Surfers Paradise is one of Australia’s favorite holiday playgrounds. Take a surfing lesson, go shopping, visit a family attraction or book a boat trip. There is plenty to do in this highly developed stretch of coastline, which is known for its consistently good surf, family fun and nightlife.

The compact stretch of canals, malls and boulevards is part of the Gold Coast: Australia’s sixth largest city. Nearly a century ago, Jim Cavill built the Surfers Paradise Hotel here, in a settlement that later was named after his hotel. Sun-kissed Surfers Paradise has been hugely popular with tourists ever since.

Stroll along the golden beach and admire the outdoor artworks. The beach is patrolled by Australia’s iconic Surf Life Savers and you can safely swim between the flags. Take a surfing lesson and ride the waves of the warm Pacific Ocean. Make a splash during an amphibian safari, thrilling jet boat ride or river kayak trip. From May to October you can also book a whale-watching tour.

Just away from the beach is the mall, with its shops, restaurants, street performers and indoor attractions. Popular are Ripleys Believe it or Not! Odditoreum and the Timezone gaming arcade with mini golf, laser games and bowling halls.

For a picnic, take the family to Les Rogers Memorial Sanctuary, where the kids can peek into Big Foot’s cave, or the Cascade Gardens with its huge playground and oversees war memorials.

After dark, browse the market stalls on the esplanade during the Wednesday and Friday Beachfront Markets. On a Friday or Saturday night, join a lantern-led ghost tour to discover local dark secrets. Trendy “Surfers” is the nightlife precinct of the Gold Coast and you can take your pick from typical Australian pubs, luxury lounge bars or pumping nightclubs.

Surfers Paradise is serviced by public transport from the Queensland capital Brisbane and close to the Gold Coast airport.