Did you know that all the way back in 1840, James Warner (who was commissioned to survey the coastline near Moreton Bay) named the headland near Tallebudgera Creek ‘Burly Head’ because of its massive appearance? Decades later, when it was declared a town reserve in 1871, the name was adapted to the more genteel spelling of Burleigh Heads. Nowaways, it’s one of the busiest, most beloved suburbs on the Gold Coast – find out what to see and do here with this Burleigh Heads guide.
Shop
Burleigh’s James Street is a one-stop fashion shop. The Freedom State is stocked with outfits to take you from beach to bar – convenient, since it’s located just across from beautiful Burleigh Heads beach. They stock luxe bohemian labels like Spell Designs, Auguste the Label, Rowie, St. Agni and Temple of the Sun alongside international brands like Free People, Amuse Society and Levi’s. Grab your headwear here too – Brixton, Lack of Color and Fallen Broken Street will keep you cool (literally and figuratively). Other boutiques worth checking out include Sean Scott Boutique, Emte and James and West.
Beauty
Established in 2005 and centrally located in Burleigh Heads, Elysium provides a retreat for those wanting to look and feel their best. There are three private treatment rooms, as well as a pedicure room equipped with a foot spa for ultimate indulgence. It’s a tranquil sanctuary designed to make you unwind and relax: the lights are dimmed, candles are lit and soothing music and scents work to immediately chill you out. Then, the Elysium therapists work their magic. The Elysium mission is “to assist everyone to be the best version of themselves, inside and out”. It’s truly bliss.
Coffee
Holy caffeine hits – you are spoilt for choice when it comes to a quality cuppa here in Burleigh. If a line-up is evidence of coveted coffee, Nook Espresso Bar is coffee Mecca. Formerly a hole-in-the-wall in the Burleigh Pavilion, Nook has moved across the road inside the Old Burleigh Arcade and they’ve taken their loyal fans along with them. Otherwise, enjoy a coffee (and maybe a sweet treat) at Social Brew on James Street or the French-inspired Tarte.
Cocktails (and more)
- Rosella’s: From the cosy decor to the inspired menu items (we’re talking spag bol’ spring rolls and XXXX damper) – not to mention cocktails with names like ‘Ash Barty Party’ and ‘Blinky Bill’, Australiana has never looked so good.
- Lockwood Bar: Find the red door and send an SMS to get in. So secretive, so cool. The cocktails here will blow. Your. Mind.
- The Night Jar: Alongside Lockwood in Justin Lane, this is another must-do on a night out.
Three things to do
- Hike through Burleigh Heads National Park, whether you go over the hill or take the scenic route around the front of the headland.
- Find some friendly competition at the Burleigh Heads Bowls Club – if you haven’t played Sunday arvo barefoot bowls here, you haven’t lived.
- And of course, surf (or surf watch from the hill) the break at Burleigh Heads.
Love this Burleigh Heads guide? Check out our Suburb Spotlight segment, where we walk you through other Gold Coast suburbs.
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