Awesome places in the Sunshine State for a beach walk by the ocean

 

 

Are you looking to go on the best scenic coastal walks in Queensland? Then you have come to the right place.

In this guide, I’ll showcase 21 of the best destinations you can go to for a walk on the beach or by the ocean.

Here is how the post is structured.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. 12 Best Coastal Walks in Queensland
3. Gold Coast Coastal Walks
3.1 Oceanview Track, Burleigh Heads National Park
3.2 Wynnum to Manly Walk, Brisbane Bayside
3.3 Gold Coast Oceanway
3.4 North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)
3.5 Currumbin Scenic Circuit, Currumbin
3.6 Sandgate to Shorncliffe Bayside Walk, Moreton Bay
4. Sunshine Coast Coastal Walks
4.1 Mooloolaba Foreshore
4.2 Noosa National Park Walk
4.3 Cooloola Great Walk
5. The Whitsundays Coastal Walks
5.1 Cape Edgecumbe Trail, Bowen
5.2 South Molle Island trails, Whitsunday Islands
5.3 Hill Inlet Lookout, Whitehaven Beach
6. Southern Great Barrier Reef Coastal Walks
6.1 Discovery Trail, Agnes Water
6.2 Turtle Bay Bikeway, Tannum Sands
6.3 Capricorn Coast Scenic Trail
6.4 Capricorn Coast National Park
6.5 East Shores to Spinnaker Park, Callemondah
6.6 Red Rock Walking Trail, Agnes Water
6.7 Great Keppel Island Mt Wyndham Circuit
7. Townsville Coastal Walks
7.1 Thorsborne Trail, Hinchinbrook National Park
7.2 Forts Walk, Magnetic Island

I hope you find this article a useful resource. Hopefully it will have you Googling ‘beaches to walk near me’.

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you interact with them).

Read Time: 15 Minutes

 

Introduction

Whether it be for exercise, a mental refresh or just because you like to get out in nature, you can’t beat the feeling of going on coastal walks in Queensland.

From Coolangatta on the Gold Coast to Cape York at the very tip of Far Tropical North Queensland, there are plenty of places you can stretch your legs along the 13,347 km of shorefront that makes up the Sunshine State.

In this post, I’ll highlight 21 of the best Queensland beach walks you should add to your bucketlist.

Each of them offer fantastic views of the sand, Coral Sea and littoral scenery that are sure to invigorate your soul.

 

 

12 Best Coastal Walks in Queensland

Here is my take on the 21 best coastal walks in Queensland. Which one do you most like the sound of?

 

Gold Coast Coastal Walks

Here are the best coastal walks in Queensland you can do on the Gold Coast.

 

Oceanview Track, Burleigh Heads National Park

When on the southern end of the Gold Coast, you should take the opportunity to explore the Oceanview Track at Burleigh Heads National Park.

During one of the best coastal walks in Queensland, you’ll make your way on a 45-minute, 1.2 km pathway that takes you along the banks of Tallebudgera Creek. So, it’s a good idea to bring your swimming togs with you to take advantage of the still water.

While the path is accessible, it is unpaved in parts and generally considered an intermediate level overall.

However, if you can manage it, make sure you stop in at the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which is situated adjacent to the road bridge, as you make your way down from Burleigh Heads.

 

 

Wynnum to Manly Walk, Brisbane Bayside

If you are looking for longer coastal walks in Queensland that are both accessible and easy to navigate, then head on over to Brisbane Bayside. There, you’ll be able to stroll along the 10 km Wynnum to Manly Walk, which is a charming seaside trail for all the family to enjoy.

Begin at Oyster Point, which is always calm and make your way slowly towards Wynnum, where you’ll find a water park, netted beachfront, and children’s playgrounds. You’ll also find plenty of lovely cafes to grab a coffee and a bite to eat.

 

Gold Coast Oceanway

Probably the longest of all coastal walks in Queensland is the Gold Coast Oceanway which connects the entire stretch of the Gold Coast.

