The Spit
The Spit is the northernmost beach on the Gold Coast mainland and is iconic for the sand pumping jetty that juts out into the surf. The beach here is popular with dog owners, as it offers a long stretch of off leash area.
Swimming
The Spit has 4 patrolled lifeguard towers:
- Seaworld Drive, beach side of the Sheraton Mirage (71 Seaworld Drive)
Patrolled by lifeguards between 8am and 5pm, every day all year round
- Seaworld Drive, opposite the Seaworld car park (beach side)
Patrolled by lifeguards between 8am and 5pm, on weekends between September and April
- Seaworld Drive, at the Seaway (southern end of Doug Jennings car park)
Patrolled by lifeguards between 8am and 5pm, on weekends between November and April
- Seaway Jetty
Patrolled by lifeguards between 8am and 5pm, on weekends between September and April
Make sure you swim in the patrolled area between the red and yellow flags.
Surfing
The Spit can provide gentle whitewash waves for beginner surfers in the shallow nearshore area to the north of the jetty. It is a good option when northerly winds are impacting conditions at other Gold Coast beaches. Surfers should always assess conditions. If in doubt, don't paddle out. For more information, visit our Surfing page.
Facilities
To view the facilities available at this beach including accessibility features, use our interactive map.
Getting there
About The Spit
The Southport Spit, referred to by locals as 'The Spit', is located north of Main Beach and stretches all the way up to the Gold Coast Seaway. The Spit is home to Sea World, Sea World Resort, the Sheraton Mirage Resort and Spa, the Imperial Hotel, Marina Mirage and Doug Jennings Park. At the northern end of The Spit is the Gold Coast sand pumping jetty which forms part of the Gold Coast Seaway's Sand Bypassing System.
The Spit is surrounded by natural parklands which includes the Federation Walk. The northern part of the beach also includes toilets, a café and an off leash dog exercise area.