Burleigh Heads: Is this suburb the ‘Bondi Beach of the Gold Coast’

Swim, stroll, shop, snack, then repeat – it’s the unspoken mantra of Burleigh Heads, where many Gold Coast locals have drifted south, searching for quieter shores, offering a blend of beachside bliss and big investment rewards.

Sand sneaks into every corner of life here, but that’s part of the magic. Mornings kick off with paddleboard sessions over glassy waters or jogs along the iconic headland. A post-surf coffee at a sunny cafe is another sacred ritual, and if you’re lucky, ocean views might follow you all the way home.

The ‘Bondi Beach of the Gold Coast’

Beneath Burleigh Heads’ laid-back vibe is a thriving hub for entrepreneurs, creatives, and savvy investors who relish the luxuries of nearby private schools, world-class healthcare, and two international airports. And then, there’s the real estate.

“There’s something for everyone here, from beachfront apartments to multimillion-dollar stunners,” says Carol Carter of Queensland Sotheby’s. “Take The Palms, for example – 400 metres from the shore and oozing Palm Springs, which is cool – home to star couple Bec and Lleyton Hewitt.”

Carter notes that Burleigh is often dubbed the ‘Bondi Beach of the Gold Coast’, with soaring property prices to match. According to Domain’s latest House Price Report, its median house price has surged by 75.4 per cent in just five years, reaching $1.4 million.

“At first, affordability drew people in,” Carter explains. “But as the secret got out, prices climbed, turning Burleigh into a destination for affluent buyers who want both sophistication and sun-soaked simplicity.”

Style, sunshine, and serenity

A born-and-bred Gold Coaster, Brooke Simmonds has called Burleigh Heads home for 15 years. Balancing her role as a part-time PE teacher and freelance interior stylist, she and her husband transformed their original brick house into a character-filled home named Burleigh Bungalow, where they’ve joyfully raised their family beneath swaying palms.

“Burleigh has it all – beach, creek, bush tracks, cafes, bars, breweries, and gorgeous design stores,” says Simmonds. “We spend our weekends at the local markets, kayaking or fishing on the water, or biking through the parks. This outdoor lifestyle has shaped our kids’ lives, from babies to teens.”

Their go-to dining spots include Tarte bakery’s European treats, juicy steaks at Local, and Light Years for some Asian fusion. For a sweet finish, it’s always Scoop Gelati. With a new tram line extension set to bring gems like The Little Plate closer, life in Burleigh Heads is only getting sweeter.

“As an interior-obsessed stylist, sourcing from local stores is both my passion and my job,” adds Simmonds. “Kira & Kira, Emporium on James, Maison & Maison, and Carmel’s are must-visits – that’s the beauty of Burleigh – style, sunshine, and serenity make every day feel like a holiday.”

For sale in Burleigh Heads

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13 Deodar Drive, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220

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The Palms, just 400 metres from the shore, blends Palm Springs flair with European elegance. Santorini clay walls, Venetian plaster, and American oak floors craft a calming scene, while bifold doors open to a terrace and resort-style pool, beckoning good times to unfold.