The Spit South

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. 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.

Beach closed: Due to severe erosion and sand scarps caused by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, along with seasonal high tides, access to the beach has been impacted. This beach will be closed until further notice.


Swimming

Make sure you swim in the patrolled area between the red and yellow flags. The Spit South has one patrol location. At times, a patrol may be closed due to dangerous swimming conditions, unsafe beach conditions or beach maintenance works.

Tower 41

Status unavailable

Seaworld Drive, beach side of the Sheraton Mirage
Patrolled by lifeguards between 8am and 5pm, every day year round

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.

    Dogs

    If you'd like to exercise your dog off-leash, there are plenty of designated areas across the Gold Coast – find one near you on the dog exercise area map.

    Please note: Dogs are prohibited within 200 metres of flagged swimming areas.

    Getting there

    Public transport Translink buses run along The Esplanade. The G:link light rail also runs through the main stretch of Surfers Paradise. Plan your trip using Translink's journey planner.
    Active travel Walk, run or bike ride to the beach. Plan your trip using our walking and cycling maps.
    Parking There are 2 car parks at The Spit – Doug Jennings Park Carpark and Philip Park Carpark. Take note of parking signs and/or line markings before heading to the beach.