The Best Surfers Paradise Gold Coast Guide

Surfe’s Paradise Gold Coast Australia is energetic, enthusiastic, electric, and eclectic! It is bustling throughout the day with walkers, cyclists and skateboarders taking advantage of the beachfront boulevard. Surfers Paradise has plenty of things to do from thrill seeking to very sedate, depending on what you want to do.

Partying teens and early-20-somethings head here for the clubs, bars and malls, with some beach time as a hangover remedy before it all starts again. Families head to Surfer’s Paradise for the affordable accommodations, the kid-friendly eating options, and of course for the beach.

Surfers Paradise Weather – When to Visit

The best time to visit Surfer’s Paradise is between April and May when the temperatures are most comfortable and there is very little rainfall. This is also going to be the least expensive time to visit Surfers Paradise. If you are a surfer looking for the best waves, January to July offers the best surfing conditions. If you are looking to participate in water sports, there is no better place than the Gold Coast. Vacationing here between April and May means you will have the best chance of sunny weather with fewer crowds and lower costs.

Best Surfers Paradise Area Beaches

Surfers Paradise Beach

Surfers Paradise Beach is the most famous beach on the Gold Coast, and the most popular. It is crowded throughout the year due to its close proximity to the main attractions and theme parks, accommodation, nightlife and entertainment hub of the Gold Coast.

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Budds Beach

Found on the exclusive and quaint strip of canal behind the manic streets of Surfers Paradise, this is a hidden nook for calm sea seekers of the northern Gold Coast. After you’ve basked in the glorious sun, head to the adorable Bumbles for a post-swim feed. 

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Broadbeach

With a glitzy high-rise hotel backdrop, Broadbeach has plenty of sand to throw your towel down on. Shade is sparse, so pack your sunscreen. Head to nearby Pratten Park with it’s large playground for the kids and free BBQs.

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Main Beach

Main Beach is usually less crowded than Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, giving it a relaxing atmosphere with several nearby restaurants and coffee shops available. A good choice for families with kids who want to have a fun and peaceful day out at the beach.

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Mermaid Beach

This is a laid-back spot next to its bustling neighbor Broadbeach. There’s an eclectic blend of dining options here from modern Australian to plenty of Asian culinary experiences in which to participate.

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Best Surfers Paradise Tours & Activities by Viator

O’Reilly’s Lamington National Park and Treetop Canopy Tour

Explore the natural bounty of Queensland on this full-day tour to Lamington National Park from Gold Coast or Brisbane. Soak up spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean from atop Mt Tambourine, and create your own adventure at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. Encounter flocks of king parrots and other native bird species on a treetop canopy walk, and try your hand at bird feeding on a ground-level bush walk. Visit a local alpaca farm for a furry finish to the day! Learn more about the O’Reilly’s Lamington National Park and Treetop Canopy Tour.

Half Day Dolphin Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour

Start your day off right with a half-day kayak tour to South Stradbroke Island. Enjoy a great vantage point on the beaches and wildlife of the Gold Coast as you paddle at a leisurely pace, stopping to snorkel off Wavebreak Island, visit secluded beaches, and enjoy a picnic breakfast on the beach. Your expert guide shares informative commentary about the region’s ecology and animals, and provides full instruction on kayaking and snorkeling — making this tour suitable for both experienced paddlers and first-timers. Learn more about the Half Day Dolphin Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour.

Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard)

Spend a blissful day on Moreton Island exploring the beaches, snorkel sites, and enormous sand dunes during this full-day tour from Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, or the Gold Coast. Travel with an experienced guide in a rugged 4-wheel drive vehicle, going from sea to sand as you snorkel at the Tangalooma Wrecks and kayak around the coral reef, then head inland to try sand boarding on the dunes. Learn more about the Moreton Island Day Trip

World Heritage Springbrook National Park Tour Including Natural Bridge

Journey into the hinterlands on this 5-hour afternoon tour of the Springbrook National Park from the Gold Coast. Explore the UNESCO-listed Goondawanna rain forests by coach, stopping to walk through the jungle, peek into ancient caves and enjoy views of Mount Warning from the Best of All Lookout. Visit natural wonders like Purling Brook Falls, Numinbah valley and Rainbow Falls, and soak up the scenery from the Canyon Lookout. Learn more about the World Heritage Springbrook National Park Tour.

Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast Jet Boat Ride

Enjoy the thrills, splashes, and spins of a jet boat ride on the Gold Coast Broadwater from Surfers Paradise. Zip through the scenic waterway, passing landmarks such as Southport Yacht Club, the Versace Hotel, and SeaWorld. Hang on as your expert captain takes your high-speed vessel through a series of high-octane tricks that are tons of fun. Learn more about the Surfers Paradise Jet Boat Ride

Best Surfers Paradise Restaurants

Yamagen Japanese Restaurant $11 – 30

Traditional Japanese cuisine alive in a playful Tokyo dream. An izakaya dining experience made to share for a night of vibrant refined flavors. Smoking signature kushiyaki, sushi and delicate market-fresh sashimi. Telephone: 07 5584 1266 Web: Yamagen Japanese Restaurant

The Island $11 – 30

The Island Gold Coast serves up the freshest of food for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day of the week. Featuring the all new Goldie’s and the Island Rooftop, all their menus boast impressive burgers, seafood, steaks, wood oven pizzas, fresh salads and share plates. Telephone: 07 5538 8000 Web: The Island

Salt Meats Cheese $11 – 30

Salt Meats Cheese is a delicatessen, wood-fired pizzeria and Italian restaurant in a rustic, casual environment. This is a favorite among locals and tourists, with their pizza regarded as one of the best on the Gold Coast! Telephone: 07 5661 1517 Web: Salt Meats Cheese

Sandbar $11 – 30

They focus on offering quality brekky favorites, gourmet burgers, healthy poke bowls, fish’n’chips, steaks, seafood and more. Produce is sourced locally, with the freshest flavors prepared daily. Telephone: 07 5526 9994 Web: Sandbar

Edgewater Dining $11 – 30

Inspired by modern Australian cuisine, with a twist of traditional Italian style cooking, Edgewater Dining offers an ever evolving menu incorporating seasonal changes to ensure only the most creative and highest quality dishes served. Telephone: 07 5570 1624 Web: Edgewater Dining

Best Surfers Paradise Bars

The Island Rooftop

The Island Rooftop is the Gold Coast’s biggest rooftop bar. This sprawling alfresco patio has DJs, a retro-styled cocktail bar, and ample seating. They Gin & Jazz Thursdays (from 6:30pm) and Sunday sessions with cocktails, bites, DJs and live vocalists. Telephone: 07 5538 8000 Web: The Island

Aloha Bar

Aloha Bar and Dining is located in right in the heart of Broadbeach offering a laid-back Hawaiian feel and some of the best cocktails on the Gold Coast. Telephone: 07 5592 5000 Web: Aloha Bar

Elsewhere Bar

Elsewhere Bar provides a friendly relaxing restaurant and bar.  Great place to unwind with a cold drink, an ideal place to watch and forget about the hustle and bustle while you enjoy a freshly brewed coffee or a snack from our affordable specials menu. Telephone: Web: 07 5592 6880 Elsewhere Bar

Stingray Lounge

Stingray mixes industrial chic with retro pop art and decor, resulting in a distinctly Californian vibe. The impressive cocktail list revolves around the bar’s equally impressive selection of 50 tequila varieties.  Telephone: 07 5584 1200 Web: Stingray Lounge

The Avenue

The Avenue is also a hit among locals for screening most major sporting events live across 16 large plasma TV screens. You’ll also find a draft list of 16 craft and microbrew beers. Cocktail lovers will find a great selection as well. Telephone: 07 5592 1678 Web: The Avenue

Best Surfers Paradise Hotels