BEST OF SURFERS PARADISE AND BEYOND

Surfers Paradise – A Dream Destination

When people think of the Gold Coast, it’s usually Surfers Paradise that comes to mind.

Immerse yourself in the buzzing atmosphere of this vibrant seaside suburb. Day or night, this entertainment mecca delivers the endless attractions, fun-factor and holiday vibe the Gold Coast is famous for!

Originally known as Elston, Surfers Paradise got its current name in the 1930s when a local hotel owner, Jim Cavill, decided to rebrand the area to attract more tourists. The name change was inspired by the region's stunning surfing conditions and the burgeoning interest in this water sport.

In the mid-20th century, Surfers Paradise witnessed a surge in development and became an iconic Queensland tourism destination. Its sandy shores, sparkling ocean, youthful energy and sunny weather drew visitors from near and far.

Ever evolving and always exciting, the Surfers Paradise of today still retains its status as a surfer’s dream destination, and one of the Gold Coast’s most popular holiday hotspots.

There’s always something happening at Surfers! By day, the beach bustles with sun seekers and wave chasers eager to make the most of the perfect warm weather. Endless entertainment options and iconic attractions line the avenues, ensuring the only kind of ‘bored’ you’ll find here is a surfboard. As the sun sets on another day in paradise, the precinct seems to sparkle, illuminated by a thriving dining scene and world-class nightlife.

Surfers Paradise also plays host to some epic events including the GC 500 Supercars, Springtime music festival and weekly beachfront markets. Highrise hotels and holiday apartments create a dramatic landscape along this stretch of coast, with hundreds of holiday makers waking each day to the sound of the waves and excitement of being in the heart of the action.

Cruising down Cavill

Cavill Avenue Mall (affectionately called ‘CavAv’ by locals) is the pulsing heart of Surfers Paradise.

This vibrant street is lined with an array of shops, restaurants, cafes and entertainment venues. Starting a stone’s throw from the soft sand and running perpendicular to the beach for several blocks, this mall serves as the main pedestrian thoroughfare and a focal point for spectacular cultural events and community celebrations. From retail therapy to iconic entertainment attractions and lively nightlife, you’ll find it all at ‘CavAv’ Mall!

Begin your cruisy stroll at the Cavill Avenue G:Link light rail station on Surfers Paradise Boulevard. Cross the boulevard at the lights and you’ll find yourself at the northern end of the Mall. Continue straight on to discover the sensory extravaganza of this shopping and mingling mecca.

The first thing you’ll notice is the lively atmosphere which seems to spill from countless sidewalk eateries, sun-drenched balconies and rooftop bars that line this paved promenade. The scent of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, beckoning you in to trendy cafes for an indulgent caffeine fix or refreshing fruit smoothie. Once you’re fuelled for adventure, continue down the avenue to explore a myriad of retail outlets, offering everything from boutique beach fashion to surf gear and souvenirs. The mall is a kaleidoscope of colour, with a rainbow of neon lights, vibrant street art and giant billboards adorning the buildings.

The sound of casual chatter and the tantalising aromas of sizzling burgers and delectable dishes waft from enticing eateries and restaurants that line the promenade. The exceptional shopping and dining outlets are interspersed with iconic attractions that offer hours of entertainment for the young and young at heart. Then cross the Esplanade at the southern end of the mall to dip your toes in the rolling waves that helped give Surfers Paradise its name.

Playtime

As well as being paradise for surfers, this bustling beachside suburb is an entertainment eutopia. From family favourites like mini-golf, ten-pin bowling and enthralling arcades, to the adrenaline-pumping excitement of escape rooms and indoor skydiving, there’s always an ocean of things to do. Here’s a few examples to whet your appetite.

Let your spirit of adventure soar with a unique indoor skydiving experience at iFly Gold Coast. Step inside the state-of-the-art wind tunnel and sense the pure exhilaration of flight. Feel the dreamy sensation of weightlessness as you float effortless over a powerful column of air within the flight chamber, guided by fully qualified instructors who will ensure your comfort and safety. iFly is intentionally inclusive, dedicated to delivering accessible experiences to people of all abilities and ages, from 3 to 103.

