A thorough guide to the must-visit staples of the dream destination Gold Coast: Surfers Paradise Beach and Q1 SkyPoint! Surfers Paradise Beach, the heart of the Gold Coast, is symbolized by its long beach and the skyline of towering high-rises. The tallest building, Q1, features the SkyPoint Observation Deck, a popular spot with breathtaking views. You can even try the thrilling SkyPoint Climb here! This guide introduces the charm, sightseeing highlights, ticket info, and other essential details about Surfers Paradise Beach and Q1 SkyPoint.
1. What is the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is a premier resort area in Queensland, Australia. It's a city symbolized by about 40 km of endless white sandy beaches and rows of high-rises along the coast.
Its biggest appeal is undoubtedly the contrast between the beautiful sandy beaches and the deep blue ocean! Try out a wide range of activities like surfing, parasailing, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
It’s also known for its huge theme parks: “Dreamworld” with its thrilling rides, Australia’s top water park “Wet’n’Wild,” the Hollywood-inspired “Movie World,” and the aquarium-themed amusement park “Sea World.” The Gold Coast is a paradise-like destination full of sports, entertainment, shopping, and gourmet experiences—you’ll never have enough time to do it all!
Name: Gold Coast
Access: Direct flight from Narita Airport in under 9 hours (Jetstar Airways)
Official/Related Site URL: https://www.queensland.com/ja-jp/explore-queensland/gold-coast
2. Features and attractions of Surfers Paradise Beach
Surfers Paradise Beach is located in the heart of the Gold Coast.
A true “surfers’ paradise,” it boasts endless stretches of white sand and a sea so blue.
Public transportation is well developed, with convenient access via the G:link tram. The area known as Surfers Paradise Beach includes the stretch around Cypress Avenue Station, Peel Avenue Station, and Surfers Paradise Station on the G:link.
You can easily explore the area on foot if you stay around Surfers Paradise Beach.
This is truly a resort paradise that makes anyone feel like they’re in a dream.
From Cavill Mall to Orchid Avenue, you'll find the main street lined with cafes, restaurants, and a wide range of shops. One of the Gold Coast's two major shopping centers, “Paradise Centre,” is also here, making it perfect for shopping and dining.
On Wednesdays and weekend nights, the “Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets” open! With over 100 stalls, the nighttime hours make the beach come alive with energy.
Name: Surfers Paradise Beach
Address: Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Official/Related Site URL: http://www.surfersparadise.com/
3. Q1 SkyPoint Observation Deck (Q1 SkyPoint Deck)
Among the high-rises of the Gold Coast, the most strikingly tall building is “Q1” (short for Queensland Number One). It towers right next to Surfers Paradise Station.
On the 77th floor of Q1 is the “Q1 SkyPoint Observation Deck,” a top tourist spot in Surfers Paradise Beach!
Hop in the elevator and in about 40 seconds, you’ll arrive at the SkyPoint Observation Deck on the 77th floor.
From the deck, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the long beach, the vast ocean, the cityscape of the Gold Coast, and the mountains of the hinterland.
In the morning, the refreshing seaside view greets you, while at night, the illuminated cityscape unfolds before your eyes—letting you enjoy the beauty of both nature and urban scenery. During winter, you may even spot whales offshore.
It’s open from Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and until 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays—making it a recommended night view spot as well. It’s one of the must-visit destinations in the Gold Coast.
◆ Ticket types & prices
The most common option is the 1-day ticket, which allows a single entry during opening hours. However, for those staying in the Gold Coast, the recommended option is the 3-day ticket, which grants unlimited access over three consecutive days. Each time of day—morning, afternoon, evening, and night—offers a different and stunning view, so rather than visiting just once, be sure to get the 3-day ticket and enjoy the observation deck as many times as you like.
