21 Scenic Short Walks On The Gold Coast That Will Take Your Breath Away

Coffee, brunch and stroll vibes all around.

1. Ocean View Track, Burleigh Heads National Park

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Walking time: 60 minutes

Start your day off with coffee and a nibble at The Stones Throw Cafe, then begin this easy walk along the rocky headland of Burleigh Heads for some seriously stunning ocean views. You can choose to return via the same track, or along The Rainforest Circuit.

2. Cougal Cascades, Springbrook National Park

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Walking time: 40 minutes

Springbrook National Park is a great place to cool off on a hot day. Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Cougal Cascades and soak in the rainforest's smells and sounds. Hot tip — if it's a busy day, more swimming holes can be found by walking another 20 minutes upstream.

3. Tallebudgera Creek, Southern Gold Coast

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Walking time: 80 minutes

Tally Creek is a great spot for an aqua-side stroll. The loop walk starts at Palm Beach and curves around Burleigh. Be sure to check out The Plantation House Cafe for a quality brunch — the whole cafe is made from recycled timber, too!

4. North Gorge Walk, Stradbroke Island

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Walking time: 45 minutes

This boardwalk track has your name on it if you're a fan of windswept coastal views. You'll not only get to experience the unspoilt tranquility of Stradbroke Island, but you might even get lucky and spot a whale if you go between May and November. Paradise is but a short ferry ride away from the mainland.

5. Cedar Creek Falls, Mount Tamborine

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Walking time: 60 minutes

After you've gorged yourself on the local produce Mount Tamborine has to offer, head on over to Cedar Creek Falls for some down time among the eucalyptus trees. It's the perfect place for an outdoor picnic under the canyons.

6. O'Reilly's Treetop Walk, Lamington National Park

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Walking time: 20 minutes

Hope you're not afraid of heights because this short but thrilling walk in Lamington National Park will take you high above the trees, passing through nine suspension bridges. You'll be enjoying the forest at koala height.

7. Gold Coast Regional Botanical Gardens, Benowa

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Walking time: 30 minutes

If the discovery of new plants is totally your thing, then Gold Coast Regional Botanical Gardens will be right up your alley. It's abundant in flora of all shapes and colours and is the perfect place for a stroll and chat — just don't forget to bring the poop bag for pooch!

8. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Currumbin

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Walking time: 90 minutes

If you're looking for an excuse to not have lunch with the in-laws again, why not suggest a trip to The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for some furry fun instead?! Pretty much every native Australian animal can be found here, from kangaroos to crocodiles, dingos and even Tassie devils.

9. Minjungbal Trail, Tweed Heads

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Walking time: 30 minutes

The Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre is home to ancient artifacts belonging to The Minjungbal People of the Tweed Valley. The walking trail takes you on sacred land and showcases traditional heritage in the making.

10. Coolangatta to Point Danger, Southern Gold Coast

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Walking time: 60 minutes

This gorgeous coastal walk provides awe-inspiring coastal views from Coolangatta all the way out to the towering skyline of Surfer's Paradise. It's best walked at sunset and, if done on a clear day, it'll be an evening that's not easily forgotten.

11. Myola Court Boardwalk, Coombabah

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Walking time: 45 minutes

You'll have to share this walk with bicycle riders, but there's plenty of this beautiful landscape to go around. It's great for some peace and quiet in the wetlands and a top spot for wild kangaroo spotting.

12. Apple Tree Park, Springbrook

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Walking time: 90 minutes

This hidden gem is a mid-way point for The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk, which means you'll probably run into some avid hikers who have stopped for a break along this trail. Listen out for kookaburras as you hike through the lush rainforest landscape and be sure to stop at the Best Of All Lookout on your way here.

13. Palm Beach-Currumbin Farmers Market, Southern Gold Coast

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Walking time: 60 minutes

This farmers market has it all for a morning out with family and friends. You'll find fresh fruit and veggies, great coffee and delicious food truck cuisine to feast on. It's a choice spot for brunch, a wander and to stock up on groceries.

14. Beree Badalla Boardwalk, Currumbin

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Walking time: 60 minutes

After replenishing your supplies at the Currumbin farmers markets, take a stroll down by Currumbin Creek. Enjoy the views of the mangroves and pristine water blues while soaking in that vitamin D. Be sure to take a dip in the refreshing still waters or even nip down to Balter Brewery for a sneaky bev.

15. Damian Leeding Memorial Park, Coomera

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Walking time: 60 minutes

This park is situated on Regatta Waters Lake and is perfect for a walk around its edges. There's even a fitness station at the park if you wanted to incorporate a little workout before heading to the theme parks at Coomera.

16. Elanora Wetlands Reserve, Elanora

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Walking time: 45 minutes

As well as being home to over 60 species of birds, this area on the southern Gold Coast is known for its sugar glider and tree snake sightings. It's a great place to reconnect with nature and breathe in the smell of serenity after a week of the daily grind.

17. Schuster Park, Tallebudgera

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Walking time: 30 minutes

Schuster Park is dog-friendly, which makes it perfect for the whole family. It also connects to Tallebudgera Creek so you can continue your walk into the white sands and relax on the water, or keep it short and sweet with a brisk walk and brunch at a nearby cafe.

18. Tugun Hill, Tugun

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Walking time: 30 minutes

Being a short drive away from Gold Coast airport, Tugun Hill is an excellent choice if you're a traveller waiting around for their flight. If you're lucky, you'll spot koalas, possums and gliders in this highly protected conservation area.

19. Lip Falls, Beechmont

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Walking time: 45 minutes

Located in the Gold Coast hinterland, this lush waterfall is perfect for a short walk to experience The Scenic Rim — the gateway to outback Queensland. If you're hiking during summer, it's a great spot for a refreshing swim.

20. Witches Falls Circuit, Mount Tamborine

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Walking time: 90 minutes

Wine and cheese tastes even better when served with an entrée of cardio beforehand. Earn that extra cracker by venturing down the hill near Witches Falls Winery. Prepare to be bewitched with a natural wonder when you reach the bottom and gourmet local cuisine when you return.

21. Broadbeach to Surfer's Paradise, Central Gold Coast

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Walking time: 90 minutes

The Broadbeach to Surfers beach trail is pure bliss. While walking among the towering skyscrapers, dip your toes into the sand and feel the waves crash at your feet. You'll have to remind yourself that you're in the Gold Coast and not on a holiday in Hawaii.