If flying isn’t your thing, perhaps take a trippy journey through a unique multi-sensory maze at Infinity Attraction. This futuristic funhouse features 20 mind-blowing, interactive environments to explore at your own pace, filled with astounding special effects, emotive atmospheric sound fields, unexpected aromas, groovy music, and incredible optical illusions. These intriguing worlds of wonder are sure to challenge your senses and ignite your imagination!

Or check out one of the weirdest and most iconic family attractions on the Gold Coast - Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! - where curiosity comes to life. Prominently positioned in the heart of Cavill Avenue, this unbelievable collection of queer and quirky artefacts is sure to inspire a renewed sense of curiosity and awe. Over 300 jaw-dropping exhibits are spread across two floors of fun within the Odditorium, offering hours of entertainment the whole family can enjoy. This astounding attraction also boasts a range of interactive displays, including the all-new Funplex, with dozens of optical illusions, hands-on exhibits and intriguing sensory experiences.

When the sun sets

As another perfect day fades to dusk, the streets come alive with a new kind of energy. The sun sets in a fiery display, and the city ignites in a captivating explosion of glittery lights and pulsing beats. Drop by for sunset drinks, stay for a delightful dinner by the sea, then party the night away at a world-class collection of clubs, pubs, bars and live music venues.

The Exhibitionist at HOTA (the Home of the Arts) is a perfect place to kick the night off with artful cocktails and sky-high tipples. This classy rooftop bar offers a refined ambience and a stunning outlook over the city skyline, as the sun sinks low over the hinterland. From here, it’s a pleasant walk across the Nerang River into the beating heart of Surfers Paradise.

Settle in for waterfront dinner and drinks at a fine selection of award-winning restaurants and relaxed beachside bars. Feast on Mediterranean inspired tapas and sip on handcrafted cocktails at Hyde Paradiso. With a breathtaking backdrop of uninterrupted ocean views, this European summer-themed oasis is the place to be seen by the sea. A little further along the Esplanade, Coast Beach Bar and Kitchen serves up memorable dining experiences. Sink your teeth into succulent steaks and the freshest seafood in the refined surrounds of the Kitchen restaurant, or soak in the laid-back atmosphere of the rooftop Beach Bar, where rolling surf provides the perfect soundtrack to casual catch ups or romantic rendezvous.

If you’re in the mood to kick on after dinner, the legendary nightlife of Surfers Paradise is sure to get the party started. Chilled-out bars and live music venues are all within easy reach, while buzzing nightclubs set the stage for eager revellers to cut loose on the dance floor.

If Surfers Paradise were an animal, it’d definitely be nocturnal!

Accessibility

Surfers Paradise is well serviced by public transport, with local Kinetic bus routes, and wheelchair accessible G:Link light rail stations scattered along its length. For journey planning information please visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30. Taxi and ride-share services are also readily available.

Permanent beach access ramps are located along the Esplanade. On Sundays from September to May, beach matting is rolled out and adult and child beach wheelchairs are available from the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club. Accessible Beaches volunteers are on hand to offer support. A level concrete promenade lines the waterfront, allowing ease of access to the beachside markets held there each Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Accessible picnic tables and barbecues are available nearby.

Cavill Avenue is wide and relatively flat, offering good access to shops, cafes and bars. Accessible toilets are located on the beachfront and in the Paradise Shopping Centre, just off the main thoroughfare.

An accredited information centre is located towards the beach end of Cavill Avenue. Friendly staff offer free assistance with reservations, recommendations, and destination information. The centre is open daily for your convenience.

Most major attractions offer free carer entry for companion card holders with permanent disabilities. iFly warmly welcomes guests of all abilities to experience the joy of flight at their indoor skydiving centre. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Odditorium is accessible to wheelchair users and guests with limited mobility. Infinity Attraction is designed to be a journey into the unknown and may prove unsettling for some guests. The experience is recommended for adults and children over the age of eight, and access restrictions may apply, particularly for guests with limited mobility. For all attractions, please contact the operator directly to discuss your access requirements.

All dining venues named above have online menus available on their websites.