25 Things to do in Surfers Paradise with Kids

Are you looking for things to do in Surfers Paradise? You’ve found the right article! We can tell you what to do in Surfers Paradise and this article provides a huge list of the best things to do in Surfers Paradise for adults and kids!

Home to a beachside getaway alongside a bustling city; it’s no wonder families are jumping at the chance to enjoy an escape to the Gold Coast. Surfers Paradise attractions for kids and adults are numerous. Surfers Paradise offers both parents and children an endless list of things to do, whether you’re simply looking to relax by the pool at your Surfers Paradise accommodation, embark on a thrilling adventure or just looking for a family-friendly Surfers Paradise restaurant.

With beautiful beaches for surfing and swimming, amusement parks, cinemas, museums, arcades, markets, accommodation, and restaurants, we will give you everything you need to know in our detailed article.

Not sure where to start? Here are the best 25 things to do in Surfers Paradise with kids.

1. The Surfers Paradise sign

The Surfers Paradise Sign is a simple icon of the Gold Coast that many tourists flock to for photos. Many people battle their way through the crowds just to get their perfect shot, which proves to be a challenge. For the perfect shot, consider heading over early in the morning for fewer crowds and views of the sun rising over the ocean to accompany. This is a simple attraction to enjoy that also won’t dent your travel budget. A visit to Surfers Paradise with kids is not complete without a photo under this iconic sign!

• Address: 2 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

2. Swim at Surfers Paradise beach

There’s nothing more refreshing than a swim off Surfers Paradise’s pristine beach. Offering visitors golden sand to stroll along accompanied by clear, crystal water, it’s no wonder this beach is so popular. Head over with the entire family, lounge on the beach, play some games, build a sandcastle, take a dip between the flags, and embrace the calm energy of Surfers Paradise. Not to mention, with a collection of stores and cafes located just across the road, it’s effortless to transition from beach-life to city-life.

• Address: 2 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

3. Infinity: Surfers Paradise

Step into the future with a visit to Infinity, Surfers Paradise. At your own pace, stroll through 20 diverse environments, including special effects, sound fields, aromas, music, and maze-like illusions. It’s often described to be an indescribable venture that must be experienced to understand. Infinity also offers a gift shop and can host various groups and parties. This fun experience is suitable for all ages over 8.

• Address: G31 Chevron Renaissance Centre, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

*We found a discount to Infinity here.

4. Strike Bowling

Hosting an impressive collection of activities that both parents and children can enjoy, a visit to Strike Bowling proves to be an entertaining outing for the whole family. The facility offers plenty of bowling lanes to enjoy, as well as putt-putt golf, karaoke, interactive darts, and a variety of thrilling escape rooms. What’s not to love? To top it off, from Monday to Thursday, Strike Bowling hosts a collection of promotions, making a visit all the more affordable.

• Address: Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217

5. Holey Moley Putt Putt

Also located within Strike Bowling, Holey Moley offers an entertaining range of unique putt-putt courses to tackle. Choose between a 9 or 18-hole game, comprised of unique challenges and pop-culture-themed courses that won’t be seen anywhere else. For example, some popular holes draw inspiration from icons such as The Simpsons and PacMan. Offering a collection of courses to suit every skill level, a trip to Holey Money offers a little something for every member of the family. It’s important to note that kids aren’t allowed into Holey Moley after 8.00pm.

• Address: Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

6. Archie Brothers Cirque Electro

Archie Brothers Cirque Electro is an indoor arcade brimming with all the flashing lights and excitement that kids love. You will find dodgem cars, carousels and thrill rides, arcade games, indoor bowling, laser tag, and prizes to be won. We wrote about our trip to Archie Brothers (Brisbane location) here and added our Instagram Reel to help you see how awesome this place is for families!

• Address: 3197 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4127

7. The Gold Coast Wax Museum

The Gold Coast Wax Museum is an entertaining venture that the whole family can enjoy. Initially established in 1968, the museum has become one of Surfers Paradise’s longest attractions. The facility houses a spectacular collection of wax figures, including celebrities, characters, and notable people of history. Some of the museum’s exhibits include the Chamber Of Horrors, The Famous People, The Crown Jewels, and more. Information about how the wax figures are handled and made is also available.

• Address: 56 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

Find your tickets to the museum here.

8. iFly Indoor Skydiving

This is one of the most exhilarating things you can do in Surfers Paradise with kids. Enjoy the thrill of skydiving without the heights or the need to jump from a plane at iFly Indoor Skydiving. The attraction is very inclusive for the entire family, with an experience available for everyone.

This includes an introduction class along with a collection of other packages with different inclusions to suit a variety of needs. The sessions include a set number of flights (depending on the package), a flight suit, helmet, goggles, and a flight certificate.  For a full list of products or to book a session, head over to the iFly website.

