Fun in the Sun: A Guide to The Gold Coast’s Theme Parks

Dreamworld, Wet and Wild, Movie World, and Sea World. These world-famous theme parks are synonymous with the Gold Coast and have assumed the ‘must visit’ categorisation from many tourists. After settling into your Surfers Paradise accommodation, it’s time to start making plans to visit each of these exciting destinations that have become the focal point of many adventurous Gold Coast holidays.

These days, theme parks are not just for the children. Adults make up the majority of visitors to each so you should not be surprised to discover that the attractions are geared around the entire family, not just the young ones. Locals from Brisbane often plan day trips to these fabulous destinations just to keep up with the ever-changing rides and features that these theme parks continually offer.

Let’s take a look at each of them in turn.

Dreamworld. Located just a short 30 minute drive north of surfers Paradise, Dreamworld is possibly the most famous of the theme parks. It’s a good idea to plan an early start so you can arrive at opening time because it will take you all day to get through everything this park has to offer. From exciting rides, that will frighten even the hardiest thrill seeker, to relaxing parklands where you can enjoy a picnic lunch, Dreamworld has something to offer everybody.

Wet and Wild. Whilst not strictly a theme park, Wet and Wild is a popular destination for anyone looking to escape the oppressive summer heat. Imagine being able to shoot down massive tubes in a swirl of white-water at speeds of up to 30 km/h, or being able to relax floating in a cool pool of crystal water whilst enjoying a dusk time movie. Wet and Wild offers all this and more.

Movie World. This theme park is a fantasy from start to finish and provides hours of entertainment and fun for every member of the family. During the daytime you have a great chance to enjoy the thrills of the superfast rides and steep waterslides, but remember they are not for the fainthearted! Make sure you don’t tire yourself out too much because, in the evening, you should be ready for the parade of stars where all your favourite cartoon and movie characters will pass by in a spectacular cavalcade.

Sea World. Located at the southern end of the theme park strip, Sea World has been entertaining families for many years. Dedicated to presenting exciting water-based activities, especially for animals like dolphins and polar bears, remember there is also plenty of opportunity for you to enjoy the water-based rides that abound throughout the park. If your Gold Coast holiday budget allows it, you can even stay at the on-site hotel here and pack in a full day’s activities before collapsing in your room for the night.

If not, after a full day visiting any one of these for theme parks, you will be ready for a return to your Surfers Paradise accommodation where your soft bed awaits you!