Breaking News

Surfers Paradise Beach has been named the Gold Coast's Cleanest Beach for 2005 in this year's regional Clean Beach Challenge which attracted entries from 42 strong contenders.

Surfers Paradise automatically joins the winners from five other Queensland regions in the overall State titles to be announced in December.

Beach Safety

Here's a few handy hints to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time at the beach.

Obey the flags

Find the flags and enjoy your visit… and remember always follow the directions of a surf lifesaver!

Red and Yellow Flags – Indicates the safest swimming area (the patrolled area).
Yellow Flag – Potentially dangerous conditions (Caution)
Red Flag – Danger – do not enter water (Stop). When the red flag is displayed, the beach is closed for swimming.
Red and White Chequered Flag – Shark has been sighted in the water.
Blue Flag – Indicates board riding area for Surfers.

Protect your skin

Protecting your skin from possible skin cancer is as easy as Slip, Slop, Slap!

Slip on a shirt – preferably a long sleeve one!

Slop on some sunscreen – 15+ or 30+ and reapply as needed, especially after swimming.

Slap on a hat.

Regular Patrols

  • Surfers Paradise Beach is patrolled 7 days a week by Gold Coast City Council lifeguards from 6am – 6:30pm (mid December to the end of January), 6am – 6pm (February to the end of March), and 8am – 5pm all other times. 
  • Surfers Paradise Beach is patrolled weekends and public holidays by volunteer lifesavers from 8am - 5pm (mid September to end October), 8am - 6pm (December to February), 8am-6pm (March and April) and 8am - 5pm (till May 5). 

Water Conditions

When you’re swimming in the ocean, there are some conditions you should be aware of:

  • A rip is a strong current, running out to sea. It can easily take swimmers from shallow water to several hundred metres offshore. By swimming between the flags, you can avoid rips.
  • There are three different types of waves; surging waves, spilling waves and plunging or dumping waves. Never turn your back on a wave and be aware that some waves can be dangerous and cause spinal injury.
  • There are many marine creatures that inhabit our oceans including marine stingers. These stingers can cause discomfort but are not lethal. If you are stung, leave the water, wash off remaining tentacles, apply a cold pack and seek medical advice if the pain does not subside.

For more information contact Surf Life Saving Queensland on +61 7 3846 8000 or visit www.lifesaving.com.au