The top things to do in Surfers Paradise

Looking for things to experience Surfers Paradise? We've got you covered with sightseeing cruises, attractions, jet ski tours and jetboating experiences available and they're all within minutes of your Surfers Paradise hotel doorstep.

The top things to do in Surfers Paradise

Looking for things to experience Surfers Paradise? We've got you covered with sightseeing cruises, attractions, jet ski tours and jetboating experiences available and they're all within minutes of your Surfers Paradise hotel doorstep.

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Sea World Cruises - Buffet Dinner Cruise
Gold Coast

Sea World Cruises - Buffet Dinner Cruise

4.8
Best seller
Meals included
from $119.00
Sea World Cruises - Buffet Dinner Cruise
The Tour Collective
58 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Enjoy a sightseeing dinner cruise including fresh prawns, roast meats, desserts and more as you take in the city lights of the Gold Coast skyline.
AUD119
SkyPoint Day Climb
Gold Coast

SkyPoint Day Climb

4.7
Best seller
from $92.00
SkyPoint Day Climb
SkyPoint Climb
3033 Surfers Paradise Bvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Take advantage of the endless sunny days the Gold Coast is renowned for with this SkyPoint day climb - the region's ultimate sightseeing experience.
AUD92
QuackrDuck Gold Coast City Tour and River Cruise
Gold Coast

QuackrDuck Gold Coast City Tour and River Cruise

4.9
Best seller
from $55.00
QuackrDuck Gold Coast City Tour and River Cruise
Quack r Duck
7 Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Set off from the heart of Surfers Paradise aboard the Quack'R'Duck for an adventure through the streets and into to the Gold Coast Broadwater.
AUD55
Aquaduck Gold Coast City Tour and River Cruise
Gold Coast

Aquaduck Gold Coast City Tour and River Cruise

4.7
Best seller
from $55.00
Aquaduck Gold Coast City Tour and River Cruise
Aquaduck Gold Coast
Circle on Cavill, Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Experience Gold Coast's Surfers Paradise by land & sea with Aquaduck! Enjoy Aquaduck's entertaining commentary, & watch while your kids get to drive!
AUD55
Surfers Paradise Whale Watching Cruise
Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise Whale Watching Cruise

4.9
Best seller
from $119.00 $79.00
Surfers Paradise Whale Watching Cruise
Whales in Paradise
10 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
This is not just a great whale watching tour but also includes a BONUS scenic Nerang River waterways canal cruise.
AUD79
Sea World Cruises -  Buffet Lunch Cruise
Gold Coast

Sea World Cruises - Buffet Lunch Cruise

4.7
Best seller
Meals included
from $89.00
Sea World Cruises - Buffet Lunch Cruise
Sea World Cruises Sightseeing and Dining
58 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Cruise the pristine Gold Coast waterways with a leisurely 2-hour buffet lunch and sightseeing cruise, departing from the heart of Surfers Paradise.
AUD89
Surfers Paradise Ultimate 55 minute Jetboat Ride
Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise Ultimate 55 minute Jetboat Ride

4.9
Best seller
from $89.00 $85.00
Surfers Paradise Ultimate 55 minute Jetboat Ride
Jetboat Extreme
30-34 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Book this Gold Coast Jet boating experience to enjoy a 55 minute ride in a high powered jet boat from Surfers Paradise.
AUD85
Gold Coast Wax Museum Tickets
Gold Coast

Gold Coast Wax Museum Tickets

4.2
Best seller
from $35.00
Gold Coast Wax Museum Tickets
The Wax Museum
56 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Come face to face & meet famous people from world history - so lifelike you'll find yourself speaking to them - at the Gold Coast's famous Wax Museum.
AUD35
Infinity Attraction Tickets
Gold Coast

Infinity Attraction Tickets

4.6
Best seller
from $30.90
Infinity Attraction Tickets
Infinity
Chevron Renaissance Centre Surfers Paradise Boulevard & Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
For an awesome sensory overload Gold Coast attraction Infinity, a special effects fun house like nothing else you've experienced. Buy tickets online here.
AUD30.9
Gold Coast Indoor Skydiving
Gold Coast

