- Date: Apr 27 - May 4
- Location: Snapper Rocks Rd, Coolangatta
- Website: https://www.worldsurfleague.com/events
The world’s best surfers head to Snapper Rocks to battle it out at the Gold Coast Pro. The Gold Coast Pro features several days of surfing comps and Coolangatta comes to life with live music and nightlife. The comp is part of the Challenger Series run by the World Surfing League.
The event is usually held in April with dates for 2024 running from Apr 27 – May 4.
Event Background
The Gold Coast Pro is one of the longest-running professional surfing competitions in Australia. It began in 1952 and was originally called the Coolangatta Surf Classic, named after the Gold Coast suburb of Coolangatta where it was first held.
In the early days, it started as a small local surfing contest but quickly grew in popularity and prestige. By the 1970s, it had become an important event on the fledgling World Surfing Tour. Major Australian and international surf stars of the era like Nat Young and Ian Cairns would compete.
Through the 1980s and 90s, the event continued to build its reputation as an iconic Australian surf comp. It played a role in the rise of Aussie legends like Mark Richards, Tom Curren, and Occy. Big crowds would pack the beaches to watch the world’s best carve up Gold Coast pointbreaks.
In 2000, the event was officially renamed the Gold Coast Pro to better reflect its stature. By then, it had become a marquee Aussie stop and kickstarted careers of new champs Kelly Slater and Mick Fanning. Sponsorship grew the prize money and profile.
Where to stay in Coolangatta
It’s best to book early for the Gold Coast Pro as Coolangatta fills up fast. Here are my top picks
Mantra Twin Towns features 2 swimming pools, a hot tub, tennis courts, fitness centre with steam room, outdoor barbecue areas and the popular restaurant, Signatures. It’s a short walk to the beach and the Twin Towns Services Club is directly across the road.
Greenmount Hotel isn’t the newest of options in Coolangatta although it offers one of the most superb locations near to the beach and Pat Fagan Park at perhaps the cheapest rates to be found on the coast. The hotel features a sauna, restaurant with buffet breakfast, outdoor pool with a waterslide and a hot tub.
Located across from Coolangatta Beach on the Gold Coast. These air-conditioned apartments have spacious private balconies with stunning ocean views. Room options include studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom penthouse. Facilities include a pool, sauna, hot tub, fitness centre, BBQ and garden.
Also, check out our hand-selected top 10 Coolangatta Resorts & Apartments.