Complete Travel Guide to Miami, Australia
Comprehensive travel guide to Miami, Australia. Discover history, culture, attractions, and practical information for your visit to this authentic destination.
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- Country:Australia
- State/Province:Queensland
- Population:7445

States in Australia
- Australian Capital Territory
- New South Wales
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- Western Australia
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Complete Travel Guide to Miami, Australia
Miami Miami is a coastal suburb in the City of Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. In the 2021 census, Miami had a population of 7,445 people. Positioned at coordinates -28.07173°N, 153.44158°E, Miami occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Miami place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. Home to 7445 residents, Miami maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Miami represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Miami reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Australia, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Queensland province, Miami contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Australia's regional character. The role of Miami in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Miami discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Australia while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.
Historical Heritage of Miami
History Miami Swamp next to Hotel Miami, 1935 The history of Miami can be dated back to the early 1920s when prospective investors were looking over plans for a new real estate development called Miami Shore at North Burleigh The name "Miami Shore" was chosen as a reference to Miami Shores, Florida.
The investors built their wooden or fibro bungalows on estates such as this, or rented their cottages to holiday makers They could also stay in the Hotel Miami which opened in 1925 by E In 1953, tennis courts were constructed Pizzey Park Sporting Complex was established on 60 hectares (150 acres) in 1969.
Burleigh State High School opened on 1 January 1963 It was subsequently renamed South Coast District State High School and then to Miami State High School Because there was a visible rock face remaining from an earlier quarry, the school principal William Callinan covered it up with a set of huge yellow letters saying "HI MIAMI HIGH".
It now says just "MIAMI HIGH" On Sunday December 22, 1963, Calvary Memorial Catholic Church was officially opened and dedicated by Archbishop James Duhig It commemorates those who served in the Korean War Miami State School opened on 30 January 1979; it is now within the suburb boundaries of Mermaid Waters.
In 1988, Australian musician John Farnham's music video for the top-10 song "Two Strong Hearts" was filmed outside the famous "Miami Ice" factory at 2015 Gold Coast Highway _The Brisbane Courier_ Queensland, Australia 14 November 1923 Archived from the original on 27 January 2022.
Retrieved 27 January 2022 - via National Library of Australia _The Brisbane Courier_ Queensland, Australia Archived from the original on 25 November 2023 Retrieved 31 January 2023 - via National Library of Australia "What's new on the Gold Coast" _Tourism & Events Queensland_.
Queensland Government Archived from the original on 1 April 2023 Retrieved 19 November 2023 _The Miami Tavern, Miami, QLD_ Archived from the original on 27 October 2023 Retrieved 19 November 2023 "MIAMI TENNIS CLUB" _South Coast Bulletin_ Queensland, Australia.
Archived from the original on 19 November 2023 Retrieved 20 November 2023 - via National Library of Australia "Pizzey Park Master Plan: Draft Report" (PDF) _Gold Coast City Council_ Archived (PDF) from the original on 20 October 2022 Retrieved 20 November 2023.
^ _**a**_ _**b**_ Queensland Family History Society (2010), _Queensland schools past and present_ (Version 1 ), Queensland Family History Society, ISBN 978-1-921171-26-0 8 "Agency ID 4941, Miami State High School" Queensland State Archives Retrieved 9 August 2025.
_Miami State High School_ 26 September 2019 Archived from the original on 10 November 2021.
The historical trajectory of Miami demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.
Historical preservation efforts in Miami reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.
The legacy of historical development in Miami remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.
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Geographic Environment and Natural Setting
Geography Miami is located along the Gold Coast Highway, 9 kilometres (5. 6 mi) south of Surfers Paradise and 17 kilometres (11 mi) north of the Queensland / New South Wales border at Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. The town of North Burleigh is located within the suburb (28°03′55″S 153°26′34″E / 28. 4427 (North Burleigh (town))). Miami has the following mountains: * North Nobby (28°03′43″S 153°26′26″E / 28. The mountainous terrain surrounding Miami creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. 4406 (North Nobby (hill))) 46 metres (151 ft) * South Nobby (Little Burleigh) (28°04′20″S 153°26′47″E / 28. 4465 (South Nobby (Little Burleigh, hill))) 7 metres (23 ft) Miami has the following beaches: * Nobby Beach (28°03′42″S 153°26′35″E / 28. 4431 (Nobby Beach)) extending north to Mermaid Beach * Miami Beach (28°04′10″S 153°26′43″E / 28. 4453 (Miami Beach)) * North Burleigh Beach (28°04′29″S 153°26′50″E / 28. 4472 (North Burleigh Beach)) extending south to Burleigh Heads Its commercial activity is mainly confined to the Gold Coast Highway and there is some light industry around Christine Avenue. The Gold Coast Highway runs north to south through Miami, with Christine Avenue and Pacific Avenue connecting to the west. "North Burleigh – town in City of Gold Coast (entry 47764)". _Queensland Place Names_. Queensland Government. Retrieved 29 November 2019. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ "Mountain peaks and capes - Queensland". The mountainous terrain surrounding Miami creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. _Queensland Open Data_. Queensland Government. 12 November 2020. Archived from the original on 25 November 2020. Retrieved 25 November 2020. "North Nobby – mountain in Gold Coast City (entry 24686)". The mountainous terrain surrounding Miami creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. _Queensland Place Names_. Queensland Government. Retrieved 25 November 2020. "South Nobby – mountain in Gold Coast City (entry 31507)". The mountainous terrain surrounding Miami creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. _Queensland Place Names_. Queensland Government. Retrieved 25 November 2020. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ "Mountain ranges beaches and sea passages - Queensland". The mountainous terrain surrounding Miami creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. _Queensland Open Data_. Queensland Government. 12 November 2020. Archived from the original on 25 November 2020. Retrieved 25 November 2020.