Gold Coast Indoor Skydiving

4.9
from $73.80
Gold Coast Indoor Skydiving
iFLY Gold Coast
3084 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Learn the basics of Indoor Skydiving with 2 flights at iFLY Indoor Skydiving Gold Coast. Book online here with zero booking fees.
AUD73.8
Gold Coast Premium Jetboat Ride from Main Beach
Gold Coast

Gold Coast Premium Jetboat Ride from Main Beach

4.8
Best seller
from $79.00
Gold Coast Premium Jetboat Ride from Main Beach
Paradise Jetboating
Pelican Beach, Waterways Dr., Main Beach, QLD 4217
55 minutes of thrills from start to finish including 360* spins, high-speed slides, beach buzzing, nose-offs and more.
AUD79
SkyPoint Twilight Climb
Gold Coast

SkyPoint Twilight Climb

4.8
Best seller
from $120.00
SkyPoint Twilight Climb
SkyPoint Climb
3033 Surfers Paradise Bvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
As the sun sets over the hinterland, journey to the SkyPoint Climb summit and marvel at the amazing view. A picturesque and magical experience!
AUD120
Gold Coast Express Jetboat Ride from Main Beach -  30 Minutes
Gold Coast

Gold Coast Express Jetboat Ride from Main Beach - 30 Minutes

5
Best seller
from $63.00
Gold Coast Express Jetboat Ride from Main Beach - 30 Minutes
Paradise Jetboating
Pelican Beach, Waterways Dr., Main Beach, QLD 4217
Book a 30 minute express jet boat tour on the Gold Coast and enjoy some fun, high speed thrills along with a dose of lovely scenery on the Broadwater!
AUD63
Surfers Paradise Jet Boat and Helicopter Package
Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise Jet Boat and Helicopter Package

5
Best seller
from $204.00
Surfers Paradise Jet Boat and Helicopter Package
Jetboat Extreme
30-34 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Discover the Gold Coast's many highlights by water and air with an exhilarating jet boat ride and a scenic helicopter ride with this exciting combo!
AUD204
Surfers Paradise Surfing Lessons
Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise Surfing Lessons

from $79.00
Surfers Paradise Surfing Lessons
Go Ride a Wave
The Paradise Centre, Shop 26a Cavill Mall, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
The Go Take The Drop surf lesson package includes 1 x 2 hour surf lesson plus all equipment on the famous Surfers Paradise beach.
AUD79
Mirror Bar Entry with Drink in Surfers Paradise
Gold Coast

Mirror Bar Entry with Drink in Surfers Paradise

from $45.00
Mirror Bar Entry with Drink in Surfers Paradise
Mirror Bar
Level 1, 3113 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Grab your friends and head to Mirror Bar Surfers, where you'll be immersed in a unique world of mirrors! Enjoy freshly made cocktails & mocktails.
AUD45
Surfers Paradise Hydrofoil Lessons
Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise Hydrofoil Lessons

from $275.00
Surfers Paradise Hydrofoil Lessons
Fliteboard Gold Coast
158 Ferny Av, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Book this 2 hour Gold Coast hydrofoil tour to experience the incredible sensation of flying over the ocean on a unique eFoil Fliteboard.
AUD275
Overnight 4WD Camping Tour On Fraser Island
K’gari (formerly Fraser Island)

Overnight 4WD Camping Tour On Fraser Island

from $629.00
Overnight 4WD Camping Tour On Fraser Island
Sunrover Tours
151 Roma St Main Bus Stop, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Join this 2 day guided Fraser Island 4WD Tour and spend two days and 1 night camping under the stars and exploring the rainforest and freshwater lakes!
AUD629
Overnight 4WD Resort Tour On Fraser Island
K’gari (formerly Fraser Island)

Overnight 4WD Resort Tour On Fraser Island

from $830.00
Overnight 4WD Resort Tour On Fraser Island
Sunrover Tours
151 Roma St Main Bus Stop, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Embark on an overnight adventure to Fraser Island to discover it's rainforest, freshwater lakes and wildlife with a 1 night stay at Eurong Beach Resort!
AUD830
Gold Coast Ice Skating
Gold Coast

