Introduction: Why Surfers Paradise Should Be Your Next Road-Trip Destination
Surfers Paradise isn’t just one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic hotspots — it’s a destination that blends world-famous beaches, a buzzing skyline, nightlife, dining, markets, and family attractions into one sparkling coastal strip. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a sun-soaked family holiday, or an adventure-packed getaway with friends, Surfers Paradise has the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
And the best part? Exploring Surfers Paradise becomes effortless when you have the right wheels. With Trend Car Rentals, you get modern, reliable, and well-maintained vehicles that let you travel comfortably, explore at your own pace, and discover hidden gems beyond the usual tourist trail. Browse affordable and premium options at trendrentals.com.au.
This 2300-word guide breaks down everything you need to know: where to go, what to eat, what to do, scenic drives, free attractions, car‑friendly tips, and a detailed infographic to help you plan your perfect Gold Coast escape.
Why a Rental Car is the Best Way to Explore Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise is incredibly walkable — but the Gold Coast region itself is massive. From Broadbeach to Burleigh, Tamborine Mountain to Dreamworld, having a rental car gives you:
1. Unlimited freedom
No need to wait for trams or buses. Go from sunrise at the beach to rainforest views in the hinterland.
2. Comfort & convenience
Air‑conditioned comfort, space for beach gear, and the ability to travel at your own pace.
3. Cheaper group travel
If you’re travelling with family or friends, a rental car is often cheaper than public transport, taxis, or rideshare.
4. Access to hidden gems
Many of the best Gold Coast lookouts, waterfalls, and hikes are outside the main city area.
5. Perfect for full‑day adventures
Theme parks, hinterland towns, scenic lookouts, and markets are all easier to reach with a car.
Ready to rent? View the range at Trend Car Rentals.
Top Things to Do in Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise has no shortage of attractions — from beaches to night markets, nightlife to adventure experiences. Here are the absolute must‑do highlights:
1. Surfers Paradise Beach
This spectacular, golden-sand stretch is world famous. Swim, surf, sunbake, or take a stroll along The Esplanade. Arrive early for parking and sunrise views.
2. SkyPoint Observation Deck
Head 77 floors up the Q1 building for panoramic views of the coastline and hinterland. Want an adrenaline kick? Try the SkyPoint Climb.
3. Cavill Avenue
The heart of Surfers Paradise — packed with dining, shopping, street entertainment, nightlife, arcades, and bars.
4. Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
Held several nights each week, these markets showcase art, fashion, trinkets, souvenirs, and handmade goods.
5. Infinity Attraction
A futuristic maze of illusions and special effects — perfect for families, couples, or a break from the sun.
6. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
A quirky and entertaining attraction full of oddities, exhibits, and interactive displays.
7. Gold Coast Wax Museum
Great for families — featuring life‑like wax figures and historical displays.
8. iFly Indoor Skydiving
Experience the thrill of skydiving in a wind tunnel — fun, safe, and iconic.
Best Beaches Near Surfers Paradise (Easy with a Trend Car Rentals Vehicle)
While Surfers Paradise Beach is incredible, locals know there are quieter gems just minutes away.
1. Broadbeach
Relaxed, clean, family‑friendly. Great for picnics and cafes.
2. Main Beach
A calmer alternative to Surfers, perfect for swimming and early-morning walks.
3. Narrowneck Beach
Known for great surf conditions and fewer crowds.
4. Mermaid Beach
A local favourite with fewer tourists and beautiful sunrise views.
5. Burleigh Heads Beach
A short drive south — famous for its surf breaks, grassy headland, and buzzing weekend vibe.
Each is easy to access by car — making your Trend Car Rentals vehicle a key part of your beach‑hopping itinerary.
Where to Eat & Drink in Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise has hundreds of food options — from casual beach eats to luxury dining experiences.
Breakfast & Brunch
- Paradox Coffee Roasters — Specialty coffee, creative meals.
- Bumbles Café — Beautiful decor and lakeside views.
- Elk Espresso — Known for colourful plates and great coffee.
Lunch Spots
- Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club — Classic Aussie food with beachfront views.
