Visiting The Best Gold Coast Theme Parks

In this guide you’ll find some of the best tips for visiting the Gold Coast theme parks in Queensland. These parks are perfect for theme park enthusiasts or families looking for a fun day out. For this reason, the Gold Coast is known as Australia’s holiday playground. A trip to the Gold Coast simply wouldn’t be complete without visiting atleast one of the theme parks.

If you are visiting Australia, we strongly suggest adding the Gold Coast to your Australian itinerary. Renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and, most notably, its world-class theme parks, the Gold Coast offers an unparalleled experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a family seeking fun, or someone looking to immerse yourself in adventures, the Gold Coast has something for everyone.

This guide provides all the information you need on the top theme parks you should explore when visiting the Gold Coast. We also include our best tips for visiting the theme parks to ensure you make the most of your time and have the best experience if this is your first visit.

** Disclaimer: Please note some of the links in this post are affiliate links. Purchasing through these links earns us a small commission at no extra charge to you.

Which Gold Coast Theme Park Should You Visit?

The theme parks are one of the biggest attractions for families in the Gold Coast. It’s the place to go if you want a little adventure and fun on your family holiday. With so many to choose from, it can be hard to decide what are the best Gold Coast theme parks for your family. These Gold Coast theme parks offer everything from world record breaking roller coasters and waterslides to animal encounters that will leave you feeling fuzzy.

To help you decide, in this blog post we have listed the six of the Gold Coast theme parks so you can decide which of these parks you would like to visit on your holiday. It’s a personal preference and having all the information at hand to make a decision is crucial.

With so many theme parks to choose from and limited time on your holiday, it can be a tough call to make. But fear not, we have all the information you need to choose the parks that best suit you. We also include top tips for visiting the theme parks to make your visit absolutely seamless and make the most out of your day.

We also suggest having a good think about these questions which will help you even more when it comes to shortlisting the Gold Coast theme parks you want to visit:

• Do you prefer family friendly activities, animal encounters, thrill seeking rides or a variety of all the mentioned?
• How do you feel about travelling at speeds upto 150 km, upside down?
• Would you prefer a gathering of superheroes, native Australian wildlife, dolphins performing, or animal encounters?

Best Tips for Visiting Gold Coast Theme Parks

Here are some essential tips for visiting some of the best Gold Coast theme parks to ensure you have the best experience during your visit.

1. Book Early and Purchase Multi-Park Passes

Book early: Save by booking your tickets online or with an agent instead of purchasing at the gate. Take advantage of the early-bird and multi -park savings

Multi Park Passes: If you’re planning to visit a few parks, buying a Gold Coast theme park pass is the way to do it. Many parks offer multi-day passes or combined tickets, allowing you to visit multiple theme parks at a discounted price. The discount theme park tickets not only saves money but also provides the flexibility to explore different parks without purchasing separate tickets each time.

There are a range of Gold Coast theme parks tickets to suit all occasions. The Village Roadshow Super Pass covers seven consecutive days of unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Paradise Country and Wet’n’Wild. This ticket is valid for 12 months from date of purchase and for 7 days from date of first visit. That’s plenty of time to get across these theme parks!

Dreamworld’s 3 day pass includes Dreamworld, WhiteWater World (right next door to each other), and also offers entry to Skypoint Observation Deck in Surfers Paradise. Whitewater world is seasonal, so check ahead whether the theme park is open. If it happens to be closed you can book the 2 day Dreamworld and SkyPoint Entry Ticket instead.

Kids under 3 are free: Good news for families! Kids under three year of age can enter for free at Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World, Wet’N’Wild and Paradise Country. The theme parks are catered for all ages and there’s plenty to do even for the littlest ones.

2. Plan Ahead

Check Operating Hours: Theme parks often have varying opening and closing times, especially during different seasons. Some remain closed during Winter. Checking the official websites for the latest information ensures you can maximize your visit.

Ride Maintenance: Some attractions may undergo maintenance, so reviewing the schedule beforehand helps you prioritize which rides to experience.

Show Schedules: Check the schedules before your visit. Plan your day around the timing of live shows and presentations to avoid missing out on key entertainment. All Gold Coast theme parks have maps you can download online in advance.

Be sure to get to shows atleast 10-15 minutes early for prime seating or position. And if you have kids, have a look where the closest toilets will be near rides.

3. Arrive Early and Visit During Weekdays

Arriving at the park gates before opening time allows you to enjoy popular attractions with shorter wait times. We got there as early as 30 minutes before opening time and knew exactly which rides we wanted to jump on first. Early mornings are typically less crowded, providing a more relaxed experience.