Gold Coast Ice Skating

4.5
from $20.00
Gold Coast Ice Skating
Planet Chill at Paradise Resort
122 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Perfect for rainy days on the Coast, this fully indoor attraction guarantees hours of fun for all visitors!
AUD20
Coolangatta Group Surf Lesson - 2 Hours
Gold Coast

Coolangatta Group Surf Lesson - 2 Hours

from $79.00
Coolangatta Group Surf Lesson - 2 Hours
Go Ride A Wave
Greenmount Surf Life Saving Club, Coolangatta, QLD 4225
Learn to surf at Greenmount Beach in Coolangatta during a two hour group lesson that will teach you all the basic skills needed to ride a wave on your own.
AUD79
Welcome to Parad-Ice Variety Ice Skating Show
Gold Coast

Welcome to Parad-Ice Variety Ice Skating Show

from $20.00
Welcome to Parad-Ice Variety Ice Skating Show
Planet Chill at Paradise Resort
122 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Brace yourself for an electrifying experience as Paradise Resort unveils its exclusive Ice-Skating Show: "Welcome to Parad-Ice"!
AUD20
VIP Jet Boating Adventure
Gold Coast

VIP Jet Boating Adventure

from $90.00
VIP Jet Boating Adventure
Paradise Jetboating
Pelican Beach, Waterways Dr., Main Beach, QLD 4217
Be treated like a VIP on this exclusive Gold Coast jet boat adventure with preferred seating, complimentary media package and souvenir cap included.
AUD90
Island Adventure Cruise
Gold Coast

Island Adventure Cruise

from $79.00
Island Adventure Cruise
Sailing In Paradise
74 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach, QLD 4217
Step aboard a beautiful Sailing Catamaran and enjoy 3 sensational hours on the picturesque and calm Gold Coast Broadwater.
AUD79
SkyPoint Day Climb & Dine
Gold Coast

SkyPoint Day Climb & Dine

from $102.00
SkyPoint Day Climb & Dine
SkyPoint Observation Deck
3033 Surfers Paradise Bvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
SkyPoint offers panoramic views of the Gold Coast, Australia's highest external building climb.
AUD102
Paradise Jet Boating JetBlast Jetboat Ride plus Aquaduck Tour Package
Gold Coast

Paradise Jet Boating JetBlast Jetboat Ride plus Aquaduck Tour Package

from $112.00
Paradise Jet Boating JetBlast Jetboat Ride plus Aquaduck Tour Package
Paradise Jetboating
Pelican Beach, Waterways Dr., Main Beach, QLD 4217
Depart from the heart of Surfers Paradise aboard the amphibious 'Duck'. Rides combine informative city-tours with unique and exciting river-cruising.
AUD112
Experience Oz Gift Vouchers
Gold Coast

Experience Oz Gift Vouchers

4.6
Best seller
from $50.00
Experience Oz Gift Vouchers
Experience Oz
3200 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Buy an experience gift voucher online here and let your friends, family or colleagues choose their own experience. Gift vouchers are valid for 5 years.
AUD50

Other things to do in Surfers Paradise

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Top 10 Things to do Surfers Paradise

It's an unavoidable fact that when most people think of “the Gold Coast”, what they are really imagining is actually Surfers Paradise – that highrise-filled, sunny-beached, party-centric hotspot that is the staple of postcards worldwide. While many people know of Surfers Paradise, that's often not the case when looking for the best things to do.

We've thus put together the below list of the Top 10 Things to do in Surfers Paradise with our recommendations on the can't-miss activities and attractions in “Surfers” for first-timers from both Australia and abroad - all of which are within walking distance of one another.

1. Visit the SkyPoint Observation Deck at Q1

Location: Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise

As with most cities, no visit is really complete without visiting their top viewing tower (assuming they have one), and the Gold Coast is no exception. The Q1 building is the Surfers Paradise answer to this, and while it's not quite as tall as some traditional “tower” type structures, it's still the place that offers by far the best views of the Gold Coast.

