Why you should visit Surfers Paradise

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: November 8, 2019

Reading time: 3 mins

A trip to Surfers Paradise is a guaranteed day of fun and unique experiences! Soak in the larrikin atmosphere and get a taste of beach life!

Surfers Paradise is the major hub of the Gold Coast, hosting thousands of visitors every year. Recognisable for its cluster of high-rise buildings and sprawling surf beach, Surfers Paradise is a joy for locals and visitors. A bustling tourism and entertainment centre, Surfers always has something on!

The number one item on your to-do list at Surfers Paradise should be learn to surf! The pristine beach has several accredited surf schools lining its water ready to get you up on the waves. If you’re not a budding surfer then lay back and enjoy the wide beach. Warm yourself in the hot sun and enjoy a picnic on the beach.

On Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, make your way to the sunset markets and pick yourself up a treat. With plenty of bric-a-brac stalls, antique bargains, homemade crafts, buskers and food you’re sure to find something you enjoy. Stallholders are always keen for a chat, and the markets are a great way to get out and meet the locals.

The shopaholic will love Cavill Avenue. Stretching from the beach down past restaurants, shops, and nightclubs, Cavill Avenue is the commercial centre of the Gold Coast. Down side-streets, you’ll find hidden bars and secret nightclubs. The arcades are the true heart and soul of the area though. Amazing street eats, surf shops, tattoo parlours, and t-shirt emporiums fill small shop fronts. On the street level, you’ll find the famous Hard Rock Café, ice-cream parlours, and takeaway food outlets. As you stroll down the street buskers and street performers will serenade you.

Walking from the beach to Cavill Avenue keep your eye out for the famous Surfers Paradise Meter Maids. The gold bikini-clad ladies have been wandering the beachfront feeding expired parking meters since 1964. It’s estimated they’ve saved people over a half a million dollars in parking fines! Though they are no longer able to top-up parking meters, the girls can still be seen wandering the beachfront.

See Surfers Paradise from a whole new level at Skypoint. Located on top of the iconic Q1 building, Skypoint gives you 360-degree views of the beautiful Gold Coast. From 77 storeys above the ground, you’ll be mesmerised! For the adventurous, book in for a spire climb. Spend 30 minutes on the spire, 270m above the ground and soak in the Gold Coast from the sky.

For a thrill closer to the ground, head to iFly, the Gold Coasts epic indoor sky diving provider. Fly on a pillow of air and experience all the thrill of a skydive on the ground! Each flyer will be guided by iFly’s experienced instructors and undertake two flights in their session. iFly is suitable for all ages and is sure to be a highlight of your trip!

Surfers Paradise is bursting with fantastic activities and sights for you to see. With great weather all year round you’re sure to have a fantastic time no matter when you find yourself there. Surfers Paradise is truly the activity hub of the Gold Coast.

Related article: Where to Swim at the Gold Coast?

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.

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