The Gold Coast beaches are nature’s playground enjoyed by millions of interstate visitors and international tourists every year. With almost 30 kilometres of white sandy beaches and beautiful waves, there’s lots of fun to be had. But be careful, conditions can change quickly and the ocean can hide dangers. Sadly, tourists drown each year in our surf. Swim only in areas of the beach patrolled by lifeguards or lifesavers. They mark out the safest areas to swim with red and yellow flags and keep a watch over the conditions from their towers.

All Gold Coast beaches are free. In some parts of the world, there are fees to enter the beach or swim in the ocean. Not here. Everything about our beaches is free. You can walk, run, swim, sit and splash wherever you like. Lifeguards are paid for by the local council and lifesavers are volunteers. Neither should be paid by the public or visitors. The surf patrols are there for your safety. Occasional incidents have occurred when unscrupulous tour guides have conned overseas visitors into believing there are charges associated with the beach. There are not. If you do want to pay something, donate to the Surf Life Saving Association. Lastly, be sensible about your belongings. Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach.

On each patrolled beach you will see flags. Learn what these flags mean and you will have a happy and safe visit to our beaches.