The SkyPoint Observation Deck sits atop the 77th floor of the Q1, which places visitors roughly 320 metres above the ground and provides views that stretch (on clear days) from Byron Bay in the south to Brisbane in the north befitting of its status as the tallest residential building in the Southern Hemisphere.

The deck itself is accessed by one of the fastest elevators / lifts you'll likely come across, and it's quite incredible as to how fast you actually ascend to the top. Once up top, you'll have access to some uninhibited 360 degree views of the Gold Coast hinterland, golden coastline, city skyline and vast stretch of the Pacific Ocean out to the horizon.

The SkyPoint Observation deck sits on level 77 of the Q1 building and you'll have access to panoramic views of the Gold Coast hinterland, golden coastline and the Pacific Ocean as far as the eye can see.

The SkyPoint deck also comes with a fully equipped bar and restaurant that makes for an outstanding spot to grab a drink, with the place even becoming a fully-fledged nightclub once the evenings roll around.

Since the beginning of 2012, the Q1 building also offers their “SkyPoint Climb” experience that allows guests to climb outside the building and embark on a harnessed journey around its glass exterior. Coupled with interesting commentary provided by the climb guides, it's one of the more unique experiences to be had not just in Surfers Paradise, but on the Gold Coast as a whole.

The SkyPoint Deck is an ideal starting point for first-timers to the Gold Coast that allows the opportunity to get your bearings and more of a sense of where everything prominent is located, so if you're new to the city then be sure to put this near the top of your list.

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2. Swim at Surfers Paradise Beach

Location: Beach-end, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise didn't earn its name without reason, and while it might seem obvious to grab your swim gear and head straight down to the water at the end of Cavill Avenue (Surfers Paradise's main street), there's a little more to it than that.

The main section of Surfers Paradise Beach is easily recognisable due to its large “Surfers Paradise” sign that is always a popular feature in photos for visitors looking to strike a pose, and the area beyond it is a regularly-patrolled beach area with vigilant lifeguards who are kept busy watching over often-careless tourists.

The foreshore area along Surfers Paradise beach has recently also undergone a multi-million dollar facelift, and now is a much more impressive area to simply “hang out” than it ever has been before; there are plenty of new public showers, toilets, seats and more that makes rinsing off or relaxing far more enjoyable than before.

The beach is made even more popular due to the fact that it's within easy walking distance of most Surfers Paradise accommodation, coupled with the fact that there are many fast food and more high-end dining cafes and restaurants just across the street.

The foreshore area along Surfers Paradise beach has recently also undergone a multi-million dollar facelift, and now is a much more impressive area to simply “hang out” than it ever has been before.

If you're looking for more of a relaxed, uncrowded beach atmosphere, however (particularly if you're a family with younger kids), it's advisable to head 10 minutes' walk or so either south or north to one of the nearby patrolled – but not nearly as busy – areas of beach towards either Broadbeach or Main Beach.

While it's perhaps not the “perfect” beach on the Gold Coast as far as surf goes despite its name, Surfers Paradise beach is still a very viable spot for boarders who aren't too fussy about catching the ultimate wave, with a decent break that tends to produce waves that hover around the 3-4 foot mark most of the year.

As a result, surfing lessons are hugely popular with visitors who are looking to take the first steps towards learning to surf, and the beach's relatively moderate waves make it a great place to do just that.

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3. Take a Duck Tour

Location: Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

One of the most unusual, yet common, sights that many first-time visitors to Surfers Paradise will notice are the series of huge “duck” vehicles that can be seen rolling around the city streets.

They've become a popular staple of the city, forming a well balanced tour by taking visitors both through the heart of the city itself and then out onto the Gold Coast Broadwater where they can take in the sights from a completely different angle.

Conducted via amphibious-style military vehicles that have been re-branded with colourful duck-themed paintjobs, the ducks are massive vehicles that sit high up and thus provide a great viewing position for their passengers. While they're not exactly speedy on land, their ability to slip smoothly into the water makes for a unique activity that few people will have done previously in their lives.

