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Lake it till you make it

This Burleigh abode is Mater’s dreamiest prize home yet.

Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)
Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)

There are houses, and then there are houses – the kind that result in squeals usually reserved for Cavoodle puppies and Black Friday Zimmermann sales.

The spectacular current Mater Prize Home No. 324 falls irrefutably into the latter category. Nestled in the heart of Burleigh Waters, just seven minutes from the beach and perched gracefully along Lake Heron, this breezy, neutral-toned, gloriously textural beauty queen is the architectural equivalent of a deep exhale. It’s serene, it’s eye-wateringly gorgeous, and it’s about to become someone’s everyday reality. And that somebody could be you!

Master bedroom at Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)
Master bedroom at Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)

There’s more loot in this jaw-dropping $5,683,882 first prize package (keep reading!) but let’s kick things off by deep-diving the seriously swoon-worthy details behind the home’s design that would make every Pinterest board blush.

From the moment you step inside, you’re embraced in a warm, luxurious hug and instantly struck by the abundant space, which feels welcoming, sophisticated, and intentional all at once. With five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a powder room, this 819 sqm work of art is built for families, friends, and the kind of gatherings that start as ‘just a few people’ and end with a sunset cocktail session that mysteriously lasts five hours.

Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)
Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)

The interiors are a masterclass in modern serenity: soaring ceilings and natural light making every corner airy and effortlessly elegant, Sokeria limestone finishes for that luxe Euro energy, and ambient dimmable lighting catering for every mood from productive mornings to wine-o’clock evenings.

The bedrooms are tasteful and refined, with a main bedroom wing so decked out it could file for its own postcode. We’re talking a timeless oak walk-in robe to store those sneaky online purchases (“this? Oh, I’ve had it for ages babe…”), chic ensuite bathroom with a double rain head shower and skylight, media room and a study nook, perfect for ‘working from home’ while actually watching Netflix.

Ensuite at Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)
Ensuite at Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)

Now to the heart of the house – the wine room, umm, we mean kitchen, but it’s like splitting hairs really and we’ll get to the vino’s living quarters next. The kitchen is a dream for entertainers and snackers alike and we identify as both. Boasting dual Bosch ovens, integrated appliances and a butler’s pantry, wining and dining is clearly this home’s love language.

Because your grape juice deserves to be admired too, the wine room, encased in a striking arch shaped bay window (yes, you can lounge while you gaze lovingly at your plonk collection) is a unique focal point in the beautiful open-plan living space.

Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)
Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)

Outside, the modern alfresco dining area and BBQ zone overlook the sparkling lake, making it the perfect spot for a morning yoga sesh, mid-morning coffee with the gals, long lunch, barbie with mates, waterside dinner with the fam – you name it, it’ll be better done here.

Speaking of outside, wellbeing warriors – you’re going to want to sit down for this. Just when you think this house couldn’t out-luxe itself, it does – in the form of a home wellness retreat. Think infrared sauna, cold plunge, outdoor shower – the whole shebang. It’s the kind of setup that turns your daily self-care routine into a full-blown spa montage.

Sauna, backyard and lake views at Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)
Sauna, backyard and lake views at Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)

Because a fancy home deserves a fancy car, the lucky winner will also score a Land Rover Defender 110S, perfect for beach runs, hinterland adventures or just looking uptown in the school pickup line, and $100,000 in gold bullion!

This home isn’t just a place to live – it’s a lifestyle upgrade of the highest order. Plus, you’ll be helping an amazing cause in the process, supporting ground-breaking medical research and leading patient care services in our community.

Pool and lake views at Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)
Pool and lake views at Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)

A serene sanctuary, an entertainer’s paradise, a wellness haven and a lakeside dream all rolled into one. And the best part? You can actually visit the home to check out every thoughtfully designed nook and cranny, soak up the luxe serenity, and mentally move in (we’re all for manifesting!).

Consider this your sign to go have a look, buy a ticket, and start practising your “I can’t believe I won” face.

