Our most recommended things to do in Surfers Paradise

From Brisbane or Gold Coast: Moreton Island Full-Day Trip

1. From Brisbane or Gold Coast: Moreton Island Full-Day Trip

Enjoy a day on Moreton Island on this full-day trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast. Relax on the cruise on the way, enjoy a delicious lunch, then take part in fun outdoor activities like kayaking and sand tobogganing. Be picked up from a centrally-located meeting point in Brisbane or the Gold Coast. Sit back and relax on the air-conditioned drive to the boat's departure point. Board a spacious boat with an outdoor area and a covered seating area. Enjoy ocean views as you cruise across Moreton Bay. Discover a vibrant underwater world as you follow your guide on a snorkeling tour around shipwrecks. Have the chance to spot turtles, fish, and rays. Stop to savor a sandwich lunch on the beach before taking a guided tour in a glass-bottom kayak. View the underwater wonders of the Tangalooma Wrecks as you paddle over crystal-clear water. Explore the area on the island that is known as "The Desert." Ride in a rugged 4X4, and experience the exhilaration of sand tobogganing at speeds of over 40 miles per hour. Admire the Gheebulum Coonungai National Park that covers most of Moreton Island.

Gold Coast: Natural Bridge & Springbrook Waterfalls Tour

2. Gold Coast: Natural Bridge & Springbrook Waterfalls Tour

The Goondawanna Rainforests have so much to offer and are only a short drive from the Gold Coast beaches. This small group tour offers a truly personalized experience and door- to-door service from selected central Gold Coast locations.  Visit the stunning Natural Arch waterfall with a fully-guided walk from an expert local guide.  Learn about the unique flora and fauna of the rainforest as you make your way.  From inside the cave see the water cascading through the roof of the basalt cave formed over millions of years.  Continuing the tour, "Best of All Lookout" offers a view of northern New South Wales and Mount Warning.  The walk to this magnificent lookout takes you through one of the few remaining pockets of the ancient Antarctic Beech forest. Then head off to the nearby viewing platform to see the enchanting Purling Brook Falls.  During the journey, tour commentary on the area and wildlife is provided along with the great scenery of the Numinbah Valley. Take in the views of Twin Falls and Rainbow Falls from Canyon Lookout on the way home.  On the return journey to the Gold Coast, sightings of kangaroos and pretty-faced wallabies are common, as they emerge from their bush retreats to feed on the lush grass in the cooler part of the day.

Surfers Paradise: Surf Lesson on the Gold Coast

3. Surfers Paradise: Surf Lesson on the Gold Coast

Meet your instructor and get set up with the proper rash shirt or wetsuit and board and head to the beach. Begin your 2-hour lesson with a safety briefing and basic instruction. Once everyone has caught their first few waves in waist-deep water, you’ll return to the sand for more detailed instruction on stand-up procedures. The remainder of the lesson will be spent in the water with instructors helping everyone stand up. Most participants have low expectations and don’t think they’ll be able to stand up during their first lesson. When you and the rest of the group are successful, there’s excitement all around!

Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise

4. Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise

Board The Spirit of Elston and become immersed in this unique and delectable dining experience. Departing from Sea World Cruises Terminal, enjoy an evening of sightseeing and dining on the sparkling Gold Coast waterways. Enjoy live entertainment as you indulge in a chef-prepared menu, made from the best local seasonal produce, perfectly paired with local craft beer, wine and tasty cocktails. Wander upstairs to our 360-degree view open-air deck and marvel at the stunning city skyline. This cruise is ideal for celebrating that special occasion or simply experiencing an unforgettable night out.

Gold Coast: Coastal City Scenic Helicopter Flight

5. Gold Coast: Coastal City Scenic Helicopter Flight

Join a luxury helicopter experience in the city of Gold Coast with live commentary from your pilot. Start from a state-of-the-art terminal and get onboard an air-conditioned helicopter to enjoy aerial views of the city, Broadwater, Main Beach, and Gold Coast Hinterland. Fly over the Broadwater before crossing the golden sand beaches of Main Beach. Head south along the coastline passing Surfers Paradise, home to the cities towering high-rises, including the iconic Q1 Building which stands at 1056 feet tall. As your helicopter soars towards Broadbeach, see distant stunning views of Point Danger and Burleigh Heads. Over Broadbeach, buckle up as your pilot helicopter makes a descending turn. On the journey north, enjoy views of Surfers Paradise and Porpoise Point. Then, make a turn over South Stradbroke Island. As you head back to the terminal, experience spectacular views of the city, the Broadwater, and the Sea World Theme Park from above.

Gold Coast: Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Lunch

6. Gold Coast: Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Lunch

Discover the Gold Coast in luxury and embark on a sightseeing cruise while enjoying a delicious buffet lunch. Gaze at panoramic views on the upper deck, and watch the city skyline pass you by. Taste delicious king prawns, roast chicken, or fresh-baked ham, then enjoy a tasty cocktail. Step aboard the luxurious vessel, Spirit of Elston, and enjoy one of the best sightseeing and dining experiences on the Gold Coast. Take in views that showcase some of the city's most famous landmarks, such as the glittering waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater, Sea World, and the glamorous Palazzo Versace. Satisfy your appetite with an irresistible buffet lunch, including locally sourced king prawns, succulent roast chicken, freshly baked ham off the bone and delicious salads. Pair lunch with wine, craft beer, or treat yourself to a tasty cocktail. Head upstairs to the open-air top deck and soak in the sunshine with a drink in hand, while listening to entertaining commentary from our expert crew about the iconic Gold Coast.

