A Runner’s Guide: The Top 5 Gold Coast Parkruns
The Gold Coast is a runner’s paradise. From the sandy white beach of Surfers Paradise to the subtropical rainforest of Tamborine Mountain just beyond the region’s boundary – the Gold Coast is your destination for fun, fitness and exploration.
It’s only fitting that the Gold Coast is the birthplace of parkrun in Australia. The sun-kissed city supports an active lifestyle for people of all ages and abilities – with everything from a thriving artistic scene to natural gems and tranquil parklands. The philosophy of parkrun – to make fitness accessible, inclusive and free, and the rejuvenating energy of the Gold Coast naturally go hand in hand.
Join us on a journey to discover 5 of the best parkruns on the Gold Coast – the Surfers Paradise parkrun, Paradise Point parkrun, Main Beach parkrun, Coomera parkrun and Tamborine Mountain parkrun. These Gold Coast parkruns take advantage of the region’s scenic settings and are given life by the friendly volunteers that call the Gold Coast home.
Since the very first Gold Coast parkrun at Main Beach in April 2011 to today, parkrun has gained momentum nation-wide and has changed the lives of thousands of Australians.
Parkrun strengthens the bond between individuals, families and communities and allows you to enjoy the benefits of running on your mental health. Lacing up for this weekly 5km free event is empowering at any pace. Every parkwalker, parkrunner and volunteer is celebrated and supported to discover health and happiness through movement and community connection.
Whether you’re planning a running holiday in one of the most popular destinations in Australia, or are a Gold Coast local seeking an emotionally nourishing, obligation free way to reconnect with your body and mind – there’s a Gold Coast parkrun for you.
The Surfers Paradise parkrun: Gold Coast parkrun for nature and art lovers
About the Surfers Paradise parkrun & why you’ll love it
The Surfers Paradise parkrun is nestled among HOTA – the Gold Coast’s Home of the Arts – an iconic precinct which offers a beautiful collision of culture, live music, feel-good cafes and riverside runs in the parklands. The HOTA gallery building itself is the epitome of contemporary architecture. Encased in a kaleidoscope of colour, it can’t be missed and is just one of the must-see destinations of Australia’s stunning Gold Coast.
The Surfers Paradise parkrun is not only a joyful exercise for your legs, but for your eyes. Flowing through the Evandale Parklands, at every turn there is a gift for your senses – whether it’s the natural beauty of the river, lake and trees, art installations or the sun-lit golden silhouette of the Surfers Paradise skyline.
It’s easy to forget that the 5km of the Surfers Paradise parkrun is actually exercise, because it truly is an invigorating experience and takes the 'chore’ out of fitness. With the aesthetically pleasing scenery, the Surfers Paradise parkrun showcases the identity of the Gold Coast – vibrant and creative with coastal charm.
Rising early to arrive at the 7am start time, you’ll be rewarded with a side of HOTA that only early birds get a glimpse of. At this hour it’s peaceful with few pedestrians, with the buzz of tourists yet to come. However, it’s still alive with pockets of activity if you know where to look, making you feel like you’re in on a little secret. Now’s the time to take in this world-renowned beachside city.
The Surfers Paradise parkrun has a cosier vibe compared to the larger Main Beach parkrun and although it doesn’t reach the numbers in terms of popularity (but still clocking about 100 - 150 walkers, joggers and runners week-to-week) – it’s big on parkrun spirit. With the supportive, uplifting atmosphere it’s easy to feel inspired by the other early risers around you.
Surfers Paradise parkrun course
Situated in the Evandale Parklands, the Surface Paradise parkrun is run alongside the Nerang River. The parkrun flags will attract your attention and make it easy to identify the start area behind HOTA, beside the lake and with the playground close by.
The Surfers Paradise parkrun is a 2-lap course beginning on the footpath heading towards the ferry terminal. A left turn will take you past a scenic area complete with white chapel and sculptures, before a turnaround point on the grass. This will have you following back in the direction of the lake and running beneath a bridge before another turnaround point.
You’ll proceed over Green Bridge, possibly even spotting rowers on the water, and continue on until reaching the turnaround point on Chevron Island. It’s a picturesque setting with waterfront homes nestled on the Nerang River’s edge. You’ll cross back over Green Bridge and proceed to the second lap. After the second bridge crossing on your final lap, continue onto the finish chute at the same location as the starting line.
On paper the course sounds complicated with its out-and-back design featuring multiple turnaround points for plenty of twists and turns. However, once you graduate from being a Surfers Paradise parkrun first-timer, you’ll find navigating this course is easier in reality. If there is any doubt of direction, the friendly volunteer marshals are on key points of the course to guide and motivate you.
