Planning a Gold Coast getaway? Wondering where you can find calm creeks, buzzing cafes, rainforest walks, and stunning surf all in one place? The southern end of the Gold Coast delivers it all, featuring some of the best places on the Gold Coast.
Stroll through the peaceful trails of Burleigh National Park or paddle along Currumbin Creek. Catch the vibrant energy of Palm Beach Parklands or sip coffee by the sparkling water at Echo Beach. Every experience is just minutes apart, giving you more time to soak up the beauty.
Discover the Best Places in Gold Coast’s Southern Charm
The southern end of the Gold Coast promises visitors a refreshing mix of beach life, nature trails, water adventures, and local gems. There is a special rhythm to this side of the coast.
It’s where the days start slow with coffee by the water and end with golden sunsets over calm creeks. Beyond the surf and sand, the southern Gold Coast holds some of the best places in the Gold Coast to explore.
Nature Escapes Worth Exploring
Breathe in the fresh ocean air and discover some of the most picturesque outdoor spaces the southern Gold Coast has to offer.
Burleigh Head National Park
Offers one of the Gold Coast’s most scenic coastal walks. The park’s shaded trails weave through lush rainforest and open to stunning ocean views, perfect for spotting surfers or whales in the right season. It’s a peaceful escape where nature meets the sea, right in the heart of the southern Gold Coast.
Tallebudgera Creek
Stunning stretch of calm, turquoise water nestled between Burleigh Head National Park and Palm Beach. Loved for its gentle swimming conditions, sandy banks, and lush surroundings, it’s the perfect spot for paddleboarding, picnicking, or simply soaking up the sunshine. The clear waters and easy access make it a favourite for families and anyone looking for a relaxed day outdoors.
Echo Beach
Peaceful stretch along Tallebudgera Creek, known for its calm, shallow waters and golden sandy banks. It’s a favourite spot for families to swim, picnic, and enjoy stand-up paddleboarding in a relaxed, scenic setting. Protected from strong waves, it offers one of the safest and most inviting places to unwind on the southern Gold Coast.
Currumbin Rock
Striking natural features where the creek meets the ocean create a dramatic backdrop for beachgoers and photographers alike. It’s the perfect spot to watch surfers at Currumbin Alley, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the sand, or simply take in sweeping views of the coastline.
Currumbin Alley
One of the Gold Coast’s most iconic surf spots, where the creek meets the ocean. It is perfect for beginner surfers thanks to its smooth, rolling waves and wide sandy beach. With stunning views across to Elephant Rock and a relaxed local atmosphere, it is a favourite for morning walks, family picnics, and sunset watching.
Elephant Rock
Stands proudly along Currumbin Beach, offering sweeping views of the coastline and ocean. This striking rock formation is easy to climb and is well known for hosting the region’s ANZAC Day services. It’s a peaceful spot where visitors can reflect, take in the sea breeze, and enjoy a different perspective of the southern Gold Coast.
Wildlife and Adventure for All Ages
Step into a world where up-close animal encounters and thrilling adventures come together for unforgettable holiday memories.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the Gold Coast’s most iconic attractions, offering close encounters with Australia’s native animals in a beautiful, park-like setting. Wander leafy trails, hand-feed colourful lorikeets, and meet koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles up close. With daily shows, wildlife exhibits, and even a treetop adventure course, it is a perfect day out for families, couples, and nature lovers.
Treetop Challenge Currumbin
Offers an exciting aerial adventure set high among the gum trees. With over 80 high ropes obstacles and thrilling zip lines, it’s a perfect way for teens and adults to test their balance, strength, and courage in a stunning natural setting.
Surf World Museum
Australia’s largest surfing museum, celebrating the rich surf culture of the Gold Coast. It features a fascinating collection of historic surfboards, photographs, and memorabilia.
Visitors can explore the stories of local legends and iconic moments that helped shape Australia’s love of the ocean. It’s the perfect spot for families and surf enthusiasts to connect with the coast’s adventurous spirit.
Water Adventures for Every Explorer
Feel the pull of the water as you explore calm creeks, sparkling beaches, and iconic surf spots across the southern Gold Coast.