They've become a popular staple of the city, forming a well balanced tour by taking visitors both through the heart of the city itself and then out onto the Gold Coast Broadwater where they can take in the sights from a completely different angle..

They are always a favourite with the kids, and the staff of the various Ducks - there's AquaDuck and Quack 'r' Duck to choose from - do their best possible attempt to cater for the little ones and prevent them from getting bored or distracted throughout the tour – the driver may even let them briefly hold the wheel while on the water.

For adults themselves, there is plenty of commentary and sightseeing trivia to take in, as well as great photo opportunities of the various regional highlights along the way.

This is definitely a must-do in Surfers Paradise for families and easily to recommend as a starting point if you've got children along for the ride.

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4. Take a River Cruise

Location: Various locations, Surfers Paradise

One of the first facts you'll no doubt discover from doing any sort of tourism research on Surfers Paradise is that the city's canal system is longer than those of both Amsterdam and Venice combined, and it shows.

The extensive waterways carve a wonderful sightseeing path through the “back side” of the city, and allow viewing parts of the area that would otherwise be inaccessible - including some truly ritzy waterfront housing.

Taking a cruise here is thus highly popular, and various operators populate the area that offer different morning cruises with coffee and cake, buffet lunch cruises, afternoon savoury tours or even dinner cruises – the choice of which will simply depend on what you're looking for.

The extensive waterways carve a wonderful sightseeing path through the “back side” of the city, and allow viewing parts of the area that would otherwise be inaccessible - including some truly ritzy waterfront housing.

Regardless of choice, you'll get to see some of the impressively extravagant mansions and other waterfront highlights that the Surfers Paradise area has been put on the map for, as well as local attractions such as Sea World, Marina Mirage and more.

There are also plenty of cruises that go a little further from the city, taking guests to such popular local destinations as Wave Break and South Stradbroke islands for a bit more of a combined on-and-off-shore experience.

Many of these offer packages that incorporate full-day tours as well as meals, entertainment and other activities – or even entry to one of the most popular theme parks In the region; this great variety in Surfers Paradise cruise choices means that the only limit will be your wallet and budget.

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5. Visit a Bar or Nightclub

Location: Various locations, Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise has earned its reputation as one of Australia's go-to party destinations after a long history of constructing various hospitality based business, which led to a huge variety of nightclubs and bars that can all be found within walking distance of one another.

It's perhaps the country's top spot to "let loose", with nightclubs that vary from the laid back to the borderline raunchy, and the majority of which are located within the hubs of both Cavill and Orchid Avenues.

While they all have varying degrees of cover charges - you'll typically get free entry only if you enter earlier on in the night - pricing is similar across the board in terms of drinks, so choice of club downs to personal preference.

Exactly which one is “the place for you” will be almost entirely dependent on some combination of your age, musical preference and relationship status, as each Gold Coast nightclub offers something slightly different.

Exactly which one is “the place for you” will be almost entirely dependent on some combination of your age, musical preference and relationship status, as each Gold Coast nightclub offers something slightly different.

As far as bars go, there's also a fairly wide selection, the majority of which are large establishments rather than smaller inn-style taverns. Large Irish-themed bars are the name of the game in Surfers Paradise, with Waxy's, Fiddler's Green and – our pick of the lot solely because of great waterfront views – O'Malley's on the esplanade.

During your time out, be sure to keep in mind that due to government regulations, all clubs and bars are now required to “lock out” guests from entry from 3:00am onwards in an attempt to curtail drunken street violence, so if you're planning to pull an “all-nighter”, be sure to get inside your club of choice beforehand. Whether you're looking for a wild night out or to chill with friends and soak up some live music, the Gold Coast's nightlife scene will be sure to meet your needs.

Read more...

6. Take a Jet Boat Ride

Location: River-end, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

As you might have guessed from the above items on the list so far, Surfers Paradise is a travel destination that's all about the water, and for those of you who are looking to add a little zest to the proceedings, jet boating is another hugely popular choice.

Strapping yourself in to a turbo-charged boat, you'll head out first slowly and then at an increasing pace until you're performing a variety of stunts - it's a fun and refreshing rush for hot days in particular that still offers inherent sightseeing opportunities.