The theme parks are busy no matter when you visit. But you want to try and avoid the weekends as that’s when the parks are the busiest. If you visit during the week, you’ll likely enjoy a much quieter park and shorter queues, meaning you can repeat your favourite rides as many times as you want.

4. Utilize Fast Passes and Express Lanes

Many theme parks offer Fast Passes or express lanes that allow you to skip the regular queues for certain attractions. Investing in these can significantly reduce your wait times, especially during peak seasons. This does come at an additional cost, so you’ll need to think about whether the extra cost is worth your time.

5. Stay Hydrated and Protected

Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin. Reapply every few hours, especially after water rides.

Hats and Sunglasses: Wearing a hat and sunglasses provides additional protection against UV rays and keeps you comfortable throughout the day.

Hydration: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Most parks have water fountains or refill stations available.

6. Pack Smart

Essentials: Bring essentials such as swimwear, comfortable clothing, and sturdy footwear. Water shoes are particularly useful for water parks. Carry spare clothes for kids.

Food and Water: Most parks allow you to enter with your own water. Its best to check each parks website to see what they allow in terms of carrying your food into the park. Every Gold Coast theme park has different rules when it comes to BYO food.

Lockers: If you have heavy bags, you can rent lockers to store extra items. This will allow you to move freely without carrying heavy bags. Ideally you want to carry only the essentials and leave everything else behind.

7. Download Park Apps and Stay Updated

Many theme parks have dedicated mobile apps that offer real-time updates on ride wait times, show schedules, interactive maps, parking information and mobile ticketing. Downloading these apps enhances your overall experience by providing valuable information at your fingertips.

Regularly check the official websites or social media channels of the theme parks for the latest news, special offers, and event updates.

8. Plan Meal Times Strategically

Eating during off-peak hours (early lunch or late dinner) can help you avoid long queues at restaurants. Trust us it gets super busy at meal times.

9. Consider Accommodation Packages

Having accommodation near gold coast theme parks can be very handy. Staying at nearby hotels or resorts that offer theme park packages can provide benefits such as early park entry, free transportation, and discounted tickets.

10. Safety First: Respect Park Rules

Adhering to park rules ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. When visiting parks with wildlife, follow guidelines to respect the animals and their habitats. Always secure your belongings and stay hydrated.

11. Parent Swap

For parents who want to unleash their inner child, but whose kids prefer to skip the dare-devil thrill rides, Movie World and Dreamworld offer a ‘Parent Swap’ service where you can jump on a ride while your partner and child keep their feet firmly on the ground. Then you swap child watching duties without having to line-up again. If that’s not brilliant, I don’t know what is!  

12. Check what rides you can go on

This is important if you are traveling with kids, check ahead to see what rides they are able to go on. There may be age or height restrictions on certain rides and you want to make sure you are well aware of these to avoid disappointment on the day.

13. Check for Aussie School Holidays

If it’s the schools holidays for Australian kids, the theme parks are going to be busier than usual. So check ahead when planning your trip to the Gold Coast.

13. Capture the Moments:

Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture all the fun that the Gold Coast theme parks have to offer.

Best Gold Coast Theme Parks

1. Dreamworld

Dreamworld is Australia’s largest theme park, sprawling over 85 hectares. It’s like visiting multiple worlds in one big theme park. It seamlessly blends thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and wildlife experiences, making it a must-visit theme park destination on your trip to the Gold Coast. You can visit Tiger Island, where magnificent Bengal and Sumatran tigers play with their keepers.

Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple or a family with teens or young kids, DreamWorld provides a little something for everyone.

Highlights

• Dreamworld Rides:
  • Giant Drop: Experience the world’s tallest free-falling ride at 120 meters. The sensation of free-falling is both exhilarating and unforgettable.
  • Tower of Terror II: This looping roller coaster accelerates riders from 0 to 160 km/h in just 3 seconds, completing four full loops.
  • The Claw: A unique 3D ride that spins and flips you through a fantastical world, providing both thrills and visual spectacle.

• Family Fun:
  • Tiger Island: Get up close with majestic tigers in a safe and controlled environment. Daily presentations offer insights into these incredible creatures.
  • Wiggles World: Perfect for younger children, featuring interactive shows and gentle rides inspired by the beloved children’s group, The Wiggles.
  • DreamWorks Experience: Immerse yourself in the worlds of DreamWorks Animation with attractions themed around popular characters like Shrek, Madagascar, and Kung Fu Panda.

• Wildlife Experiences:
  • Dreamworld Corroboree: Explore the cultural significance of Australia’s Aboriginal heritage while interacting with native wildlife.
  • Tiger Presentation: Witness the power and grace of tigers through daily shows that highlight their natural behaviors and conservation efforts.