When: 9am to 5pm, Saturday 31st January – Monday 20th April
* Please note: The home will be closed from 9am – 12pm Tuesday, 3 February & Good Friday, Friday 3 April
Where: 76 Dipper Drive, Burleigh Waters

Words by Bianca Trathen

Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)
Mater Prize Home No. 324, Burleigh Waters (image supplied)

26 reasons locals love Burleigh Heads

Bug rolls, the beloved hill and local brews.

Burleigh Hill (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
Burleigh Hill (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

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.

Haven, Burleigh (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Haven, Burleigh (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Fine Dining
Haven

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

Rick Shores

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

Red Curry, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Red Curry, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Jimmy Wahs

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

Restaurant Labart

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 

Restaurant Labart by Andy Macpherson Studio (image supplied)
Restaurant Labart by Andy Macpherson Studio (image supplied)
Casuals Eats
Apres Surf

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

Costa Taco

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

Costa Taco, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Costa Taco, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Red Hot Cod

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

Al Bacio Gelato

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

Al Bacio Gelato Naturale, Burleigh (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Al Bacio Gelato Naturale, Burleigh (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Crispy Italian

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

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

Tarte Bakery & Cafe, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Tarte Bakery & Cafe, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Coffee Hangs
Tarte Bakery & Cafe

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

Paddock Bakery

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

Mohr Cafe and Deli, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Mohr Cafe and Deli, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Mohr

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

Palm Springs

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

Palm Springs Cafe (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Palm Springs Cafe (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Something To Drink
Paloma Wine Bar

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

Rosella’s

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

Familiar Spirits Distillery, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Familiar Spirits Distillery, Burleigh Heads (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Familiar Spirits

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

Burleigh Pavilion

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

Burleigh Pavilion (image supplied)
Burleigh Pavilion (image supplied)
Burleigh Brewing Co.

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

Malibu Racquet Club

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

Malibu Racquet Club, Bureigh Heads (image supplied)
Malibu Racquet Club, Bureigh Heads (image supplied)
Something To Do
Ciel Spa

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

Burleigh Hill

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

Picnic on Burleigh Hill (image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)
Picnic on Burleigh Hill (image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)
Burleigh National Park

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

Burleigh Bowls Club

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

Burleigh Bowls Club (image supplied)
Burleigh Bowls Club (image supplied)
Shop With Us
James Street

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

Burleigh Farmers Markets

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

11 of the best surf clubs on the Gold Coast

Time to seas the day.

BMD Northcliffe SLSC (image provided by Destination Gold Coast)
BMD Northcliffe SLSC (image provided by Destination Gold Coast)

Is there anything more quintessentially Queensland than kicking back on the deck of a great surf club with an ice-cold drink, ocean breeze in your hair, and uninterrupted ocean views? Not really! It sounds like a holiday fantasy, but it’s really just a standard afternoon on the Gold Coast. How lucky are we?! Sometimes, we do forget it.

Our shoreline is scattered with surf clubs and you could pretty much stumble into any one and score relaxed vibes and a solid feed. But as always, we want the best for you, so we’ve rounded up the very best surf clubs from south to north. Grab a seat, order something cold, and settle in.

Rainbow Bay Surf Club

With a front row seat to one of Australia’s most iconic surf breaks, Rainbow Bay Surf Club gives world-class surf views, classic pub eats, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of the best spots on the Coast for sunset drinks after an ocean swim on a balmy summer’s afternoon. Salty hair? You’ll fit right in. There’s always a crowd here, so it’s always a good time. This surf club is nothing if not iconic.
Where: 2 Snapper Rocks Rd, Coolangatta

Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Life Saving Club (image provided by Destination Gold Coast)
Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Life Saving Club (image provided by Destination Gold Coast)
Currumbin Beach Vikings SLSC

Quite literally built out over the ocean, “The Vikings” is one of the most iconic surf-club spots on the entire coastline. You’ll feel like you’re sitting above the waves while enjoying huge plates of classic favourites, weekend entertainment, and a buzzing crowd of both locals and visitors. The views alone are worth the trip, but their stacked menu and friendly staff seal the deal. You’ll hear everyone recommend this surf club, and for good reason.
Where: 741 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Palm Beach Surf Club

