumbin #havemercy #we’reweak. Tarte’s trademark goodies taste even better when devoured on the banks of Currumbin’s picture-perfect creek, blowing the bar previously set by our OG dessert darling out of the water.
And just when we thought we had reached peak sweetness, Tarte takes us to new heights with the launch of Tarte Tea Garden in Currumbin, serving up bite-sized pastries, blooms and boujee brews in a high tea paradise. Pinkies at the ready!
Where: 2 West Street, Burleigh Heads and 2 Thrower Dr, Currumbin

Inventive, indulgent, and darn tasty in every department: Bam Bam Bakehouse is the goods — period. The line of sweets and desserts are nothing short of mesmerising (even attracting the likes of Margot Robbie and Matt Preston).
With so many mouthwatering morsels on offer, attempting to choose only a couple of them is a challenging feat (as is not allowing ourselves to immediately to scarf down the lot).
Where: 2519 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

For all you night owls looking for sweet treats, swing into a towering swirl of creamy acai, the ultimate soft-serve dream. Each bowl is loaded with fresh strawberries, bananas, and crunchy granola. You can then drizzle on your favourite sauce or get adventurous with something new. Fan favourites? Biscoff, Bueno and Pistachio. Drool!
The acai is a dessert in itself, but there’s also deep-fried ice cream if you want to send that sweet tooth on a home run. We drool again**
Where: 2/32 Davenport St, Southport

Dessert lovers, assemble, Janus Deli is bringing you the sugar-laced playground you didn’t know you needed. These retro-inspired spots are slinging Golden Gaytime donuts, the iconic cookie-donut Dough-kie, and iced Biscoff lattes that are basically dessert in a cup.
Whether you’re vibing beachside at the Surfers Paradise deli or hitting up the OG Molendinar bakehouse, one thing’s guaranteed: your sweet tooth is in for a wild (and wildly delicious) ride.
Where: 12 Hanlan Street, Surfers Paradise & Shop 14, Crestwood Plaza, 458 Olsen Ave, Molendinar

5B2F Ciabatta is Southport’s newest slice of heaven, straight from the legends at Chirn Park’s 5B2F Bakehouse. After a decade of delighting Gold Coasters, owner Moonsun Yoo has dropped this second location to serve up mouth-watering ciabatta sandwiches, dreamy pastries, and cakes that steal the spotlight.
For those looking to celebrate, whole cakes are available daily, with flavours ranging from vanilla chiffon to baked cheesecakes piled high with fresh cream and glistening fruit. Time to plan a party!
Where: 29 Davenport St, Southport

Eastern Europe’s cult-favourite dessert has officially landed at Harbour Town, and yes — we’re completely obsessed! Swieetie is serving up freshly made soft-serve in a swirl of flavours, piled high with fruits, candies, and drizzles to match every sweet craving.
The showstopper? The Dubai Chimney Cake: crisp on the outside, fluffy within and stacked with toppings your sugar-loving heart will thank you for. Freshly baked, seriously indulgent and absolutely worth every bite of the sugar rush.
Where: Harbour Town, 147-189 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters

Husband and wife duo, Jen & Antonio Marchesi are the French maestros behind some mighty salivating goodies at this Robina bakery, and what these folks don’t know about sweet and crunchy European desserts frankly isn’t worth knowing!
Don’t delay. Head along for the shiniest looking caramel eclairs and the flakiest known pain au chocolats this side of the equator — Bon appétit!
Where: Shop 5/361 Robina Parkway, Robina

Is a breakfast dessert a thing? If it’s not, we’re officially calling it. And if you find yourself down by the ever-majestic Tallebudgera Creek dipping in its crystal clear waters, we suggest you hot foot it right away to Custard Canteen.
Get into some great coffee — and a bacon & egg burger to end all burgers — before rounding things off with one of their ooze-tastic cookies or the flakiest of Portugese tarts. YUM!
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

If you live in or around Tamborine, and haven’t yet wrapped your mitts (and tastebuds) around some Franquette… frankly, it’s time to re-evaluate your priorities (unless you’re gluten-free, obvi, in which case, commiserations).
Under the expert eye of master baker Jérôme Favier, Franquette (pronounced Fraen-ket) assuages hinterland hankerings with authentic French-style sweets, rolls and scrolls, and of course, the ever-crescent croissant.
Where: 1/159 Long Rd, Tamborine Mountain

One of the Gold Coast’s game-changing cafes, the level of baked and sweet goods that these guys consistently punch out is utterly jaw-dropping.
If you haven’t treated yourself to several (hundred) coffee dates at one of the cutest mini-Queenslander’s gracing the GC… welcome, you must be new here?! To remedy this immediately, we suggest you get together some of your nearest and dearest and get in on some brunch action before you launch a full-scale attack on the cracker assortment of sweets.
Be sure to try the crowd-fave Biscoff Cheesecake Doughnut or their whopping 1kg Giant Cookie! (Remember, Mum says sharing is caring.)
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads

We’ve been giddy over Basque since the gorg new specialty bakehouse-cum-sippery sauntered into Chirn Park in 2023, bearing mind-blowingly good cheesecake and French champagne. Umm, did we just become best friends?! Two of our very favourite modes of celebration under one chic roof – consider us, and our ‘coffee and cake catch up’ standards, spoiled forevermore.
Owners Laura and Zach Guertin devised the dreamy concept in answer to the age-old conundrum, ‘what should I bring?’ – and yeah, we can attest, one taste of Laura’s incredible creations and you’ll forget alll about the box of Favourites.
Luckily for the lot of us, we need not wait for a special occasion to partake in their signature Spanish Cheesecake and Champagne selection, with both available by the slice, and glass – any old time you please to cheese.
Where: 33b Musgrave Ave, Chirn Park

All hail the buttery king-of-pastries, the mighty croissant (controversial? We think not). Chevron’s sweet-snackery, Dipcro Pastry, delivers our sweet fix in the form of artisan baked goods like cinnamon buns, croissants, mille feuille and palmiers. This year, Dipcro went all out to bestow upon us a knockout second site in Main Beach. Talk about double dipping!
The venue’s namesake and signature item (a play on the words ‘Dip’ and ‘Croissant’– à la, ‘Dipcro’), invites us to take the blessed croissant to a whole new level – served with an array of signature toppings & fillings for your dunking pleasure. Oh if we must.
Where: 55 Thomas Dr, Chevron Island and 1/27 Tedder Ave, Main Beach

The very aptly named My Favourite Baker is one beloved among locals as a lifeline for incredible, last-minute cakes (that look and taste anything but).
The GC’s everyday cake heroes ‘crumb’ through with the (baked) goods – delivering same day turnaround on their delectable range of cakes and cupcakes almost every day of the year. Saving our bacon bakin’ from all kinds of sticky, special occasion situations, ‘logistical oversights’ and baking fails – with rave reviews, might we add. Phew! *backs slowly away from the packet mix*
Forgotten occasion? What forgotten occasion?
Only bulk brownie points to be found here (shhh.. it’ll be our little secret).
Where: 4/1 Inventory Ct, Arundel

This gastronomic Graceland has brought all things doughy and delicious to Hope Island Marketplace. Whether you’re vibing something sweet or savoury … or both … this is your one-stop-shop. From loaded croissants to crave-worthy doughnuts, every bite is, yep, you guessed it: dough-licious.
But let’s take a moment to shout out their NYC Biscoff Cookie. It’s so good that it often sells out (as do many of their noms) so get in early to enjoy this crowd-fave Biscoff banger!
Where: 99-103 Broadwater Ave, Hope Island

Need a little fuel to power through your day? This bakehouse is the pit stop your appetite has been waiting for. The beloved southside bakers set up a third location in the heart of Burleigh last year so north Gold Coasters could get a taste a little closer to home. The handcrafted pastries and fresh loaves are carb heaven, it’s no wonder they supply to cafes all across the coast.
Wash a nutella donut or two down with a perfectly brewed coffee and you’ll feel refuelled, re-energised and maybe start to call Fuel your regular.
Where: 1/23 James Street, Burleigh Heads, 44 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Waters and 39/45 Tweed Coast Rd, Bogangar

This froyo bar is a swirl of endless possibilities. Flipping the script on burgers and froyo, YOMG is serving up stacked, snackable goodness in both Broadbeach and Burleigh. Whether you’re in the mood for fun with friends or to treat yo’self, YOMG is the ultimate pit stop.
From cookies and cream to key lime pie, you can choose your own yoghurt adventure with toppings like fresh fruit, sticky spreads, chocolate and biscuits.
Where: Pacific Fair (opposite Sephora), Broadbeach and 15 Connor St, Burleigh Heads

Don’t let the name fool you — Burnt Croissants is serving up buttery, flaky perfection like no other. Starting as a roadside stall, from 2025, you’ll now find Lucy Davis and her legendary pastries exclusively at various markets around the Gold Coast. This self-taught pastry queen is renowned for croissants and baked goods so good they’re worth hunting down.
Keep an eye on their socials to find out where they’ll pop up next, and make sure to arrive early to snag a taste of the magic!
Where: Various markets including Wednesdays at Evergreen Markets, Robina

A deli-cious addition to Kingscliff, George’s is serving up New York-inspired flavours, infused with Filipino influences and a side of nostalgia. Run by a talented husband-and-wife duo, Johnny Ang and his wife Jerrika, the compact menu consists of hearty sandwiches, fresh salads and charcuterie boards that are almost too pretty to eat.
But trust us – there’s one thing you’ll want to devour immediately, and that’s the handmade donuts! The Ube Donut weaves the distinct flavour of the purple yam into a soft donut sandwich. We’re not saying we’d marry a donut, but…
Where: Shop 3, 106 Marine Pde, Kingscliff
Words by Kellie Leader and Lisette Drew

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