Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the stunning beauty of Australia's Gold Coast on the 2.6km Oceanview Track in Burleigh Head National Park. This easy, Grade 2 trail offers remarkable views of ancient volcanic columns and a diverse range of wildlife, including whales and birdwing butterflies, as it winds through a variety of landscapes, from pandanus groves to coastal heath. Start the trail at the southern park entrance near Tallebudgera Creek and end in southern Burleigh, with facilities available at both points. Check weather conditions for safety before heading out on this unforgettable coastal adventure.

Length:

2.6km

Duration:

1 hr

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 25m

Min elevation: 3m

Total Ascent: 82m

Start: Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

End: Goodwin Terrace Carpark

Burleigh Head National Park

Queensland

Nearby town: Burleigh Heads

From state capital: 95.4km

Latitude: -28.097241491973936

Longitude: 153.45596086503429

Overview

Map

Gallery

Weather

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Region

4,983 views

Hike overview

Ancient volcanic columns meet the sea on this easy stroll in Burleigh Head National Park in the heart of the Gold Coast. The Oceanview track skirts the coastline leading around the rocky headland from the southern park entrance near Tallebudgera Creek to the southern edge of Burleigh Heads township.

Pack a picnic and relax by the creek at Echo Beach and marvel at the tumbled masses of six sided basalt columns. Spot whales (during winter and spring), white-bellied sea-eagles and birdwing butterflies (in summer).

Allow 30 minutes each way to walk the track through pandanus groves, tussock grasslands, coastal heath and mangroves to southern Burleigh. You can either return by the same path or via the Rainforest circuit and Tumgun lookout.

For your safety, a section of Oceanview walk may be temporarily closed before, during and after severe weather, due to the increased risk of rock falls. Check Park Alerts for track closures. For your safety, please observe the DANGER boulder fall zone restricted access area sign and remain on the walking track. Access is not permitted to the boulder fields, including Cannon Rock, or the steep slopes between the Oceanview track and the boulder fields—penalties apply.

A council picnic area and toilets are located near the northern entrance to the park along Goodwin Terrace. Toilets are also located near the southern entrance in the car park—these are managed by the Gold Coast City Council.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Burleigh Head Oceanview Walk (2.6km)

Total distance: 2658 m
Max elevation: 25 m
Min elevation: 3 m
Total climbing: 82 m
Total descent: -77 m

Return via Rainforest Walk (3km)

Total distance: 3062 m
Max elevation: 76 m
Min elevation: 3 m
Total climbing: 133 m
Total descent: -150 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Burleigh Head National Park.

Burleigh Head National Park offers two convenient entry points:

Northern Entrance: If you’re coming from Burleigh Heads, head south on the Gold Coast Highway. Take a left turn onto Goodwin Terrace and follow it until the end. You’ll find the car park on your left.

Southern Entrance: Traveling south on the Gold Coast Highway from Burleigh Heads, look for the car park just before the Tallebudgera Creek bridge on your left. This is your southern entry point.

Consider arriving early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking can fill up quickly.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Burleigh Heads, Burleigh Waters, Currumbin, Miami, Tallebudgera, Tweed Heads

About the region

Standing tall as a prominent landmark, Burleigh Head National Park packs a surprising punch despite its modest 27 hectares. This jewel of the Gold Coast offers a vibrant tapestry of ecosystems, from lush rainforests teeming with life to windswept coastal heathlands. Explore its diverse landscapes, from towering eucalypt forests and pandanus groves to rocky foreshores and pristine beaches.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted. Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales breaching offshore during winter and spring. Soar with the majestic white-bellied sea eagles as they ride the thermals, or witness the vibrant birdwing butterflies flitting through the rainforest canopy in mid-summer.

Burleigh Head National Park is perfect for a day trip. Easily accessible via the Gold Coast Highway, the park offers an information center to help plan your exploration. Lace up your shoes and conquer the Rainforest Circuit, leading you to the park's 88-meter summit, or take the scenic Oceanview Circuit for breathtaking coastal views.

Please note: Camping is not permitted within the park.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Burleigh Head National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews
Burleigh Head Oceanview Walk (2.6km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Burleigh Head Oceanview Walk (2.6km)