Inarguably one of the world's most famous beaches, Surfers Paradise is as synonymous with the Gold Coast as kangaroos are with Australia as a whole. The 3km of pristine, golden sand is well-maintained and patrolled 365 days of the year by lifeguards - although as you'll have doubtlessly already heard countless times before, always remember to swim between the flags! - while there are plentiful spots for BBQs and picnics as well as ample toilets, and you're likely to find it surprisingly uncrowded on all but the busiest days of the year (especially if you're used to European beaches where sunbathers are literally packed like sardines). While this is all well and good, what makes Surfers truly special, is what surrounds it, namely the bustling district of restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and entertainment, all just steps from the sand. Don't forget to snap a selfie or two at the iconic Surfers Paradise sign (found at the entrance to the boardwalk off Cavill Avenue, while the famous beachfront markets are open from 15:00 – 20:00 on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings. And lastly, unless you're actually medically allergic to romance, then getting up in time (or, even better. staying up) to see at least one sunrise is absolutely unforgivable if it's your first time to visiting.