The Surfers Paradise parkrun is a happy medium between pancake-flat runs like Paradise Point parkrun, and challenging, hilly courses like Tamborine Mountain parkrun, just outside the Gold Coast. This makes it the ideal transitional course for runners to gradually increase the challenge to their legs, while enjoying the view of the Surfers Paradise’s enchanting skyline.
The gradient is consistently flat until you reach Green Bridge which offers a short incline followed by a short descent. You’ll cross the bridge back and forth twice in this 2-lap course to give your legs a taste of an easy-to-conquer hill before taking on the challenge of Tamborine Mountain parkrun.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Surfers Paradise course page.
Surfers Paradise parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
Due to the multiple short out-and-backs on the course, the narrow footpath can become congested as it’s divided into two lanes for parkrunners travelling in opposite directions. Footpath etiquette should be applied here – run on the left and allow faster runners to pass.
Surfers Paradise parkrunners show up bright and early, rain or shine. In the rain, there may be patches of mud on the grassy areas, but as it’s mostly paved the path offers predominantly smooth sailing. Gear up with a weather-ready running jacket so you never have to miss out on a parkrun and remember to join your fellow parkrunners for a coffee and conversation once your 5K is wrapped up.
While in this culturally rich precinct, be sure to check out what the world-famous Surfers Paradise has to offer – from the HOTA gallery and the swimming lagoon at the HOTA parklands for a post-run dip, to the iconic Surfers Paradise beach itself.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Surfers Paradise parkrun page.
Paradise Point parkrun: Scenic & flat Gold Coast parkrun with water views
Paradise Point is more than a name. With the sun glinting off the water and trees stretching their branches over the sand, you’ll feel as if you’ve discovered a tranquil suburban haven that allows you to reconnect with nature.
Paradise Point is your retreat away from the beautiful and buzzing beachside metropolis of Surfers Paradise. That isn’t to say that there isn’t a big turnout at the Paradise Point parkrun – with week-to-week attendance commonly exceeding the Surfers Paradise parkrun.
Even in the early morning, tourists and locals gravitate to this area – taking a dip, walking the dog, rejuvenating with yoga in the park or simply enjoying the stunning yet laid-back setting of the boat-speckled seaway.
This parklands-by-the-water scenery has inspired many families to join the parkrun phenomenon. It’s a totally flat, beginner-friendly, pram-friendly and dog-friendly course set in a scenic slice of the Gold Coast.
In short, the Paradise Point parkrun is for everyone – any age, any ability. Whether you’re trying to get your kids into running or want an easy-going run to break up your (half) marathon training – it’s a feel-good parkrun that you’ll love to come back to.
Praised for its organisation and the friendly, positive nature of the volunteers and participants alike, you’ll love joining this inspirational community in 5km of fun. Whether you’re a parkrun tourist or it’s your home parkrun, Paradise Point is one you won’t soon forget.
Paradise Point parkrun course
Paradise point offers a little bit of everything underfoot while being flat and run-ready. Paved footpaths transition into wooden boardwalks for an engaging and rejuvenating run. Beach and water views make it a favourite for runners that love to cruise by the coast on their own two feet.
This out-and-back course starts and finishes adjacent to Paradise Point Pier and follows along the Paradise Point foreshore in a northern direction, heading through the parkland. The path transitions into a boardwalk at the Paradise Point peninsula. It follows round to another park with a turnaround point to run back along the same route, heading south.
Follow the path beyond the starting point until reaching another turnaround point that returns you back to the start/finish line. This extra ‘tail’ to the parkrun ensures it is consistent in meeting the 5km distance.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Paradise Point parkrun course page.
Paradise Point parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
Paradise Point parkrun offers a combination of tree-shaded paths and open sunlight, so it’s worth throwing on a running hat and sunscreen to be prepared for some sun exposure. Narrow paths can make overtaking a challenge when runners take off, but give it time and everyone will flow into their stride.
The Paradise Point parkrun is convenient to amenities – from restaurants and cafes to shaded BBQ tables and picnic areas. The combination of a netted swimming area and multiple kids’ playgrounds across the parklands makes it wonderfully inviting for little athletes of all ages to play away their energy if the 5km of parkrun wasn’t quite enough to do the job.
As always, parkrunners love to catch up for a coffee post-run and Paradise Point has them spoiled for choice with its plethora of quirky and cosy cafes. It is a fantastic environment to meet new people and bond over parkrun.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Paradise Point parkrun page.
Main Beach parkrun: The first Gold Coast parkrun & first-ever Australian parkrun
About Main Beach parkrun & why you’ll love it
Main Beach parkrun is the birthplace of parkrun Australia and perhaps one of the most iconic courses in the country. It’s not only Australia’s inaugural parkrun, but the first parkrun in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting hundreds of parkrunners each week whether chasing parkrun milestones or seeking the support of a friendly community to put their feet to work.