Additional Information:

• Dining Options: Dreamworld offers a variety of dining experiences. You’ll find everything from quick snacks to full-service restaurants.
• Accommodation: Nearby hotels and resorts provide convenient lodging options for visitors planning day trips to DreamWorld.
• Accessibility: The park is well-equipped for visitors with disabilities, offering accessible rides and facilities.

Tips

• Utilize the Dreamworld app for real-time updates on ride wait times, show schedules, and map navigation to enhance your visit.
• Take full advantage of your Dreamworld ticket and head on over to Whitewater World for some more aquatic fun with slides, rides and swimming pools galore.

Address: Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera QLD 4209
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am – 5pm

2. Warner Bros. Movie World

Warner Bros. Movie World brings the magic of Hollywood to the Gold Coast. This movie-themed park offers adrenaline thrilling rides, live shows, and interactive experiences that celebrate the world of film and television.

Whether you’re an adult or a child, Movie World has a way of bringing the magic to life. You’ll find movie themed rides like the Arkham Asylum looping coaster, Wild West Falls and the DC Rivals HyperCoaster. At the Kids’ Fun Zone meet your favourite Looney Tunes characters including Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck.

Movie World Gold Coast is part of the Village Roadshow Group, so you can get some good deals on passes that allows access to Seaworld, Wet ‘n’ Wild, Australian Outback Spectacular and Paradise Country. This pass gives you 7 day access to Movie World, Seaworld, Wet n Wild and Paradise Country.

Highlights

• Superhero Thrills:
  • DC Rivals HyperCoaster: As the longest, tallest, and fastest hypercoaster in the Southern Hemisphere, it delivers intense speeds and breathtaking views.
  • Superman Escape: A thrilling ride that simulates Superman’s ability to fly, complete with sudden drops and sharp turns.

• Family Attractions:
  • Road Runner Rollercoaster: A family-friendly coaster that offers gentle thrills and is themed around the beloved Looney Tunes character.
  • Justice League 3D – The Ride: An immersive 3D adventure where you join forces with iconic superheroes to save the world.
  • Hollywood Stunt Driver 2: Experience high-speed car chases and daring stunts performed by professional stunt drivers.

• Live Shows and Entertainment:
  • WaterWorld: A spectacular live show featuring daring stunts, explosions, and water effects, inspired by the blockbuster film.
  • Meet and Greets: Interact with your favorite characters, including Batman, Wonder Woman, and Scooby-Doo, perfect for memorable photos.

• Racing Experiences:
  • Hollywood Cars Driving School: Perfect for younger guests, offering a safe environment to experience driving in themed cars.
  • Thunder River Rapids Ride: A white-water rafting adventure that combines excitement with scenic views.

Additional Information:

• Shopping: There are numerous themed stores that offer exclusive merchandise, souvenirs, and collectibles from your favorite movies and shows.
• Dining Options: There are plenty of eateries to suit every palate.
• Special Events: Throughout the year, Movie World hosts special events such as Fright Nights during Halloween and the Gold Coast’s Mardi Gras.

Tips

• Purchase your tickets online in advance to take advantage of discounts and skip-the-line passes, ensuring more time enjoying the attractions.
• Download the Village Roadshow app for real-time updates on ride wait times, show schedules, and map navigation to enhance your visit.
• Get to Movie World atleast 30 minutes before opening time. This will ensure you get to your desired rides as soon as the gates open without having to stand in a long queue.

Address: Pacific Motorway, Oxenford QLD 4210
Hours: Mon-Sun 10.00am – 5.00pm

3. Sea World

This theme park is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, and theme park all rolled into one. It offers a unique blend of marine life exhibits, thrilling rides, and engaging shows, making it a favorite for both families and marine enthusiasts.

Gold Coast Sea World is also committed to marine research and rescue. You can learn about and make contact with a variety of marine animals here. See the educational Dolphin presentation; polar bears and penguins swimming underwater; and get up close to a fearsome shark.

The Dolphin show is absolutely incredible bringing to light how intelligent and gentle they are. The seals will provide you with a good laugh. Just make sure you get in early to secure a good spot up the front.

But Sea World isn’t just about the marine mammals, there are awesome rides like the Storm Coaster, Jet Rescue roller coaster and Battle Boats.

