Surfers Paradise: Where the Beach Meets the City
Surfers Paradise is a town where the name says it all. Some of the best-known beaches in the world are located in Surfers Paradise, and visitors venture in from all corners of the world to try out the iconic surf. This busy town situated conveniently on the Gold Coast is considered to be the coast's hub of entertainment and tourism. About an hour from Brisbane, Surfers Paradise is easy to get to for an excitement-fuelled holiday. Rental options abound for every type of holidaymaker, as there are myriad high-rise apartment buildings in the city centre, comfortable houses near the water and even beautiful villas that are perfect for an intimate getaway.
Stay Active in the Water
With Surfers Paradise's 3 kilometres of golden sandy beaches and steady waves, surfing is a must. Both experienced board riders and beginners are comfortable in the waters surrounding Surfers Paradise. No worries if you have never been on a board before, there are numerous surf schools happy to instruct you in either private or group lessons.
Get a different perspective on the waters by cruising through on a jet ski. High-end rental options are available for going solo but you can also take part in a tour. Explore the ocean, mangroves and a nearby island as you zoom about under the guidance of a trained professional.
Stand-up paddle boarding is another fun way to get a workout and to explore the waterways of Surfers Paradise. Bring your own board along, or hire one. Lessons are available for beginners.
Museums and Family Fun in Surfers Paradise
Once you have had your fill of sun for the day, head into town, and discover some of the more quirky places Surfers Paradise has to offer. Start your city adventure at the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum. The attraction is fully air-conditioned to allow you to beat the summer heat and features hundreds of unique exhibits and oddities.
Families with older children may wish to spend some time at Surfers Paradise's wax museum. Filled with life-like figures, the museum features boundless photo ops. Make sure to head down to the torture chamber for a scare. To get your heart pumping in another way, check out Adrenaline Park. Soar up into the air on the Sling Shot, or be spun around on the Vomitron. Complete your visit by sampling some of the food stalls, and do not forget to grab a T-shirt as proof you were brave enough to play at Adrenaline Park.
Surfers Paradise for Adventure Junkies
Adventure enthusiasts are spoiled for choice when it comes to holiday activities in Surfers Paradise. Start your day with a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Gold Coast. A champagne breakfast is served to guests, and high above the ground, youÃÂll take in beautiful scenery of the water, the coast and the hinterland. If you are in the market for an adventure that spans the entire day, check out one of the four-wheel drive day tours. During your tour, the guide will take you to many natural hotspots. Lunch is typically included. Travellers seeking to commune further with nature can head to Springbrook National Park on their own or as part of a tour.
Surfers Paradise's Nightlife
Surfers Paradise is known to have some of the best nightlife options on the Gold Coast. Numerous pubs, bars and clubs line the streets of Surfers Paradise, many of which offer modern decor, drink options and music. Listening to live music is never a struggle, as The Avenue has been hosting live bands since the 1980s. Karaoke bars and restaurants, along with historic lounges complete the night scene that encompasses Surfers Paradise.
Surfers Paradise in Brief
Surfers Paradise is home to a high-energy beach-by-day, party-by-night scene, frequented by backpackers, groups of friends and school leavers. That being said, Surfers Paradise also offers a number of luxury holiday accommodation options and family-friendly daytime activities, with a lush hinterland ripe for exploration. Getting to Surfers Paradise is easy from Brisbane. Drive down or take convenient, well-connected public transport, with a train departing Brisbane Airport and stopping at major city stations before heading towards the coast.
For more travel information on Surfers Paradise, see our article on Things to do in Surfers Paradise.
