Only an hour south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, is a vibrant playground of sun, sand, and some of the country’s most exciting theme parks. Known as the amusement park capital of Australia, the Gold Coast draws millions of visitors each year to its world-class attractions, ideal for families, thrill-seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike. From iconic coasters to interactive animal encounters and water-filled adventures, these parks offer something for every traveller. Here’s a look at the top four theme parks on the Gold Coast, detailing what makes each a must-visit destination.
1. Dreamworld
Location
Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera QLD 4209, Australia
Why it is on this list
Dreamworld is Australia’s largest theme park, known for its impressive lineup of thrill rides, family-friendly attractions, and immersive animal experiences. The park’s iconic Giant Drop, standing at 119 meters, is one of the tallest free-fall rides in the world, delivering an exhilarating experience for those brave enough to try it.
Beyond just the thrills, Dreamworld offers the DreamWorks Experience, where kids and families can meet their favourite characters from Shrek and Kung Fu Panda, blending fantasy with the park’s adventurous spirit. This mix of heart-pounding rides and family-friendly charm makes Dreamworld a must-visit.
Dreamworld is also dedicated to wildlife conservation and education, with Tiger Island providing visitors the rare chance to see endangered Sumatran tigers up close. Tiger presentations and interactive exhibits teach visitors about the importance of conservation and create a unique theme park experience that goes beyond just entertainment.
In addition to tigers, guests can also explore Australian wildlife through close encounters with kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles, blending the thrills of a theme park with the educational value of a zoo.
Adding to its appeal, Dreamworld hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including Happy Halloween and Winterfest, which feature special decorations, themed attractions, and unique activities for guests. These events enhance the atmosphere and make each visit different, offering something new to look forward to no matter the season.
Additionally, Dreamworld’s ability to offer multiple experiences—from amusement rides and educational wildlife encounters to cultural events—has earned it a reputation as one of Australia’s premier theme parks.
Dreamworld’s layout and amenities also make it accessible and comfortable for families, with well-marked areas, rest zones, and restaurants that cater to various dietary preferences. This attention to detail, paired with an all-encompassing approach to entertainment, ensures that every visitor leaves with lasting memories, making it a top choice for any Gold Coast holiday.
Age groups this is suitable for
All age groups. Dreamworld offers something for every age, with thrill rides for older guests and gentle, themed rides for younger children.
2. Warner Bros. Movie World
Location
Pacific Motorway, Oxenford QLD 4210, Australia
Why it is on this list
Warner Bros. Movie World is a cinematic paradise, bringing the magic of Hollywood to life through immersive rides, live shows, and character experiences. Known for its superhero-themed attractions, Movie World offers guests the opportunity to dive into the worlds of DC Comics heroes.
The park’s DC Rivals HyperCoaster, the tallest, longest, and fastest hypercoaster in the Southern Hemisphere, is a major attraction for thrill-seekers and one of the standout rides on the Gold Coast. This intense coaster, along with rides like the Batman Space Shot, makes Movie World a thrilling escape.
A key element that makes Movie World unique is its focus on live entertainment. The park stages professional stunt shows, parades, and character encounters throughout the day, adding a theatrical flair to the experience. The Hollywood Stunt Driver show, for example, features expert stunt drivers performing high-speed manoeuvres, explosions, and chases that leave audiences in awe.
Daily parades with popular movie and cartoon characters, including Looney Tunes favourites like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, make the park especially exciting for young children and add to the immersive, cinematic atmosphere.
Movie World’s seasonal events, such as Fright Nights and White Christmas, bring a festive spirit to the park, with unique attractions, themed decorations, and seasonal shows. These events transform Movie World into a holiday wonderland or spooky paradise, adding a new dimension to the experience.
The blend of thrilling rides, cinematic shows, and festive events make Movie World a dynamic choice for both locals and tourists looking to experience the glamour of Hollywood on the Gold Coast.
For fans of all ages, the Kids’ WB Fun Zone provides a safe, fun area filled with gentle rides and activities based on beloved characters. This ensures that every family member can enjoy the day, regardless of age or thrill tolerance, making Movie World a comprehensive family destination.