• Address: 3084 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

9. The Sling Shot

Those in the mood for a much more thrilling attraction can may their way over to The Sling Shot – a frighteningly acclaimed ride of Surfers Paradise. The Sling Shot, shoots guests from the ground at 160 km per hour to an altitude of 80m. Let’s not forget, what goes up, must come down.

This ride isn’t for the faint-hearted. Before visiting, check the website for more details and any age restrictions.

• Address: 6 Palm Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

10. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not

Marvel the various wonders of the world at the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum. The facility hosts a collection of fascinatingly mysterious exhibits to explore, ranging between a Tibetan Skull to a wedding dress made of toilet paper. The facility stretches over 9,000 square feet, offering the entire family plenty of odd sights to ponder.

Otherwise, guests seeking a bit more challenge can test their skill at Ripley’s Impossible Laser Race. Duck and weave your way through a variety of moving lasers without breaking any to pass the course. A trip to Ripley’s delivers an experience that won’t soon be forgotten. Ripley’s is one of the most famous venues to visit in Surfers Paradise with kids.

• Address: Cavill Mall, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

11. TimeZone

Delivering an array of games and activities to enjoy; TimeZone proves to be a highlight of Cavill Avenue. Both parents and children can enjoy the endless stream of arcade games, with dodgem cars, laser tag, and putt-putt also on offer. Earn tickets from the arcade games and choose a prize on your way out to remember the experience. If you’re looking for a spot to entertain the kids for hours on end, TimeZone is a slam-dunk – especially if the weather is not great!

• Address: Level 1, Paradise Centre, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

12. Q1 SkyPoint

Admire sweeping views of The Gold Coast from above at Q1’s SkyPoint observatory. The lookout is located on the 77th level of Q1, offering guests panoramic views of the city, ocean, and hinterlands. While appreciating the views, grab some food from the SkyPoint Bar And Bistro. So, if you’re looking for a different perspective to admire the Gold Coast, you may want to consider a visit to the Q1. The tower is an 18+ venue on Friday and Saturday nights from 8.00pm.

If you are super keen on heights, I reckon you should try climbing Q1 during the day with this activity here or climb it at night here.

• Address: Level 77, q1 building/9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

13. Escape rooms in Surfers Paradise

There are a bunch of escape rooms options in Surfers Paradise. Here are our picks:

• Fox in a Box – Level 1/3173 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise 4217
• Padlocked – 3177 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise 4217
• Lost Locks – Floor 1, 38 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise 4217
• Escape Eclipse Rooms – Level 1, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, 3240 Surfers Paradise Blvd Surfers Paradise 4217

14. Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets

Head over to the Surfers Paradise Sign on either Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday for the chance to take a stroll among the acclaimed Beachfront Markets. Walk among countless stalls, hosting various handmade goods and delicious treats to taste.

While you’re enjoying the walk, you can admire the afternoon vibes of the Surfers Paradise Beach, glowing as the sun sets over the skyline. Proving to be an entertaining venture for the entire family, the markets also include treats for the whole family to taste. After all, who doesn’t love the opportunity to explore some markets?

• Address: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

15. Whale watching cruise from Surfers Paradise

See these incredibly impressive – yet truly gentle – ocean giants between the months of June and November as they frolic and play in the warm seas just off the shore of one of Australia’s most popular tourist cities.

There are so many whale watching tours, or even land based whale watching opportunities on the Gold Coast during winter. We recommend this whale watching tour, where you’ll join one of the state’s most experienced and knowledgeable whale watching companies for a cruise past the houses of the rich and famous before coming up close with the whales themselves. Whale Watching Cruises are 3.5 hours in duration and depart at 9am and 2pm.

• Address: 10 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

16. Ultimate 55 minute Jetboat Ride

This is a must-do Gold Coast experience for adrenaline seekers who will be treated to an amazing journey on the powerful 6600hp twin-turbo engine jet boats with your driver performing heart racing 360-degree spins, fishtails and beach buzzing for almost an hour. It’s impossible to wipe the smile off your face during a Gold Coast jet boat ride as you reach speeds up to 80km/hr travelling out to Wave Break and South Stradbroke Island.

This Gold Coast jet boating experience departs from the heart of Surfers Paradise.

• Address: 30 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

17. Surfing Lessons

We loved giving these surfing lessons a go! We tried out these fully guided lessons. You’ll feel like a pro in no time as you’re taught how to paddle, stand and balance to ride that wave back to shore. After a lesson on land you’ll take to the waters to put your new skills into action and hopefully nail a few of those waves.

