In Surfers Paradise, older kids can experience thrills, learn new skills, and feel a little sense of independence, while parents can relax knowing everything is close, safe, and easy to reach!
The crew at Paradise Resort Gold Coast knows what works for families with teenagers, and they compiled this guide to activities that consistently get the thumbs up from 13–19-year-olds.
Your teens could paddle out for their first surf lesson in the morning, before heading back for a laser tag rematch that afternoon, and then wrapping up the day trying gelato on the beachfront. There are a dozen activities right at the Paradise Resort, which is one of the reasons families choose it as their home base while visiting the Gold Coast.
Let’s explore the top activities in Surfers Paradise with teenagers.
Categories
Water activities
01. Surfing Lessons at Surfers Paradise Beach
It is a rite of passage for teenagers to learn how to surf at one of the most famous beaches in Australia. Local surf schools, located along Surfers Paradise, teach everything from basic pop-ups to advanced waves, providing small-group settings and supportive instructors. Teens love the challenge, the freedom and the beach vibes — plus the bragging rights that come with standing up on their first wave.
Need to know
- Most lessons for ages 10+
- Walkable from Paradise Resort
02. Hydrofoil (eFoil) Tours on the Gold Coast Waterways
If your teen wants to try something truly unique, hydrofoiling, or “eFoiling,” is one of the most exciting experiences on the Gold Coast. Instead of riding on the water like a regular surfboard, an eFoil has a powered hydrofoil wing underneath that lifts the board above the surface as you gain speed. This creates a smooth, floating sensation that feels a bit like flying, with minimal drag or wobble. Teens begin with a quick briefing on land before heading to the calm canals, where an instructor helps them with balancing, turning, and controlling their speed. Most kids get the hang of it surprisingly fast, and once the board lifts, the feeling is unforgettable. It’s safe, well-supervised, and a great choice for older teenagers who love trying the latest adventures.
Need to know
- Suitable for most teens 12–14+ (varies by provider)
- Calm canal conditions make it beginner-friendly
- Includes safety gear and a full lesson
03. Stand-up paddleboarding, & boogie boarding
Beyond surfing, Surfers Paradise is packed with water sports options. Teens can try stand–up paddleboarding along calm waterways or rent boogie boards to tackle smaller waves. It’s active, adventurous and ideal for older kids who want to explore beyond the pool.
Need to know
- A walkable or short tram trip from Paradise Resort
- Ages vary by activity
04. Kayaking on the Gold Coast waterways
Kayaking is an excellent way for teens to explore the quieter side of Surfers Paradise while still enjoying some adventure. The sheltered canals and Broadwater offer smooth, easy paddling, making it ideal for beginners or families heading out together. Teens can team up in a double kayak or take their own single kayak. They can glide past waterfront homes, spot fish and birdlife, and see the city skyline from a new perspective. Guided tours usually include short beach stops, photo opportunities, and local insights. Confident paddlers can also hire a kayak and set their own pace. It’s active without being tiring, making it a nice option for teenagers who want something fun, outdoorsy, and not too strenuous.
Need to know
- Suitable for most ages 10+
- Calm, beginner-friendly waterways
- Guided tours and DIY hire available
05. Parasailing over the Gold Coast Broadwater
Parasailing is one of those holiday experiences that teens never forget. Surfers Paradise is one of the best places in Australia to try it. You take off from a special parasailing boat and are gently lifted into the air. Soon, you soar high above the Broadwater and enjoy sweeping views of the skyline, ocean, and nearby islands. The take-off and landing are smooth and controlled. Once you’re up there, it’s surprisingly peaceful. You can only hear the wind and the water below. Teenagers love the mix of height, freedom, and amazing photo opportunities. Parents appreciate that the entire experience is professionally managed and focused on safety. It’s a great choice for families looking for an exciting moment that feels adventurous without being too extreme.