Age groups this is suitable for
All age groups. The park has high-intensity rides for older visitors and fun zones with gentle attractions for young children.
3. Sea World
Location
Seaworld Drive, Main Beach QLD 4217, Australia
Why it is on this list
Sea World combines thrilling attractions with marine life experiences, providing a unique blend of amusement and education. Located at Main Beach, Sea World is a haven for those who love marine animals, offering visitors the chance to see dolphins, seals, penguins, and even polar bears in their carefully designed habitats.
Educational presentations, including dolphin and seal shows, offer insights into the lives and conservation efforts surrounding these species, making it a learning experience for visitors of all ages.
One of Sea World’s highlights is Nickelodeon Land, a colourful, fun-filled area designed especially for younger visitors, with gentle rides and character meet-and-greets with favourites like SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer.
The Castaway Bay Adventure playground provides interactive water play zones, making it a great space for families to relax while the kids have fun. Sea World’s family-friendly layout and interactive attractions make it an ideal destination for families with young children.
For thrill-seekers, Sea World offers exhilarating rides like the Storm Coaster, which combines roller coaster thrills with a water ride experience, creating a perfect mix of excitement and splash.
The Jet Rescue coaster provides a fast-paced thrill while simulating a marine rescue mission. This dual emphasis on thrill rides and marine exhibits provides a balanced experience for all visitors, whether they’re looking to learn about animals or enjoy a heart-racing ride.
Sea World’s commitment to conservation is a standout feature, with active programs aimed at rehabilitating injured wildlife and educating the public about ocean preservation. With its beautiful coastal setting, animal experiences, and array of attractions, Sea World creates a memorable experience that balances excitement with a deeper understanding of marine life.
Age groups this is suitable for
All age groups. Sea World’s rides and animal shows cater to everyone, from young children to adults.
4. Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast
Location
Pacific Motorway, Oxenford QLD 4210, Australia
Why it is on this list
Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast is one of Australia’s largest and most exciting water parks, offering a refreshing break filled with adventure and relaxation. Featuring an impressive array of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, Wet’n’Wild is a go-to destination for those looking to cool off in the Queensland heat. From high-speed slides like the Kamikaze and Tornado to the more relaxing Calypso Beach, the park offers experiences suited for every level of thrill.
The park’s thrilling water slides draw visitors from around the country, with attractions like the Aqualoop, which drops riders through a trapdoor for an intense looping slide experience. The Black Hole provides a dark, twisting ride, while the Giant Wave Pool simulates ocean waves perfect for relaxing or playing in the water.
This combination of high-speed thrills and more relaxed attractions makes Wet’n’Wild a versatile water park that appeals to both adventure seekers and families.
For families, Wet’n’Wild’s Junior Zone offers a safe and exciting area for young children, featuring mini versions of larger slides and water play areas designed specifically for little ones. The Wet’n’Wild Junior section ensures that the youngest visitors have a dedicated space to enjoy water attractions in a safe environment. The availability of interactive water play areas, slides, and splash zones adds to the park’s appeal for families.
One of the highlights of Wet’n’Wild is the Dive’n’Movies experience, where guests can watch movies while floating in the wave pool. This unique cinema concept adds a memorable touch to the visit and makes Wet’n’Wild an especially unique water park. With its broad range of attractions and focus on providing something for everyone, Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast is a refreshing, must-visit destination.
Age groups this is suitable for
All age groups. With high-speed slides, family-friendly pools, and kid-specific areas, Wet’n’Wild caters to every age group.
Conclusion
From thrilling coasters to animal encounters and water-filled excitement, the Gold Coast’s theme parks provide a variety of experiences that cater to all ages and interests. Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, and Wet’n’Wild each offer unique attractions, ensuring that every visitor can find something they’ll enjoy. With adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the extraordinary, these theme parks showcase the Gold Coast as Australia’s premier destination for family fun and unforgettable memories.