Activities Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Gold Coast Theme Parks (From Burleigh Heads)

The Gold Coast is rightfully known as Australia's theme park capital, and for many, a holiday isn't complete without a day of thrilling rides or amazing animal encounters. The great news is that staying in the relaxed, beachside suburb of Burleigh Heads gives you the best of both worlds: a peaceful coastal base that's just a short drive from all the action. This guide will break down the "Big 5" parks and give you the essential info for planning your day trip.

Warner Bros. Movie World

Step into Hollywood on the Gold Coast. Movie World is all about blockbuster movies, DC superheroes, and thrilling rollercoasters. You can meet characters like Batman and Bugs Bunny, watch the incredible Main Street parade, and test your courage on some of Australia's best rides.

  • Best For: Thrill-seekers, movie buffs, and families with kids of all ages.
  • Don't Miss: The DC Rivals HyperCoaster (for adrenaline junkies) and the Kids' WB! Fun Zone for little ones.

Sea World

More than just a theme park, Sea World is a marine conservation park with incredible animal exhibits, live shows, and a handful of family-friendly rides. It's the best place to see dolphins, seals, penguins, and even polar bears up close.

  • Best For: Animal lovers and families with younger children.
  • Don't Miss: The Affinity Dolphin Presentation is a must-see. The new Atlantis precinct also offers some more thrilling rides.

Wet'n'Wild

On a hot Queensland day, there's no better place to be. Wet'n'Wild is a massive water park packed with giant slides, a lazy river, and a huge wave pool. It's pure, splash-filled fun.

  • Best For: Everyone on a hot day, from thrill-seekers to families.
  • Pro-Tip (from TripAdvisor): Consider hiring a cabana for the day if you have a group. It gives you a guaranteed shady home base.

Dreamworld

Dreamworld is Australia's largest theme park, combining world-class thrill rides with a huge wildlife section where you can see tigers and native animals. It offers a massive variety of attractions in one location.

  • Best For: Groups with mixed interests, especially those wanting both big rides and animal encounters.
  • Don't Miss: The Giant Drop and Steel Taipan for thrill-seekers, and the Tiger Island presentation for wildlife lovers.

Paradise Country

For a change of pace, Paradise Country offers an authentic Aussie farm experience. It's all about Australian traditions, with sheep shearing shows, boomerang throwing, and opportunities to meet koalas and kangaroos.

  • Best For: International visitors and families with toddlers and young children.
  • Pro-Tip: Often bundled with Movie World and Wet'n'Wild in multi-day passes, making it a great add-on.

Logistics: Getting There & Buying Tickets

Getting There from Burleigh Heads

Most of the major theme parks (Movie World, Wet'n'Wild, Dreamworld, Paradise Country) are located together in the northern Gold Coast, about a **25-35 minute drive** from Burleigh Heads via the M1 motorway. Sea World is located at Main Beach, about a 20-30 minute drive north.

How to Buy Tickets

**Pro-Tip:** Never buy your tickets at the front gate! You will always find better deals by purchasing online in advance. The best value is usually found in multi-day, multi-park passes, which give you unlimited entry to several parks over a set number of days.

See All Theme Park Tickets & Passes on Viator