- Nahm Talay Thai — Delicious Thai cuisine.
- The Island Rooftop — Perfect for casual social dining.
Dinner & Nightlife
- Edgewater Dining — Stunning waterfront views.
- Yamagen Japanese — One of the Gold Coast’s best Japanese restaurants.
- White Rhino — Iconic nightlife venue.
Dessert & Sweet Treats
- Cowch Dessert Cocktail Bar — Instagram favourite.
- Gelato Messina — Unmissable for gelato lovers.
The Best Scenic Drives from Surfers Paradise
With a Trend Car Rentals vehicle, you unlock some of the best coastal and hinterland drives in Queensland.
1. Burleigh Heads Lookout Drive
A short but stunning drive ending with magical headland views.
2. Currumbin Valley & Rock Pools
Drive inland to lush greenery, creeks, and swimming spots.
3. Tamborine Mountain
Wineries, galleries, rainforests, lookouts, glow-worm caves — perfect for a full day.
4. Springbrook National Park
Home of Natural Bridge, waterfalls, and ancient Gondwana rainforests.
5. The Gold Coast to Byron Bay Drive
Follow the coast, stop at beaches, markets, cafes, and eventually reach the iconic Byron lighthouse.
6. Beach-Hopping North: The Spit to Southport
Quiet beaches, dog-friendly areas, boating clubs, and stunning calm-water views.
All routes are car-friendly and ideal for a free‑flowing day out.
Parking Tips for Surfers Paradise (Local Knowledge)
Driving around Surfers Paradise is easy with the right tips:
1. Use Bruce Bishop Car Park
Affordable and central — close to Cavill Avenue.
2. Beachfront Metered Parking
Available along The Esplanade. Great for beach days.
3. Stay Aware of Time Limits
Surfers Paradise uses a mix of paid, limited, and free zones.
4. Hotels with Parking
If your accommodation includes secure parking, take advantage of it.
5. Avoid Peak Times
Between 10am–2pm the beach zones get busy — arrive early.
Family-Friendly Activities
Travelling with kids? Here are top choices:
- Timezone Surfers Paradise — One of Australia’s largest arcades
- HOTA (Home of the Arts) — Events, theatre, art galleries
- Aquaduck Safari — Amphibious bus tour
- Mini Golf Courses — Night lit and themed options
- Surfers Paradise River Cruises — Calm, scenic and affordable
A rental car helps you easily move between attractions — especially with children.
Theme Parks Near Surfers Paradise
Some of Australia’s biggest theme parks are a short drive away:
- Movie World
- Sea World (closest — only a few minutes away)
- Wet’n’Wild
- Dreamworld & WhiteWater World
Each park offers day passes, thrill rides, family zones, and entertainment. Having a rental car makes the day more comfortable — no waiting for crowded shuttles.
Why Choose Trend Car Rentals for Your Gold Coast Adventure?
Trend Car Rentals offers a fleet that meets every traveller’s needs.
1. Wide Range of Vehicles
From compact cars to SUVs and family-sized vans.
2. Affordable Rates
Budget‑friendly options without compromising quality.
3. Local Knowledge
Expert tips on scenic drives, parking, and Gold Coast hotspots.
4. Clean, Modern, Fuel‑Efficient Cars
Reliable performance for city and coastal driving.
5. Flexible Booking
Visit trendrentals.com.au to book your vehicle.
Your Perfect Surfers Paradise Itinerary (3 Days)
Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1 — Surfers Paradise Highlights
- Sunrise at Surfers Paradise Beach
- Breakfast at Bumbles Café
- Cavill Avenue shopping
- SkyPoint Observation Deck
- Beachfront Markets at night
Day 2 — Coastal Adventures
- Drive to Main Beach
- Explore The Spit
- Lunch at Broadbeach
- Burleigh sunset viewpoint
- Dinner in Surfers Paradise
Day 3 — Hinterland Magic
- Tamborine Mountain
- Rainforest skywalk
- Local wineries
- Scenic lookout drive
- Return to Surfers for dinner & nightlife