The aforementioned expansive waterways of the Gold Coast make for ample space for jet boating operators to ply their trade and give their guests some high-speed, on-the-water adventures in and around Surfers Paradise's surrounds.

Perhaps jet boating's biggest positive is that it adds a hint of adrenaline without being too extreme, meaning that families can still participate while still providing a refreshing change of pace from some of the slower tour alternatives.

A Gold Coast jet boat ride adds a hint of adrenaline to your day without being too extreme, meaning that families can still participate while still providing a refreshing change of pace from some of the slower tour alternatives.

Typically, the tour operator will take you out on the water at a gradual speed while pointing out some of the regional highlights before picking up the pace, letting the jet boat's twin-turbo engines kick in and performing a series of high-speed spins, slides, power stops and more.

One thing to note about jet boating however is this: regardless of where you're sitting, you WILL get wet. Be sure to dress or plan accordingly (especially in case you'll be sitting on the end of a row and therefore exposed to a maximum splash-factor!) It's also a very good idea to wear sunglasses as the salt spray can sometimes get into your eyes and provide a bit of a sting if you're unlucky.

With the likes of the Gold Coast Broadwater, Stradbroke Island, Marina Mirage and the ritzy Sovereign Islands potentially on the itinerary, it's a great sampler of some of Surfers Paradise's surrounds with family-friendly fun mixed in.

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7. Bend your mind at Infinity

Location: Chevron Renaissance Centre, Surfers Paradise

One of the more unique and mind-bening attractions on the entire Gold Coast can be found quite literally in the heart of Surfers Paradise.

Sitting in the popular Chevron Renaissance boutique shopping area, Infinity is an exercise in visual trickery and optical illusions divided up into various different sections, each of which aims to play a game on your senses.

Easily accessible by public transport, Infinity is an attraction that's suitable for adults mainly has (young-ish-but-not-too-young) kids and teenagers in mind, with a variety of “mazes” and other trickery in each room.

Some feature hands-on exhibits that confuse your senses of sight and touch, while others will see you walking over "imaginary bridges" that gives the sensation of walking through space!

Sitting in the popular Chevron Renaissance boutique shopping area, Infinity is an exercise in visual trickery and optical illusions divided up into various different sections, each playing a different game on your senses.

In addition, it's an attraction that can be done simply "on a whim" as it's typically in the walking path of Surfers Paradise visitors grabbing a coffee or bite to eat near the main dining hub of the suburb - as Infinity is not a time-consuming attraction it's an easy way to satisfy bored or complaining kids.

Those looking for something different and who enjoy having their perception stretched a little bit will appreciate what Infinity is trying to do, however it has been known to get a little uncomfortable for those who easily get either motion sickness or claustrophobic.

The bottom line is if you're after something that stands out from the rest of the things to do in Surfers Paradise that's far less of a “token sightseeing” adventure, then Infinity is a great choice - and, as mentioned, it's also situated in an ideal location for you to.

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8. Enjoy some Shopping & Dining

Location: Various locations, Surfers Paradise

“Surfers” wouldn't be “Surfers” without its shops, and while it isn't home to a large shopping mall or complex (you'll have to travel around 10 minutes south on the Gold Coast highway to Broadbeach's Pacific Fair for that), there are a huge range of boutiques and other small stores selling everything from cheap souvenirs to high-end brand accessories and electronics.

While the main nightlife and dining district of Surfers Paradise is without a doubt Cavill Avenue, if you're looking to do some shopping you'll likely want to explore either the Surfers Paradise Boulevard side of the area or the newly redeveloped Hilton “High Street” complex that features a number of brand stores such as Versace, French Connection, Prada, Gucci and other boutiques and retail outlets.

Along with these retail boutiques are several higher-end dining options and restaurants as well, serving everything from standard cafe fare to specialty sushi delicacies.

While the face of the Surfers Paradise retail scene is ever-changing, there's plenty of opportunities to get a dose of retail therapy right near your hotel accommodation without having to resort to public transport.

