Currumbin Valley
Cougal Cascade
Sealed path, generous car park, and a series of rainforest cascades with swimming holes that reward even the most casual visitor. The water runs crystal clear, the sunlight filters through the canopy, and the whole thing takes less effort than you'd expect. Come mid-week to avoid the crowds.
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Burleigh Heads
Echo Beach
A sheltered bay at the base of Burleigh Headland with no current, good shade, and snorkelling around the rocks. Locals have been coming here for decades. Aim for high tide on the northern beach, park in the side streets, and walk the headland loop after your swim.
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Mudgeeraba
Firth Park
The Mudgeeraba Redbacks call it home, and on game days it earns that. The rest of the week it's shady ovals, netball courts, a skate area, and a playground in the heart of the old village. Also the Gold Coast's worst-kept secret for free Cbus Stadium shuttle parking.
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O'Reilly
Tree Top Walkway
Suspension bridges through the rainforest canopy, a vertical tree ladder, and lorikeets that land on your arm. The circuit takes about an hour with kids. The narrow mountain road up is the only drama, and even that's half the adventure.
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