Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets

Rows of white canvas tents stretch along the Esplanade every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday night. These markets draw hundreds of artisans to the edge of the Pacific Ocean, occupying the pavement between the high-rise hotels and the sand. Local makers began setting up these stalls in the mid-nineties to capture the late-night foot traffic of tourists wandering from the beach. Musicians often plug into portable amps near the dunes, competing with the constant roar of the crashing surf just a few meters away.