Southern Gold Coast Travel Guide
The Southern Gold Coast runs from Palm Beach all the way down to the New South Wales border, tracing a scenic path through some big hitters like Currumbin, Tugun, Kirra and Coolangatta. South of Burleigh Heads, the coastline starts to lose some of its high-rise intensity; creek mouths, low headlands, and neighbourhood beaches start to crop up more often.
Currumbin Creek is one of the standouts down here – bringing a sheltered spot of water that’s perfect for paddling about. Meanwhile, Snapper Rocks and Kirra are where the surf bums are at – with the airport just a short stroll away, it’s a pretty sweet combo. And if you need to grab a bite or do some shopping, Coolangatta’s shops and dining are just a short walk from the sand.
- Half day
- 2.5 — 3 hours
- $ 115.00 AUD
- $ 99.00 AUD
- Half day
- 90 min.
- $ 89.00 AUD
- $ 79.00 AUD
- Full Day
- 6 hours
- $ 249 AUD
- $ 229 AUD
- Full Day
- 6 Hours (approx.)
- $ 120 AUD
- $ 99 AUD
- Full Day
- 7 Hours (approx.)
- $ 350.00 AUD
- $ 304.00 AUD
- 3 hours
- 150 min. (approx.)
- $ 149,00 AUD
- $ 129,00 AUD
Laid-Back Coastal Escapes
Currumbin’s pretty much built around its creek and estuary — it’s a lovely spot to while away the day. Tugun’s a bit more low-key, mostly residential, whereas Kirra’s got a really pretty beach just shy of the airport. Coolangatta’s got all the shops, cafes and restaurants you could want, right in easy walking distance of the beach.
The Gold Coast Highway is the backbone of this stretch of coast, tying everything together. So you get Palm Beach, Currumbin Beach, Tugun and Bilinga, followed by Kirra, Coolangatta, Greenmount and Rainbow Bay all in quick succession – but then there are creek mouths and headlands that break up the strip and keep it feeling a bit more low-key.
FAQ
What is considered the Southern Gold Coast?
When people talk about the Southern Gold Coast, they’re generally referring to the coastal suburbs from south of Burleigh Heads to the New South Wales border — that’s Palm Beach, Currumbin, Tugun, Bilinga, Kirra and Coolangatta — we’re talking suburbs where you can still find some peace and quiet by the coast.
Is the Southern Gold Coast good for families?
Absolutely. There’s plenty to keep families entertained — Currumbin Alley, patrolled beaches, some great coastal paths, and the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Just be aware that swimming conditions can change, so make sure to check local warnings and stick to the patrolled areas if you can.
Where is the best place to stay on the Southern Gold Coast?
Well, the answer depends on what you’re after. Coolangatta is your best bet if you want the full beach, restaurant and shopping package. Kirra is great if you want to be right near the beach and the airport. Tugun is perfect if you’re after a more laid-back coastal vibe. And Currumbin is great if you want easy access to the creek, the beach, and the surrounding countryside.
Where are the best surf breaks on the Southern Gold Coast?
If you’re an experienced surfer and you’re after some of the best surf breaks on the Gold Coast, then Snapper Rocks, the Superbank and Kirra are the places to be. Just be warned, these breaks can be challenging and crowded — you know, the usual Gold Coast experience.
How far is the Southern Gold Coast from Gold Coast Airport?
Look, Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is literally in the middle of Bilinga, right between Tugun and Coolangatta. Which means that if you’re staying in Kirra, Coolangatta or Tugun, you’ll have a much shorter trip to the airport than if you’re staying in the city centre.
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South Bank Parklands sits directly opposite the Brisbane CBD, bringing together around 15 hectares of parkland, Streets Beach and the Queensland Cultural Centre. Across the river, Queen Street Mall and the 18-hectare City Botanic Gardens offer a mix of busy city streets and quieter waterfront spaces.
Kangaroo Point has some of the best views of the Brisbane skyline and Story Bridge. Nearby, Howard Smith Wharves brings dining and riverside spaces beneath the bridge. New Farm, Fortitude Valley and West End add another mix of parkland, nightlife, leafy streets and charming cafés.
