Q1 SkyPoint Climb: A Detailed Review

SkyPoint Climb, a climb around the crown of the Gold Coast’s iconic Q1 tower, is an experience that should not be missed. Having thoroughly enjoyed the awe-inspiring views and excitement of a twillight climb, the Experience Oz crew would like to share the experience with you. If you’re interested in doing the SkyPoint Climb and want to get the inside scoop, read the following review:

322.5-metres high, the Gold Coast’s iconic Q1 tower stands proudly above the city and the sea. Sitting at its base, it was strange to think we were soon going to be climbing the crown atop it on Australia’s highest external building walk. And so the anticipation for the Twilight SkyPoint Climb grew in the Experience Oz crew.

We signed in at Mission Control, put on SkyPoint Climb caps (ours to keep) and listened to a safety briefing. Then the real fun began as we got suited up. We stripped ourselves of any loose items, such as jewellery, and put on full body climb suits; next, we slipped into harnesses and pulled them tight over our shoulders, around our waists and around our legs; lastly, we were equipped with a radio and an earpiece. Feeling like a Special Forces team, we were ready for the climb.

We boarded the elevator and, 43 seconds later, we were 77 floors up. One by one, we stepped outside of the SkyPoint Observation Deck onto a platform 240 metres above the street and climbed a short step ladder along the outside of the deck’s window. Once we had all climbed the ladder, we were given the option to feel safe by remaining locked close to the safety railing or to enjoy some freedom by releasing one of the safety rings.

Our Climb Leader, Daniel, guided us along the first part of the climb, the southern leg. Resting in the middle of the southern staircase, we took in unmatched views of the sun shining over the endless golden sands beaches and blue sea; of the green, mountainous hinterland in the distance; of the many city’s many winding waterways; and of the other Gold Coast icons, such as the Wheel of Surfers Paradise and Jupiters casino.

While we admired the scenery, Daniel, our informative Climb Leader, shared with us interesting commentary on the region’s landmarks. For example, he pointed out Mount Warning and explained it was named so by James Cook, who first saw the large mountain from the sea.

As we moved forward and upward, there was a section with steps that extended beyond the regular staircase path, allowing the daring to get right to the edge to view the sheer vertical drop!

Soon after, we made it to the summit, 270 metres up! Standing on a platform without exterior railings next to the tower’s 97.7-metre high spire, Daniel took individual photos of us, as well as a group photo, which was complimentary. While we were resting at the bird’s nest, red and purple hues hit the skies as the sun started to set. Viewing the endless beach both north and south of us against the backdrop of the colourful clouds from this height was truly spectacular.

Next, Daniel guided us down the final part of the climb, the northern leg. We returned down a staircase on the opposite side of the crown, enjoying a different perspective of the Gold Coast; we marvelled at the far-reaching northern views as the skies turned darker shades of purple and the city lights brightened. Here too, the braver of the bunch stepped onto the at-the-edge stairs for extreme views of the drop.

Returning down a second short step ladder, we made it back to the Skypoint Observation deck, having climbed close to 300 steps in total. Back at Mission Control, we unsuited and collected our photos and our Climb Certificates.

The adventure, lasting 90-minutes, and the unparalleled 360-desgree views of the Gold Coast and beyond, will not soon be forgotten. As the price of the climb includes entry to the SkyPoint Observation Deck, the Experience Oz crew chose to unwind there and celebrate the completion of the climb with a drink!

We recommend this climb to all—the brave, the afraid, the young, the old, the visitors and the locals. Throughout the entire climb, there are options for those who are uneasy with heights, as well as for those looking for a more thrilling experience. Further, there is a lot of stopping to admire the sights, so the climb is not too physically demanding. Lastly, at such heights, visitors can see all of the Gold Coast in one shot and locals can gain a new perspective of their hometown; on the SkyPoint Climb, all will feel that they are on cloud nine!