Surfers Paradise

When visitors think of the Gold Coast, they usually picture Surfers Paradise. A towering skyline, golden bikini-clad meter maids and, of course, barrelling waves are all quintessentially Surfers (often pronounced ‘Surface’ by locals), but there’s plenty more to explore beyond the Esplanade.

Eat and drink

After over 20 years in the business, Sandbar certainly has some stories to tell. A Hamptons-meets-harbourside refurb undertaken a few years ago brought new life to the old favourite, but the beachside spirit remains the same as when it opened.

Step off the Surfers strip and into a cosy pub, the likes of which you’d find somewhere in London. The brand-new Fig ‘n’ Fox is a traditional English pub in the heart of Surfers, complete with a menu of cosy classics and an underground dive bar below.

For something a little more sunkissed, it has to be Hyde Paradiso. Perfectly positioned to take in the ocean views, it’s our top pick in Surfers for a long lunch or early sunset dinner – whatever keeps the food and drinks flowing.

Get high

At a spine-tingling 270 metres, the SkyPoint Climb is one of Australia’s highest external building walks. Starting on Level 77 at the Q1’s SkyPoint Observation Deck, climbers enter the open air walk dressed in a full body suit and harness. Stunning 360-degree views of the Gold Coast await climbers – if you’re brave enough.

Prefer to enjoy a view with a cocktail in hand? The SkyPoint Lounge may be more your speed, offering unrivalled views of the entire coastline and an elevated food and drinks menu (pun intended).

Fun and games

The unofficial capital of Gold Coast entertainment, there’s no better place to run wild and free than through the streets of Surfers Paradise.

Get lost in the lights and lasers of the Infinity attraction, have your mind blown at every turn in the mad museum that is Ripley’s Believe it or Not, or train your brain with the puzzles at Hijinx Hotel (part of Strike and Archie Brothers).

While some may scoff at the tackier parts of the Glitter Strip, real Gold Coasters embrace them with open arms. So go on – pay a visit to the Condom Kingdom, get lost in the crowd on Cavill Ave and climb aboard the Aquaduck. It’s all part of the experience.

Relax in style

If you’re looking to quiet down, Lan Bathhouse provides a slice of paradise amongst the chaos. The cavernous bathhouse features hot and cold plunge pools, saunas and spas, with views out onto the streets of Surfers Paradise. They even serve drinks.

Keen to stay awhile? The somewhat notorious Islander Hotel underwent a major facelift almost ten years ago, transforming it into The Island – an upscale vintage hotel and restaurant that captures the charm of Surfers Paradise. Extend the fun by checking in for a night or two and enjoy drinks by the rooftop pool and a delicious feed at Goldie’s.