Budds Beach

Nestled on the Nerang River and less than a 5 minute walk from the hubbub of Surfers Paradise is Budds Beach, one of those places that tourists never really get to see. It’s a quiet, peaceful corner of Surfers Paradise where kids play on the beach, boats slowly cruise up and down the river and people go on with their lives in the houses on Chevron Island.

Burleigh Heads

Voted as Gold Coast’s best beach, Burleigh Heads is a clean, patrolled sandy beach that is popular for both families and surfers. Only a short drive from Burleigh CBD, the beach itself has plenty of facilities that are only a short walk away, easy parking and kid’s play equipment that makes it a family favourite.

Rainbow Bay

Rainbow Bay in Coolangatta is one of those great Gold Coast beaches that has something for everyone. The stretch of patrolled beach is long enough that long borders, surfers and swimmers can each have their own patch of beach. There is even a shallow gutter just off the beach that provides a calm patch for kids to have a dump free paddle.

Greenmount Beach

Still in Coolangatta and just around the corner from Rainbow Bay is the gentle surf of Greenmount Beach. The calm waters are great for young kids still learning to swim and adults that simple want a gentle laze in the sea.

Main Beach

Originally named because it was, quite simply, the "Main Beach" for the nearby town of Southport, Main Beach has become a separate suburb in its own right due to continued development. While its popularity as a pure surfing beach has gradually tailed off, it has become a hotspot as great "chill out" destination due to the many accommodation facilities that sit in close proximity to the water. In addition, Main Beach is also usually substantially less crowded than its neighbouring beaches at Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, lending it a relaxing atmosphere with several nearby restaurants and coffee shops available for use. A good choice as a Gold Coast beach destination for families with kids who want to have a fun and peaceful day out at the beach. With a long stretch of soft, white sand and a smooth surf break, Main Beach is ideal for swimming and spreading out to lay in the sun. There is loads of room to kick a ball around and all necessary amenities to provide for a great, hassle-free family day at the beach.

Currumbin Beach

Currumbin's beaches form a lovely balance between a family destination - with sheltered off, shark-netted swimming areas and nearby parks ideal for barbecues - with a great spot for surfers and other watersports enthusiasts offered by Currumbin Alley. Currumbin Beach is an uncrowded, patrolled beach with gentle surf and rock pools that are great for young families. The Surf Club and nearby cafes of Currumbin offer an easy meal or drink after a day out in the sun.

Broadwater

Broadwater is not really a beach so much as it is a stretch of tidal water. Stretching from Southport to The Spit, Broadwater is popular for its lack of intimidating waves and attracts plenty of swimmers, kayakers and jetski riders.