Surfers Paradise Gold CoastBeach, Attractions, Accommodation & Things to Do
Surfers Paradise is one of the Gold Coast's best-known holiday destinations, combining a patrolled beach with high-rise accommodation, restaurants, shopping, nightlife and some of the city's most popular attractions. Whether you're staying for a weekend or using Surfers Paradise as a base for a longer Gold Coast holiday, there is plenty to see and do within walking distance.
At the heart of the precinct are Surfers Paradise Beach, Cavill Avenue and the Esplanade, surrounded by hotels, apartments, cafes, restaurants, shops and entertainment. The G:link tram runs directly through Surfers Paradise, making it easy to travel to other parts of the central Gold Coast without a car.
Surfers Paradise becomes particularly busy during school holidays, Christmas and New Year and when a major Gold Coast event is taking place, so accommodation is worth booking early if your dates are fixed.
Planning a Surfers Paradise holiday? Start with the beach and central attractions, then explore our Surfers Paradise accommodation guide or compare the bookable experiences below.
Things to Do in Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise offers much more than the beach. Within the central precinct you can surf, visit major attractions, take sightseeing tours, shop, dine, enjoy the nightlife or simply walk along the beachfront and Esplanade.
| If You Want To... | Try... |
|---|---|
| Spend time at the beach | Surfers Paradise Beach, swimming or a surf lesson |
| See the Gold Coast from above | SkyPoint Observation Deck or SkyPoint Climb |
| Find family attractions | Aquaduck, Infinity, Ripley's or Timezone |
| Do something adventurous | iFLY, jet boating or SkyPoint Climb |
| Get out on the water | River cruises, jet boats, kayaking or paddle boarding |
| Shop and explore after dark | Cavill Avenue, Paradise Centre, Chevron Renaissance and the beachfront markets |
Surfers Paradise Beach
The beach is still the main attraction. Surfers Paradise Beach stretches along the eastern edge of the precinct, with easy access from the Esplanade and the central Cavill Avenue area.
The beach has lifeguard-patrolled swimming areas throughout the year. Always look for the red and yellow flags and swim between the flags, as surf conditions and rip currents can change throughout the day.
Learn to Surf in Surfers Paradise
If you've always wanted to learn, Surfers Paradise is an easy place to try surfing while you're on holiday. Local operators offer surf lessons for beginners, with instruction covering paddling, standing up, balance and basic surf safety before heading into the water.
You can also find lessons elsewhere along the central Gold Coast, including nearby Main Beach.
Compare Surfers Paradise Surf Lessons
Does your family love the ocean and want to learn how to surf? Book this family Gold Coast surf lesson and enjoy private tuition that will have everyone up on their boards catching their first wave with the pros. All surfing equipment is provided for you and your family during your Gold Coast surf lesson including surfboards, sun shirts and wet suits. All you need to do is bring a willingness to learn how to surf. Book this private Gold Coast surf lesson and learn to surf with the experts now.
Location: 507 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, QLD
Book OnlineEnjoy a Gold Coast surfing lesson at Main Beach in a lovely natural environment just a few minutes north of Sea World at an area called The Spit. This beautiful spot near Surfers Paradise is one of the last undeveloped areas on the Gold Coast and it is a well known surfing spot for locals! We are known to provide a safe, fun and memorable surfing experience where customer service is our top priority and we guarantee you stand up on your board or your next lesson free!
Location: 507 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, QLD
Book OnlineDive in board first and experience surfing on the world famous Surfers Paradise Beach with this fully guided lesson. You'll feel like a pro in no time as you're taught how to paddle, stand and balance to ride that wave back to shore. After a lesson on land you'll take to the waters to put your new skills into action and hopefully nail a few of those waves. The lesson runs for a total of 2 hours and in that time you'll receive all of the necessary instructions to build up your confidence.
Location: Shop 26a Cavill Mall, Surfers Paradise, QLD
Book OnlineBest Surfers Paradise Attractions
Many of the Gold Coast's central tourist attractions are concentrated in or around Surfers Paradise, making it particularly convenient for visitors who don't want to drive everywhere.
SkyPoint Observation Deck & Climb
Located at the top of the iconic Q1 Tower, SkyPoint Observation Deck provides panoramic views across the Gold Coast coastline, city and Hinterland from 230 metres above the ground.