Currumbin Creek Kayaking and SUP Hire
Offers an easy way to glide across the calm, clear waters of Currumbin Creek. Perfect for beginners and families, it’s a peaceful way to explore hidden mangroves, spot local birdlife, and enjoy a different view of the coastline. With equipment available right on the waterfront, getting started is as simple as picking up a paddle and setting off.
Jet Ski Safari Currumbin
Get ready for an exhilarating ride across the sparkling waters of Currumbin. Jet Ski Safari Currumbin offers guided tours that blend high-speed thrills with stunning coastal scenery. Weaving through mangrove channels or cruising past sandy beaches, you will find that every moment delivers excitement and unforgettable views. It is a must-do experience for those seeking a little extra adventure on the southern Gold Coast.
Snorkelling at Palm Beach Reef
Offers a colourful underwater escape just off the southern Gold Coast. With clear waters and vibrant coral formations, it’s one of the region’s hidden treasures. Spot tropical fish, rays, and even turtles as you drift over the reef, all just a short swim from the shore. Perfect for beginners and experienced snorkellers alike, Palm Beach Reef combines easy access with stunning marine life.
Surf lessons at Currumbin Alley
Currumbin Alley is one of the Gold Coast’s most popular spots for beginner surfers. With its gentle, rolling waves and protected conditions, it is the perfect place to catch your first wave or refine your skills. Local surf schools offer lessons for all ages, making it a fun and safe introduction to the famous Gold Coast surf culture.
Snapper Rocks Coolangatta
Venture down to one of the most famous surf breaks in the world. Watch professional surfers tackle the waves or explore the tide pools that emerge at low tide, perfect for children to discover marine life. Snapper Rocks Coolangatta captures the energetic spirit of places Gold Coast travellers love most.
Local Flavours and Events to Enjoy
Round out your southern Gold Coast adventure with relaxed dining and live music experiences that bring the local community to life.
Mr Fishy Seafood Truck (Burleigh Beach Park)
Fresh seafood, ocean breezes, and laid-back vibes await at this popular weekend food stop. Swing by every Saturday afternoon to enjoy casual dining that perfectly captures the coastal lifestyle.
Food Trucks at Tallebudgera
Spend a weekend evening sampling a variety of cuisines, right by the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek. With delicious eats and plenty of space for families to spread out, this spot feels like one of the best places to visit on the Gold Coast for a relaxed night out.
Coolangatta Live Music Sundays
End your week with a beachside soundtrack. Local musicians bring Coolangatta’s foreshore to life every Sunday afternoon, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can sit back with an ice cream or coffee and enjoy the tunes.
Plan Ahead for Upcoming Highlights
While the southern Gold Coast shines year-round, a few upcoming events offer even more reasons to plan your visit.
Gold Coast Pro (May)
Snapper Rocks comes alive as world-class surfers compete in this thrilling event. It is one of the most anticipated surfing competitions globally and adds an extra layer of excitement to any southern coast stay.
Seagrass Monitoring Event (Tallebudgera Creek, 12 September)
Hands-on community activity where volunteers help survey local seagrass beds. It offers a chance to learn about marine ecosystems, support conservation efforts, and enjoy a meaningful day by one of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful waterways.
Stay Close to the Action at Isle of Palms Resort
A great holiday is all about location, and Isle of Palms Resort places you right at the heart of the southern Gold Coast’s best experiences. Tucked beside the still waters of Pine Lake and just minutes from Palm Beach and Currumbin Creek, Isle of Palms offers the ideal starting point for everyday adventure.
The self-contained townhouses and villas are designed for comfort, giving families, couples, and friends a peaceful space to unwind after a day spent exploring. With two outdoor swimming pools, heated spas, tennis courts, and BBQ areas set amongst tropical gardens, there are plenty of ways to relax without even leaving the property.
Find out more about the Isle of Palms Resort or explore their Currumbin Beach accommodation options to plan your perfect southern Gold Coast escape.
Image Credit: All The Love In The World Photography
Recent Comments