Welcome to Burleigh Heads, where you can wake up and swim as soon as you wake up and enjoy a fun night out to cap off the day. Join us on a journey through the highlights of Burleigh Heads’ December calendar as we explore the diverse array of activities that make this coastal gem shine during the holiday season. 

Whether you’re a visitor keen to experience the festive vibes or a local seeking up-to-date information, our guide is a ticket to all the magical events Burleigh Heads has in store for you this December.

Have a relaxing weekend and buy your presents at Burleigh Farmers Market

Where: Lower Gold Coast Hwy, Corner of West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads, Queensland

Are you holidaying in Burleigh Heads this December but don’t have anything to give your loved ones yet? Head to the Burleigh Farmers Market to find the most unique gifts you could ever give your family and friends. You’ll find artwork, outfits, kitchenware, and plants here.

The market also has everything you need if you’re planning to cook or barbecue a bit for Christmas or New Year. 

Many stalls offer fresh produce and fruits to add to your holiday feast. Buy a sandwich or doughnut and order an ice-cold coffee from the stalls at the Burleigh Farmers Market.

The Burleigh Farmers Market happens every Saturday, starting at 7 am. All stalls close at noon, so get your shopping basket ready and go early. Find out more about the market here.

Check out Christmas feasts at different Burleigh Heads restaurants.

Holidays are for relaxation; the last thing you want is to spend the entire day cooking at your Burleigh Heads apartments. Say goodbye to all that stress and enjoy a holiday feast at any of Burleigh Heads’ restaurants. Here are your choices.

The Tropic Burleigh Heads

Where: 3b/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads QLD

The Tropic is a modern beachfront restaurant that serves Mediterranean-inspired food. You’ll love it here if you’re looking forward to feasting on fresh oysters, prawns, crab, and fish. This restaurant also offers other main dishes, such as black Angus sirloin, roasted chicken, and lamb ribs. Vegans, rejoice! The Tropic has an excellent selection of vegan food available for you to order. 

The Tropic will feature a Christmas seafood brunch on 23rd December. Expect exclusive terrace seating with a spectacular view and upbeat music from The Tropic’s resident DJ. Make your reservation here. 

Local Burleigh

Where: 1744 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads, QLD 

Here to celebrate the New Year? Check out Local Burleigh for some delicious New Year’s Eve foods. The restaurant offers delicious international cuisine and a wide selection of refreshing alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. There will be live music and tasty food on New Year’s Eve. Check out the menu here—free entry on New Year’s Eve.

Club Burleigh

Where: 1640 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads, QLD

Have a fun-filled holiday at Club Burleigh. The restaurant hosts many festive events in December, including musical bingo, Thursday poker, and more. Want to share a special meal with the family? Check out the Club’s Sunday roast, starting at 11:30 am.

New Year’s Eve is more festive with the Club Burleigh’s Smirnoff Party. The party will feature mouth-watering food and drinks starting at 8:30 pm. The Club will open until 2 am for the New Year’s Eve party. Book your spot here.

Visit the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre and shop for your Christmas gifts

Where: 1711 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads, QLD

Visiting the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Burleigh Heads is a must. Learn about the history of the Gold Coast’s Aboriginal people in this educational walking tour. The tour will start with an audio-visual presentation and a walk around Jellurgal (or Dreaming Mountain) with your guide. The walk will take approximately 2 hours, so wear a comfortable outfit and shoes.

If you’re looking for unique gifts for your loved one, check out the Centre’s gift shop. Here, you’ll find original artwork by local indigenous artists. You can also purchase jewellery, notepads, drink bottles, soaps, toys, and didgeridoos. Find out more about the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre here.

Snap a photo with Santa at Stockland Burleigh Heads Shopping Centre.

Starting 2nd December, the Stockland Shopping Centre will hold a fun photo session with their resident Santa Claus. A professional photographer will capture this priceless moment. Bring your kids, and have them meet Santa and tell him their wish for Christmas. You can also book a pet photo session with Santa. It’s not limited to dogs, though. Bring your pet cat or bird to snap some cute festive photos with Santa.

Since the pictures will print immediately, you can frame them and put them on display in your home. Find out more about the photo session here.

Other Holiday Activities You Can Do in Burleigh Heads, Australia

Burleigh beach day and surfing lessons

Enjoy the golden sands and cerulean waters of Burleigh Heads Beach, one of the most iconic swimming and surfing spots on the Gold Coast. Spend your Christmas or New Year’s Day soaking up the sun, swimming, and perhaps even trying your hand at surfing. Several surf schools operate on the Gold Coast, offering lessons for surfing enthusiasts. It’s a fantastic way to embrace the laid-back coastal lifestyle and catch some waves under the warm Australian sun this December.

Go on a hike at the Burleigh Head National Park.

For nature lovers or those seeking a little adventure this summer, it’s time to explore the Burleigh Head National Park. The park offers scenic coastal walks with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The Oceanview Walk takes you around the headland and the lookouts, providing bird-watching and photo ops opportunities. During Christmas, you can revel in the lush greenery and coastal vistas, making it an ideal activity for those who enjoy a mix of nature and exercise.

Go kayaking in Tallebudgera Creek.

Tallebudgera Creek, located just south of Burleigh Heads, provides a tranquil setting for water activities. Rent a kayak and paddle along the crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush mangroves and scenic landscapes. The creek is usually calm, making it suitable for kayakers of all skill levels. It’s a peaceful way to spend a day on the water, solo or with friends and family, and offers a unique perspective of the Gold Coast’s natural beauty.

Have a sunset picnic at any Burleigh Heads park.

Head to Justin’s Park for a relaxing sunset picnic as the day winds down. Most Burleigh Heads parks are right by the beach, providing a perfect setting to unwind with your loved ones. Pack a picnic basket with local treats or grab takeout from nearby cafes, and settle in for a picturesque evening. The parks sometimes host events and live music, adding a festive touch to your Christmas or New Year’s celebration. Enjoy the vibrant hues of the sunset over the ocean while embracing the holiday spirit in this coastal haven.

Celebrate the holidays in your Burleigh Heads beachfront accommodation.

Have a festive holiday here at Swell Resort! Our Burleigh Heads beachfront accommodation is near top restaurants, walks, and parks, so you’re never just a few minutes walk from all the happenings in the suburb. Book now and make unforgettable memories in this Gold Coast haven.