4 beaches near Gold Coast: Where to go for sun, sand, and surf

Queensland, Australia, has numerous top beach destinations, and among them are the beaches on the Gold Coast. With over 70 kilometers (44 miles) of golden sand, thrilling water parks, and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder Gold Coast is considered Australia’s holiday capital. It has over 300 sunshine days, which means you can easily plan a beach trip virtually any day of the year in the city.

If you want to do more than swimming and sunbathing, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping and relaxing nature activities within and around the Gold Coast. Start your adventure at Sea World for thrilling rides, animal exhibits, and other family-friendly attractions. There are also tours along the coast where you can get up close and personal with whales.

Surfers Paradise Beach and Burleigh Heads often top the list of the best Gold Coast beaches, and they're probably the first places that come to mind when you think of spending summer in the city. But outside this bustling coastal destination are other tropical oases worth your time. So pack your beach essentials and store your main luggage at a convenient Bounce storage location in Gold Coast for a hassle-free beach adventure.

Our top picks for the best beaches near Gold Coast

Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the ocean, a family-friendly outing, or a thrilling surf session, the beaches near Gold Coast have something to offer, no matter your taste and preferences. Some are easily accessible from the city center, while others are located right next to the New South Wales border.

Mermaid Beach

Mermaid Beach is an amazing alternative if you want to get away from the buzz and high rises of Surfers Paradise yet remain close to Gold Coast’s conveniences. It has a quiet, beachside vibe with three patrolled lifeguard towers, so you’ll feel safe to swim and surf.

For surfers, the quality of waves depends on a lot of things like the wind, tide, and swell direction, so check the conditions first before taking out your surfboard. If in doubt, it’s better not to paddle out. Store your gear somewhere safe and dry with Bounce, and do other things like browse the nearby shops, cafes, eateries, and bars.

Mermaid Beach is less than a 20-minute drive from the city center. If you’re taking a bus, get on bus 705 at Broadbeach South station in Surfers Paradise and get off at Broadbeach South station, Stop B. Mermaid Beach is only one kilometer from the bus stop.

Palm Beach

What was once a sleepy spot you would have no reason to stop at is now one of the most favored beach destinations near the Gold Coast center. Palm Beach has a laidback coastal lifestyle with crystal waters, a white sand beach, and several cafes and delightful dining spots. It’s only about seven kilometers from the Gold Coast Airport and an hour from Brisbane Airport, so you can go straight to the beach after you’ve stowed your luggage in a safe storage spot nearby.

A white sandy beach is waiting for you here. The current may be a little strong for inexperienced swimmers and children, but there are numerous rips, which can be great for surfers. You’ll see lifeguards who are quick to warn people of the dangers and ensure you won’t stray beyond the flags, so that should give you a bit of confidence to swim.

Palm Beach Parklands is accessible from the beach. It’s a go-spot for families with kids, featuring a pirate-themed playground, a calm lagoon, and wide pathways for biking and walking.

Tallebudgera Creek Beach

A 13-minute bike ride from Palm Beach, you’ll find Tallebudgera, which is known for its sparkling creek. Aussies and tourists who discover this tropical paradise come here for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and camping. If you can’t handle the waves of Palm Beach, you’ll love its shallow, calm waters. It’s not like the typical beach scene on most beaches on the Gold Coast where surfers are everywhere.

Tallebudgera Creek Beach is where you want to go to unwind and enjoy a quiet afternoon surrounded by beautiful nature. If you plan to stay overnight, there are waterfront villas and basic lodgings for backpackers and budget travelers. Cafes, scenic trails, and educational facilities like the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre are also a short walk from the beach.

Whether you’re driving or taking public transport, the journey between the Gold Coast and Tallebudgera often takes less than an hour. Hop on a bus 700 from Surfers Paradise and get off at Gold Coast Highway at Tallebudgera Tourist Park. The Creek Beach is only 280 meters from the bus stop. If you have time, put away your stuff and cycle to Burleigh Beach. It’s just 2.8 kilometers away with protected waters for swimming.

Kirra Beach

Kirra Beach definitely belongs to the Gold Coast's list of the best beaches for surfing. It attracts experienced surfers when the swell is up, especially from March to August (fall and winter), though August is often the most consistent month for nice, clean waves.

Kirra Point, a small rocky headland, separates the main beach and Coolangatta Beach, another pristine Gold Coast beach known for its expansive sand beaches and a renowned point break. It’s popular among experienced board riders. Rainbow Bay is also a couple of kilometers away from Kirra Beach, with waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. Snapper Rocks is also close by but is more suitable for experienced surfers. Snapper Rock's location, north of Point Danger, should give you a hint about the waves! If you’re not into surfing and the waves are quite high for a swim, you can run, walk, or ride along the beach.

Translink buses have routes at Kirra, along Marine Parade and the Gold Coast Highway. Or, you can drive for about 30 minutes from Gold Coast via State Route 3 and M1.

Are you beach hopping and only need a few essentials for a day trip from Gold Coast or Brisbane? Perhaps, you want to stop by the closest beach to Gold Coast and soak in the refreshing Pacific Ocean breeze before your flight. Whatever the case may be, Bounce offers a convenient storage solution to your baggage woes. You can rely on our trusted partners to take care of your belongings so you can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without worries.