Running for around 36 km, this easy pathway links Point Danger at the southern end of the city to The Spit at its most northern reaches in one continuous sweep.

If you want to complete the entire length of this sundrenched walkway you’ll need to reserve a good few days. However, as it comprises a shared path that can easily accommodate wheelchairs and has several viewing platforms to take in the superb views of the Coral Sea, there is no better way to familiarise yourself with the region.

 

 

North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)

If you have yet to visit North Stradbroke Island (aka Minjerribah) then the best way for you to experience its charms is to tackle the fabulous Gorge Walk. Extending for 1.2 km, this easy family-friendly trail incorporates the Point Lookout headland which showcases fabulous Instaworthy views of the Coral Sea.

Should you time your visit for between June and November, there is a good chance you’ll spot whales during their annual migration from Antartica. Unfortunately, while this trail represents one of the best coastal walks in Queensland, it is not totally accessible, as there are a handful of stairs wheelchairs users will have to navigate through mobility equipment.

 

Currumbin Scenic Circuit, Currumbin

If you decide to tackle the Currumbin Scenic Circuit, you’ll be able to take in magnificent views of parks, golden sands and terrific lookouts during a 7.2 km return journey that should take between two to three hours.

Unfortunately, due to the presence of stairs and hill terrain, the intermediate trail is not really accessible. But for those wanting to visit eateries and coffee shops along the way, it is one of the best coastal walks in Queensland to attempt.

You’ll find the start of the carpark on Duringan Street.

 

 

Sandgate to Shorncliffe Bayside Walk, Moreton Bay

If you find yourself in the Morton Bay Region of Brisbane, then the Sandgate to Shorncliffe Bayside Walk is another of the best accessible coastal walks in Queensland you can go on.

This easy, 6 km path ranks as one of the great walks of Queensland. It is not something you’ll do alone, as it is one of the city’s most popular strolls.

However, you’ll be too mesmerised by Shorncliffe’s iconic jetty, stylish Queenslanders and Victorian-era architecture, not to mention the fabulous water views, to worry about anyone else.

 

Sunshine Coast Coastal Walks

Here are the best coastal walks in Queensland you can do on the Sunshine Coast.

 

Mooloolaba Foreshore

The walk from Alexandra Headland to the Mooloolaba Rockwall has always been a favourite among Sunshine Coast locals. However it has really gained the reputation for being one of the best coastal walks in Queensland thanks to a multi-million dollar upgrade the Mooloolaba Foreshore areas has undergone in the last couple of years.

Starting from the top of Alex Hill, this easy and fully accessible 2.5-kilometre walk takes you alongside the spectacular Mooloolaba Beach, which ranks as one of the best in the state.

During the course of your stroll you’ll take in soul-lifting, panoramic views of the Coral Sea and the tree-lined coastline. You’ll also have plenty of cafes, restaurants and a sprinkle of designer boutique shops to browse through if you fancy a change of scene.

At the end of the walk, you’ll reach the rockwall at the Mooloolaba Spit where you can spend some time seeing boats coming in and out of the harbour.

 

 

Noosa National Park Walk

Along with Noosa Main Beach, the The Noosa National Park is one of the jewels of the Sunshine Coast and you can take in some of its best bits on one of the best coastal walks in Queensland.

Offering truly wonderful views of isolated beaches, craggy bays and the shimmering Coral Sea, the path along the headland should be on every serious hikers bucket list.

At 10.8 km, it is a long journey, which most people complete within around four hours. However, as it is rated as a fairly difficult track it is probably not one to attempt if you are a novice because it can get very rough and steep in parts.

 

Cooloola Great Walk

If you thought the Gold Coast Oceanway was long, just wait until you try the the Cooloola Great Walk, which you’ll find within Great Sandy National Park.

At around 102 km in length, this is another pathway that you’ll need several days to complete – probably at least 10. However, you will get to see some of Mother Nature’s finest work, which include humungous sand hills and remote rainforests resplendent with an incredible range of flora and fauna.

