BEST OF BURLEIGH CURRUMBIN AND BEYOND

Tallebudgera Creek

Slow down and reconnect with nature and loved ones by the cool, calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek.

Framed by the natural splendour of Burleigh Head National Park on one side, and the soft sand of Palm Beach on the other, this tranquil oasis has been a favourite hangout for generations of holidaymakers. Its natural beauty, peaceful ambience and great recreational opportunities make it the perfect location for swimming, picnicking or water sports. The creek’s name is believed to signify the area’s traditional importance as a fishing and hunting ground in the indigenous Yugambeh language, so it’s also a great spot to throw in a line.

As you approach Tallebudgera Creek, your senses are immediately awakened by the symphony of nature that surrounds you. The gentle rustle of the tall gum trees and the melodic chirping of birds create a harmonious soundtrack. Feel the warm, golden sand of the riverbank massage your feet, grounding you in the moment. The salty tang of the ocean breeze caresses your skin, invigorating your senses. The air is filled with the faint scent of the sea, and the refreshing aroma of surrounding eucalyptus trees.

Enjoy a relaxed picnic on the peaceful shore, as the gentle lapping of the creek calms your thoughts. The laughter of children playing in the shallows adds to the relaxed ambience of this family-friendly hotspot. Wade into the calm water and allow the warmth of the sun on your face and the gentle sway of the water to lull you into a state of utter relaxation.

If you’re feeling energetic, the still waters of Tallebudgera Creek provide an idyllic setting for non-motorised water sports, such as kayaking and stand up paddleboarding. Equipment hire is available from nearby businesses, including All Coast Paddle Board Hire, who offer free instruction if needed.

Currumbin Creek and Elephant Rocks

About 15-minutes’ drive south of Tallebudgera you’ll find another calm water sanctuary, popular with families and water sports enthusiasts. Naturally beautiful Currumbin Creek flows from the gorges of Mount Cougal National Park in the hinterland, and meanders through the suburb of Currumbin Valley before reaching the coast.

The creek is surrounded by lush vegetation, including mangroves, eucalyptus forests, and coastal rainforest. The eastern end of this 20-kilometre-long estuary provides an important habitat for a wide variety of saltwater marine species, including visiting dolphins. Its serene waters offer a variety of activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and boating. A little further inland, the Currumbin Rock Pools are a popular swimming spot for locals and tourists alike. Laze in the mini rapids, linger over a picnic on the grassy shores, or wade about in the cool waters of this peaceful, freshwater swimming hole.

At Currumbin Beach, just south of the mouth of the creek, stands a prominent rocky outcrop known as Elephant Rock. It is named after its resemblance to an elephant's head and trunk when viewed from certain angles. Stairs lead to a platform at the top of the formation – a popular vantage point for taking photos of the golden coastline stretching from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta, and a great place to spot whales during their winter migration to warmer waters. It is also the solemn setting of annual Anzac Day remembrance services, paying tribute to the enduring spirit, courage and sacrifice of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.

Currumbin also plays host to the SWELL Sculpture Festival. This family-friendly annual event sees Currumbin Beach transformed into an outdoor sculpture gallery, connecting people, art and place.

Introduction to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

This chilled-out community is also home to an iconic, heritage-listed Gold Coast attraction which has been welcoming guests of all abilities for over 75 years. Come and enjoy close-up encounters with a menagerie of exotic and native animals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Spread across 27 hectares of sprawling grounds, you’ll find open animal enclosures that are home to all manner of furred, feathered, spikey and slippery critters. Hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle with koalas, or take an enchanting walk through the rainforest of the Lost Valley, to discover some of the world’s most unique wildlife and exotic reptiles. Participate in one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic experiences, as you hand-feed wild rainbow lorikeets. If you’re eager to interact with some feathered friends, feeding sessions are offered twice daily. Let tiny feet tickle your head, shoulders or arms, and let the cacophony of birdcall wash over you, as you become a human perch at a lorikeet feeding feast.