Need to know
- Suitable for most teens 8–12+ (varies by operator)
- Departs from Surfers Paradise or Main Beach
- Highly weather-dependent; book with flexibility
Indoor games & fun
06. Laser Tag at Paradise Resort Gold Coast
Teens are always up for a bit of competition, and laser tag gives them the perfect mix of fast–paced action and playful family rivalry. Paradise Resort’s arena gives them the chance to duck behind barriers, work in teams and plan surprise ambushes under glowing neon lights. It’s fast–paced, safe, fully supervised, and designed for multiple rounds, which is excellent, since teenagers inevitably want a rematch. It’s also an ideal late–afternoon or evening activity when you don’t want to leave the resort but still want to burn off some energy.
Need to know
- Ages 8+
- Fully supervised
07. Video games at Astro's Arcade & Timezone
Teenagers can’t get enough of arcades, and Astro’s Arcade at Paradise Resort has a variety of retro classics and modern racing simulators all within walking distance from your room. Teenagers can compete against each other in a free-throw shooting competition, try to win prizes, or solve a sibling rivalry on the air hockey tables. If they are looking for a larger experience, Timezone Surfers Paradise, one of the largest in the southern hemisphere, is only a walk away. Packed full of VR experiences, bumper cars, dance stages, and hundreds of games, your kids will love it.
Need to know
- Parent supervision recommended for younger teens
- Timezone is walkable from Paradise Resort
08. iFly indoor skydiving
One of Surfers Paradise’s most unforgettable experiences, iFly gives teens the feeling of free–falling — without jumping out of a plane. After a short briefing, they step into a vertical wind tunnel where instructors help them float, balance and move through the air. It’s thrilling, surprisingly easy to learn and a huge confidence booster. Even parents who aren’t into extreme sports usually end up giving it a go.
Need to know
- Suitable for ages 3–103
- Pre–booking recommended
- Short walk or tram ride, depending on your location
09. INFINITY: Interactive & futuristic maze
For a mix of mystery, technology, and plain fun, INFINITY is a must-do. This immersive maze in Surfers Paradise combines high-tech lighting, interactive puzzles, and surprising challenges. Think glowing corridors, secret clues, and unexpected twists that keep teens engaged. Every turn feels like a scene from a sci-fi movie. Once they get inside, it’s all about teamwork, curiosity, and discovery. It’s perfect for rainy days, late afternoons, or when you want a different experience from the beach.
Need to know
- Suitable for teenagers and older kids (age restrictions vary)
- Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre – 3240 Surfers Paradise Blvd
10. Immersive Gaming at Sandbox VR
Get ready for a virtual reality adventure that’s truly impressive. At Sandbox VR in Surfers Paradise, teens put on full-body motion-capture suits and haptic gear before stepping into a “holodeck” arena. There, they become the heroes of their own stories. They can fight off zombies, explore futuristic worlds, or tackle epic quests with friends or family. Because it’s fully immersive, you’ll feel every turn, jump, and moment in the spotlight. The whole group works together to complete the mission. It’s perfect for teens looking for high-tech, shareable holiday experiences.
Need to know
- Suitable for most teenagers (minimum height approx. 120 cm)
- Sessions last about 40 minutes; pre-booking is strongly recommended
- Level 1, Shops 11-13 Cavill Lane, Surfers Paradise Boulevard
11. Pamper Parlour: Hair, Nails & The Bro Pack
A holiday is the perfect time for a little glow-up, and the Pamper Parlour makes it enjoyable and suitable for teens. They can pick from manicures, sparkly nail art, blow waves, curls, or even join a class to learn how to braid hair. Boys have their own choice as well. “The Bro Pack” offers airbrush tattoos, hair chalk, and LED flashing lights in a relaxed, confidence-boosting environment. Sessions are quick, affordable, and perfect before a dinner out or family photo session.
