A beautiful blend of bush meets beach, Burleigh Head National Park is a bushwalking gem well used by locals and visitors. With 27 hectares, two access points, and plenty of parking available at Tallebudgera Creek Park (just across the bridge), it’s no surprise this is a well used space.
Quick Info
Location: Southern entrance: Tallebudgera Creek Park, Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach QLD 4221 Northern entrance: Goodwin Terrance, Burleigh Head, QLD 4220
Walking Distance: 1km – 5km
Elevation: Approx 50m
Time: 30min – 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Costs/Permit: No cost, no permit required
Opening Times: Only closed occasionally for maintenance
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, parking, beach, lookout
What to take: Water, Camera, insect repellent, swimmers, sunscreen
Map:
The 1.2km Ocean View track is wheelchair and pram friendly, although there may be some difficulty getting through the gate at the entrance to the national park – definitely not wide enough for a double pram. The path is flat and smooth and has multiple access points to the beach (stairs down to the beach).
The 1.7km Rainforest circuit is bitumen that is cracked and a bit bumpy. Technically, a pram or wheelchair could make it around, but it wouldn’t be a smooth ride. Large jagged boulders can be found beside part of the path.
While it is a bit of a stretch to call this a ‘rainforest’ track, there are some very pretty sections with palms, buttress roots and dense foliage. The gentle 1km incline makes this a popular spot for runners.
The Tumgun lookout provides views to Palm Beach and beyond. Some well placed seating gives opportunity for a reflective moment.
For such a small space there is a remarkable diversity in vegetation.
All in all, Burleigh Head National Park is a lovely addition to a day at the the Gold Coast and a good way to introduce bushwalking to young families.