Further along the north end of the main Surfers Paradise central district are more – for want of a better word - “tacky” options, centering around bargains and other knick-nacks where one can grab a memento of their trip to the Gold Coast.

Add in a sprinkling of new Asian-themed restaurants down a number of dedicated dining streets sprouting up all the time, and you'll be spoiled for choice for a quality bite to eat within Surfers.

While the face of Surfers Paradise retail scene is ever-changing with stores coming and going, there's plenty of opportunity to get a dose of detail therapy right near the majority of the suburb's accommodation without having to resort to public transport.

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9. Go Whale Watching

Location: River-end, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

From the months of June to the beginning of November, there's one activity in particular that's a must do if you happen to be on the Gold Coast, and that's whale watching.

The humpback whales' annual migratory period combines with the numerous access points to the ocean that the Gold Coast provides to make it one of the best spots to see these gentle ocean giants up close, and with numerous operators to choose from you'll have a selection of day and time combinations to choose from during peak season.

Gold Coast whale watching tours allow travellers to head out on the water aboard stable, purpose-built whale watching vessels that provide excellent viewing angles of the whales as they take a rest and care for their young.

Seeing the humpbacks breach and play in their natural habitat just outside one of the most popular sightseeing districts in the country is an advantage for Surfers Paradise that few other “big name” areas of Australia have.

Employing top of the range whale finding equipment, it's never too long a trip before the whales come into view. Depending on the month you travel - and a little bit of luck of the draw - they're never too crowded, either so you'll be able to have a decent outlook at the massive marine mammals as they're seen right alongside the boat..

The majority of tours operators divide their trips out onto the water into morning and afternoon sessions, giving both early risers and those who prefer a sleep in the chance to see the whales when they'd like.

Regardless of if you're heading out early or late – or choosing one of the available lunch cruise options – seeing the humpbacks breach and play in their natural habitat just outside one of the most popular sightseeing districts in the country is an advantage for Surfers Paradise that few other “big name” areas of Australia have.

The Gold Coast's whale watching operators are renowned for having spacious viewing decks on their vessels that provide great, uninhibited views of the whales without disturbing them, so if you've ever wanted to go whale watching or are just a fan of all things marine, then this is another great thing to do in Surfers Paradise.

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10. Visit Ripley's Believe It or Not

Location: Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

Lastly, we tip our hat to a popular shrine to all-things-odd, with Ripley's Believe it or Not being one of the oldest and longest-running attractions right in the heart of Surfers Paradise.

Dubbed the “Odditorium”, Ripleys offers a smallish and compact, yet entertaining and intriguing glimpse into the weird and wonderful. As with many of the other things to do in Surfers Paradise (and most other tourism-focused cities around the world, it must be said), Ripleys aims to be entertaining for the kids – and who knows, they may even learn something - while also providing numerous tidbits for adults as well.

It's an attraction that's likely better suited for kids years 10+ as younger ones won't likely have the patience or interest to appreciate the facts and information on offer; they're only "fascinating" if the mind can grasp them, after all.

Some of the attractions inside also may be slightly scary for little ones as there are encounters with skeletons, mannequins and other slightly spooky featurettes contained here.

Dubbed the “Odditorium”, Ripleys Believe It or Not offers a compact, yet entertaining and intriguing glimpse into the weird and wonderful. Think laser mazes, movie props, artworks and spooky features.

There are a couple of interactive sections at Ripley's as well in addition to the static displays, such as a laser maze section which is challenging to cross (do your best Mission: Impossible impression!), games for kids, and props which reveal trivia when used.

The majority of tours operators divide their trips out onto the water into morning and afternoon sessions, giving both early risers and those who prefer asleep in the chance to see the whales when they'd like.

As an interesting side-quirk, they also now offer a free, downloadable app for smartphones that serves as a companion to the experience, offering further information, details and background about each of the exhibits on display.

While the tour only takes as long as you want it to (it's sold as being “self-guided” after all), Ripleys presents quite good value for money when visited on a whim, especially compared to the price of other things to see and do in the heart of one of the busiest tourism centres in the country.

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Experience Oz

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