Visiting Burleigh Head safely
The headland is an important refuge for many animals.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Mark Simmons
Getting there and getting around
Nestled on the iconic Gold Coast, Burleigh Head National Park is an unmissable destination just 90 kilometres south of Brisbane. Its unique blend of lush subtropical rainforest, stunning coastal views, and cultural heritage makes it a favourite among nature enthusiasts.
Whether you're travelling southbound or northbound on the M1 (Pacific Motorway), follow these directions for a smooth journey:
Southbound Travellers (from Brisbane and beyond):
- Take Exit 89—Tallebudgera Creek Road/West Burleigh Road.
- Follow the signs to Burleigh Heads by continuing along West Burleigh Road.
- At the intersection with the Gold Coast Highway, turn right to head towards Burleigh Heads.
- To reach the northern entrance of the park, turn left off the Gold Coast Highway onto Goodwin Terrace. The car park is at the end of Goodwin Terrace.
- To reach the southern entrance of the park, turn left off the Gold Coast Highway at the traffic lights immediately north of Tallebudgera Creek.
Northbound Travellers (from the New South Wales border or southern Gold Coast):
- Take Exit 92—Palm Beach Avenue
- At the intersection with the Gold Coast Highway, turn left to head towards Burleigh Heads.
- To reach the southern entrance of the park, turn right off the Gold Coast Highway at the traffic lights immediately north of Tallebudgera Creek.
- To reach the northern entrance of the park, turn right off the Gold Coast Highway onto Goodwin Terrace. The car park is at the end of Goodwin Terrace.
Both northbound and southbound exits allow easy access to Burleigh Head National Park. Plan for any traffic or roadworks by checking live updates via the Queensland Traffic website
Access to Echo Beach is by designated stairways only.
Important access information
For your safety and the protection of this natural haven, public access to the following areas of the park is prohibited.
Access to the cliff line boulder fields, including Cannon Rock, and the steep slopes between the Oceanview track and boulder fields is prohibited. Observe the restricted access area signs on the Oceanview track and Rainforest circuit , and stay on the formed walking tracks.
Mangrove shoot.
Photo credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Use sun protection, carry water and stay on the walking tracks at all times.
Photo credit: Queensland Government
Wheelchair accessibility
The Oceanview track offers wheelchair assisted access. The other tracks within the park are not wheelchair-accessible.
Staying safe
Your safety is our priority but your responsibility. Be prepared, even for short walks, and carefully assess your abilities and weather conditions before setting out.
General Safety Tips
To help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:
- Protect yourself from the sun: Wear a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and sturdy shoes with good grip.
- Stick together: Stay with your group and keep to designated walking tracks.
- Walk during daylight: For your safety, only explore the park during daylight hours.
- Don’t walk alone: Walk with one or more friends and always supervise children.
- Stay hydrated: Carry enough drinking water.
Rockfalls and unstable boulders
The massive hexagonal basalt columns atop Burleigh headland, as well as the scattered boulders down the slopes and along the shoreline, are part of an ongoing natural geological process. However, rockfalls and boulder movements pose serious risks, particularly during severe weather.
Rockfalls continue to occur in Burleigh Head National Park. For your safety, please note the following access restrictions:
- Access to the cliff line boulder fields, including Cannon Rock, and the steep slopes between the Oceanview track and the boulder fields is strictly prohibited. Observe the DANGER boulder fall zone restricted access area signs along the Oceanview track (PDF, 100.9KB) and the Rainforest circuit (PDF, 99.6KB) , and stay on the formed walking tracks. Penalties apply for non-compliance.
- A section of the Oceanview walking track is closed during high-risk periods in line with the latest geotechnical assessment.
Conditions for closures: The section of Oceanview track most vulnerable to boulder falls will be closed when the following conditions exist or are expected:
- high winds
- high rainfall
- low temperature, and
- fire.
Important reminder: do not take unnecessary risks—obey the closures and stay on walking tracks.
While exploring the headland remain on the formed walking tracks. Climbing, scrambling, or jumping on boulders is prohibited as it increases the risk of dislodging unstable boulders, endangering both yourself and others.
For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.
Before you visit
Essentials to bring
A hat, sunscreen and suitable clothing to protect you from the sun.
Opening hours
Walk in Burleigh Head National Park during daylight hours only for your safety
Permits and fees
Permits are required for commercial activities and organised events within the park.
Pets
Domestic animals are not permitted in Burleigh Head National Park.
Climate
The Gold Coast enjoys a mild, subtropical climate.
- Summer (December–February): 20–28°C
- Winter (June–August): 11–21°C
Fuel and supplies
Fuel and supplies are available at Burleigh Heads and at other centres on the Gold Coast. For more information see the tourism information links.
By following these guidelines, you will help protect yourself, others, and the natural beauty of Burleigh Head National Park.
- There are currently no park alerts for this park.