Fun, sun and surf! This iconic coastal destination isn’t named paradise for nothing. With stretches of pristine beaches, themed attractions, endless dining options and fantastic shopping, this holiday hotspot in Queensland is perfect for families, couples and groups of friends. Here are 33 of the best things to do in Surfers Paradise.
The jewel of Surfers Paradise is the main beach, and what better way to explore it than on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard? Go Vertical offers SUP and kayak hires for a day out on the water with the kids. Guided tours explore mangroves and waterways as well as the ocean, where those with a keen eye might be able to spot dolphins and turtles.
Looking to learn a new skill? Surf In Paradise is a surf school ten minutes from Surfers Paradise Main Beach, where surfing conditions are ideal for beginner groms. Classes are small and provide students with personalised tutoring from seasoned surfing instructors.
Get a bird’s-eye view of the Gold Coast from the top of the Q1 Building, in the heart of Surfers Paradise. While there, book a memorable dining experience at the SkyPoint Bistro + Bar, or get the adrenaline pumping by tackling the SkyPoint Climb to the peak of the tower. The view is well worth the climb, especially if you snag yourself a sunset session. It’s one of the best things to do in Surfers Paradise.
iFLY offers indoor skydiving designed to simulate an authentic experience. This exhilarating activity is easily one of the best things to do in Surfers Paradise for thrillseekers of all ages, as iFLY accept kids as young as three – with a parent’s permission, of course.
Meander the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets in the glow of sunset or beneath a blanket of stars. The local markets are situated along the Surfers Paradise Esplanade and are held weekly on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 4pm to 9pm. Families will enjoy the sounds of crashing waves and live music as they sample gourmet snacks and handmade artisan goods, while kids can get creative at the craft stalls.
Approximately 35,000 humpback whales migrate past the Gold Coast twice per year, and Surfers Paradise has many wonderful whale-watching tours to spot them. Whales in Paradise promise unforgettable, up-close experiences with these gentle giants as they glide and dance on the water. It is also possible to see pods of dolphins, turtles and native marine birds.
Few things are as invigorating as basking in the sun’s warm rays. Surfers Paradise Beach is a must-visit for sun-worshippers, with six patrolled lifeguard towers spread across the two-kilometre stretch of golden sand. If you’re looking for dog-friendly things to do in Surfers Paradise, some areas of this beach permit leashed dogs to accompany their human friends.
One of the best things to do in Surfers Paradise is located less than a 10-minute drive away from the city centre: Australia’s top marine park, Sea World. This amusement park is sure to be a big hit with the kids with its exciting rides and rollercoasters, diverse marine exhibits, as well as seal and dolphin shows. Patrons can even meet and interact with penguins or visit the seabird rehabilitation aviary up close.
The Paradise Centre is one of the best things to do in Surfers Paradise if you want to enjoy the local shops with the family. With over 90 stores, there is plenty to tickle your fancy, from retail, various food and drink options and occasionally featured events like a DJ or fire twirlers.
Discover a different side of this iconic destination by taking a cruise along the waterways of the Gold Coast. Commentary and complimentary snacks are provided onboard as you enjoy the scenery. Whether basking in the evening glow of a sunset or glimpsing the city lit up in neon colours by night, Surfers Paradise River Cruises have regular sessions throughout the day.
Budding golf enthusiasts can get a hole-in-one at Holey Moley mini-golf. This is one of the best things to do in Surfers Paradise as it features 18 quirky holes suitable for putters of all ages and skill levels. Courses include a human-sized Monopoly board, a Forrest Gump-inspired setting and a themed Operation board game area. Once the little ones have worked up an appetite, there is an on-site restaurant that caters to their tummies’ needs.
Got the need for speed? Jetboat Extreme can provide. Fly across the water at an exhilarating pace and taste the sea spray when you crash into waves at full speed. Adrenaline junkies who love to feel their heart rate soar and don’t mind getting splashed must book the Gold Coast’s number one jet boat experience. Just make sure not to blink, or you’ll miss the blur of fabulous ocean views. This is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Surfrs Paradise.
Screams of terror and excitement can be heard throughout the heart of Surfers Paradise, and the source is Slingshot Gold Coast. This ride launches participants high into the air at unimaginable speeds until gravity brings them plummeting back down. The resulting stomach-flipping sensations will guarantee an unforgettable experience.
A local wonderland for curious kids can be found at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, a museum showcasing a plethora of eclectic exhibits. This wacky and imaginative museum features a 7D interactive theatre, varying diverse objects, strange art displays and animatronics. Take the family here and the little ones will be occupied by oddities for hours.
For hours of shenanigans and fun activities, the Hijinx Hotel can provide some of the best things to do. There are five types of challenge rooms to choose from, with each one themed differently. From The Piano area to the Candy Ball Pool, participants must score as many points as possible in four minutes before continuing. This venue also offers alternative entertainment, including bumper cars, bowling and mini-golf.
Suitable for ages over eight, INFINITY Attraction is another popular thing to do in Surfers Paradise. It showcases a sensational sensory experience igniting and captivating the minds of those who visit. The interactive space is a vibrant mirror maze with neon lighting, flashy visuals and funky music.
Rated one of the best Queensland experiences in 2023 by Tourism and Events Queensland, Fox in a Box Gold Coast Escape Rooms provide quality brain training for the whole crew. There are seven different themed rooms to choose from, such as the Zombie Lab and the Bunker. Each escape experience features a range of tricky puzzles that must be deciphered in an hour unless it’s game over.
Unlock your inner polar bear and cuddle up in this Arctic-themed bar. One of the best things to do in Surfers Paradise is visit IceBar Australia, a place to chill out when the heat becomes stifling. Unique for its icy interior and cool vibes, it is also kid-friendly. Families wanting to spend a day indoors at the IceBar can play games like Jenga, Connect 4 and hockey on a table made entirely out of ice.
Lovers of all things feline, the Crazy Cat Café is the place for you. Established in 2016 as the first cafe of its kind in Surfers Paradise, this establishment hosts 23 furry friends of different breeds. It is perfect for all ages and those who adore cute kitties.
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