The topographic characteristics of Miami result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.
Hydrological systems in the Miami region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.
Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Miami area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.
Natural resource availability in Miami has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.
The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Miami demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.
Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Miami create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.
Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions
The climatic regime of Miami reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.
Temperature variations in Miami create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.
Precipitation patterns in Miami determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.
Seasonal weather patterns in Miami create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.
The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Miami demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.
Climate considerations for visitors to Miami include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.
Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions
Demographics Proportion of Population (2003)[citation needed] Age Suburb of Miami Queensland Average Up to 14 years 13. The demographic composition of Miami reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 8% 15 to 44 years 45. 4% 45 to 64 years 24. 0% 65 years plus 16. 9% In the 2016 census, Miami had a population of 6,843 people. The demographic composition of Miami reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. In the 2021 census, Miami had a population of 7,445 people. The demographic composition of Miami reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Australian Bureau of Statistics (27 June 2017). 2016 Census QuickStats. Retrieved 20 October 2018. Australian Bureau of Statistics (28 June 2022). 2021 Census QuickStats. Retrieved 28 February 2023.
The cultural landscape of Miami represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.
Social organization in Miami reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.
Traditional arts and crafts in Miami continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.
Religious and spiritual practices in Miami provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.
Language use and cultural expression in Miami demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.
Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Miami provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.
Economic Activities and Development Patterns
The economic structure of Miami reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.
Traditional economic activities in Miami often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.
Local markets and commercial activities in Miami serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.
Agricultural production in Miami demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.
Service sector development in Miami has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.
Economic development opportunities in Miami focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.
Transportation and Regional Connectivity
Transport Miami has two high frequency bus services that run at intervals of 8–15 minutes during peak times. Buses that travel through the suburb are: 700 Broadbeach South - Tweed Heads (the 700 gets extend to the Gold Coast University Hospital between 12am-5am weekdays), 777 Broadbeach South - Gold Coast Airport (777 is an express bus route) and the TX1 Tweed Heads - Dream World (TX1 is a theme park express service only). All bus services on the Gold Coast are provided by Kinetic Gold Coast under contract by Translink, a subsidiary of the Department of Transport and Main Roads. The Gold Coast Light Rail is currently being extended along the Gold Coast Highway as part of the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 extension to Burleigh Heads, these works are expected to reach completion in 2025. Of the eight stations which are to be delivered as part of the Stage 3 works three will be located in Miami, Miami North Station (opposite Miami State High), Miami Station (between Hythe Street and Miami Shore Parade) and Christine Avenue Station (between Mountain View Avenue and Christine Avenue). “Gold Coast Light Rail”. Archived from the original on 29 August 2024. Retrieved 29 August 2024.
Transportation infrastructure serving Miami reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Australia. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Miami.
Regional connectivity from Miami provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.
Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities
Education Aerial view of Miami State High School, 2020 Miami State High School is a government secondary (7–12) school for boys and girls at 2137-2205 Gold Coast Highway (28°03′46″S 153°26′16″E / 28.0628°S 153.4378°E / -28.0628; 153.4378 (Miami State High School)). In 2018, the school had an enrolment of 1,255 students with 103 teachers (100 full-time equivalent) and 62 non-teaching staff (45 full-time equivalent). There are no primary schools in Miami. The nearest government primary schools are Miami State School which (despite its name) is in the neighbouring suburb of Mermaid Waters to the north-west and Burleigh Heads State School in neighbouring Burleigh Heads to the south. 1. ^ a b “State and non-state school details”. Queensland Government. 9 July 2018. Archived from the original on 21 November 2018. Retrieved 21 November 2018. 2. “Miami State High School”. Miami State High School. 26 September 2019. Archived from the original on 24 January 2022. Retrieved 27 January 2022. 3. “ACARA School Profile 2018”. Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. Archived from the original on 27 August 2020. Retrieved 28 January 2020. 4. “Layers: Locality; Schools and school catchments”. Queensland Globe. Queensland Government. Archived from the original on 19 December 2017. Retrieved 8 August 2025.
Educational institutions in Miami serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.
Planning Your Visit to Miami
Successful visits to Miami require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.
The most meaningful experiences in Miami often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.
Practical considerations for visiting Miami include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.
The rewards of visiting Miami extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.
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