Tallebudgera Dog Off Leash Beach

This doggy beach is one of the Gold Coast's best kept secrets, tucked away as it is just north of the Tallebudgera SLSC patrolled surf beach and stretching to the groyne at the cusp of Tallebudgera Creek.

Park in the car park of the SLSC and take the dog on leash around the lawn up front of the lifesavers club, where there's a passage to the beach just north of the club leading straight to the off leash area (which, unusually, borders the flagged area).

There, with the stunning back drop of Burleigh Heads National Park dogs can frolic, surf and dig their way all the way to the sea groyne 24/7.

Afterwards head for funky James St in Burleigh Heads, the Gold Coast's other best kept secret, and pick up a coffee from tiny organic roastery Quest or a smoothie from the fruit shop and some delish fish'n'chips from 60 year old institution Burleigh Heads Fishmongers . Then make tracks to the park across the road for a beachside picnic under the Norfolk pines.