Coastal Pathways and Trails Not To Be Missed

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Coastal Pathways and Trails Not To Be Missed

Get a unique look at some of the region’s most loved places, local hidden gems and picturesque beaches as you peddle or walk your way along these scenic coastal pathways and nature trails.

Ride the Turtle Trail: Bargara to Burnett Heads

Start strong — coffee in hand. Grab a takeaway from one of Bargara’s local cafés (trust us, you’ll want the caffeine hit) before rolling out along one of the Coral Coast’s most loved coastal rides.

This cruisy cycle serves up the best of Bargara’s coastline without breaking a sweat. You’ll hug the esplanade past Nielson Beach, roll through shaded stretches near Mon Repos, and pass quiet little pockets like Oaks Beach, a bit of a local secret worth slowing down for. The final stretch delivers you to Burnett Heads Headland, where the heritage-listed South Head Lighthouse stands watch over the coastline.

But it’s not just about the views. This route cuts through the Mon Repos Turtle Rookery, one of Australia’s most significant nesting sites. Visit during turtle season (November to March), and you’re in with a chance of seeing turtle tracks painting the shoreline. Expect ocean breezes, plenty of photo stops, and a ride (or walk) that’s big on scenery and low on effort.

Turtle Trail Details:

Grade: Easy (Grade 1) – smooth paths, minimal elevation
Distance: ~11km one way
Time: Around 2 hours (longer if you linger—and you will)
Start: Bargara
Finish: Burnett Heads

How to ride it:
Follow the sheltered coastal pathway from Bargara towards Nielson Park camping grounds. From there, continue along Holland Street until you hit the start of the Mon Repos Turtle Trail. Cruise along this stretch for about 1.2km before reaching Mon Repos Road. Take a left onto Rookery Road, which leads you straight into the Mon Repos conservation area. Stick to the designated cycling path through the reserve (important—for you and the turtles), then roll out toward Burnett Heads, finishing with a breezy ride along the beachfront.

ELLIOTT HEADS COASTAL PATHWAY

If you like your walks with a side of sea breeze and a bit of action on the water, Elliott Heads is your spot. This coastal pathway dishes up front-row views of kite surfers carving it up and waves rolling in, plus a calm, family-friendly swim zone where the Elliott River meets the ocean.

Kick things off at Life Savers Park and follow the path as it hugs the coastline. You’ll pass lookouts over the Elliott River, cruise by grassy parklands, and eventually land at Seagulls Park, prime territory for a picnic or a lazy afternoon sprawl. It’s short, sweet, and easy to tack onto a beach day.

Trail Details:

Grade: Easy (Grade 1) – flat, paved and pram-friendly
Distance: ~2km one way
Time: Around 30 minutes (longer if you’re snack-inclined)
Start: Life Savers Park, Elliott Heads
Finish: Seagulls Park

MOORE PARK BEACH COASTAL PATHWAY

This one’s all about slowing things down. Think salty air, the rhythmic crash of waves, and a trail that feels a world away from the hustle.

Start near the Moore Park Beach lookout precinct and ease onto the pathway as it winds through Bob Nielson Park and into Claude Dooley Park. There’s plenty of shady pockets to pull up, kick back and soak it all in. If you’re keen to stretch it out, keep heading a little further to Ray Townson Park, a top-notch picnic spot just a kilometre down the road (or along the beach if you’re feeling adventurous).

Keep an eye out for native birdlife and coastal flora along the way. This stretch is as much about the little details as it is the ocean views.

Trail Details:

Grade 1 (Easy)
Distance: approx. 4km
Duration: 1hrs
Start: Moore Park Beach
Finish: Ray Townsend Park

BANKSIA TRACK BOARDWALK (BURRUM COAST)

Trade ocean views for something a little more tucked away. The Banksia Track Boardwalk is a shaded wander through coastal woodlands, where towering banksias, wildflowers, and native plants steal the show.

Access the boardwalk via Sixth Avenue near the Woodgate precinct, and follow the path as it weaves through this quiet pocket of the Burrum Coast. It’s not a long trail, but it’s rich in birdlife and the kind of peace that makes you slow your pace without even realising.

Camera at the ready. Kangaroos, birdlife and the occasional surprise visitor aren’t uncommon out here.

Banksia Track Summary:

Grade: Moderate (Grade 3) – boardwalk with some uneven sections
Distance: ~800m
Time: 20–30 minutes
Access: Via Sixth Avenue and Acacia Street, south of Woodgate

EXPLORE WOODGATE BEACH ESPLANADE

Fourteen kilometres of white sand, calm water and cruisy coastal charm, Woodgate is made for easy exploring.

Hop on your bike or take a wander along the shaded esplanade that runs parallel to the beach, soaking up uninterrupted ocean views the whole way. This is the kind of place where time stretches out, perfect for families, slow mornings, or an afternoon ride that turns into fish and chips by the water.

There’s plenty of spots to stop along the way, from local cafés to picnic areas, so you can refuel without straying far from the view.

Destination Highlights