Ah, Surfers Paradise. The name itself brings to mind images of soft golden sand, shimmering sunlight, and clear blue waters as far as the eye can see. And of course, this little slice of heaven along the Gold Coast doesn’t disappoint. We’ve listed 5 activities you can do there that makes it the perfect holiday spot for families and couples.
FROLICK IN THE SURF AND SAND
Surfers Paradise Beach
First on our list, of course, is the three-kilometre strip of golden sand that Surfers Paradise is renowned for. It’s truly a picture perfect setting for relaxing, swimming or taking long walks on the beach.
It’s not hard to find the beach, just look out for the large “Surfers Paradise” sign located at the beach end of Cavill Avenue. A wide, paved boulevard runs along the entire stretch and is ideal for jogging, biking, skateboarding, or rollerblading. The beach is also just a hop, skip and a jump away from many fast food outlets and high-end dining restaurants.
ENJOY PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE GOLD COAST
SkyPoint Observation Deck
Photo: skypoint.com.au
You cannot visit Surfers Paradise without visiting the SkyPoint Deck! Start by taking the express elevator up to the observation deck on the 77th floor. The elevator ride is quite an experience in itself. It will take you right to the top in a whopping 43 seconds! Afterward, you’re rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the gold coast.
And if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, then we dare you to try the SkyPoint Climb, one of Australia’s highest external building walks. After being harnessed, climbers traverse up towards the crow’s nest located at the highest point of the Climb at around 270 metres above the ground. The entire experience lasts 1.5 hours.
EXPERIENCE THE WEIRD AND THE WONDERFUL
The Infinity Attraction and Ripley’s Believe it or Not
The Infinity Attraction is for kids and adults alike. It’s a futuristic funhouse with more than 20 science fiction-like mazes and rooms filled with special effects, colourful visuals, and mind-blowing illusions. Visitors get to interact and experience the displays and each other, in unusual ways. It’s 40 minutes of unique, mind-bending and surreal fun.
Another surreal and not to miss attraction is Ripley’s Believe it or Not. Some of the displays and games range from scary and bizarre, to entertaining and educational. Hannibal Lecter’s mask from the Silence of the Lambs will give you the heebeejeebees, while the laser maze challenge will make you feel like a character from the Matrix. It’s interactive and great for people of all ages!
SHOP TILL YOU DROP
Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
If you’re looking to get a little bit of shopping done during your trip, then look no further than Cavill Avenue, a street and pedestrian mall that’s one of the busiest shopping strips in Queensland. It features a huge range of stores selling everything from souvenirs to high-end brand accessories and electronics.
Make sure to also check out the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets open every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. With over 120 stalls, the markets are a gem for antique lovers, treasure thrifters and bargain hunters. In the midst of all this, you’ll find street performers and musicians ready to entertain you. A truly magical way to spend the evening.
RIDE THE WAVES
Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
Photo: Queensland.com
And of course, what would a trip to Surfers Paradise be without, well some surfing. Surfers paradise has tonnes of reputable surf schools to choose from and the beach’s moderate waves make it the perfect place to do just that.
So whether you’re looking for a family adventure or a couple’s getaway, there’s plenty to see and do at Surfers Paradise. Below are a few more guidelines to help you plan your trip.
When to go
The best time to visit is from April to May, right after the Easter holiday because of the consistently sunny but cooler temperatures and lower rainfall. But if you like it hotter, then September to November would be your bes bet, with temperatures hovering around 30 degrees.
How to get there and where to stay
Luckily, Surfer’s Paradise is pretty accessible so there are a number of ways to get there.
And of course, once you arrive, you’ll need a place to stay. We have loads of family and couple friendly options available in and around Surfers Paradise to suit your style and requirements. So pack your sunscreen and swimsuit and start planning!
