Gold Coast, Queensland

Last month we looked at the best Sunshine Coast SUP, and this month we take our boards south of the Queensland capital to list the best Gold Coast SUP spots.

The endless expanse of white sand and crystal clear waters on the Gold Coast make it a thriving tourist hotspot. We have put together five of the leading locations for Gold Coast SUPing, ranging from public breaks to more remote creeks and estuaries.

Budds Beach, Surfers Paradise

Paradise indeed. SUP beginners are well-suited to Budds Beach, located on the southern end of the beach strip near the entrance to the Nerang River. Budds is protected from the wind, offering smooth and glassy conditions for those new to our sport. There are heaps of businesses offering SUP hire and lessons nearby, and when you’re done SUPing there are plenty of great cafes and tourist attractions in the area to round out your day.

Tallebudgera Creek

A little further south down the seemingly endless stretch of white sand you will find Tallebudgera Creek. Located on the south side of Burleigh Heads National Park, Tallebudgera Creek is a gorgeous inlet popular with beginners and advanced SUPers alike. On the south side of the inlet is the Tallebudgera off leash Dog Beach, so don’t forget to bring your four-legged friend if planning a day trip.

Currumbin Creek Estuary

The crystal clear Currumbin Creek estuary separates Currumbin and Palm Beach, and offers the best of both worlds for Gold Coast SUPers. Those new to SUPing can head inland up the remote and calm Currumbin Creek, which stretches for more than five kilometres toward Currumbin Valley. Advanced boarders may want to head out into the bigger swell of Currumbin Beach, which offers some of the best breaks on the Coast with the added bonus of being much quieter than the northern beaches.

Kirra Beach

Even further south from Currumbin is Kirra Beach, known worldwide as an outstanding break for surfers. When the ocean is a little calmer, Kirra is a premier Gold Coast SUP location. On a day with a nice southerly breeze, cruising the glassy water is a joyous experience. The neighbouring Kirra Reef boasts plenty of marine life, and there is always heaps of parking right on the beach.

Broadwater Parklands, Southport

Located just across the road from Australia Fair Shopping Centre, Broadwater Parklands is a leading Gold Coast SUP location for good reason. It’s a haven for all kinds of watersports, and an excellent choice for a family day trip. Numerous businesses offer a range of SUPs to hire and lessons catering for beginner to advanced boarders. Broadwater is located right in the thick of the action on the Gold Coast, so it can get busy during the summer and school holidays.

Start Your SUP Journey or Upgrade with Ride The Tide

Ride The Tide is located in Clontarf, around two hours drive north from the Gold Coast. We stock a wide range of SUPs and accessories for all skill levels, and we offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for all customers. Our warehouse is open from 9am-12pm on Saturdays for those who want to view our range. Contact Dean on 0403549702 or dean@ridethetide.com.au for the best advice on SUPs.