No doubt you’ve heard about the famous Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, Australia. The question you may ask is…

Is Surfers Paradise actually worth visiting?

The answer really depends on what you’re looking for in a holiday.

Surfers Paradise is famous for its sunshine, golden beaches and party scene and in peak seasons can see up to 20,000 visitors per day! There are plenty of clubs, bars and malls on offer as well as heaps of kid-friendly options as well. There is always something happening and typically something to suit everyone and all ages.

If, however, you’re looking for something a little quieter and more relaxing then you may want to check out the southern parts of the Gold Coast such as Rainbow Bay and Coolangatta. Click here to see our favourite spot!

If you’re heading to the famous and very popular Surfers Paradise then here are a few things you should know.

Getting to Surfers Paradise

If you’re staying in Brisbane or flying into Brisbane Airport, then it is around 1 hour south of Brisbane or you can opt to take the train if you don’t have access to a car. Click here to take a look at the train timetable.

Coolangatta Airport (Gold Coast Airport) is around a 35-minute drive depending on traffic to get to Surfers Paradise. If you’re looking for public transport options, click here for the current timetables from the Gold Coast airport.

What to expect from Surfers Paradise

It is very touristy, like very touristy. There are people everywhere and the restaurants and cafes cater for tourists. There is a good vibe around there as everyone is so relaxed and chilled about being on holidays. There are of course highrise apartment buildings surrounding you, so you are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation.

The Gold Coast Meter Maids

The famous Gold Coast meter maids. There is a bit of history behind this one… It all started in 1964 when the local council introduced paid parking. The local shop owners were worried that asking visitors to pay 5 cents for an hour of parking would scare off the weekend tourists from Brisbane. So, the meter maids started their historic legacy.

Walking around in gold bikinis, the meter maids collect money from people in exchange for a photo with them and then use that money to top up expired parking meters so the tourists didn’t get fined. It has become a very popular tradition on the Gold Coast and these days, the cost of a photo with the girls is $5 (well, that’s what I had to pay for this one anyway!).

What to see and do at Surfers Paradise

Again, it really depends on what you’re looking for but here are a few recommendations…

Surfers Paradise Beach

A trip to Surfers is not complete without some time on the beach! Sit back, relax and remember to swim between the flags.

Helicopter Flight

If you want one of the best vantage points on the coast, why not take a helicopter flight and take a look from above!

Jet Boating

If you like something a little bit thrilling, then a jet boat right might be right up your alley.

Skypoint Observation Deck.

One of the most popular things to do at Surfers is to head up to the observation deck at Q1 on level 77. It’s pretty high!

Skypoint Climb

And again, if you’re feeling a little adventurous then why not book yourself a spot on the Skypoint Climb! This looks pretty amazing.

Walk around Cavill Avenue Mall

The main street in Surfers Paradise – you will find everything you need here from convenience stores, cafes and restaurants to nightclubs, bars and clubs!

Beachfront Markets

Every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday you will find over 100 market stalls with live entertainment to enjoy!

Pick up a surfing lesson

If you have time, why not pick up a surfing lesson! It could be fun?

Ripley’s Believe it or not!

It is the home of the unbelievable with weird news, stories, incredible videos, photos, exhibits and so much more.

Sea World

Close to Surfers Paradise, you will find Sea World Nara Resort. It is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, and theme park all relatively close to surfers paradise.

What to see and do on the Gold Coast

If you’re looking to go a little further out than the main part of Surfers Paradise, then you can see a heap more stuff. These include…

The Spit Dog Beach

If you’re missing some 4 legged friend company, then you may want to check The Spit dog friendly beach! The beach is actually really lovely and if you don’t want the waves, you can stop along the way to The Spit beach and on the left hand side you will see the calm side – no waves!

Movie World, Dreamworld, WhiteWater World & Wet & Wild

If you’re planning some time at the theme parks, don’t underestimate how long you will need! I would recommend at least one day at each. Dreamworld and WhiteWater World are at the same location so you could possibly combine those two if you wanted to.

Sanctuary Cove

If you’re wanting to explore the theme parks, why not check out Sanctuary Cove. It is located around 15 minutes from the theme parks and offers great dining choices, shops and a great place to stay if you want to stay close by.

Check out our recommendation of where to stay by clicking here.

Where to eat at Surfers Paradise

We highly recommend Longboards! The burgers were not only delicious, but they were massive! The atmosphere was great with many locals as well as tourists!

Do you have travel insurance?

Before travelling, make sure you get a travel insurance policy – you never know when you might need it! Click here for information on travel insurance, what company we recommend and a link to get an instant quote.

Alternative accommodation

If you’re looking for alternative accommodation to either save some money or share with friends or family, click here for information on Air B&B ($50 discount on your first booking), hotel price comparison websites etc.

“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” – Neale Donald Walsch