Whales in Paradise owner talks Humbacks and things to do in the Gold Coast

We caught up with the owner of Whales In Paradise Anthony Adern to find out why the Gold Coast is a great place to see the Humpback Whales and he gives us some hot tips on things to do and where to eat around this iconic Australian region.
What’s your name?
Anthony Ardern​, she’s alright
Where are you originally from?
Brisbane
What do you do?
​Owner of the company Whales in Paradise and Dolphins in Paradise and relief skipper of our vessels.
Where’s your business located?
​Surfers Paradise, Queensland​
What are the best local attractions where you take people to on your tours?
​I’m a little biased however how could you go past whale watching and our Dolphins in Paradise tour to Moreton Island with snorkelling around the Tangalooma Wrecks.

Do you have any other recommend things to do around the Gold Coast?
Things to do with kids: You can’t go past Time Zone $20 for 2hrs
Things to do with teenagers: Jet Boating around the Broadwater
Things to do for couples: A romantic Hot Air Balloon Flight
Thing to do for ‘City Slickers”: should definitely take a Southern Cross 4WD tour.
Where do you recommend people have to eat in the local areas?
​There’s plenty of cheap places to eat around Surfers Paradise however if your after some quality checkout JFX all you can eat Japanese BBQ at Southport or Helinica Restaurant at Nobby Beach, they have great wine and amazing slow cook lamb shoulder.
What’s your favourite local delicacy?
​It’s got to be the Potato Hash breakfast at Elk Broadbeach.
Do you have a favourite local wine/beer/cider/drink?
​Grab an IPA from the Balter Brewery.
​Are there any other local ‘must do’ activities or places of interest?
​I would recommend getting a some fish and chip from Fishmongers  on James street and a bottle of wine and watch the Surfers at Sunset on Burleigh headland. Do it on a Sunday and then dance the evening away with the alternative hippy and fire twirling community.
If someone is visiting the area for 48 hours what would be your recommended itinerary?
Day 1 – Join a morning hinterland tour and a whale watch in the afternoon followed by dinner at Helinika.
Day 2 – Join an early morning balloon flight​, get dropped off at Paradise Jet Boating for a 1hr Jet Boat Ride and then get dropped at Sea World to spend the afternoon looking at the Wildlife.
Why should people come and visit you?
​To see the magnificent Humpback Whales at Ply.
Check out East Coast Australia Tours To Catch That Epic Moment of Spotting A Whale!