Surfers Paradise is the beating heart of the Gold Coast. Known simply as “Surfers” to locals, it is where the iconic skyline meets golden beaches, a vibrant nightlife scene, endless shopping, and attractions for all ages. It is the place where backpackers, families, and luxury travellers all cross paths, each finding something uniquely suited to their style of holiday.
Whether you want to swim at one of the world’s most famous beaches, climb to the top of the city’s tallest building, shop along Cavill Avenue, or dance the night away, Surfers Paradise has something for everyone. This guide rounds up the very best things to do in Surfers Paradise, from free activities to bucket-list experiences.
Explore the Beaches
The jewel of Surfers Paradise is undoubtedly Surfers Paradise Beach. With its golden sands, rolling waves, and bustling esplanade, it is as much a lifestyle hub as it is a place to swim. Lifeguards patrol daily, so it is safe for families, while surfers can catch a wave just metres from the city skyline.
For those who prefer something quieter, head south to Narrowneck Beach or Broadbeach, both just minutes away yet far less crowded. Families often love Budds Beach, located on the Nerang River. It offers calm waters that are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and picnics.
Tip: Join an early morning beach yoga class at Surfers Paradise Beach. It is a magical way to start the day, with the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.
Adventure Activities
If you are chasing thrills, Surfers Paradise is packed with adventure activities that will get your heart racing.
- SkyPoint Climb: Australia's highest external climb, perched on top of the Q1 building. The panoramic views stretch from Byron Bay to Brisbane, and the sense of accomplishment is unforgettable.
- Jet boating on the Broadwater: Departing right from Surfers, these high-speed tours combine spins, slides, and sightseeing.
- Indoor skydiving at iFLY: Experience the sensation of freefall in a safe wind tunnel environment, just steps from the beach.
- Surf lessons: Surfers Paradise is one of the best places to learn to surf. Local surf schools provide boards, wetsuits, and patient instuctors who will have you standing up in no time.
These experiences prove that Surfers is not just about sunbaking. It is a playground for anyone with an adventurous streak.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Travelling with kids? Surfers Paradise has plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
- Cavill Avenue: The main shopping strip, buzzing with surf stores, fashion boutiques, and souvenir shops.
- Chevron Renaissance: A small lifestyle hub with boutique shops, day spas, and casual dining.
- Paradise Centre: Right on Cavill Avenue, it is great for family-friendly
shopping and dining.
Food lovers will not be disappointed either. Surfers Paradise boasts everything from casual cafes to high-end dining.
- Grab fish and chips to eat on the beach or explore the growing number of Asian eateries tucked into side streets.
- For something special, book a table at a fine dining spot overlooking the
ocean, where seafood is the star of the menu. - Do not miss the chance to try a local specialty like Moreton Bay bugs, best enjoyed grilled with garlic butter.
The dining scene is constantly evolving, so whether you want brunch, cocktails, or a late-night feast, you will be spoilt for choice.
Nightlife and Entertainment
When the sun goes down, Surfers Paradise comes alive. The nightlife is legendary, offering everything from rooftop bars to live music and nightclubs.
- The Island Rooftop: One of the best open-air bars on the Coast, with live DJs and a laid-back vibe.
- Cocktail lounges and pubs line Orchid Avenue, catering to every taste and budget.
- Nightclubs: Surfers have long been famous for its party scene, with clubs that keep the dance floors pumping until dawn.
And of course, if you want a night out you will never forget, you cannot go past Dracula’s Gold Coast.
Dracula's: A Gold Coast Institution
Located just a short drive from Surfers Paradise in Broadbeach, Dracula’s is a one-of-a-kind experience. Combining live music, comedy, and aerial acrobatics with a three-course dinner, it has been entertaining audiences for over four decades.
From the moment you enter via a ghost train, you know this is no ordinary night out. The performances are outrageous, hilarious, and a little bit cheeky, making it a hit for couples, groups, and anyone looking for something unique. The cocktails are just as theatrical as the show, and the energy is electric from start to finish.
For visitors asking what to do in Surfers Paradise Australia, beyond the usual, Dracula’s is the answer. It is consistently rated as one of the best entertainment experiences on the Gold Coast.
Cultural and Free Activities
Not everything in Surfers Paradise comes with a price tag. There are plenty of cultural and free activities that make the area special.
- Beach walks: Stroll the esplanade or walk barefoot along the sand at sunrise or sunset.
- Local markets: Beyond the beachfront markets, you will also find farmers’ markets and artisan stalls popping up across the Gold Coast.
- Festivals and events: Surfers Paradise hosts a packed calendar of events, from the Sand Safari Arts Festival to the Gold Coast 600 Supercars race.
- Art and public installations: Keep an eye out for sculptures, murals, and street art scattered around the city.
These activities help balance out the paid attractions and give you a taste of the local culture.
Surgers Paradise FAQ's
What are the best times to visit Surfers Paradise?
The Gold Coast is a year-round destination, but the most popular months are September through November and March through May. The weather is warm, and the crowds are smaller than peak summer.
Are there family-friendly activities in Surfers Paradise?
Absolutely. Attractions like Infinity, Ripley’s, and the beachfront markets are perfect for kids. Budds Beach is a safe swimming spot, and the theme parks nearby make great family day trips.
What are the top free things to do in Surfers Paradise?
Relax on the beach, enjoy the markets, explore local street art, and join a beach yoga class. Sunrise and sunset over the water are experiences that cost nothing but feel priceless.
Final Thoughts
Surfers Paradise is more than just a tourist hotspot. It is a place where the beach lifestyle meets adventure, culture, shopping, and nightlife. Whether you want to relax on the sand, try your first surfing lesson, shop and dine your way through Cavill Avenue, or experience the wild energy of Dracula’s, there are endless things to do in Surfers Paradise.
The beauty of this destination is its variety. Families, couples, solo travellers, and groups of friends will all find something that feels tailor-made for their trip. And no matter how many times you return, Surfers Paradise always has something new to offer.
So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover why Surfers Paradise is the Gold Coast’s most famous playground.
