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Must-do Summer Activities on the Gold Coast

From early morning coffee walks to sun‑soaked beach days, summer is when the Gold Coast comes alive. And with so many places to swim, wander and explore, there’s always something new to discover. In this guide, we’re sharing our favourite swimming spots, hidden gems and nature trails to inspire your next summer holiday.

Explore new beaches and swimming spots

Did you know that the Gold Coast is home to 57km of coastline? That's a lot of beaches! This summer, venture beyond the well‑known hotspots and check out some of these quieter – but just as beautiful – places to swim:

  • Echo Beach – Tucked into Burleigh Headland on the northern side of Tallebudgera Creek, Echo Beach is a little slice of paradise. Access it via the Ocean View Track at Burleigh Head National Park. It takes a bit more effort to get there, but the secluded vibe makes it worth it.
  • Currumbin Alley – With calm, clear water perfect for swimming and paddle boarding, Currumbin Alley is a favourite for active beachgoers. It can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is your best bet.
  • Tugun Beach – One of the Gold Coast's most underrated beaches, Tugun offers a relaxed atmosphere and fewer crowds.
  • Jacobs Well – Just steps from Jacobs Well Tourist Park, this swimming enclosure is great for families. Shaded picnic areas and a nearby boat ramp make it a perfect launchpad for a day on the Moreton Bay waterways.
  • Cougal Cascades – A hidden gem deep in Currumbin Valley, just 30 minutes from Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park. Wander the 1.6km rainforest track, then hop down over the boulders to reach the rockpools. It’s off the beaten path, but absolutely worth the adventure!

Safety tip: Always swim between the red and yellow flags at our patrolled beaches and avoid swimming after heavy rainfall.

Figure: Currumbin Alley

Spend a day on South Stradbroke Island

Just a short boat ride away but a world of its own, South Stradbroke Island offers one of the most unique experiences on the Gold Coast. Spend the day exploring bushwalking trails, fishing, kayaking, or surfing uncrowded waves. When you're ready for a break, head to Tipplers Café for lunch with a view – you might even spot a wallaby or two while you eat!

Want to stay the night? Tipplers, North Currigee and South Currigee Campgrounds offer beachfront campsites and island shacks with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.

How to get there: Reach South Stradbroke Island by water taxi, private boat or ferry. The Tipplers Ferry offers daily transfers to the island via Jacobs Well and takes about 30 minutes. Call Tipplers directly or book online.

Figure: Tipplers Café

Enjoy beachside dining

Nothing says “summer on the Gold Coast” quite like a good meal with ocean views. Whether it’s fish and chips at the beach or a classic surf club feed, there’s no better way to end a day in the sun.

Many of our parks are within walking distance of great local eats. Here are a few of our favourites:

  • Tallebudgera Surf Club – Situated right on Tallebudgera Beach, this surf club dishes up elevated classics with unbeatable views – perfect for a relaxed family meal after a swim.
  • Broadwater Café – Just steps from Broadwater Tourist Park, this café offers casual dining with peaceful waterside views. It's perfect for breakfast, lunch or even just a coffee in the park.
  • Burleigh Heads Surf Club – Overlooking the iconic Burleigh Beach, this local favourite serves up classic pub meals in a laid‑back atmosphere. Grab a balcony seat for one of the best views in town.
  • Custard Canteen – Located at Tallebudgera Creek, Custard Canteen is famous for its flaky pastries and great coffee. It’s the ideal stop for a post‑swim coffee or morning treat!
Figure: Custard Canteen, Tallebudgera Creek. Photo Credit: Experience Gold Coast

Make the most of water adventures

Whether you're staying near the beach or the waterways, there’s no shortage of water‑based fun on the Gold Coast.

  • GC Aqua Park – Loved by locals and visitors, GC Aqua Park is an award‑winning inflatable playground packed with slides, swings and obstacles. It’s fast, fun and guaranteed to get everyone laughing.
  • Boating and jet-ski tours – The Gold Coast’s waterways are best explored by boat or jet‑ski. Our reception teams can help organise a tour that suits your style of adventure!
  • Stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking – The calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek and the Broadwater are perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking. Glide along sparkling waters as you take in scenic coastal views.
Figure: GC Aqua Park. Photo Credit: Experience Gold Coast

Enjoy nature walks and scenic trails

Summer doesn’t have to mean staying in the water all day (though no judgement if you do!). The Gold Coast is home to stunning coastal paths, shady boardwalks and walking tracks perfect for people of all abilities.

  • Burleigh Head National Park - With ocean views, wildlife sightings and stunning lookout points, it’s one of the Gold Coast’s most rewarding short walks.
  • Oceanway Path - Stretching 36km along the coastline, the Oceanway is a great way to take in the Gold Coast. Walk, ride or scoot along spacious pathways with uninterrupted beach views. Easily access the Oceanway from all of our coastal parks.
  • The Federation Walk Coastal Reserve – Located at The Spit near Main Beach Tourist Park, this peaceful 3.5km track winds through native bushland and sand dunes before opening up to sweeping ocean views. It’s a great choice if you’re after a quiet nature escape.
Figure: Ocean View Track at Burleigh Head National Park

Relax and recharge in the park

Of course, some of the best summer moments happen right where you’re staying.

  • Enjoy free or low‑cost kids’ activities during the school holidays – perfect for keeping little ones entertained while you unwind.
  • Take a refreshing dip in our swimming pools, or lounge poolside with a good book.
  • Ease into slow mornings with a coffee in hand and the sound of nature waking up around you.
  • Meet fellow campers at our sausage sizzles, outdoor movie nights and park‑hosted social events that bring everyone together.

Posted: January 28th 2026

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What our guests are saying

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Gerhard Schulz

Kirra Beach

Just spend 4 days here. Very nice park. Lots of shady sites, clean amenities and friendly staff. Being pet friendly is a bonus. Can only recommend.

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Christine Sibraa

Ocean Beach

Great park very quiet and friendly close to beach and close to a surf club and shops,and amenities are very clean and tidy

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Sasha Towell

Jacobs Well

Jacobs Well Tourist Park is amazing! Such friendly and helpful staff, nothing a bit of mozzie replant and mozzie candle didn’t fix! As well as hearing the...