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.
Total distance: 2658 m
Max elevation: 25 m
Min elevation: 3 m
Total climbing: 82 m
Total descent: -77 m
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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
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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.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
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.
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 vistas.
Please note: Camping is not permitted within the park.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