For something more adventurous, the SkyPoint Climb takes visitors outside the building on a guided climb reaching approximately 270 metres above sea level.
SkyPoint's operating hours can change because of seasons and private events, so check the current schedule before visiting rather than relying on fixed opening times.
Book SkyPoint Observation Deck Tickets
Compare SkyPoint Climb tickets.
Aquaduck Gold Coast
The Aquaduck is one of the easiest ways for families to combine sightseeing on land with a cruise on the Gold Coast waterways.
The amphibious tour departs from central Surfers Paradise, travels through the city and then enters the water for a cruise around the Broadwater. It is particularly useful for first-time visitors who want an introduction to the area without organising a car.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving
For an adrenaline hit without jumping from an aircraft, iFLY Gold Coast offers indoor skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel in the heart of Surfers Paradise.
Because the experience is indoors, it is also a useful option when the weather isn't ideal for the beach.
Infinity, Ripley's & Other Indoor Attractions
Surfers Paradise also has plenty to do indoors. Infinity combines around 20 futuristic sensory environments with lights, sound and special effects, while Ripley's Believe It or Not! offers its collection of unusual exhibits and interactive displays.
You can also visit the Gold Coast Wax Museum, play arcade games and indoor activities around the central precinct, or head to the ice skating rink for something completely different.
Take a walk through the largest museum of its kind in Australia! Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, the Wax Museum is home to over 110 life-size wax figures that will make you look twice. See replicas of the British Crown Jewels and dioramas of Australian history, marvel at the Chamber of Horrors or get selfies with celebrities and politicians. These displays were crafted by leading local and international sculptors.
Location: 56 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise
Buy TicketsThe newest ice skating experience on the Gold Coast, Planet Chill is a great option year-round for any weather conditions - escape the heat or find something fun to do during the rain. Swap your swimmers for a jacket and jeans and bring the family in for a day on the ice! Located at Paradise Resort in Surfers Paradise, choose from one of four daily two-hour sessions. There are limited numbers available so it's best to pre-book.
Location: 122 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Buy TicketsThese 60-minute escape rooms will test your problem-solving skills with suspenseful, timed experiences where you have to look for and decipher clues to solve a mystery with a group of mates. Located all over the world, Escape Hunt rooms have grown in popularity with people of all ages having a great time trying to solve the riddles and escape in time! Choose between three great storylines. An excellent rainy-day activity, located in Southport.
Location: 2/162 Scarborough Street, Southport, QLD
Buy TicketsGet the thrill of skydiving without fear with this super awesome Gold Coast indoor skydiving experience! Located in the middle of Surfers Paradise, join in the fun and the feeling of complete weightlessness while performing all the aerial twists, turns and spins you like in a near-perfect simulation of the free-fall of dropping from 14,000 feet that standard skydives offer. Enjoy your time in mid-air as the powerful fans have you feeling like a superhero.
Location: 3084 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Buy TicketsInfinity is a mind-blowing journey into a spectacular and interactive futuristic maze-like world of wonder. Made up of an extraordinary series of around 20 multi-sensual environments that are filled with unique special effects, atmospheric sound fields, ultra-groovy music and illusions. Travel to another universe and enjoy the sights and sounds, offering great family fun in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Located at the Chevron Renaissance.
Location: G31 Chevron Renaissance Centre, Surfers Paradise
Buy TicketsSkyPoint has been transformed from a room with a view to an exciting tourism experience to showcase the 360-degree beauty of the Gold Coast from the surf to the hinterland and beyond. Hop on board the fast elevators at Q1 Resort, taking you from the ground to Level 77 in just 42.7 seconds. Like some adventure? Why not try the new SkyPoint climb! You can even get a combo pass to visit SkyPoint, Dreamworld & WhiteWater World.
Location: Level 77, Q1 Building, 9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise
Buy TicketsTake a self-guided tour through themed galleries featuring hundreds of unbelievable exhibits, amazing stories, magic, mystery, incredible illusions, interactive displays and more at Ripley's believe it or not. You'll see a piece of Mars rock from the Red Planet, survive a walk through Australia's only double spinning tunnels, discover rare artifacts in the Egyptian tomb, marvel at the world's smallest car, be entertained by “Ripley's Fab Four” and more.
