What makes a holiday unforgettable? For many, it’s the blend of perfect weather, a buzzing local scene, and easy access to entertainment. Autumn in Burleigh Heads ticks all three boxes, and the 2025 events calendar proves it. This year, Burleigh and the Gold Coast are rolling out some of the region’s most iconic events—from beachfront triathlons to blues festivals and everything in between.
As golden leaves start to fall, so do the excuses not to get outdoors and soak up the fun. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most exciting things to do in Burleigh Heads and nearby suburbs this April and May. Solo adventurers, friend groups, and families alike will find something to love in these events.
Things to Do in Burleigh Heads This Autumn You’ll Actually Want to Plan For
Burleigh and the surrounding Gold Coast suburbs are putting on a show in April and May 2025—and trust us, you’ll want front-row seats. This season is packed with music, movement, and memorable moments right by the beach.
Music & Entertainment Events
Live tunes by the sea? Yes!. These crowd-favourite music events combine a coastal setting with unforgettable performances.
For The Love 2025 – 5 April 2025 | Burleigh Head National Park
One of the most scenic music festivals on the east coast, For The Love returns to Burleigh Head National Park. Expect a full day of top artists, local food trucks, and a chilled atmosphere that turns up just as the sun goes down.
This kind of event feels intimate, even in a crowd, and it’s just a short walk from the heart of Burleigh.
Blues on Broadbeach – May 2025 | Broadbeach
Free, iconic, and full of soul. Blues on Broadbeach transforms the streets into stages. With past lineups including international blues artists and homegrown legends, it’s the kind of festival where you can catch a killer set just steps away from your morning coffee spot. Just a 15-minute drive from Burleigh, it’s perfect for day-tripping or nighttime sets.
Gold Coast Sports Events to Cheer (or Sweat) Through
Lace up or lounge with a view—this season’s sporting events are for participants and spectators alike.
Sports & Fitness Events
High-energy days await. Here are the key athletic events within easy reach of Burleigh:
The Aussies: Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 2025 29 March – 6 April 2025 | Tugun SLSC & North Kirra SLSC
This event is as Aussie as it gets. Thousands of elite surf lifesavers will descend on our coastline for a week of fast-paced competition. Expect beach flags, board races, and a proud celebration of community spirit just 15 minutes south of Burleigh.
Pho3nix Gold Coast Triathlon – April 2025 | Southport Broadwater Parklands
Swim, bike, run—and cheer. This triathlon is open to all skill levels, with multiple categories including juniors, open, and elite. A great spectator sport, the course winds along the stunning waterfront with plenty of vantage points to catch the action.
Gold Coast Running Festival – April 2025 | Robina/Cbus Super Stadium
Held in one of the Gold Coast’s sporting hubs, this festival caters to every runner. The event features everything from family-friendly fun runs to serious half marathons wrapped in a feel-good atmosphere. Located just 20 minutes inland, it’s an easy trip from Burleigh.
fisiocrem GC30 Main Beach – May 2025 | Main Beach
With 30km, 15km, and 7.5km, this beachfront run delivers a scenic fitness challenge with ocean views. Runners and supporters alike will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and strong sense of community.
Autumn Weather + Outdoor Events = The Ultimate Gold Coast Combo
Expect clear skies, warm days, and cool evenings—perfect conditions for festival hopping or beachfront cheering. Autumn on the Gold Coast usually ranges between 15°C to 25°C, making it the ideal climate for comfortably enjoying music festivals and endurance events.
What to pack:
- Lightweight clothing for sunny daytime events
- A jacket or jumper for evening concerts or early race starts
- Activewear or walking shoes for on-the-go adventures
This season is for outdoor fun, and you’ll be able to make the most of every moment without the summer humidity or winter chill.
What Makes These Events Worth Travelling For?
These aren’t just any events—they’re uniquely Gold Coast. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Free or low-cost access: Events like Blues on Broadbeach offer world-class experiences without the hefty price tag.
- Natural coastal settings: Where else can you enjoy an entire music festival between bushland and the sea?
- Inclusive categories: Events like the GC30 and Triathlon welcome all fitness levels, including juniors and weekend warriors.
- Diverse entertainment: From sports to soul music, there’s something new every weekend in April and May.
- Local culture meets global standards: Community vibes meet professional staging, giving every event a warm but polished feel.
Make the Most of Your Autumn Escape
There’s something about April and May in Burleigh—it’s the energy. Cool sea breezes, sunny skies, and crowds buzzing with festival and sports spirit. The days are long enough to squeeze in breakfast on the balcony, a midday swim, and an evening spent with live music or cheering on athletes.
Planning a trip that blends relaxation with just the right amount of action? These events offer a ready-made itinerary. All you need to do is turn up and enjoy yourself.
Stay Close to the Action at Sandbar Burleigh Accommodation
After a full day of music, cheering, or racing, there’s nothing better than coming home to comfort—Sandbar Burleigh offers just that.
Why it’s ideal for event-goers:
- Just minutes away from Burleigh Head National Park and other venues
- Spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments with ocean, city, or hinterland views
- Facilities include a yoga deck, outdoor pool, BBQ area, and fitness centre
- Secure, underground parking for guests on the move
Here for the Gold Coast fun run, the Blues Festival Broadbeach, or the iconic Australian Surf Life Saving events? You’ll be right where you need to be.
Explore Sandbar Burleigh Accommodation
Image Credit: Peak Sport And Spine Centre