Positioned at the heart of Palm Beach, the award-winning Palm Beach Surf Club offers more than just a stellar upbeat atmosphere and sweeping ocean views, but a tasty menu (with weekly specials worth planning your visit around) and live music! Whether you’re popping in for a coffee, enjoying a drink with friends, or having dinner with the family, there’s a range of meals, snacks, and beverages to suit everyone’s taste and budget.
Where: 117 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach

Tallebudgera Surf Club, Palm Beach (image by Jade Quinlivan Photography)
Tallebudgera Surf Club, Palm Beach (image by Jade Quinlivan Photography)
Tallebudgera Surf Club

Perched between the beaches of Burleigh and Palm Beach, Tallebudgera Surf Club is the go-to for families and perfect for long lunches and locals who love a chilled waterfront vibe. You’ll find generous portions, vibrant cocktails, breezy open-air seating, and an epic playground for pre- or post-feed kid antics. You’ve also got Bean Surfing Cafe to enjoy from 5.30am-2pm daily, serving all your favourite beachside eats and epic coffee.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park Surf Club

Overlooking one of the most famous beaches in Queensland, Burleigh Heads SLSC is where you’ll find old-school surf-club vibes. With sweeping views of the ocean and city skyline, hearty meals, and a prime position beside the iconic Burleigh Hill, it’s a natural choice for pre- or post-day-at-the-beach feeds.
Where: Goodwin Terrace & Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

North Burleigh Surf Club (image supplied)
North Burleigh Surf Club (image supplied)
North Burleigh Surf Club

Situated at the quieter, more relaxed end of Burleigh, North Burleigh Surf Club is a top pick for families, groups, or anyone wanting beach views without the crazy crowds. You’ll get that gorgeous ocean breeze on the deck, reliable menu favourites, and a chilled atmosphere for an ideal arvo by the beach. There are weekly specials and regular entertainment top it all off.
Where: 293 The Esplanade, Miami 

Nobby Beach Surf Club

A true neighbourhood favourite since 1954, Nobby’s has entered an exciting new era after joining The Bears Group in late 2025. The partnership brings a refreshed hospitality focus while keeping the relaxed, community-first surf club vibe locals love. Expect updated menus with coastal-inspired flavours, classic club staples and the same welcoming atmosphere, with a major renovation planned for 2027 to further elevate the space.
Where: 25 Albatross Ave, Nobby Beach

Nobby Beach Surf Club (image supplied by The Bears Group)
Nobby Beach Surf Club (image supplied by The Bears Group)
Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Club

Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Club remains a humble favourite among locals, striking the perfect balance between relaxed and lively. The club offers a kids’ playroom, heaps of weekly specials (the Tuesday Steak Night and Sunday International Food Night are local legends), plus trivia, members’ promos and plenty of big-screen sport. It’s friendly, consistent, and very easy to make a habit of.
Where: 172 Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach

Kurrawa Surf Club

Kurrawa Surf Club is one of the Gold Coast’s largest and most polished surf-club spaces, think sun-filled dining rooms, breathtaking beach views, a ‘something for everyone’ menu including pizzas and Spanish charcoal oven dishes, and a seriously popular brekkie menu. This surf club is fit for every occasion, from post-beach hangs to laid-back lunches to special occasions. They’ve also got live music and big screens to catch all the sports action. Its central location makes it one of the easiest clubs to access without a car.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach

Kurrawa Surf Club, Broadbeach (image by Tony Phillips)
Kurrawa Surf Club, Broadbeach (image by Tony Phillips)
BMD Northcliffe Surf Club

Not only are you getting all the perks of classic surf club- uninterrupted ocean views and unbeatable atmosphere- you’re also getting fed from an award-winning restaurant. Who says you can’t have it all? You’re getting everything from classic club staples to gourmet salads and asian dishes, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They have spacious, light-filled dining spaces and offer one of the best beachfront outlooks in central Surfers.
Where: 51 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise SLSC

Sitting beachfront in the heart of Surfers Paradise, this iconic surf club is a welcome escape from the buzz of the strip. Following a major renovation, the space feels fresh and open, with sweeping ocean views that make any meal better. The bistro serves up elevated surf club classics (the Outback Parma still reigns supreme), ice-cold drinks and that easy, friendly atmosphere surf clubs do best. A top spot for sunset sessions, and whale watching if the time is right.
Where: Corner of Hanlan Street & The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

Shuck yeah!

