Surfers Paradise truly lives up to its name. This action-packed and expansive coastal strip located in Queensland’s Gold Coast boasts a glittering skyline and vast stretches of powder-soft sand and crystalline beaches, mixing the exhilarating energy of a city with the peacefulness of a beach town.

Beyond the area’s iconic beaches is a thriving arts and cultural scene. The bustling Cavill Avenue is the shopping centre of the city, and if you work up an appetite, you’ll be spoiled for choice with a diverse selection of eateries. For vibrant nightlife, head to Orchid Avenue: a street studded with bars, clubs, restaurants, and music venues. There is no shortage of activities to take in and enjoy in this electrifying coastal city.

Gold Coast Airport (OOL), also known as Coolangatta Airport, is the largest and closest international airport to Surfers Paradise with public transit links and regular taxi and ride-hailing services. Brisbane Airport (BNE), which also serves international flights, is also a fine choice, but the journey from the airport into the city can take up to an hour longer. The Surfers Paradise transportation network falls within the Gold Coast’s public transportation system with trains, buses, taxis, and ferries. The Gold Coast Light Rail (G:link) also has a direct stop in Surfers Paradise. Car rental and rideshare options are also available if you prefer to travel to the centre of the city via car. Once travellers arrive at their holiday rentals, Surfers Paradise is easy to explore on foot, or you can rent a bike.

Surfers Paradise boasts a year-round tropical climate, and clear days are best spent on the beach. The city experiences its highest rainfall during January and February, so be sure to pack some rain jackets if you plan on visiting around this time. If visiting between June and September, you might catch a glimpse of the annual whale migration.

Surfers Paradise hosts a variety of events throughout the seasons. During the third week of March, Surfers Paradise hosts an exquisitely curated arts festival that transforms the beachfront into a vibrant gallery showcasing large-scale works from national and international artists. The Gold Coast Film Festival takes place for a week in April, where films and panels are brought pop-up cinemas and venues across the Gold Coast, including Surfers Paradise. Since the city is graced with such pleasant weather year-round, it’s always a great time to book Surfers Paradise holiday houses and explore the beachside attractions.

SkyPoint Observation Deck

Make your way to the top two floors of Q1, Australia’s tallest building, to take in a stunning panoramic view of the Surfers Paradise skyline, the further hinterlands, and the swell. Located 270 metres above sea level, you can stay inside the SkyPoint Observation Deck or strap into a harness and take an adventurous climb in the open air. While you’re enjoying the bird’s eye view, you can enjoy a meal or drink at the attached bistro. The observation deck is also open at night if you’d prefer a dreamy view of the city lights and their dazzling reflections across the water.

Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets

Every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday evening, the beachfront transforms into an exciting night market. Explore more than 100 unique stalls featuring fresh seasonal produce, boutique and vintage clothing, housewares, handmade jewellery, and other artisan goods. The market takes place year-round, but check the schedule for any updates.

Home of The Arts

Home of the Arts (also known as HOTA) is Australia’s largest regional art gallery and provides an immersive cultural experience. The gallery boasts impressive indoor and outdoor facilities like parklands, a lake, a cinema, and an award-winning outdoor stage. Spanning six floors, HOTA’s gallery allows you to explore a mix of historical and contemporary artworks from many different Australian artists. Check the gallery’s event calendar for upcoming performances by local, national, and international musicians. Enjoying a concert with the view of the striking architecture of the outdoor stage and the Surfers Paradise skyline is an unforgettable experience.