Surfer's Paradise
- Hours:Open daily
- Admission:Free
Good Place to Shop, Good Place to Shop, Swim & Snorkel, Swim & Snorkel, Water Sports, Water Sports, Beach, Beach, Town / City, Town / City
5:37 AM Sunday, May 27
Clear. Refreshingly cool.
7 day forecast »
Surfer's Paradise is a bit of a byword in Australia for all that glitters but is not gold. It's tacky, loud, shiny - and an immense amount of fun. But then, what do you expect from a town that took its name from an entrepreneur?
Back in the day, Surfer's (as it's known Australia-wide) was known as the more prosaic Elston, but the owner of the Surfer's Paradise Hotel lobbied for its name to be changed to lure tourists. And boy, did it work.
Cut to the present day, and a still idyllic beach is overshadowed (literally, as the sun sets) by a small forest of skyscrapers. Condominiums, boutiques and hotels are more plentiful than palm trees.
That said, Surfer's is a lot of fun, if you like your party to run eight days a week and don't expect the tone to be set too high. The shopping will have you busting your excess baggage cap in no time and the nightlife - while often aimed at the backpacker end of the market - will keep your evenings fizzing along.
Latest Reviews All Surfer's Paradise Reviews »
really enjoyed the ride, even didnt mind getting wet. probably be good for a group experience . Continue Reading »
Whale watching was really good but after that we got only 2 hrs, not sufficient to have a look around in Gold coast. Would recommend it..
Continue Reading »
Fantastic trip. Loved seeing the whales!! Continue Reading »
Practical Info
Surfer's Paradise is about an hour's drive south of Brisbane. If you don't have your own wheels, you can catch a Greyhound bus.
