Gold Coast Theme Parks

June 26, 2025

Gold Coast Theme Parks: Which One Should You Visit?

An beautiful view of a gold coast city with tall buildings and a beach.

One of the top reasons people visit the Gold Coast (besides the beaches) is the theme parks. Whether you’re into high-speed rollercoasters, animal encounters, or just floating down a lazy river with a slushie in hand, there’s a park for you.

Here’s your quick guide to the biggest and best theme parks near Surfers Paradise — and how to choose the one that fits your vibe.

1. Movie World – For the Hollywood Fan

Distance: ~25 minutes from Surfers Paradise by car
Vibe: A mini Hollywood on the Gold Coast, complete with superheroes, stunt shows, and rollercoasters.
Best for: Families with kids, teens, DC Comics fans
Top ride: DC Rivals HyperCoaster (if you dare)

Don’t miss the daily Star Parade with Bugs Bunny, Batman, and all the characters down Main Street.

2. Sea World – For Ocean Lovers

Distance: ~15 minutes from Surfers Paradise by car
Vibe: Part marine park, part theme park — dolphins, sharks, polar bears, plus a few family rides.
Best for: Younger kids, animal lovers, relaxed explorers
Top attraction: Dolphin presentations and the Shark Bay exhibit

3. Dreamworld – For the Adrenaline Seeker

Distance: ~30 minutes from Surfers Paradise by car
Vibe: The biggest park with the biggest thrills. Rides, tigers, shows, and fun zones for younger kids.
Best for: Thrill-seekers and big families
Top ride: The Giant Drop – one of the tallest free-fall rides in the world. No joke.

4. Wet’n’Wild – For Water Babies

Distance: ~25 minutes from Surfers Paradise by car
Vibe: Water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers for hot, sunny days.
Best for: Families with teens, groups, and anyone wanting to cool off
Top slide: Tornado – a massive funnel slide that looks scarier than it is (sort of).

Book your Theme Parks now for your new trip here: https://wowstay.experienceoz.com.au/en/gold-coast/escape-pass

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What's on in November: Gold Coast Events

By Sophie B • November 1, 2025

The bottle shops have tripled their supply of cowboy shot buckets…instant noodle sales are front and centre at Woolworths…it can only mean one thing: Schoolies Season is upon us. As an accommodation provider, November on the Gold Coast is one of our busiest (and craziest times) of the year! If you have planned your family holiday for November fear not - Schoolies is so well organised now you’ll hardly even know they are here. There are plenty of events, markets and family friendly spots to escape to, check out our top picks below: NOVEMBER EVENTS Nitro Circus: Off the Rails World Tour When: November 1, 2025 – 7:00 pm Where: People First Stadium The Vibe: A high-octane spectacle of FMX, BMX and scooter stunts, pyrotechnics and non-stop action. Expect adrenaline-filled thrills and big crowds. Surfing State of Origin When: November 15 & 16, 2025 Where: John Laws Park, Burleigh Heads The Vibe: A surf showdown between Queensland & New South Wales, where the top 8 teams battle it out. The local surf clubs will be packed, and it’s a great way to experience local culture. Rolling Sets Festival When: November 29, 2025 Where: Ebenezer Park, Tweed Heads The Vibe: Think coastal music festival meets surf/skate culture. Headliners include Hilltop Hoods, Spacey Jane and the Parcels, with plenty more acts to follow. Lee Kernaghan – Boys From The Bush The Concert When: November 29, 2025 Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach The Vibe: One of Australia’s leading country music acts, expect feel good tunes and plenty of sing alongs. Schoolies Week One & Two Week One: November 22 – 29, 2025 | Week Two: November 29 – December 6 2025 Where: Typically around Surfers Paradise / official Schoolies venues. The Vibe: Two weeks of pure chaos. Just kidding, while it can seem the streets are a little busier than usual it’s an extremely well run event - beach parties, theme nights, concerts and group events. Week One is usually busier as it’s for Queensland students, with numbers dropping off for Week Two / interstate guests. NOVEMBER MARKETS Love Me Again Markets When: November 15, 8am - 12pm Where: Miami Marketta: Hillcrest Parade, Miami The Vibe: One of the best pre-loved fashion markets on the Gold Coast! Grab a coffee, grab a bag, and scout a vintage bargain. The Village Markets When: 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, 8am - 1pm Where: Burleigh Heads State School, The Vibe: Ever wanted to shop in an influencer's closet? That’s what the Village Markets are for. A huge range of preloved clothes, plus food stands, local labels and gifts. Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets When: Every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday from 4pm Where: The Foreshore, Surfers Paradise The Vibe: Beach vibes, local labels, gifts and market food galore. Come for the sunset, stay for the shopping. B roadbeach Art & Craft Markets When: October 5 & 19, 8am – 2pm Where: Pratten Park, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach The Vibe: One of the most popular markets on the Gold Coast for families. These markets are full of handmade gifts, art, jewellery, local labels and of course - plenty of food! HOTA Farmers Markets When: Every Sunday, 6am – 11.30am Where: 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise The Vibe: Fresh produce, live music and a relaxed Sunday morning vibe. Perfect for picking up local goods and enjoying breakfast outdoors. Be sure to check back next month for your December go-to guide featuring all the best Holiday Season events!