Guide to Burleigh Head National Park

It’s also a magnet for wildlife; think sea eagles circling overhead, water dragons sunning themselves on warm rocks, and bush turkeys shuffling through the undergrowth. In winter and spring, Burleigh Head National Park on the Gold Coast transforms into one of the best spots for whale watching on the east coast, with humpbacks cruising past on their migration. Add in its cultural significance to the Kombumerri people, and you’ve got a destination that’s as rich in heritage as it is in natural beauty. 

How long should I spend at Burleigh Head National Park?

You can tailor your visit depending on how much time you’ve got. If you’re short on time, an hour is enough to tackle one of the shorter Burleigh Head National Park walking tracks and grab a few photos at the lookouts. But if you’ve got the morning or afternoon free, you could easily pass 2–3 hours exploring both main trails, stopping at the viewpoints, and maybe even enjoying a picnic or a swim at Burleigh Beach afterwards. Pairing the walk with a lazy beach session or lunch in Burleigh township makes for a pretty perfect half-day escape. 

Things to do at Burleigh Head National Park

While you won’t be able to take advantage of any Burleigh Head National Park camping (it’s day use only), there’s plenty to keep you busy here. The most popular option is the Burleigh Head National Park Ocean View Walk, a gentle 1.2 km one-way track that hugs the coastline from Tallebudgera Creek to Burleigh township. Along the way, you’ll pass striking basalt columns, pause at Echo Beach (accessed by stairways), and soak up the sweeping ocean views. Just keep in mind that sections of this track occasionally close after heavy rain due to rockfall risk, so it’s worth checking park alerts before you go. 

If you’d like to add a little more challenge, loop back via the Rainforest Circuit, a 2.3 km track that winds through shaded subtropical forest and climbs to Tumgun Lookout. From here you’ll score panoramic views of the coast and, during whale season, a front-row seat to migrating humpbacks. 

Beyond the walks, this is a great spot to spread a picnic rug on the grassy headland and watch surfers carving up the waves below. Families love spotting the park’s resident wildlife, from water dragons to bush turkeys. And when you’re done, a quick dip at nearby Tallebudgera Creek or Burleigh Beach is the ultimate way to wrap up exploring. 

How to get to Burleigh Head National Park

Getting here is straightforward, whether you’re based in Brisbane or already on the Gold Coast. From Brisbane, it’s about a 90 km drive south along the Pacific Motorway, just take exit 89 into Burleigh Heads, then head for the Gold Coast Highway. 

For the northern entrance, turn off the highway into Goodwin Terrace, where you’ll find a car park at the end of the street. The southern entrance is just north of Tallebudgera Creek, with parking nearby and easy access to the Ocean View Walk. Both entrances are clearly signposted, so you can’t go wrong. 

Best time to visit Burleigh Head National Park

Best time of year to visit: Autumn (March–May) and spring (September–November) bring mild temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds. Spring is especially beautiful with blooming wildflowers and plenty of wildlife activity. Winter is prime time for whale watching, while summer can be hot and humid, though the shaded rainforest tracks help keep things comfortable. 

Best time of day to visit: Early mornings are magical, with cooler temperatures, peaceful trails, and the chance to watch the sunrise over the Pacific. Late afternoon is another favourite, especially for catching golden-hour light on the headland or enjoying a relaxed picnic as the sun sinks behind the mountains. 

Weather at Burleigh Head National Park

Burleigh Head National Park, Gold Coast, enjoys a classic subtropical climate. Summers (December–February) are warm and humid, with average highs of 24–29 °C, which is perfect for pairing your walk with a swim afterwards. Winters (June–August) are much milder, averaging 16–22 °C, and are some of the best months for long, comfortable walks. Spring and autumn sit neatly in between, giving you that sweet spot of sunny days and pleasant walking conditions. 

Best place to park your campervan at Burleigh Head National Park