The Surf Window

Burleigh Heads

Gold Coast, Australia

Point breakAdvanced

The Gold Coast's most beloved and photogenic point break, a bowling, powerful right-hander that wraps around a volcanic headland and throws heavy barrels over a rock-and-sand bottom.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size3-6ft

Wind

NW

Offshore

Tide

Mid

LowMidHigh

Season

Varies by location

The Wave

Type

Right

Bottom

Volcanic rock and sand

Shape

Bowling, heavy barrel, thick take-off, rippable wall

Length

100–250m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced
  • •Why: The bowling section is powerful and the rocks are close, the passionate local crew reflects how serious this wave is.

Hazards

  • •Volcanic rocks along the point
  • •Intense localism, one of Australia's most territorial breaks
  • •Strong current on bigger swells
  • •Sharp rock shelf at low tide

Local Tips

  • •Burleigh requires respect, drop-ins are not tolerated and the hierarchy is enforced.
  • •The national park headland walk behind the point is one of the Gold Coast's finest; arrive early for dawn patrol and combine with a walk.

Location

Map showing the location of Burleigh Heads in Gold Coast, Australia

-28.0909, 153.4455