From cult classics to new obsessions, Jimmy Wah's is a Burleigh forever fave.

Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Burleigh has its fair share of heavy hitters in the foodie scene, but there’s one name that continues to reign supreme on the Gold Coast Highway: Jimmy Wah’s.

Opening back in 2016 by restaurateur Shelly Greaves and Chef Jake Cooley, now under new management and Chef Fabio Curi at the helm, this Vietnamese-meets-modern-Australian gem has achieved something pretty rare – it’s managed to stay cool without even trying.

For those who haven’t experienced the elevated, full-sensory feasting this GC institution is famous for, firstly, huh?!, and secondly, consider this your official nudge to get with the program.

Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads(image supplied)
Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Before we talk about the main event (the nosh), let’s unpack the vibe. Imagine ‘Good Morning Vietnam’ taking a holiday in bustling Burleigh: authentic, vibrant, a touch nostalgic, and just enough edge to keep things interesting.

Jimmy Wah’s isn’t messing with success – the classics are still stealing the spotlight. The Vietnamese Pancake with pork larb, prawns, pickled cucumber, lettuce and herbs is more of a local celebrity than any of our gaggle of Gold Coast fitness influencers. Get some pork on your fork, in the form of the Caramelised Pork Belly with sweet potato and turmeric puree, chilli and lychee salsa, and watermelon radish.

Tempura Oysters, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Tempura Oysters, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Or for some seafood action, don’t miss their famous Tempura Oysters with soy and sesame, chilli mayo, and black tobiko, or the Betel Leaf with tempura barramundi, charred corn, peanuts, and chilli.

Let’s not forget the Banh Mi with tempura soft shell crab, Vietnamese slaw, coriander and chilli; a sandwich glow-up that leaves ham and cheese weeping in the corner. And why not finish with their iconic Fried Bao, salted caramel and peanut ice cream.

Mural at Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Mural at Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

But here’s the kicker: just when you think you know the menu inside out, Jimmy Wah’s goes and drops seasonal menu changes that make your heart (and tastebuds) skip a beat. The team loves to keep diners guessing with fresh, exciting creations that prove the kitchen is every bit as inventive now as it was nine years ago.

Of course, what’s a feast without something equally fabulous to sip on? Cocktails here are almost as famous as the food, with Jimmy’s take on a Spicy Margarita holding icon status, and the Ginny Wah making a strong case for best dressed in a glass (and best name). And if cocktails aren’t your jam, the award-winning wine list, expertly curated by sommelier Shelly Greaves, will more than carry the night. It’s been curated with soul and exceptional attention to detail to complement Vietnamese flavours, which is code for: order another bottle and thank us later.

Bao Buns, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Bao Buns, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

Jimmy Wah’s isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a cultural moment. The service is slicker than a K-pop dance routine, the staff are friendlier than your neighbour’s labrador, and they’ve mastered the fine art of being professional, fun, and relaxed.

The interiors are just as charming as the menu, seating 70 lucky diners between indoor and outdoor spaces that buzz with Burleigh energy. It’s stylish without being pretentious – a place where you can just as easily take your foodie mate who Instagrams everything as you can your hot date you’re trying to impress without looking like you’re trying.

Red Curry, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Red Curry, Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)

So, whether you’re there for a midweek pick-me-up, a date-night flex, or a “just because” cocktail session, Jimmy Wah’s is the place you’ll keep coming back to. Because sure, everyone already knows about Jimmy Wah’s – but it doesn’t hurt to remind them that some favourites are forever.

Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
When: 12pm – 2pm & 5.15pm – 8.15pm Monday to Thursday, 12pm – 3pm & 5.15pm – 9pm Friday & Saturday, 12pm – 2pm & 5.30pm – 8.15pm Sunday.
Website: jimmywahs.com.au
Instagram: @jimmywahs.burleigh

Words by Bianca Trathen

STORY SPONSORED BY JIMMY WAH’S

Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
Jimmy Wah's, Burleigh Heads (image supplied)
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