Location: Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Buy TicketsCalling all adrenaline junkies, this activity is for you! Jet Boat Extreme departs from the heart of Surfers Paradise and is jam-packed with fun, adventure, thrills and beautiful scenery. The twin jet-powered 600hp turbocharged jets will give you 360-degree spins, power slides and amazing speeds through the Gold Coast Broadwater and Seaway. Slide along sandbanks and pristine beaches and be warned, you're going to get a little wet!
Location: 30 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD
Book Online
Surfers Paradise Tours & Experiences
Surfers Paradise is also a departure point for a wide range of Gold Coast tours, making it convenient to book activities even if you're staying elsewhere in the city.
Jet Boating & Water Activities
If you're looking for something faster than a sightseeing cruise, try a jet boat ride from Surfers Paradise.
Other options include Gold Coast cruises, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and other water-based experiences around the Broadwater and waterways.
Hot Air Balloon Flights
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A hot air balloon flight offers a very different perspective of the Gold Coast, taking visitors inland over the Hinterland rather than along the beachfront.
Selected packages include transfers from central Gold Coast accommodation, making the experience possible as a day trip while staying in Surfers Paradise.
View Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon Flights
There are also combo experiences if you want to fit several activities into your holiday.
Hot Air operates the best value hot air ballooning rides in Australia, perfect for your first time if you have never ballooned before! The Gold Coast offers a wealth of amazing views to take in. Experience the wonder and romance of ballooning over such picturesque scenery. Inflation locations are carefully chosen to ensure optimum take-offs for maximum enjoyment. Choose between a 30 minute or 60 minute ride including breakfast!
Book OnlineExperience the Gold Coast like never before on a breathtaking 30-minute hot air balloon ride! This quick adventure maximizes your time, soaring you over golden beaches, glistening waterways, and lush hinterlands all at sunrise. Witness these landscapes bathed in the ethereal glow of dawn for an unforgettable experience. Take flight and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Book OnlineGet incredibly scenic views of the entire Gold Coast region from both the water and air with a combined package for a Hot Air Ballooning tour and sightseeing cruise all for a single low price! Your adventure will begin with early morning hot air balloon flight over the beautiful hinterland, followed by a delicious champagne breakfast. Next you can choose between either a morning or afternoon sightseeing cruise with complimentary snack.
Book OnlineSurfers Paradise Accommodation
Surfers Paradise has one of the largest selections of Gold Coast accommodation, ranging from high-rise holiday apartments to major hotels and luxury resorts.
Staying in the central precinct puts the beach, restaurants, shopping and many attractions within walking distance. The G:link tram also makes Surfers Paradise a convenient base if you plan to explore Broadbeach, Main Beach, Southport and other parts of the central Gold Coast.
Families can also compare our family-friendly accommodation options if pools, larger rooms and child-friendly facilities are priorities.
Find Surfers Paradise Accommodation
Shopping in Surfers Paradise
Shopping in Surfers Paradise ranges from holiday essentials and surfwear to fashion, souvenirs and evening markets.
The central shopping precinct includes Cavill Avenue and Cavill Mall, Paradise Centre, Chevron Renaissance, Circle on Cavill and surrounding streets. You'll find supermarkets and everyday services alongside fashion, dining and entertainment.
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
The Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets bring local makers and stallholders to the Esplanade on selected evenings throughout the year, with stalls selling fashion, jewellery, art, gifts, food and other locally made products.
Market schedules can change, so check the current trading days before planning your visit.
Restaurants & Dining
Surfers Paradise has one of the biggest concentrations of restaurants and dining options on the Gold Coast, covering everything from quick takeaway and casual beachfront meals to international cuisine and hotel restaurants.
Cavill Avenue and the surrounding laneways have restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, while the beachfront and major hotels provide plenty of options for breakfast, lunch and dinner with ocean or city views.
Rather than relying on a static list of individual restaurants that can quickly become outdated, explore our Gold Coast dining guide or check current venues once you know where in Surfers Paradise you're staying.
Getting Around Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise is one of the easiest parts of the Gold Coast to explore without a car.
