Heavy swell closes Gold Coast beaches

Several Gold Coast beaches have been closed as a heavy swell caused by Cyclone Winston hits the tourist strip's coastline.

A swell of up to two metres is battering Gold Coast northern beaches, which are exposed to the easterly swell from Winston.

Wild surf, high winds and strong surges have forced the closure of all beaches north of Burleigh along the Gold Coast with lifeguards urging people to take extreme caution in and around the water.

Southern Gold Coast beaches remain open but swimmers are still urged to check with local lifeguards before entering the water.

Lifeguards are also recommending only experienced surfers take to the water on Tuesday.

The strong swell is expected to keep lashing the Gold Coast beaches through Wednesday before conditions are forecast to ease on Thursday.