The Spit: Main Beach
The Spit, located at the northern tip of Main Beach, is a sprawling natural oasis that provides a refreshing escape from the Gold Coast’s urban energy. With its uncrowded beaches, excellent fishing spots, designated dog-friendly areas, and panoramic views of the coastline and waterways, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
For those exploring the region with a car rental Gold Coast, The Spit is easily accessible, offering a wide range of activities and scenic beauty to enjoy. This article will explore the diverse attractions of The Spit, providing practical information on how to make the most of your visit..
The Spit Experience: Nature and Recreation Combined
- Unspoiled Beaches: The Spit boasts expansive, wide, sandy beaches, providing visitors with ample space to relax, play, and engage in various recreational activities. Unlike the more crowded beaches closer to Surfers Paradise, The Spit offers a sense of tranquillity and seclusion.
- Scenic Views: Visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Gold Coast Seaway, where the ocean meets the Broadwater. The dynamic interplay of waterways, the horizon, and the coastline creates a visually stunning experience.
- Natural Environment: The Spit preserves a unique natural environment, characterized by its rolling dunes, native vegetation, and diverse wildlife. This pristine landscape offers a glimpse into the Gold Coast’s natural beauty, providing a refreshing escape from the urban landscape.
Activities and Attractions: Something for Everyone
- Fishing: The Spit is a renowned fishing destination, offering diverse opportunities for both beach and rock fishing. The Gold Coast Seaway, in particular, attracts anglers seeking to catch a variety of fish species. Boat ramps are available for those with their own vessels, and charter fishing tours can be arranged for a guided fishing experience.
- Dog-Friendly Beaches: Designated dog-friendly areas provide ample space for dogs to run, play, and socialize off-leash. Responsible pet ownership guidelines are enforced to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors and their furry companions.
- Surfing and Water Sports: The Seaway entrance offers challenging surfing conditions, attracting experienced surfers. Other popular water sports include kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing, allowing visitors to explore the waterways and enjoy the coastal scenery.
- Walking and Cycling: Scenic pathways and trails wind through The Spit, providing ideal routes for walking, jogging, and cycling. These paths offer stunning views of the ocean, the Broadwater, and the surrounding natural environment.
- Picnics and Barbecues: Well-equipped picnic areas and barbecue facilities are available, making The Spit a perfect destination for family outings and gatherings. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely meal while surrounded by the area’s natural beauty.
- Seaway Views and Whale Watching: The Spit offers stunning views of the Gold Coast Seaway, where the ocean meets the Broadwater. During whale migration season, it becomes a prime location for whale watching, offering visitors the chance to observe these majestic creatures.
- Wave Break Island Access: The Spit serves as a convenient access point to Wave Break Island, a popular snorkeling and diving spot. Visitors can take a short boat trip to explore the island’s underwater world and enjoy its pristine beaches.
- Swimming: Safe, Patrolled Zones for All Swimmers
- The Spit offers multiple patrolled swimming zones, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages and swimming abilities.
- Tower 41 (Sheraton): Located on the beach side of the Sheraton Mirage, this tower is patrolled daily, year-round, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing consistent lifeguard supervision.
- Towers 42 & 43 (Seaworld): Situated near the Seaworld car park and further north, these towers are patrolled on weekends and during school holidays between November and April, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, catering to peak visitor periods.
- Tower 45 (Seaway): Positioned at the southern end of the Doug Jennings car park, this tower is patrolled daily, year-round, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, covering a popular swimming area.
- Tower 46 (Seaway North): Located at the northern end of the Doug Jennings car park, this tower provides surveillance only. For patrolled swimming, visitors should proceed 300 meters south to Tower 45. Lifeguard surveillance is available on weekends and during school holidays between November and April, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- For your safety, always swim within the designated patrolled area marked by the red and yellow flags. This ensures lifeguard visibility and quick assistance if needed.
- Surfing: Gentle waves near jetty (north) for beginners, good during northerly winds. Always assess conditions; for details, visit the Gold Coast City Council surfing page.
- Facilities: Use the interactive map for facility and accessibility information.
Exploring Main Beach: Beyond The Spit
- Nearby Attractions:
- Sea World: Just a short drive from The Spit, Sea World offers a captivating marine experience. Visitors can encounter dolphins, seals, and polar bears, enjoy thrilling rides, and learn about marine conservation efforts. It’s a fantastic destination for families and anyone interested in marine life.
- Marina Mirage: This upscale waterfront precinct boasts a collection of designer boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants. It’s a great place for a luxurious shopping spree or a sophisticated dining experience with stunning marina views.
- Dining and Shopping: Main Beach offers a diverse culinary scene and a range of shopping options.
- Tedder Avenue: This stylish avenue is renowned for its chic cafes, award-winning restaurants, and designer boutiques. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely brunch, a fine-dining experience, or browsing unique fashion and homeware.
- Beachfront Cafes: Enjoy casual meals and refreshing drinks at cafes with ocean views.
- Local Shops: Discover souvenirs, beachwear, and local crafts in the area’s various shops.
- Accommodation Options: Main Beach caters to a variety of budgets and preferences with its diverse accommodation offerings.
- Luxury Resorts: Indulge in world-class amenities and breathtaking ocean views at opulent resorts.
- Hotels: Choose from a range of hotels offering comfortable rooms and convenient access to the beach and attractions.
- Apartments and Holiday Rentals: Enjoy more space and flexibility with self-contained apartments and holiday rentals, ideal for families or longer stays.
Booking & Contact
- Website:The Spit | City of Gold Coast
- Getting There:
- Public Transport:
- Translink buses service Seaworld Drive, Main Beach.
- Plan your journey using Translink’s journey planner for accurate routes and times.
- Active Travel:
- Accessible by walking, running, or cycling.
- Utilise walking and cycling maps for route planning.
- Parking:
- Two car parks available: Doug Jennings Park Carpark and Philip Park Carpark.
- Observe parking signs and line markings.
- Public Transport:
Rent a Car on the Gold Coast: Explore with Ease
Unlock the natural beauty of Tallebudgera Creek and the surrounding Gold Coast wonders with the freedom of an Alpha Car Hire rental. Imagine effortlessly cruising along the Gold Coast Highway, parking conveniently to immerse yourself in the creek’s tranquil waters and lush landscapes.
With your Gold Coast airport rental car, you can easily access patrolled swimming areas, explore nearby Burleigh Heads National Park, and discover hidden gems along the coast at your own pace. Don’t limit your exploration; book your Alpha Car Hire today and experience the Gold Coast’s natural playground on your terms.