This path is classed as extremely difficult as the tracks can be steep, rough and long. Its definitely not accessible and is one of those coastal walks in Queensland that should only be attempted by those who have an excellent level of fitness and plenty of walking experience.

 

 

The Whitsundays Coastal Walks

Here are the best coastal walks in Queensland you can do in The Whitsundays.

 

Cape Edgecumbe Trail, Bowen

If you ever find yourself in Bowen, you should make a concerted effort to tackle the Cape Edgecumbe Trail. Stretching for 2.5 km, this fabulous trail is jam-packed with memorable sights that will captivate you for a good couple of hours.

Begin your exploration at Horseshoe Bay, which happens to be one Queensland’s most attractive beaches, before venturing to various lookouts that showcase tremendous views of the surrounding coastline.

The wide path has safety rails but is unfortunately not accessible, due to the fact there are steps. If you can make your way along it, be to visit Rose Bay, Murrays Bay, the Mother Beddock Lookout, the World War II Radar Site Lookout and the Rotary Lookout, to full appreciate its overall magnificence.

 

South Molle Island trails, Whitsunday Islands

Nestled right in the middle of the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach this wonderful beach is one of the best and most beautiful in Queensland.

While it is accessible by boat, embarking on the Whitehaven Beach Walk allows you to fully immerse yourself in its pristine beauty.

This 7-kilometre return hike starts at Tongue Point and takes you to the Hill Inlet lookout, offering mesmerising views of the swirling sands and azure waters that make this beach so renowned. As you walk along the pure silica sand, you’ll feel like you’re strolling on a picture-perfect paradise.

Take your time to explore the beach’s secluded coves, swim in the crystal-clear waters and marvel at the untouched natural beauty that surrounds you. The Whitehaven Beach Walk is a scenic coastal hike that captures the essence of the state’s coastal beauty and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience on one of the scenic coastal walks in Queensland.

 

 

Hill Inlet Lookout, Whitehaven Beach

A couple of years ago TripAdvisor voted Whitehaven Beach to be the best beach in the world. While they might have given that title to another international coastal destination now, there is no denying that it is home to one of the best coastal walks in Queensland.

Set within the fantastic Whitsunday Islands National Park, the walk up to the Hill Inlet Lookout climaxes in the incredible, iconic sight of the sweeping sands that will leave you utterly spellbound. There you’ll see spectacular white sands the turquoise waters dancing like extras in the Kate Bush video for Wuthering Heights.

Some people might find the 1.3 km walk a bit strenuous and it is definitely not accessible due to the stairs you’ll encounter. But once you complete the 45-minute uphill bush walk, you’ll definitely be pinching yourself.

The best time to do the walk is between low- and mid-tide.

 

Southern Great Barrier Reef Coastal Walks

Here are the best coastal walks in Queensland you can do around the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

 

Discovery Trail, Agnes Water

Whilst you are at Agnes Waters, you should also consider attempting the Discovery Trail.

You’ll be able to join this massively rewarding trail from the Agnes Water Museum car park on Springs Road. It only runs for one kilometre in length and you should complete it in less than an hour.

However, during it, you’ll take in magical views of Workman’s Beach and Agnes Water Beach from the lookout that will quickly make you realise why it made the list of the best coastal walks in Queensland.

 

 

Turtle Bay Bikeway, Tannum Sands

Perhaps one of the most family-friendly coastal walks in Queensland is the one you can do along the Turtle Bay Bikeway. Extending for just over 13 km, this path enables you to explore both Tannum Sands and Boyne Island.

The path is shared with bicycles and electric scooters, so you’ll have to keep an eye out for them. It takes you along the Boyne River on a foreshore trail that accommodates several fitness stations and children’s playgrounds.

It also offers lots of parkland and public toilets and leads you to picnic areas and cafes that will enable you to truly make a day of it.

 

Capricorn Coast Scenic Trail

The main beach at Yeppoon is a lovely place to relax and swim. But when the urge to pound the pavement hits you, make your way along the Capricorn Coast Scenic Trail. This 10 km pathway is one of the best coastal walks in Queensland, taking you on an extended journey that runs from Yeppoon to Emu Park.

