Burleigh Esplanade

Burleigh Esplanade is a 4.3 km concrete path running along the beachfront from North Burleigh in Miami down toward Burleigh Headland, and it's an easy, flat walk that takes most dogs and owners 45 to 60 minutes end to end. The one thing to know before you clip the lead on: there's no off-leash zone anywhere on this stretch, so it's on-lead the whole way.

The walk follows the Oceanway, a wide sealed path that runs parallel to the sand the entire route. It's flat, shaded in patches, and easy underfoot for older dogs or anyone pushing a pram alongside the lead. You can start from Ed Hardy Park in North Burleigh and walk south to the headland, or join partway from Nobby Beach if you're stretching the legs further.

The rules are set by the City of Gold Coast: dogs must stay leashed on the Esplanade parklands, the walkway itself, and any beach area that isn't specifically designated off-leash. There is no official off-leash zone on this stretch, full stop, so don't let the open sand tempt you into unclipping. Dogs are also strictly banned within 200 metres of any flagged, patrolled surf area, which covers most of the popular swimming stretches on a normal day.

Water and amenities are decent for a beach path. Ed Hardy Park at the North Burleigh end has toilets, BBQs, picnic tables and shade, useful for a break before or after. Beach showers pop up at several points along the way for rinsing off sandy paws, and there are volleyball courts north of the headland if you're walking with a group that wants to split attention between dog and game.

Getting there is straightforward but parking is tight. On-street parking along The Esplanade is free but fills fast on weekends and holidays, so an early start helps. Translink buses 700 and 777 run along the Gold Coast Highway one block back if you'd rather not drive, and the path connects easily on foot or bike from Nobby Beach or Burleigh Headland if you're already staying nearby.

Nearby with the dogs, grab a coffee at Caffeine Kings before you set off, or wind down after with a beer at Miami Tavern. Staying locally, White Lanterns Motel is an easy base for repeat walks along this path.

When to go: early morning or late afternoon keeps both dog and pavement cool, and avoids the thickest foot traffic near the headland. Good for leash-walkers who want beach scenery without the off-leash scramble.

Sources

• North Burleigh - City of Gold Coast · www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au
• Burleigh Esplanade, Queensland, Australia - AllTrails · www.alltrails.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.