Surfers Paradise is one of the Gold Coast’s most visited destinations, attracting everyone from international tourists to interstate travellers and couples on holiday. While the famous beach is often the first magnet, many visitors quickly realise that some of the best views of this vibrant coastal hub are experienced beyond the shoreline.
This shortlist gives visitors a complete snapshot on how best to sightsee this much-loved area. Whether it’s joining one of the popular Surfers Paradise cruises, taking in sweeping city views from a hot-air balloon, or rolling from road to river in one seamless adventure, sightseeing here comes with some flair.
So, read on to find my favourite ways of sightseeing in Surfers Paradise — each offering a different perspective on this dazzling destination.
Sightseeing Cruise on Broadwater
A sightseeing cruise along the Broadwater comes right at the top of my list because I’d call this the easiest way to see all the main Surfers Paradise attractions in one go. From the glittering surface of the Broadwater, the Marina Mirage Resort with its yachts and the grand Imperial Hotel Gold Coast (previously known as Palazzo Versace), you’ll see all these icons from the comfort of your Surfers Paradise cruise. And what’s more… you could even dig into a freshly-prepared feast while admiring the view and listening to the fascinating commentary by the crew.
Hot Air Balloon Flight
Up, up and away!
Float above the cityscape and over the gorgeous Gold Coast Hinterlands on a hot air balloon ride. Take in sweeping views of rolling hills and stunning countryside from the comfort of your hot air balloon basket, and make sure to carry your camera because those views are unbeatable! It’s a moment of peace and beauty that is certain to stay with you forever. If you do plan to go on a balloon ride, I’d recommend you pick the sunrise flight to see the breathtaking view of the day dawning over the horizon. This is often followed by a scrumptious meal that perfectly rounds off the exhilarating ride.
SkyPoint Observation Deck & Climb
Want 360° views from the heart of Surfers Paradise? Then SkyPoint is definitely your best choice! Look below and beyond from 230m in the sky and you’ll see all the way to the New South Wales border and out to the magnificent, lush Gold Coast Hinterland. SkyPoint is one of Queensland’ best sightseeing spots as it gives every visitor a bird’s eye view of Gold Coast from a truly unique vantage point.
While the SkyPoint Observation Deck is the simpler way to see the cityscape, the thrill and views from a SkyPoint Climb are spectacular. This is an open-air climb atop one of Queensland’s most iconic landmarks, the Q1 Resort Building, and takes you to the height of 270m! And don’t worry, it’s really not as scary as you think – you’re in safe hands! The SkyPoint Climb immerses you in the stunning views of golden sands, lush, tropical mountains and the cityscape of Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast that stretch out far below your feet.
Aquaduck Tour
Now, this is a unique tour that I absolutely love! The Aquaduck is an amphibious vehicle that travels on both land and water. My only issue with this tour – it’s not long enough!
Beginning at Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise and heading towards Main Beach you’ll soak in the iconic landmarks of Gold Coast such as the Ocean Pacific, Southport Yacht Club, Marina Mirage, Imperial Hotel Gold Coast and more. And, reaching the Broadwater, there’s certainly no stopping! Splash right into the river to spot some dolphins and other marine life that call these waters home. And to make it even better, the Aquaduck tour in Surfers Paradise also offers budding kiddie drivers the thrilling opportunity to take the wheel and drive the Aquaduck themselves!
Wrapping Up
From sky-high panoramas to gentle meanders aboard a Surfers Paradise cruise, sightseeing in this region is anything but ordinary. Each of these experiences come in my list as they reveal a different facet of this glittering coastal gem, where ocean, skyline and hinterland come together in harmony.
So, when you set out to explore the very best views on the Gold Coast for yourself, try and see the views from different perspectives — from above, on the water and at ground level. Surfers Paradise is a destination that shows that each angle is just as spectacular as the next.