Characterised by a wide, wheelchair friendly trail that offers splendid views of several pristine beaches, the Lammermoor Native Gardens and the Capricorn Coast Memorial Gardens will provide interesting diversions. You’ll also take in the Yeppoon Lagoon, Wreck Point Lookout and the Keppel Bay Marina.

Whilst at Emu Park, make sure you check out its poignant ANZAC Memorial Walk and Singing Ship monument.

 

 

Capricorn Coast National Park

There are several trails at Capricorn Coast National Park that deserve a mention on the list of the best coastal walks in Queensland. But if you only have time to do one, then you should make it the Bluff Point Circuit.

During this 2.3 km loop, you’ll find yourself skirting volcanic headlands. You should also see captivating rock formations, picturesque lookouts and the iconic Bluff Point Circuit’s turtles that frequent the area.

Unfortunately, this trail has several steep sections contained within it. Subsequently, prams and wheelchairs are not recommended for it.

 

East Shores to Spinnaker Park, Callemondah

Callemondah is a place not many people have heard of. Yet it is one they should head to if only to say they have tackled one of the best coastal walks in Queensland.

At Spinnaker Park there is a fantastic trail that hugs the ocean rock wall for almost 9 km. This easy path is wheelchair and pram-friendly and takes you through a patchwork of ponds, native wetlands and a beach cove that is perfect for swimming.

Along the way you’ll get continuous views of the Coral Sea and pass lots of barbecues and public facilities. The walk takes most people about two hours to complete.

 

 

Red Rock Walking Trail, Agnes Water

If you fancy tackling a few steep inclines interspersed with patches of sand and several boardwalks, then the Red Rock Walking Trail at Agnes Waters is ideal for you.

This is one of the more aesthetically pleasing of coastal walks in Queensland, thanks to the expansive water views it showcases. If you are lucky you may even bump into a few kangaroos and other fauna along the way, while dolphins and turtles should also be visible.

The 2.5 km trail usually takes around two hours to complete and is not considered accessible. Although, if you stop at one of the secluded swimming spots, you might well be there for quite a bit longer.

 

Great Keppel Island Mt Wyndham Circuit

This challenging, 10 km walk on Great Keppel Island is up there as one of the toughest coastal walks in Queensland. Due to the presence of steep and rocky parts, it should only be completed by seasoned hikers an bushwalkers who have a good level of fitness.

Overall, it will take around 3 or 4 hours to complete. But it is worth making the effort to crisscross to the highest point on the island because the views of the surrounding islands and pristine beaches you’ll be able to take in are jaw-dropping.

 

 

Townsville Coastal Walks

Here are the best coastal walks in Queensland you can do around the Townsville area.

 

Thorsborne Trail, Hinchinbrook National Park

Last, but definitely not least, is possibly the best of all coastal walks in Queensland that you can do – The Thorsborne Trail in the Hinchinbrook National Park. In fact, it is so good that many seasoned international hikers place it among the top ten walks in the world.

To do it properly you’ll need at least four days at your disposal because it extends for 32 km and is classified as extreme in nature. But during that time you’ll be able to take in scenery that is so beautiful you will practically be brought to tears.

I’m talking about the sight of scintillating waterfalls, verdent subtropical rainforests, pure white beaches and breathtaking, panoramic mountain vistas that will stay with you for the rest of your days.

 

Forts Walk, Magnetic Island

If you visit Magnetic Island, you’ll be able to enjoy fabulous 360-degree views of Townsville and the rest of the surrounding region on the Forts Walk, one of the best coastal walks in Queensland.

As it extends for only 2 km it is a terrific option for families, although uneven surfaces and steps make it unsuitable for prams and wheelchairs.

Aside from the fantastic coastal views, you’ll also get to see fascinating relics from World War II that reveal the history of the island, and a range of Flora and fauna, most notably koalas.