Highlights

• Marine Life Exhibits:
  • Shark Bay: Home to a diverse range of shark species, this exhibit features one of the world’s largest man-made lagoons for sharks, allowing visitors to observe these magnificent predators up close.
  • Dolphin Cove: Experience intimate encounters with bottlenose dolphins, where you can learn about their behavior and conservation.
  • Polar Bear Shores: Discover the lives of polar bears through informative displays and interactive presentations.

• Interactive Shows and Presentations:
  • Dolphin Nursery: Witness the nurturing behaviors of dolphins in this educational and entertaining show.
  • Orca Encounter: Learn about the intelligence and social structures of orcas through engaging presentations.
  • Seal Rocks: Enjoy playful performances by seals and sea lions, showcasing their natural talents and agility.

• Thrilling Rides and Attractions:
  • Storm Coaster: An intense roller coaster that combines water elements with high-speed thrills, providing a unique ride experience.
  • Jet Rescue: A high-speed roller coaster that offers sharp turns and exhilarating drops, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
  • Sea World Light Rail: A family-friendly ride that provides a scenic tour around the park, ideal for those looking to take a break between attractions.

• Conservation and Education:
  • Sea World Research and Rescue: Learn about the park’s efforts in marine conservation, rescue operations, and rehabilitation of injured marine animals.
  • Educational Tours: Participate in guided tours that offer in-depth knowledge about marine ecosystems and the species housed within Sea World.

Additional Information:

• Dining Options: From seafood restaurants to casual cafes, Sea World provides a variety of dining experiences catering to all tastes.
• Accommodation: Several hotels and resorts are located nearby, offering packages that include park tickets and dining vouchers.
• Accessibility: The park is designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities, featuring accessible paths, rides, and facilities.

Tips

Plan your visit around feeding and show times to maximize your chances of seeing your favorite animals in action. Arriving early can also help you secure better viewing spots.

Address: Seaworld Dr, Main Beach QLD 4217
Hours: Mon-Sun 10.00am – 5.00pm

4. Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast

This premier water park is the perfect destination for cooling off and enjoying aquatic adventures. It’s definitely one of the more popular Gold Coast theme parks as people tend to want to cool down because this region is known for its warm weather year round. You want to visit this theme park on one of those hot Gold Coast summer days.

With a variety of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, it caters to thrill-seekers and families alike.  For a more relaxing pace, recline on sun lounge by the Giant Wave Pool or grab a tube and go with the flow as you float through Calypso Beach.

Highlights

• Thrilling Water Slides:
  • Aqualoop: A heart-pounding slide that combines steep drops with thrilling twists and turns, providing an adrenaline rush.
  • Kamikaze: One of the park’s most intense slides, featuring multiple drops and high-speed sections that guarantee excitement.
  • The Waka: A unique slide that mimics the experience of a traditional Polynesian canoe ride, blending culture with fun.

• Family-Friendly Attractions:
  • Mammoth Falls: A gentle water slide designed for families and younger children, offering a fun and safe experience.
  • Lazy River: Drift along the serene Lazy River, perfect for relaxation and a break from the more intense attractions.
  • Wave Pool: Experience the sensation of ocean waves in a controlled environment, ideal for both kids and adults.

• Interactive Play Areas:
  • Junior Zone: A dedicated area for younger children featuring smaller slides, splash pads, and interactive water features.
  • Splash Playground: An engaging playground with water jets, fountains, and slides that provide endless fun for kids.

• Special Features:
  • Surf School: Learn to surf with professional instructors in a safe and supportive environment, suitable for all skill levels.
  • Aqua Games: Participate in water-based games and activities that add an extra layer of fun to your visit.

Additional Information:

• Dining Options: Wet’n’Wild offers a range of dining options, from quick bites like burgers and ice cream to full-service restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
• Locker Rentals: You can secure your belongings with locker rentals available throughout the park.
• Seasonal Events: The park hosts special events and themed days, adding variety and excitement to each visit.

Tips

Arrive early to secure a good spot on the popular slides and enjoy cooler temperatures before the midday heat. Bringing your own towels and swimwear and carry plenty of sunscreen so you can top up throughout the day.

Address: Pacific Motorway, Oxenford, Gold Coast, QLD
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am – 5pm

5. WhiteWater World

Located adjacent to Dreamworld, WhiteWater World is a vibrant water park that offers a diverse range of water attractions, making it an ideal destination for families and water enthusiasts looking to beat the Gold Coast heat.

It’s a smaller park, which makes it easier for families to manage. If you want to relax, rent a cabana. The cabanas comfortably fit up to 4 people and are fitted with deck chairs, couches, a coffee table, ipod dock, mini refrigerator and cabana service staff member.

