An aerial view of clear blue water at Surfers Paradise in Gold Coast

Itineraries for Your Trip to Surfers Paradise

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2 Days in Surfers Paradise for First Timers

Curated by Leah Still JollLeah Still Joll is a freelance writer based in San Francisco with a specialty in travel writing. Her favorite destinations include Maui, Sayulita, the Northern California coast, Paris, Morocco, Indonesia, and Western Australia.

With 48 hours in Surfers Paradise, you can spend an entire day on the beach (or in the water), dance the night away, and even fit in a little sightseeing. Here are a few ways to put together a 2-day itinerary in this Gold Coast hot spot.


Day 1: Morning

Join the locals and start your day in the water. Several shops rent surfboards and offer lessons. For a similar experience without the intensity of surfing, try stand-up paddleboarding.

Day 1: Afternoon

Cool off during the peak heat of the day, and discover Queensland’s native marine life on a snorkeling tour—or satisfy your need for speed on a jet boat ride. Alternatively, a lunch cruise might be a more relaxing way to get out on the water.

Day 1: Night

Find a prime spot on the beach to watch the stars come out over the ocean, then head to one of the many bars and restaurants for a taste of the local dining scene. Night owls can hit the trendy clubs along Orchid Avenue.

Day 2: Morning

Gaze down on Surfers Paradise from the top of the Q1 building. Over breakfast at the SkyPoint Bistro + Bar—77 stories in the air—admire panoramic views of the ocean, beach, and neighboring high-rises.

Day 2: Afternoon

Check out two of the most popular attractions: the Gold Coast Wax Museum, featuring lifelike replicas of famous faces from history and entertainment, and Infinity, which immerses visitors in a special effects experience with mind-bending illusions.

Day 2: Night

Meet other travelers on a bar crawl or club tour. Skip-the-line entry to the venues is usually included, so you can get straight to the drinking, dancing, and making the most of your last night in paradise.

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