Need to know
- Bookings essential
- Inside Paradise Resort
- Suitable for ages 5+
12. Ice skating at Planet Chill
Planet Chill — one of the Gold Coast’s only indoor ice skating rinks — is a significant attraction for teenagers seeking an experience apart from the traditional day at the beach. Confident skaters can race each other or get creative, zipping around the rink, while those new to skating can grab a support frame to build confidence while skating at their own pace. There are disco lights, music sessions and family–friendly time slots, so it is a safe weather alternative that always has something happening.
Need to know
- Suitable for teens, tweens and siblings
- Book early during peak periods
- Inside Paradise Resort
13. Silent disco & poolside movies
The evenings at Paradise Resort offer a completely different vibe, with teens typically headed to the silent disco. The silent disco is always a highlight — three channels of music, wireless headphones and complete freedom to dance without judgement. Poolside movies are another favourite, letting kids stretch out on a lounge chair while watching everything from family favourites to new releases. It’s a relaxed, fun way to wrap up a big day out.
Need to know
- Inside Paradise Resort
- Included in many stays
- Discos and movie nights are only held on selected dates
14. Escape Rooms at Padlock'd Surfers Paradise
If your teen enjoys puzzles, mysteries, or gaming, an escape room will definitely impress them. At Padlock’d Escape Rooms on Cavill Avenue, families can choose from traditional, hands-on escape rooms or VR escape adventures. In the virtual rooms, teenagers put on a headset and enter fully immersive worlds, ranging from ancient temples to futuristic cities. They must work together to solve clues, face challenges, and escape before time runs out. It’s a great combination of mental challenge, teamwork, and high-tech fun, making it ideal for hot afternoons or rainy days. Families enjoy it too, as everyone has a role to play.
Need to know
- Padlock’d Escape Rooms: Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
- VR games usually 10–12+ with an adult
- Walkable from Paradise Resort
15. Axe Throwing at MANIAX Surfers Paradise
For teens who love something bold and a little different, axe throwing is a surprisingly fun and confidence–boosting activity. MANIAX Surfers Paradise, located in the heart of the action, is a fully supervised, safety–first venue where qualified instructors teach teenagers proper axe–throwing techniques before running mini–games and challenges. Once they land that first bullseye, they’re hooked. It’s a great sibling–parent–teen bonding experience—and a great story to take home.
Need to know
- MANIAX Surfers Paradise: Beach Rd
- Ages 13–17 must have an adult present
Theme parks and water parks
16. Paradise Resort waterpark
With giant slides, splash zones, climbing areas and tipping buckets, Paradise Resort’s waterparks are a dream for teens who love action and adrenaline. They can race each other down slides, splash into pools, chill with friends or head back to the room for snacks between swims. It’s safe, sunny, tropical and full of energy — exactly what you want on a Gold Coast getaway.
Need to know
- An adult must supervise lifeguards on duty, but all children at all times
- Multiple zones for different ages
- Inside the Paradise Resort
17. Hit Movie World & Wet’n’Wild for a big day out
If your teenagers are looking for a full-on day of excitement, set aside a day to experience two of the biggest attractions on the Gold Coast: Warner Bros. Movie World and Wet’n’Wild. They are a little further away (about 20–25 minutes from central Surfers Paradise), but absolutely worth the trip. Movie World has all the blockbuster fun, with rides like the DC Rivals HyperCoaster, action-packed stunt shows, and everything else that taps into that behind-the-scenes movie excitement kids love. Then, once again, when it’s warm enough, you can head to Wet’n’Wild and take advantage of the chance to cool off — slides, lazy rivers, wave pools and heaps of open space for the teens to roam.
Need to know
- Accessible by a 50–cent tram and bus connection that drops you right at the entrance.
- Great for mixed–age families
- Check out the App for all the information you need
18. Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium
This is a left–field pick, but trust us — teens LOVE Ripley’s. Not just the quirky exhibits, shrunken heads and optical illusions, but the whole social, surprising, “OMG look at this!” vibe. It’s air–conditioned, centrally located and packed with interactive elements that make it far more entertaining than parents expect. Teenagers can wander at their own pace, snap funny photos and get lost in weird facts they’ll still be talking about at dinner. It’s ideal for a hot day, a wet day or when you want something walkable and easy.