・1-day ticket: Adult A$27 / Child A$17
・3-day ticket: Adult A$31 / Child A$21
・7-day ticket: Adult A$37 / Child A$27
・Annual Rewards Pass: Adult A$45 / Child A$35 (Unlimited entry for 12 months)
・Observation Deck Entry + A$20 Meal Voucher (SKYPOINT DECK & DINE): Adult A$39 / Child A$29
Name: Q1 SkyPoint Observation Deck
Official Site URL: https://www.skypoint.com.au/app-information
4. SkyPoint Climb
Highly recommended for those not afraid of heights is the "SkyPoint Climb." Experience this thrilling activity, unlike anything else, right in the Gold Coast!
The SkyPoint Climb is an activity where you step out from the Q1 SkyPoint Observation Deck and climb to the rooftop, enjoying Australia’s highest outdoor walk. The experience lasts approximately 90 minutes! Climb the stairs leading to the top of the building and feel the thrill of standing about 270 meters above sea level!
You’ll wear a special climbing suit and be secured with a harness, so there's no need to worry about safety. If you're not afraid of heights, definitely give it a try!
SkyPoint Climb is held five times a day: four daytime (Day Climb) slots and one Twilight Climb. On weekends, Night Climbs and Sunrise Climbs are also available. If you’re certain you want to join, make an early reservation. If you’re thinking “only if the weather is nice,” you can book on the day if spots are available.
◆ SkyPoint Climb times & prices
Prices vary by time slot, but adult and child tickets are the same. Children aged 12–15 can join with up to 2 children per accompanying adult.
・Day Climb (starts at 9:40, 11:20, 13:20, 14:40): A$77
・Twilight Climb (starts at 16:55): A$97
・Night Climb (Fri/Sat starts at 18:30): A$87
・Sunrise Climb (Sat starts at 4:40): A$107
Climb fees include a guide, a special cap, a group photo, a certificate, and admission to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. You can keep the special cap as a souvenir of your climb!
Name: SkyPoint Climb
Official Site URL: https://q1.com.au/play/skypoint-observation-deck
5. Observation Restaurant “SkyPoint Bistro + Bar”
On the 77th floor of the Q1 building is the observation restaurant “SkyPoint Bistro + Bar,” where you can enjoy delicious meals while taking in the Gold Coast views. It serves à la carte breakfast, light meals such as pizza and burgers, salads, café items, and dinner.
A particularly recommended option is the breakfast plan with admission to the observation deck. The buffet-style all-you-can-eat breakfast, including deck entry, is a great deal at A$37 for adults.
Name: SkyPoint Bistro + Bar
Official/Related Site URL: https://www.skypoint.com.au/Bistro-and-Bar
6. Olympic Torch-Inspired! Q1 Resort & Spa
Q1 Resort & Spa is the accommodation facility located within SkyPoint. Just a few minutes’ walk to the beach, it offers a fantastic location. The lobby on the ground floor features an airy glass entrance that leaves an impression.
The rooms are modern and sophisticated, with a black and white theme, and all are apartment-style with kitchens. Spectacular views await outside your window. For ocean-facing rooms, be sure to book an ocean view room on the 10th floor or above.
Room types range from 1 to 4 bedrooms. Even a 1-bedroom unit is around 85 square meters, providing ample space. With a sofa included, it’s perfect for 2–3 guests. Up to 4 people can stay, making it very cost-effective when shared.
Guests staying at Q1 Resort & Spa enjoy various benefits and discounts! For example, a bundled ticket for the SkyPoint Observation Deck and breakfast at SkyPoint Bistro + Bar is A$30.00 for adults / A$19.00 for children. The SkyPoint Climb is available at 25% off!
Name: Q1 Resort & Spa
Address: 9 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, 4217
Official Site URL: https://www.q1.com.au/
◎ Don’t miss the north and south ends of Surfers Paradise Beach!
To the north of Surfers Paradise Beach is "Main Beach," where you’ll find marinas and Sea World. It's a stylish area that also hosts the large shopping mall “Marina Mirage.”
To the south of Surfers Paradise Beach is “Broadbeach.” This area is around G:link’s “Broadbeach North Station” to the terminal “Broadbeach South Station.” It’s a lively area with Queensland’s largest shopping mall “Pacific Fair” and an ever-expanding lineup of trendy shops.
All plans and prices are current as of October 2019.