A section of The Esplanade at Surfers Paradise will be transformed into a hive of activity as part of a three month trial to activate the space with events and entertainment.
Starting from midnight on Monday 18 August, The Esplanade will be closed to traffic between Hanlan Street and the roundabout in front of the Soul building.
The area will come to life as part of 'The People's Esplanade Pop-Up' with a series of events and placemaking features to showcase how the space could function as an extension of Cavill Mall.
"We are committed to investing in the future of Surfers Paradise by enhancing our public spaces, improving accessibility and creating more opportunity for community connection," Acting Mayor Mark Hammel said.
"There will be something for everyone with various zones including live entertainment, hands-on activities, art activations, sports and places to chill out.
"We will engage local businesses to be a part of the activations which will provide them with opportunities to thrive by connecting more with the community.
"This is the perfect chance for us to shape the future of one of Australia's most iconic coastal destinations."
The People's Esplanade will include a 250m pedestrian zone and a 5000 square metre increase in public space creating a seamless connection between the beach and Cavill Mall.
Zones will include:
- Beach House for social interactions
- Action Hub to play and be active
- Joytopia to gather with your mates
- Chill Cove to relax in the green
- Locals yard to connect with locals
The activations are expected to launch from Saturday 30 August.
The trial is part of the $100 million Surfers Paradise Revitalisation Plan which will reimagine the heart of Surfers Paradise with more shade, greenery and pedestrian friendly public spaces.
The trial received strong community support during consultation in April 2025 with 71% of respondents supportive of the pedestrianisation of The Esplanade.
No carparks will be removed as part of the trial, the Oceanway will remain open to pedestrians, cyclists and mobility devices and the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets will continue as normal.
The community will be asked for their input during the three-month period via Have Your Say at GC Have Your Say.
Consultation is open from 22 August to 16 November.
For more details sign up for updates on the City's website here.