Need to know
- Located at Cavill Mall
- Great for mixed–age families
- Walkable from Paradise Resort
Outdoor activities
19. SkyPoint Climb at Q1
For older teenagers seeking a memorable experience, the SkyPoint Climb is hard to beat. They may feel nervous about being strapped into a harness before taking a step onto the rooftop of Q1, but the views from the top are expansive, presenting a scenic play of hinterland to open ocean. High, open, and thrilling are the highlights, as they are calm and reassuring guides that bring a sense of security to everyone. Sunset climbs are wonderful and create a fantastic photo opportunity – you know they will post the moment they reconnect to Wi-Fi.
Need to know
- Ages 12+ (minimum height applies)
- Departs from SkyPoint Observation Deck, Surfers Paradise
- A short tram ride or 20–minute walk from Paradise Resort
20. Aquaduck
The Aquaduck is partly bus, partly boat, and all fun—it’s one of Surfers Paradise’s iconic attractions. The amphibious transport rolls along the streets of Surfers Paradise before splashing directly into the Broadwater, providing teens the novelty of travelling on both land and water without changing seats. It’s casual, amusing, and suitable for multi–age families looking for something fun but not too intense.
Need to know
- Suitable for all ages
- Departure point is walkable from Paradise Resort
21. Lime bikes & Esplanade cruising
Nothing makes teens feel more independent than cruising along the beachfront on a Lime bike or scooter. They can explore the Esplanade, check out markets, scout good photo spots and grab a drink with family. It’s a fun, breezy and eco–friendly way to get around Surfers Paradise — and makes even ordinary outings feel like an adventure.
Need to know
- Ages 16+
- Helmets required
Food & shopping
22. Shopping at Cavill Avenue & beyond
Cavill Avenue and Paradise Centre are packed with shops that teens naturally gravitate to — everything from surf brands and streetwear to anime stores, plush toys, accessories and quirky souvenirs. It’s an excellent place for them to pick up something small to remember the trip, and the mix of big brands and niche finds keeps them happily browsing while the rest of the family grabs a drink or explores the foreshore.
Need to know
- Walkable from Paradise Resort
23. Bubble tea, gelato & sweet stops
Teenagers absolutely love a sweet-treat stop in between activities, and Surfers Paradise delivers. Whether it’s creamy Italian–style gelato, refreshing sorbets or highly customisable bubble tea, you’ll find endless options along the beachfront and Cavill Avenue. Let teens pick a new flavour each day, or turn it into a “treat trail” adventure. Options include Cold Rock, Gelatissimo, Royal Copenhagen, and popular bubble tea spots like Gong Cha and Sharetea. It’s simple, social, fun and a guaranteed mood lifter — especially after a day of beach swims and shopping.
Need to know
- All within walking distance in central Surfers Paradise
- Perfect between beach, shopping and activities
Where to stay
Paradise Resort Gold Coast
When your family includes teens — especially if you’ve also got young kids or tweens — you need a resort that can keep everyone (including parents) entertained. Paradise Resort Gold Coast is famous for doing exactly that. Teenagers have freedom and fun built into every day, with laser tag battles, ice skating, silent discos, trivia nights, a giant waterpark, arcade games and outdoor sports that give them a taste of independence.
Meanwhile, younger kids adore the award–winning Kids Club, which caters for babies through to 12–year–olds across multiple themed playrooms. Parents get a chance to unwind, secure in the knowledge that every child — from toddlers to teens — is happy, safe and beautifully entertained.
There’s something for everyone, find out more here.
Spacious rooms, on–site dining, resort activities, and an unbeatable location close to beaches, public transport, and Surfers Paradise attractions make this one of the easiest and most enjoyable family bases on the Gold Coast.
Opening image: INFINITY interactive & futuristic maze
