Your thongs sit by the door. The esky is packed. Someone has already called out for sunscreen. It’s January, and summer has fully arrived on the Gold Coast. Burleigh Heads feels alive. Kids head straight for the beach. Parents grab their morning coffee.
Lunch plans take shape as the day begins to warm. The best part is you won’t need a car or a strict schedule. Most of what you’ll want to do is right nearby. These Gold Coast activities are easy to reach and even easier to enjoy. Step outside and let the day take shape on its own.
Gold Coast Activities in Burleigh Are Unforgettable
This is one of the best places to enjoy Gold Coast activities at your own pace. Mornings start by the beach. Afternoons drift into creek swims. Evenings end with a walk and a bite to eat. Families have plenty of things to do on the Gold Coast without needing to drive far.
Outdoor choices feel endless. You can follow coastal tracks, watch surfers at the point, or grab lunch by the water. These activities to do in Gold Coast fit around your day, not the other way around. That’s what makes them the best things to do in Gold Coast during summer.
Nature Walks, Surf, and Swimming
Burleigh is made for sunny days. Each activity is nearby and easy to enjoy.
Burleigh Heads National Park
The Burleigh National Park trail begins just behind the beach. It winds through rainforest and along the coast. Head up early to catch the sunrise from Tumgun Lookout. Pack water and wear good walking shoes.
Tallebudgera Creek
A short walk or drive brings you to Tallebudgera Beach, Queensland. The water is calm and clear, ideal for families. Picnic spots line the banks, and the current stays gentle through summer.
All Coast Paddle Board Hire
All Coast Paddle Board Hire offers affordable rentals for stand-up paddleboarding. The boards are easy to use, even for beginners, and the sheltered water is perfect for a relaxed session. Hire a board by the hour and explore the calm inlet at your own pace.
Australian Surfing Adventures
Australian Surfing Adventures runs surf lessons across nearby beaches. Their instructors are approachable and supportive, with classes for all skill levels. Equipment is included, and sessions run daily. It’s an easy way to try surfing in a safe and welcoming environment close to Burleigh.
Where to Eat, Drink, and Wander
Evenings on the Gold Coast offer a relaxed shift in energy. The heat softens, and local venues begin to fill with life.
Miami Marketta
Just a short drive from Burleigh, Miami Marketta runs every Friday and Saturday night. Entry is free, and the space comes alive with food stalls, live music, and an open-air vibe.
You’ll find a wide mix of street food, drinks, and desserts that cater to all tastes. The crowd builds quickly, so ridesharing is your best option for getting there.
Mermaid Beach
This spot is about 15 minutes away and is known for its wide beaches and calm atmosphere. Local cafes nearby offer easy meals without the rush. It’s a quiet way to end the day, with less noise and more space to unwind.
Wildlife and Indoor Fun
When the beach isn’t an option, there are still great ways to explore and stay active nearby.
David Fleay Wildlife Park
David Fleay Wildlife Park offers a quiet, shaded walk through native habitat. Spot tree kangaroos, cassowaries and more in a peaceful rainforest setting.
Visit mid-morning when animals are most active. Entry is $27 for adults and $18 for kids. It’s a calm, low-cost outing during the summer break.
BOUNCEinc Gold Coast
Just a short drive away, the trampoline park suits all ages. Entry is around $20 per hour. Wear activewear and grippy socks. It’s a fun and flexible option when you’re looking for indoor Gold Coast activities during the school holidays.
Coastal Adventures Worth the Drive
A short drive opens up more of the coastline, giving your holiday some extra variety.
Kirra Beach
Kirra Beach offers space to spread out and time to slow down. It’s great for beginners learning to surf or families looking for a quieter swim. Cafés nearby serve relaxed meals with ocean views, making it an easy, breezy outing.
Currumbin Alley Surf School
The instructors are friendly and experienced, and the waves at Currumbin Alley stay gentle enough for beginners. Group and private lessons are available, and all equipment is provided.
It’s a good way to build confidence in the water while enjoying one of the coast’s most scenic spots. These Gold Coast adventures are a great way to round out your school holiday break. Each spot adds something different, and getting there is part of the fun.
A January Holiday to Remember
Each day offers something new. You might start with a paddle at Tallebudgera Beach, Queensland, take a walk through Burleigh National Park, or spend the evening at the Miami Marketta events. These Gold Coast activities adjust to your pace to give you the freedom to enjoy your time without pressure.
As the school holidays continue, families ease into the rhythm. The beaches, nature trails, and local food spots are nearby and easy to enjoy.
Short drives to Kirra Beach, Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast, or a lesson with Currumbin Alley Surf School round out the experience with just enough variety.
The season shifts before you know it. But what stays with you is how simple it felt to enjoy each day.
Stay Close to It All with 2nd Avenue Beachside Apartments
Location matters just as much as the view. Staying in Burleigh makes it easy to enjoy every part of your holiday.
At 2nd Avenue Beachside Apartments, you’re within walking distance of the best local highlights. The ocean is across the road. Burleigh National Park rises at the end of the street. Tallebudgera Beach, Queensland, is only a short stroll away for a swim, paddle or picnic. Cafés, markets and coastal tracks are all nearby.
After a morning spent exploring or trying out nearby Gold Coast activities, you can return to your apartment, pour a cold drink, and unwind on your private balcony. Our fully self-contained apartments are spacious and comfortable, giving you room to relax, reset, and make the most of your summer stay.
Book your beachside escape today.
Image Credit: Kids on the Coast
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