Parkrun Australia was founded by Brisbane-raised Tim Oberg (former parkrun Australia CEO), who caught the parkrun bug while living in the United Kingdom. Tim was inspired by the inclusivity and social connectivity parkrun represented. Everyone of all ages and abilities was welcome at parkrun – including the furry, four-legged runners of the family, with his dog Clarence being his go-to running buddy.
After a decade of London life, Tim and his family relocated to the Gold Coast – seeking a sunny, beachside region to inspire an active lifestyle. From the Gold Coast’s golden-white sand to enchanting trails – this world-renowned holiday destination met the criteria and then some.
Tim spearheaded the launch of parkrun in Australia, choosing Main Beach to kick-start Australia’s parkrun journey. Since day one on the 2 April 2011, Main Beach parkrun has been celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, organisation and positive energy. No matter your fitness goals or pace, the support of its participants and volunteers is next to none.
Main Beach parkrun course
If you prefer a cross country style course, the Main Beach parkrun is worthy of your parkrun bucket list. It’s a must-run if you want to trade the consistent nature of the road for variation – putting grass, concrete paths, gravel trails and sandy sections underfoot.
Expect small undulations and natural debris on the forest beach trails - making Main Beach parkrun visually stimulating for your eyes while adding variety for your feet. Its proximity to the beach offers enchanting scenery of the white sand and sapphire-blue waters, particularly on the return trip.
Even though Main Beach parkrun has a similar feel to an out-and-back course, this strictly isn’t the case as the route actually forms a narrow, 1-lap loop for the majority of the 5km. You only retrace your steps on the final leg as the start/finish line is in the same location.
The briefing area is at Hollindale Park, adjacent to Seaworld Drive and just north of the Southport SLSC (Surf Life Saving Club). It kicks off on grass for about 100m, running north on the tree-shaded course then meeting up with a concrete path. After 800m, the path directs you left and transitions onto packed gravel.
Running clockwise, the gravel trail loops around with a bush-by-the-beach vibe. Just beyond the 2.5km mark, you’ll encounter the turnaround point which directs you up a gentle incline onto a gravel path that runs parallel to the beach for picturesque views to your left.
The gravel path transitions back into concrete at the 4km mark. The path directs you to the right, with the final 100m on grass to do a final dash or stroll to the finish line. There’s no need to worry about making a wrong turn - markers at key points and at every kilometre help keep you on track.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Main Beach parkrun course page.
Main Beach parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
The ever-changing terrain beneath your feet means the Main Beach parkrun isn’t the most PB-friendly course. However, even though speed isn’t the focus this hasn’t stopped parkrunners from achieving a PB here.
The varying terrain which many runners love, also means the Main Beach parkrun isn’t all smooth sailing. Gravel and sand underfoot may force you to slow down the pace to stay steady-footed. Gravel trails also potentially offer a challenge for prams, so if you’re running with a pram, be sure it’s equipped with trail-ready features.
Join your fellow parkrunners for a coffee post-run, and if you haven’t yet got your fix of the fresh coastal air and sand, the beach is an inviting option to take a dip.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Main Beach parkrun page.
Coomera parkrun: Family-friendly & hilly Gold Coast parkrun
Nestled among the lush greenery of the family-friendly and dog-friendly Tallowwood Park, the Coomera parkrun has been helping participants connect with their community and fitness for over a decade.
Even on non-parkrun days, walkers, runners and families gravitate to this loop around the picturesque lake to soak in the natural setting in the suburban parklands. At the early hour of 7am, it’s an enchanting environment with the sun glinting off the lake and smiles all-round.
Unlike the coastal parkruns of the Gold Coast, the Coomera parkrun strays away from the pancake-flat gradients in preference for a moderate challenge. Steady inclines transform into long hills, and although at first the challenge ahead isn’t visually obvious, your legs will certainly let you know they’re putting in the hard work.
Even with the serene setting and wide open spaces of the parklands, the support from fellow participants and volunteers is the highlight of Coomera parkrun. Motivation runs high with every person’s achievement celebrated and all generations of the family supported.
It doesn’t matter if your goal is serious hill training or a relaxed stroll around the lake – you’ll leave feeling emotionally nourished and enthusiastic to return next Saturday at this friendly, cosy and community-oriented parkrun. From grandparents running with a pram to runners committed to (half) marathon training or setting a fast time on this hilly course, every age and ability is represented.
It’s among the best Gold Coast parkruns to get your kids into running or to start running as a family – whether purely for fun or to continuously improve your fitness by conquering the hills at your own pace.