A thrilling range of shows and encounters run throughout the day, including the exhilarating Wild Skies free flight bird show, Wildlife Hospital presentations and the fun filled Blinky Bill’s Rookie Ranger Station. Immerse your senses in the echoing rhythm of clapsticks and the unique sound of the didgeridoo at the daily Aboriginal Culture Show. Through an immersive journey of song, stories and dance, the Yugambeh Aboriginal Dance Group share fascinating insights into the world’s oldest living culture.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is open daily. You can also enjoy a unique Aussie experience by booking in for a gourmet breakfast with the koalas. Or perhaps opt for a guided twilight tour to explore the sanctuary after dark and learn more about the history and spirit of the Yugambeh people, the traditional custodians of the Gold Coast.

Beers, Brews and Beats

If all the exploring has made you work up a thirst, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a few fine options to help you gain an authentic taste of the Gold Coast, as you ease into the evening.

Start your thirst-quenching quest at Balter Brewing Company. Nestled in the heart of Currumbin, this craft brewery was set up by a (very well known) group of local pro surfers, and instantly became an international phenomenon. The taproom exudes a warm and welcoming ambience, and features a rotating roster of fresh, limited-release beers, live music, and tasty bites from the best regional food trucks. Sit back and relax in the sun-drenched beer garden, or pull up a stool in the colourful upstairs bar. Balter Brewing is all about enjoyment, and you’re sure to leave with a smile on your face!

Your next port of call is arguably one of the best craft distilleries on the Gold Coast. Grandad Jack’s is housed within a converted surfboard warehouse just a short walk from the beach between Burleigh and Miami. This family-owned and operated business produces award-winning, hand-crafted spirits including gin, vodka, coffee liqueur and single-barrel whiskey, along with limited releases such as Pavlova Gin, Kiwi Smash Vodka and Pumpkin Spice Moonshine. On weekends, take a distillery tour to hear the stories behind their artisan tipples, as you sample tastings of their spirits and liqueurs. Or perhaps try your hand at making your own bottle of gin, with a private experience available on selected weeknights.

Polish off your evening with a visit to Miami Marketta. This family-friendly outdoor dining experience takes your tastebuds on a world tour, with delicious street food from around the globe. Onsite bars serve locally brewed beverages, while local artists serenade diners with their mellow tunes. Miami Marketta takes place each Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evening from 5pm.

Accessibility

The Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park Surf Life Saving Club offers permanent ramp access onto the beach. On Saturdays from September to May, beach matting and beach wheelchairs are available if requested in advance. A full Changing Places adult change facility is offered at the club. Accessible parking spaces are provided in the main beach car park.

The sheltered inlet beach of Tallebudgera Creek is patrolled and is an accessible option for people of all abilities. Beach matting and beach wheelchairs are available on Saturdays from September to May if requested in advance, and accessible parking, toilets and beach showers are provided onsite. A concrete path leads all the way from the boat ramp to the end of the breakwater, which is a good accessible fishing location. The Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park sits right on the waterfront, offering an easy access cabin and some accessible amenities.

Currumbin Wildlife Park warmly welcomes guests of all abilities and strives to provide suitable access to its attractions. Guests who are accompanying Disability Pension Card holders in the capacity of a Companion or Carer receive free entry to the Sanctuary. Certified Guide, Hearing and Assistance dogs are welcome within the sanctuary, but proof of certification and current vaccination status must be provided. Assistance dogs are not permitted in areas where direct interactions with animals can occur. Please contact the Sanctuary directly for further details. A comprehensive Accessibility Statement is available on their website by visiting currumbinsanctuary.com.au and searching ‘Accessibility’. The local Kinetic bus route 700 stops about 100 metres from the Sanctuary’s entrance.

Hop On Brewery Tours, Kiff and Culture, Pineapple Tours and others offer guided tours that can include Balter Brewing and Grandad Jacks. Jump onboard for insightful audio commentary and behind-the-scenes experiences. These tours make transport a breeze, without the need for a designated driver. Please contact operators directly to discuss any accessibility requirements.