The Gold Coast is the playground of the East Coast, with endless beaches, warm sun, plenty of bars and nightclubs, and of course, a wide array of theme parks. Unleash your inner child as you swing and swoon high above the skies on one of the many roller coasters available here. The Gold Coast has the largest collection of theme parks in the whole country, so if you’re looking for an adrenaline hit, head to the Sunshine State as soon as possible.

Of course, you might land and find yourself with no idea where to head and what to do. But that’s where our super handy guide to the Gold Coast’s theme parks comes in. Enjoy.

This place is called Dreamworld for a reason. It’s the largest theme park in Australia and visiting it is like landing in a dream itself. With multiple worlds here, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to all four corners of the earth, without ever leaving the Queensland tarmac. Soar (and scream) high above the sky on The Tower of Terror, one of the tallest thrill rides in the world before heading on the ‘Australian Wildlife Experience’, where you can spot over 500 different species of native Australian wildlife. Of course, there are plenty of other roller coasters here too, like The Claw and Giant Drop – it’s an adrenaline junkies playground. 

Who needs Hollywood when you have Movie World right here in Queensland, Australia? Movie World is the number one theme park in Australia and it’s plain to see why.  See your favourite movie action figures in real life before looping, soaring, and scaling to new heights on one of the many incredible rides here. There are some epic rides available, like DC Rivals Hypercoaster, and Superman Escape. It’s a thrilling way to spend a day the whole family can enjoy. 

It’s time to dig out your bathers and head for Wet’n’Wild, the largest water theme park in Australia. There are activities here for all the family, from chaotic water slides that will have you screaming in delight as you whizz to the bottom, to chill lagoons that are perfectly family-friendly. There’s also a wave pool that is surrounded by tropical gardens so you can relax and enjoy the Queensland sun.

It’s Queensland, so of course, there are water parks aplenty here. Cool off from the hot temperatures and head to WhiteWater World, which is home to some of the best water rides and slides in the world. Why not try out Pipeline Plunge, The Rip, or even The Wedgie? Once you’ve had enough of the sun and slides, it’s time to cool off in the shade and enjoy the calm, cool lagoons that are sprinkled throughout the park. 

SeaWorld is Australia’s number one marine park. It’s more than just an exciting place with rides and shows, but also an important conservation effort for some of the world’s most loved animals. Come to SeaWorld to spot the orca, dolphins, sharks and more, before hitting the rides and enjoying a thrill-seeking afternoon. There’s the Vortex, the New Atlantis, and the terrifying Shark Bay Glass Bottom Boat. Don’t forget to dedicate some time to learning all about the animals too.  

The Gold Coast is a world-class city for many reasons, and one of them is the vast array of theme parks that call this place home. It’s the perfect holiday destination for families, friends, partners, or even just a solo getaway. Get in early and make the most of the day –  perhaps even buy a combo ticket and see how many rides you can get on in just one afternoon. It’s all possible, here on the Gold Coast. 

To experience the best of the Gold Coast's theme parks, hire a car from Gold Coast Airport today!