Surfers Paradise Overview
By Roz Andrews
Surfers Paradise is on Australia’s Gold Coast, a twenty mile strip of resorts starting at the state border between New South Wales and Queensland. The Gold Coast is a popular vacation center for young Australians who surf by day and party by night.
Formerly called Elston, the town changed its name to that of one of its hotels in 1933, in an attempt to attract more tourists. The Surfers Paradise hotel has long been demolished but the town is now a major tourist attraction.
The area has developed rapidly since the 1970s and skyscraper hotels line the coastline. Malls, souvenir stores, casinos and designer stores border the beautiful, clean, white sands that are edged with palm trees.
As well as surfing, you can try a variety of other water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, water-skiing, jet-skiing and para-sailing.
Amusements in the area include adventure, theme and wildlife parks. Ride on Australia’s fastest rollercoaster and see kangaroos, koala bears and other native animals at Dream World. Experience a Batman-themed ride and a studio tour at The Warner Bros Movie World and encounter dolphins, penguins and sea lions at Sea World.
The vibrant nightlife of Surfers Paradise is centered on Cavill and Orchid Avenues, where there is something for everyone to enjoy on warm, balmy evenings. Go!
