Surfers Paradise.
Just saying the name conjures images of golden sand, sparkling blue water, and a skyline that rises right from the beach like Australia’s answer to Miami.
After recently attending the Redspot Annual Managers’ Conference here in the heart of the Gold Coast, I was reminded of just how much this iconic holiday destination has to offer. It’s not just the sunshine and surf (although those are pretty hard to beat). It’s the energy. The variety. The feeling that, no matter what you’re into – food, adventure, shopping, wildlife, or simply kicking back – Surfers has you covered.
And if you’ve been dreaming about the perfect Queensland holiday, I’m here to tell you: this is it. Pack your sunnies, grab your thongs (the flip-flop kind, of course), and get ready to dive into everything Surfers Paradise has to offer.
Why Surfers Paradise Should Be Your Next Holiday Spot
There’s a reason Surfers is often called Queensland’s events and entertainment capital. The moment you arrive, you’re hit with that unmistakable buzz – a mix of beachy relaxation and city excitement. It’s a place where you can have a calm morning walk on the beach, a high-adrenaline afternoon at a theme park, and a glitzy night out, all in the same day.
Affordable airfares into Gold Coast Airport make getting here a breeze, and with accommodation options ranging from luxury high-rise apartments to budget-friendly motels, there’s something for every style and budget. You can stay right in the thick of the action or tuck yourself away in a quieter pocket – either way, you’re never far from the beach or the nightlife.
And here’s the thing that makes Surfers even more appealing: so much of the entertainment here is free. From live music on the foreshore to community festivals and beachfront markets, you could fill a whole week without spending a fortune.
The Beach That Never Sleeps
Of course, the beach is the crown jewel. Surfers Paradise Beach stretches for 3 kilometres, a perfect ribbon of golden sand backed by a lively esplanade. At sunrise, the sky turns pastel pink and orange as early risers jog, stretch, and surf their first wave of the day. By mid-morning, beach umbrellas dot the shore and families paddle in the shallows while surfers carve through the breakers.
As the sun dips, the boardwalk becomes the place to be – live performers, market stalls, and the salty evening breeze set the perfect holiday vibe.
But Surfers isn’t just about the beach. This is a playground for all kinds of travellers.
Things to Do in Surfers Paradise
1. Theme Park Capital
Within a short drive, you’ve got Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, Dreamworld, and Wet’n’Wild. Whether you want to get your adrenaline pumping on a rollercoaster or make friends with marine life, the Gold Coast has it all.
2. Wildlife Encounters
At Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, you can cuddle a koala, feed kangaroos, and have hundreds of rainbow lorikeets land on your arms at feeding time – a colourful (and slightly ticklish) must-do for all ages.
3. Endless Dining Choices
Surfers is a food lover’s dream. From beachside fish and chips to five-star fine dining, from vegan smoothie bowls to flame-grilled steaks, there’s something for every taste. Try a rooftop bar at sunset or grab breakfast at a quirky café tucked into a laneway.
4. Beachfront Markets
On Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday nights, the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets turn the esplanade into a buzzing open-air shopping strip. Browse handmade crafts, fashion, jewellery, and sample treats from food stalls while enjoying live entertainment.
5. Shopping & Style
Cavill Avenue is the heart of the shopping scene, packed with fashion, souvenirs, and surf gear. For a boutique experience, head to Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre or the nearby Pacific Fair, one of Australia’s largest shopping destinations.
6. The Nightlife
Surfers Paradise truly comes alive after dark. Stylish pubs, clubs, and lounge bars line the streets. Whether you want to dance until dawn, sip cocktails by the water, or enjoy live music in a cosy bar, there’s a venue for you.
Why You Need a Car in Surfers Paradise
Here’s the thing – as much as there is to do in Surfers itself, the real magic of the Gold Coast lies in exploring the surrounding region. And the best way to do that? Behind the wheel of a Redspot rental car.
Our Redspot Car Rentals Surfers Paradise branch at 32 Trickett Street puts you right in the heart of the action, just minutes from the beach. From here, your options are endless.
Day Trips Worth Taking in Your Redspot Rental
Springbrook National Park – Just 45 minutes from Surfers, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonderland is home to ancient rainforests, five stunning waterfalls, and walking trails that feel like stepping into another world. Don’t miss the Natural Bridge, a cave waterfall that glows with fireflies at night.
Lamington National Park & O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk – A little over an hour’s drive takes you to lush subtropical rainforest with suspension bridges high in the canopy, breathtaking lookouts, and vibrant birdlife.
Tamborine Mountain – Known for its wineries, charming cafés, and art galleries, Tamborine is perfect for a slower-paced day. Enjoy a rainforest walk, visit the glow worm caves, and indulge in a long lunch at a local eatery.
Byron Bay – Cross the border into New South Wales and you’ll find this laid-back coastal town, famous for its lighthouse walks, beach culture, and artisan markets. The drive down the coast is half the fun, with ocean views most of the way.
Northern NSW Hinterland – Think rolling green hills, cute country towns, and roadside farm stalls where you can buy fresh produce straight from the grower.
When you’ve got a car, you can turn your Gold Coast trip into a true adventure – one that goes far beyond the high-rises and surf breaks.
Driving Made Easy with Redspot
Hiring a car from Redspot is simple, affordable, and stress-free. We pride ourselves on offering vehicles that are modern, well-maintained, and suited to your trip – from compact city cars for zipping around Surfers to SUVs perfect for hinterland exploring.
We’re open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 5.00pm and Saturday to Sunday from 9.00am to 4.30pm. You can call us on 07 5527 5318 or book online at redspot.com.au to lock in your ride.
And unlike many car rental companies, we cater to a wider range of drivers – provisional licences with at least 12 months’ driving experience are welcome, and there’s no upper age limit.
Making the Most of Your Surfers Paradise Trip
To really enjoy Surfers and the Gold Coast, mix and match your days. Here’s one possible itinerary to get you started:
Day 1: Morning swim, breakfast by the beach, explore Cavill Avenue, sunset at the SkyPoint Observation Deck.
Day 2: Theme park day – pick your favourite or go for a double!
Day 3: Hinterland adventure – Springbrook or Lamington National Park.
Day 4: Lazy day – beach in the morning, shopping in the afternoon, markets in the evening.
Day 5: Road trip to Byron Bay, stopping at coastal lookouts along the way.
However you plan it, your trip will be better with the flexibility of your own set of wheels.
Why Surfers Paradise and Redspot Are the Perfect Pair
Surfers Paradise offers endless things to see and do, but it’s also a gateway to so much more. With Redspot Car Rentals, you’re not just getting from A to B – you’re unlocking the full potential of your holiday.
We make it easy to explore, easy to save, and easy to get the most out of your time here. And when you’re standing on a mountaintop looking over the Gold Coast hinterland, or driving along the coastline at sunset, you’ll be glad you didn’t limit yourself to the bus timetable.
So next time you’re planning a getaway, think Surfers Paradise. Think Redspot Car Rentals. Together, we’ll make sure your trip is more than just a holiday – it’s a story worth telling.