Many attractions, restaurants, shops and the beach are within walking distance of the central accommodation precinct, while the G:link light rail runs along Surfers Paradise Boulevard.
Several tram stops serve the area, making it easy to travel between Surfers Paradise and other parts of the Gold Coast. Local buses provide additional connections.
See our Gold Coast public transport guide for information about trams, buses and trains, or use our Gold Coast maps to get your bearings before your trip.
Best Time to Visit Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise is a year-round destination, but the experience changes depending on when you visit.
School holidays, Christmas and New Year and major events can bring larger crowds and stronger accommodation demand. Outside the busiest periods, the precinct can be easier to explore while still offering the same beach, attractions, shopping and dining.
Check the latest Gold Coast weather when planning beach days and outdoor activities.
Events in Surfers Paradise
The beachfront and surrounding streets regularly host major sporting, music and entertainment events throughout the year.
Rather than planning around dates listed far in advance, check our Gold Coast events information before your visit. Major events can affect road access, public transport, accommodation availability and prices around Surfers Paradise.
Surfers Paradise Nightlife
Surfers Paradise is the main nightlife precinct on the Gold Coast, with a large concentration of nightclubs, bars and pubs around Cavill Avenue, Orchid Avenue and the surrounding streets.
There are cocktail bars, pubs, live music venues and late-night clubs, while many hotels also have their own bars and restaurants.
If nightlife is an important part of your holiday, staying in central Surfers Paradise accommodation can make it much easier to walk back to your hotel rather than organising transport late at night.
The Island Rooftop and QT Gold Coast are examples of hotel-based venues within the wider Surfers Paradise precinct.
Surfers Paradise FAQs
What is Surfers Paradise known for?
Surfers Paradise is best known for its beach, high-rise skyline, Cavill Avenue, restaurants, shopping, nightlife and central Gold Coast attractions. It is also one of the region's biggest accommodation hubs.
Is Surfers Paradise good for families?
Yes. The beach, Aquaduck, Infinity, SkyPoint, indoor attractions and large range of family accommodation make Surfers Paradise a convenient base for a Gold Coast family holiday. It also provides public transport connections towards many other attractions.
What are the best things to do in Surfers Paradise?
Popular options include Surfers Paradise Beach, SkyPoint Observation Deck, SkyPoint Climb, Aquaduck, iFLY, Infinity, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, surfing lessons, jet boating and cruises. Shopping, dining and the beachfront markets provide plenty to do without leaving the central precinct.
Do you need a car in Surfers Paradise?
No. Surfers Paradise is very walkable and the G:link tram runs directly through the precinct. A car can be useful for exploring areas outside the central Gold Coast, but it isn't essential for a holiday focused around Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and nearby attractions.
Is Surfers Paradise Beach safe for swimming?
Surfers Paradise has lifeguard-patrolled swimming areas, but ocean conditions can change. Always swim between the red and yellow flags and follow lifeguard advice.
How many days should you spend in Surfers Paradise?
You can explore the beach and major central attractions over a couple of days, but Surfers Paradise also works well as a base for a longer Gold Coast holiday because of its accommodation, public transport and access to tours and attractions around the region.
Is Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach better to stay in?
Surfers Paradise generally suits visitors who want a large choice of attractions, nightlife and accommodation close together. Broadbeach has excellent dining, shopping and beach access with a slightly more relaxed atmosphere. Both are connected by the G:link tram.
Where should I stay in Surfers Paradise?
Central accommodation around Cavill Avenue is convenient for attractions, dining and nightlife, while accommodation towards the northern and southern ends of Surfers Paradise can provide a slightly quieter base while remaining close to the beach.
Compare the options in our Surfers Paradise accommodation guide.
Plan Your Surfers Paradise Holiday
Surfers Paradise works equally well as a destination in its own right or as a central base for exploring the wider Gold Coast. Spend time on the beach, choose a few local attractions and experiences, and then use the tram or other transport to explore further afield.
Find Surfers Paradise Accommodation
Looking for more ideas? Explore Gold Coast attractions, browse more things to do or check the latest Gold Coast events.
Images courtesy Tourism & Events Queensland, Tourism Australia, Destination Gold Coast & Getty Images