Gold Coast: Premium Whale Watching Cruise with Naturalist

7. Gold Coast: Premium Whale Watching Cruise with Naturalist

Join Australia’s highest-award-winning whale watching operator, Sea World Whale Watch, for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience and witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. Sea World Whale Watch is the Gold Coast’s Closest Operator to the Humpback Highway; spend less time in transit and more time with the whales! Departing from Sea World Cruise Terminal in Main Beach, soak up the iconic views of the Gold Coast as you embark on a whale-watching cruise aboard our luxurious purpose-built vessel, the 'Spirit of Migaloo II'. Setting sail up to six times daily from late May until early November, we journey to the famous Humpback Highway, where 40,000 whales pass close to Gold Coast shores on their annual migration from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef. Observe the breathtaking display of whales launching into the air, slapping their mighty tails on the water, and diving deep into the ocean. During close encounters, gain a unique perspective by watching live underwater footage streamed directly to your mobile device (coming soon). You may even hear the iconic whale song through our advanced underwater microphones. Enjoy expert commentary from our knowledgeable crew as you witness these playful and curious gentle giants showcase their acrobatic skills. Look for other fascinating wildlife, including dolphins, turtles, and sea birds. While you anticipate your cruise, enjoy the waterfront deck cafe, enrich your knowledge with informative exhibits, and visit the gift shop at our stunning terminal. Sea World Whale Watch are the ultimate experts in Gold Coast Whale Watching, offering a 100% Whale Sighting Guarantee that ensures a free return cruise if no whales are spotted. With this guarantee, you can be confident that you'll witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Book now for an unforgettable whale-watching experience!

Gold Coast: Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner & Show

8. Gold Coast: Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner & Show

Discover the stories of the Outback with this entry ticket to the Australian Outback Spectacular show. Follow the tale of 2 struggling Aussie farmers, marvel at the skills of acrobats, and enjoy a 3-course meal. Head into the venue and sit down to enjoy a gripping tale. As you watch, rejoice with the farmers as the community's courage help them overcome an unforgiving life on the land. See their story performed by talented acrobats and animal stars. As you journey through the heartland of Australia, enjoy a delicious three-course meal with drinks.

Surfers Paradise: Guided Gold Coast Amphibious Bus Tour

9. Surfers Paradise: Guided Gold Coast Amphibious Bus Tour

Discover the best of the Gold Coast, from both land and sea, with this guided tour by amphibious bus. Experience a sightseeing activity with a twist, as your tour vehicle transforms from a bus into a cruise boat. Set off from the heart of Surfers Paradise on a tour that journeys from roads into the Gold Coast Broadwater. Kids and adults will feel the thrill as the duck-themed vessel splashes into the water, transitioning from a bus tour into a relaxing cruise. See homes of the rich and famous in Paradise Waters, and admire super yachts in Southport Yacht Club. Keep a look out for local wildlife, and enjoy the informative commentary, before returning to Surfers Paradise.

From Surfers Paradise: Gold Coast Half-Day Whale Watching

10. From Surfers Paradise: Gold Coast Half-Day Whale Watching

With the most up-close-and-personal viewing decks on the Gold Coast and Brisbane, and friendly and professional staff, this tour guarantees you an incredible day of whale watching. The humpback whale is playful and curious, and a tour with Whales in Paradise will give you a truly intimate encounter with these gentle giants of the ocean. Whales in Paradise was the Gold Coast’s first whale watching tour operator, and they pride themselves on being pioneers in the local industry. They keep tour groups to an optimal size, ensuring that all passengers enjoy optimal visibility and proximity to whales, dolphins and the many other kinds of marine life.

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Surfers Paradise

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What people are saying about Surfers Paradise

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 2,035 reviews

From flinging ourselves down a sand dune with Dan after an exciting 4 x 4 bus ride to the desert to refuelling with a wonderful wrap and then kayaking in a clear kayak, watching them all swim under us and hand feeding them and finally ending our day with JetSki tow to snorkelling amongst the tangalooma wrecks - what a bloody good experience. All of the hosts were amazing, they supply everything you could possibly need and make one incredibly amazing day out. My British boyfriend had a whole day of firsts and even as an Aussie who grew up at the beach, I was beyond impressed.

We were picked up on time, and the guide, Jamie, was very friendly. On the tour, we were given information on Gold Coast, and the national park. Jamie is clearly knowledgeable and cares about nature. We had various animals pointed out, as well as all sorts of plants. Great way to experience nature, and see the national park.

The lady's that went on the ride had a fantastic time. Both were deaf and Anzy I think his name is really looked after them. He made sure for instructions he faced them so they could lip read. Amazing service

Very good experience, enjoyed the ride. Tour guide was excellent

Really lovely and knowledgeable instructors defo worth it.