Highlights

• High-Speed Water Rides:
  • Triple Vortex: A thrilling three-person raft ride that spins and drops you through a series of high-speed water currents.
  • The Rip: Experience the rush of a high-speed water slide that propels you down steep drops and sharp turns, perfect for thrill-seekers.

• Family-Friendly Attractions:
  • Cave of Waves: A sprawling wave pool that simulates ocean waves, ideal for families and those looking to relax.
  • Pipeline Plunge: A fun and exciting slide that offers a mix of twists and gentle drops, suitable for all ages.
  • Wiggle Bay: Inspired by The Wiggles, this area features interactive water play equipment and gentle slides designed for young children.

• Relaxation Zones:
  • Lazy River: Drift along the tranquil Lazy River, enjoying the scenic views and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Lap Pool: For those seeking a more serene experience, the lap pool offers a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation.

• Unique Attractions:
  • Jet Ropes: Experience the thrill of being propelled through water jets in a dynamic and exciting ride.
  • Bora Bora Beach: A sandy beach area within the park where you can relax, build sandcastles, and enjoy the sun.

Additional Information:

• Dining Options: WhiteWater World features a variety of eateries, including healthy options, snacks, and full-service restaurants to keep you fueled throughout the day.
• Accommodation: Nearby hotels and resorts offer packages that include park tickets and other amenities, providing convenience for multi-day visitors.
• Accessibility: The park is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring accessible paths, rides, and facilities to accommodate all guests.

Tips

• Consider purchasing a combined ticket for Dreamworld and WhiteWater World to enjoy both parks at a discounted rate. This allows you to experience a wider range of attractions without breaking the bank.
• White Water World isn’t open year-round. They generally close during the winter months, so check ahead before buying your tickets.

Address: 1 Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera QLD
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am – 5pm

Final Thoughts on the Best Gold Coast Theme Parks

We hope this guide on the best Gold Coast’s theme parks will be useful for your visit. The Gold Coast theme parks are among the best in the world, offering a diverse array of experiences that cater to every interest and age group.

From the exhilarating rides of Dreamworld and Warner Bros. Movie World to the marine wonders of Sea World, the refreshing aquatic adventures at Wet’n’Wild and WhiteWater World, each park provides unique attractions that promise unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a thrill-seeking adventure, or a relaxing day out, the Gold Coast’s theme parks are sure to deliver an exceptional experience. Plan wisely, explore thoroughly, and enjoy all that this sunny region of Australia has to offer!

Happy Exploring!

Gold Coast Accomodation

Family-friendly accommodation on the Gold Coast

• JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
• Q1 Resort & Spa
• Turtle Beach Resort
• Sea World Resort
• Mantra Crown Towers Surfers Paradise
• Treasure Island Holiday Resort
• Paradise Resort Gold Coast

Luxury Hotels Gold Coast

• The Langham Gold Coast
• Dorsett Gold Coast
• Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast
• The Darling
• Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
• Mercure Gold Coast Resort
• Sofitel Gold Coast
• Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise

Gold Coast Attractions For Families

• Spend a day swimming, surfing, or sunbathing at one of the beautiful Gold Coast beaches.
• Complete thrilling tree top challenges
• Take a surf lesson at Surfers Paradise Beach Australia
• Go whale watching
• Take a sunset river cruise
• Visit one of the Theme Parks
• Meet the wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
• Ride a bike along The Great Oceanway
• Hike the Burleigh Heads National Park
• Chase waterfalls at Springbrook National Park
• Take a walk down The Spit
• Check out Surfers Paradise markets
• Ride the Aquaduck
• Take in the views from the Skypoint Observation Deck
• Spend a morning relaxing at Tallebudgera Creek
• Spend a few hours at Ripleys believe it or not, Surfers Paradise

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best Gold Coast Theme Park?

Well, that’s hard to say, only because it comes down to personal preference. Sea World has the marine life, Movie World has the shows, Wet’N Wild has the water slides and Dreamworld has a little of everything. DreamWorld is actually the biggest theme park on the Gold Coast with over 50 rides and attractions.

It’s best to try and visit more than one theme park if you can. If you are into waterslides, then the obvious one would be Wet’N Wild. However if you are a big Hollywood fan and prefer the thrill of rides and shows, spend the day at Movie World. You really can’t go wrong with which ever theme park you pick.

Are all the Gold Coast Theme Parks family friendly?

Yes, the Gold Coast theme parks are generally very family-friendly! They offer a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for all ages. Overall, you’ll find that the Gold Coast theme parks are well-equipped to cater to families, offering a mix of attractions that ensure fun for everyone.

Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before your trip as things tend to change from time to time.

More on Australia

• Gold Coast Tourist Attractions