Coomera parkrun course
The Coomera parkrun is 2 out-and-back laps of the central lake. The parkrun begins at the northern end of the lake, where participants gather on the grass for a briefing.
The parkrun starts off by following the lake clockwise, passing the dog park. You’ll continue around the lake until the path extends alongside the road, reaching the turnaround point at the 1.25km mark after a genuine uphill climb. Of course, that means you’re rewarded with a fun downhill stretch when you retrace your footsteps, heading back towards the starting line.
You’ll be directed around the turnaround flag/pole at the starting line to complete another lap of the lake and back before heading through the finishing chute. If you have any doubt of direction, following the signage and helpful guidance of volunteers.
The well-maintained parklands put a combination of concrete and a broadwalk path underfoot at the Coomera parkrun, keeping the journey stimulating for your eyes and feet.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Coomera parkrun course page.
Coomera parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
To support the local community and keep the fun running strong, Coomera parkrunners love to meet up at Cafe Two Coomera for coffee and a conversation post-run. This friendly community is happy to take on the elements to get their weekly parkrun fix, so keep these layering tips for running in the cold and rain close at hand so you never have to miss out.
With enclosed playgrounds, BBQ shelters and shady spots for a picturesque picnic and bike tracks for toddlers to teens – there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained at Tallowwood Park. Admire the birdlife on the lake, challenge your family to a match of tennis or basketball on the public courts or take your furry running buddy for an adventure at the off-lead dog exercise area.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Coomera parkrun page.
Tamborine Mountain parkrun: Adventurous Gold Coast trail parkrun
You’ll love coming up for air at the Tamborine Mountain parkrun – just a 50 minute car ride from the Gold Coast. Away from the hustle and bustle of city and suburban life, this natural environment is invigorating for the scenes. Even before putting foot to trail, you’ll soak in the majesty that is Tamborine Mountain. With the crisp, clear air and the songs of frogs and birdlife, it feels a world away from day-to-day life.
Nestled among the subtropical rainforest and with an elevation that far exceeds the coastal Gold Coast parkruns, the Tamborine Mountain parkrun offers a cooler climate and is naturally well-shaded – providing a respite from the heat in the warmer months.
Clocking in at about 40 participants per week, the Tamborine Mountain parkrun has a close-knit community vibe where every walker, jogger and runner feels supported and is celebrated. It certainly has never been called an easy parkrun, but the challenge doesn’t stop participants from giving it a go.
You’ll enjoy building friendships with people of all ages and abilities on this course that lives true to the parkrun philosophy that nobody comes last – allowing you to enjoy a pressure-free run in the mountains to soak in the tranquil scenery.
Technically the Tamborine Mountain parkrun falls outside the Gold Coast boundary. However, we think it’s worth stretching the definition of ‘Top 5 Gold Coast parkruns’ to fit this memorable course that’ll not only get your legs and heart pumping, but rejuvenate your mind.
Tamborine Mountain parkrun course
Winding and hilly, the Tamborine Mountain parkrun is ideal for walkers and runners seeking to be challenged in the beautiful location of the subtropical rainforest. With a variety of terrain underfoot – from grassy hills, to gravel, to densely-packed red soil – here’s the place to give your trail running shoes a challenge they’re worthy of.
This out-and-back course begins at the Tamborine Mountain Sports Complex on a gravel path then offers a short, sharp climb up a hill before levelling off. It vees to the left onto a forest track before reaching a dry creek crossing. Follow the course around the football field’s lower edge and up the hill towards the turnaround point. You'll run back in the opposite direction until reaching the start/finish area. Red and gold signage provide clear directions to keep you on track.
It's worth mentally adding a few minutes to your average parkrun time before lacing up to enjoy the Tamborine Mountain parkrun as a pressure-free run. It’s not a fast course, but it is a fulfilling course – with every stride presenting a new experience.
For more information and a course map, check out the official Tamborine Mountain parkrun course page.
Tamborine Mountain parkrun: Need-to-know & other tips
Rough terrain is all a part of the fun, but the sharp rocks and potential trip hazards can be an injury risk. Pace yourself to suit the conditions so you can move confidently and sure-footedly at the Tamborine Mountain parkrun.
You'll love adding the Tamborine Mountain parkrun to your Gold Coast running holiday itinerary. If you're heading here from accommodation in the Gold Coast, resist the temptation to press snooze on your alarm so you can rise early and take your time to enjoy the scenic trip up the mountain.
While heading for the hills of Tamborine Mountain, make a day of it by exploring everything from the glow worm caves to the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk to give you a treetop view of this majestic, natural environment.
For detailed information on the start time, location and more, check out the official Tamborine Mountain parkrun page.
Happy running!
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