Summer, sand and surf. That’s probably the image that comes to the minds of most people when it comes to Surfers Paradise. Even the top results in Google’s image search reveals bright blue skies and sun-kissed sand.

Of course, if you’re not a fan of going to the beach, or have already soaked up your fair share of sunlight, then you’ll be looking for something else to do. Believe it or not, there are many other activities to while the hours away that don’t involve the beach. So, what are you waiting for? Hire out a rental car and hit the roads down to Surfers Paradise to enjoy one of the many attractions that aren’t beach-related!

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Jan 24, 2017 at 3:13pm PST

Arts and Culture

– Arts Centre Gold Coast

You’ll find theatre, film or comedy shows here to make for an exciting evening. It’s visual art meets performance to entertain you and your fellow travellers for hours on end. Check out the range of shows on offer, bound to suit humours and tastes of all variations. Doors open early before each show starts, so make sure you drive down with ample time to find a car park and secure your seats.

– Spirit of Australia Gallery

You can’t go past the Spirit of Australia Gallery when hoping to catch some Aboriginal artwork. It’s an authentic, cultural way to spend your afternoon. Having browsed your fill of intricate artworks, visit the retail store to see a wide variety of Australian-made products. 

Adventure

– Dracula’s Haunted House

Are you a fan of the spooky and unexplained? Do you like to feel the hairs rise on your arms? Whether you answered yes or no, you have to check out Dracula’s Haunted House! There are five levels of interactive fun, and despite the fear-inducing exhibits, it’s kid-friendly. 

– Jet Boat Extreme

For all those thrill-seekers out there, embark on an adrenaline-fuelled jet boat experience. You can see the picturesque scenery up close and personal whilst holding onto your floppy hat! It’s the largest, most powerful jet boat found in the Gold Coast, and you’ll be left with naturally wind-blown hair, perfect for that selfie!

– Hot air balloon rides

When it comes to fun, you can’t beat a hot air balloon ride. Not for the faint-hearted as you soar high above the land, with the horizon at your fingertips. Take a look at flight packages, as some offer free Wi-Fi, wine tasting or even a gourmet breakfast! Talk about a deal!

Family

– King Tutt’s Putt Putt

Yes, you can play mini golf almost anywhere these days, but how many people can say they played a round in Surfers Paradise? With three golf courses and two of them indoor – perfect if it’s a rainy day – it’s fun guaranteed for adults and children alike. You’ll feel your competitive streak emerge as you putt your kids (or partner) to victory.

– Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium

A photo posted by fur mama (@hylypttmn) on

Mar 25, 2016 at 1:30am PDT

Weird, wacky and oh so wonderful, it’s Ripley’s! This museum (or more aptly named, odditorium) showcases all sorts of things you couldn’t see anywhere else. There are sixteen themed galleries filled with shrunken heads, torture devices and other artefacts that are bound to give you the heebie jeebies and creep you out!

– Crazy Cat Cafe

Calling all feline fans out there, this is a great way to rest and unwind after a crazy day of adventures. It’s in central Surfers Paradise, so easily accessible by foot or car no matter when you wish to visit. Enjoy a refreshing drink and some lunch in the company of fluffy, furry cat hosts! This is one of the few cat cafes that allow children of all ages, so bring the whole family along for some much needed cat therapy.

– 7D cinema

Talk about an immersive movie! Using virtual reality technology, you’ll feel like you’re playing a part in a movie using interactive 3D glasses and carefully cultivated special effects. The ground beneath you will drop away as you feel everything the characters in a movie do. It’s the type of movie you’ll want to pass on the popcorn because you’re likely too engrossed to snack!

As you can see, the options of beachless fun are near endless! Are you ready to hit up Surfers Paradise and do more than just suntan? Grab your loved ones, hire a car from East Coast Car Rentals today and start planning your trip!