The lesson runs for a total of 2 hours and in that time you’ll receive all of the necessary instructions to build up your confidence. All equipment is provided so all you will have to bring is yourself, swimwear, a towel and sunscreen. Lessons depart from the end of the Cavill mall twice a day at 10am and 2pm.

• Address: The Paradise Centre, Shop 26a Cavill Mall, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

18. The street performers

Scattered along Cavill Avenue is a line-up of impressive street performers showcasing their talents. While you’re moving along the strip, be sure to stop and admire some of the shows, often including singers, statue-people, and more. Not only is this activity often free (depending if you decide to give a few dollars to the performers to show your support), but it also proves to be a great photo opportunity. Keep your eyes peeled for some talented acts.

19. Planet Chill Ice Skating Rink

Planet Chill is one of Queensland’s favourite ice skating rinks, located in Paradise Point above Penguins Restaurant. It’s the perfect all-weather activity where children aged from 3 and up can chill-out on the ice. There are skating aides to help novices, and music and lights to give a real party vibe to the occasion. As numbers for each session are limited, it is recommended to pre-purchase tickets to avoid disappointment.

Find your tickets to go ice skating on the Gold Coast here.

• Address: 122 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

20. Parad-Ice Variety Ice Skating Show

Paradise Resort presents its first ever ice skating show, ‘Welcome to Parad-Ice’, a variety show perfect for families. This one-of-a-kind event features performances that will dazzle with a combination of jaw dropping acrobatics, mesmerising ice skating and clown antics aimed to give you a good belly laugh.

The variety show takes place at the Planet Chill Ice Skating Rink, Paradise Resort Gold Coast’s very own ice rink with general admission tickets on sale now. Doors open 30 minutes before the show begins and seating is on a first come, first served basis. There is no allocated seating and the show will run for 45 minutes. If you’re looking for incredible family entertainment in the heart of the Gold Coast, ‘Welcome to Parad-Ice’ is a great value show suitable for all ages.

Families tip: Wear/take a jumper or coat, it gets chilly in there!

• Address: 122 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

21. Holoverse Dinosaur World

Have a dinosaur adventure at Holoverse! You will go through ten different scenes where the dinosaurs look real, but that are actually made of laser light. They are real world sizes so some of them are very big. Pick Hologram Grass to feed a Brontosaurus, fly through the air with the Pterodactyls, visit the ocean – but beware of what could be down there! 

Dinosaurs are not the only thing you can experience at Holoverse. There’s also a holographic aquarium and holographic escape rooms. Duration of each experience is around an hour.

• Address: Shop 059/8 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

22. Visit HOTA – Home of the Arts

HOTA is the place where art, entertainment and culture meet. At HOTA you will find exhibitions, shows, workshops, concerts, cinema, dining, markets, parklands…something for everyone!

• Address: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

23. Coffee, cake, and cats!

The Crazy Cat Cafe is the Gold Coast’s first cat cafe. Enter the cat lounge for real cat cuddles, followed – or preceded – by coffee and cake at the cafe. You can book a 25-minute lounge session, or snuggle in for a full 50 minutes.

• Address: 63 & 64 Centre Arcade, 3131 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, QLD 4217

24. Quack’r’Duck City and River Cruise

To provide the best in sightseeing on the Gold Coast, Quack’r’Duck have created a unique land and sea experience with their modern, environmentally friendly amphibious vehicle, the Quack’rDuck duck bus.

The special 1-hour sightseeing adventure takes you and your family on a stunning land and sea tour of Surfers Paradise like no other. During the tour, you’ll venture through some of the roads surrounding the main attractions of Surfers Paradise. You’ll then drive down a boat ramp, splashing into the water where your duck bus seamlessly becomes a duck boat. As you sail through the Gold Coast canals and the Broadwater, you’ll experience some of the best sights that Surfers Paradise has to offer. This is the ultimate land and sea adventure, suitable for the whole family! Do not miss out and book the tour, here today.

*Check out the discount offer here.

• Address: 7 Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

25. Hang by the pool

Despite all the attractions scattered throughout Surfers Paradise, sometimes it can be just as entertaining to lounge by the hotel pool. Sit back and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation while the kids swim in the water. Take some time, relax and unwind as a family, and appreciate this opportunity to lounge about. It’s a holiday after all.

Things to do in Surfers Paradise

There’s an endless list of things to do in Surfers Paradise with kids, often making a trip to the Gold Coast all the more memorable. Ranging from putt-putt and arcade games to indoor sky diving and amusement parks, the area can accommodate for any experience you desire.

Whether you seek a tranquil beachside getaway or a never-ending, action-packed adventure, Surfers Paradise can deliver. Next time you’re looking for something to do with the whole family in Surfers Paradise, consider a few of these options.