Five hidden beaches near Brisbane and the Gold Coast

If there is one thing that transcends borders in Australia, it’s a shared love of the beach. Whether you’re a New South West native, or a Queenslander born and bred, we know these beaches will appeal no matter what.

Aerial view of a turquoise blue and foamy wave washing over sand, nothing else.

These five ‘hidden’ beaches are only a short, day trip from Brisbane boasting loads of coastal charm, without the crowds.

Brunswick Heads, northern NSW

Fewer than 20km up the highway from famous Byron Bay, is a northern NSW local secret, Brunswick Heads. This relaxed, coastal town is known by regulars for its pristine, white sand beaches and multiple hinterland bush walks, all a short stroll from the beach and ideal for nature lovers.

Another must-do at this one-street wonder-town is making sure you pencil in time for lunch at The Hotel Brunswick after a morning spent soaking up sunshine on the beach.

A couple and young girl in a canoe together smiling as they paddle near mangrove trees.

Brunswick River, Brunswick Heads. Credit: Destination NSW

Third Bay, Coolum Beach

Arguably the best-kept secret on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Third Bay at Coolum is accessed via a long, winding 85m trail through the Yaroomba-Coolum Foreshore Bushland Conservation Reserve.

Seclusion is the name of the game for this hidden gem, with only true locals and those with the inside scoop knowing how to gain access to this beach. So, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds or are seeking the ideal location to spend a day perched on the beach with a group of friends, a picnic basket and your favourite tunes to set the scene, then this is the beach.

A couple and two kids walk through waves along a sandy beach leading to tall green covered cliffs and blue sky.

Coolum Beach. Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland

South Burleigh Headland, Burleigh Heads

If you’re in the Gold Coast, be sure to make the day trip to the lesser-known South Burleigh Headland rather than the ever-popular North Burleigh. Step away from the hustle and bustle of families scattered along Gold Coast’s most popular beaches, wander down the path from the southern end of the National Park near Tallebudgera Creek and emerge to a secluded subtropical oasis well worth the day trip.

Froggy Beach, Coolangatta

This under-the-radar perch of sand is tucked away between Snapper Rocks and Point Danger and is worth investing money – petrol money that is. On the more southern end of Gold Coast’s expansive coastline, this private paradise has the most potential for producing some stunning photos, worthy of a social media post. With pandanus palms and seaside rockpools lining the shores and minimal competition on where to pitch your umbrella for the day, the location of this beach is a valuable secret to keep to yourself.

Cabarita Beach, northern NSW

Just a short drive off the main road, through some small coastal towns, Cabarita in northern NSW is a diamond in the rough worth crossing into NSW for. Drive over Norries Headland for the best view of the beach in this quaint town, as you look for the ideal spot to set up camp with a book and some sunscreen for the day. Regularly frequented by local surfers rather than tourists, this lesser-known expanse of ocean is just south of the border and exudes a relaxed, seaside atmosphere perfect for a restorative day trip to the beach.

A few surfers on a sunny, sandy beach with rocky outcrops, a modern house is perched on green cliffs behind them.

Surfing, Cabarita Beach. Credit: Destination NSW

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