Welcome to the Southern Gold Coast, where sun-kissed beaches, lush hinterlands, and vibrant Indigenous culture converge to offer an unforgettable experience. Join us on an insider’s tour led by local Indigenous guides as we uncover hidden gems, sacred sites, and stories passed down through generations. Get ready to explore the Southern Gold Coast like never before through the eyes of its original custodians.
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Stand-up paddleboarding is the unofficial sport of the Southern Gold Coast. Most weekends, you’ll find Trish Kane, a Yugambeh woman, and her family paddleboarding or kayaking along the calm, flat waters of Tallebudgera and Currumbin Creeks. You don’t have to be an expert to give it a go. Rent a board or kayak if you prefer. Then, spend an hour or two exploring the creeks and tributaries in and around Burleigh Heads and Currumbin.
Sometimes, they swap their boards for rods and fish for whiting, flathead, and bream in Tallebudgera. And did you know? Tallebudgera means “good fish” in their language.
One of Trish’s favourite Dreamtime stories is about the elder Gowanda, who died only to return as a dolphin. He taught the other dolphins how to round up the fish and drive them to shore for our people to catch. Perhaps this is why it’s still such a good fishing spot today.
When people think of the Gold Coast, they usually think of the busy beaches and skyscrapers of Surfers Paradise, but it couldn’t be more different down the southern end. Wandering along the quiet, unspoiled beaches at Kirra, Greenmount, and Coolangatta, having the entire beach to yourself is not unusual.
Wander
Walking the headland at Burleigh Head National Park is at the top of Trish’s must-do list (the views out to the Pacific Ocean and north to Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach are spectacular).
Hiking around the Dreaming Mountain – Jellurgal to the Indigenous people – is deeply connected to culture and country. Trish’s teachings about the region and sharing her people’s stories show the land in a new light. When you’re taken around the headland, you’ll be amazed at how many ancient sites and sacred spaces there are – and yet, without an Aboriginal guide to show you, you’d have walked right past without even knowing.
Here’s a tip. Keep your camera handy when wandering this Southern Gold Coast spot because native wildlife spotting is virtually guaranteed. Burleigh Head National Park is home to water dragons, tree snakes, and many birds, from kookaburras to nesting sea eagles.
Just a 45-minute drive west is another of Trish’s favourite places – Springbrook National Park in the World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest. Yugambeh people have lived in this region for thousands of years, and many areas still bear their original Aboriginal names.
If you’re up for an adventure, tackling the 4km Twin Falls circuit is a great way to spend an afternoon (and take a break from the summer heat). The track takes you down into the canyon, across streams, and through subtropical rainforest to reach two spectacular waterfalls.
If you’ve got time afterwards, take a detour to the Natural Bridge for a nocturnal guided tour of the basalt cave famous for its glow-worm and microbat colonies (always a hit with the kids).
Dine
If the fish aren’t biting, you can still fill up at one of the Southern Gold Coast’s many fabulous eateries. If you look, you’ll find plenty of smaller cafes away from the hustle and bustle.
Down 2 Earth Organics at Palm Beach is Trish’s local breakfast tip – their fresh fruit acai bowls pair perfectly with balmy days and salty air. For amazing burgers, toasted sandwiches, and locally brewed beer on tap, settle in at The Boatshed, Currumbin (as a bonus, you can also hire paddleboards there).
If you prefer food with the best view in town, head for the nearest Surf Club: Burleigh and Greenmount in Coolangatta are local go-tos.
Best Time To Visit
With hot summers and sunny, mild winters, the Southern Gold Coast is a bit of an all-rounder. Even in the coldest months, the water temperatures are still high enough to swim.
Immerse Yourself in the Southern Gold Coast Experience
The Southern Gold Coast offers visitors a diverse range of activities, from paddleboarding along calm creeks to exploring ancient rainforests. Trish’s insights into the region’s Indigenous culture and her family’s connection to the land provide a unique perspective for travellers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the Southern Gold Coast offers something unique year-round.
Also read: Visitors Guide To Canungra and Tamborine Mountain Tourist Spots.