Sea World Gold Coast

Dolphin Presentations & Marine Encounters

Watch the intelligent bottlenose dolphins in action during the flagship ONE Dolphin Presentation. This show demonstrates natural dolphin behaviours, including jumping, spinning, and synchronized swimming, while offering educational insights into dolphin communication, intelligence, and conservation. Smaller interactive sessions also allow visitors to get closer to dolphins under expert guidance.

Shark Bay & Underwater Viewing

Get face-to-face with sharks in one of the park’s most immersive exhibits. Walk through underwater viewing areas where sandbar whalers, blacktip reef sharks, and other species glide overhead. Informative displays explain their role in marine ecosystems and highlight ongoing conservation efforts to protect these apex predators.

Ray Reef Interaction

At Ray Reef, visitors can gently touch rays in a shallow lagoon. Feeding the rays requires purchasing a fish feeding tray, which often sells out early, so plan ahead. This hands-on experience blends fun with education, teaching guests about the rays’ habitat, diet, and role in ocean ecosystems.

Seal Harbour Adventures

Observe Australian sea lions and New Zealand fur seals in a large, naturalistic habitat. Feeding sessions, playful behaviour demonstrations, and educational talks make Seal Harbour a family favourite, providing insight into the lives and care of these intelligent marine mammals.

Penguin Encounter

Step into an Antarctic-style habitat housing King and Gentoo penguins. This chilled exhibit is completely separate from the outdoor Little Penguin area and offers a rare opportunity to observe these charismatic birds up close. Learn about penguin ecology, conservation challenges, and the park’s breeding programs.

Polar Bear Shores

Sea World Gold Coast is the only place in Australia where you can see polar bears. In a purpose-built, climate-controlled habitat, visitors can observe the bears swimming, playing, and exploring, while learning about Arctic ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Oceanarium Exhibits

Explore vast aquariums featuring tropical fish, coral dwellers, and colourful reef species. Interactive panels educate visitors about marine biodiversity and coral reef conservation, making it a perfect stop for families and curious ocean enthusiasts.

Sea Jellies Illuminated

One of the park’s most visually stunning exhibits, this gallery features luminous jellyfish displayed in glowing tanks. It also includes a research lab in partnership with Griffith University, offering an educational and Instagrammable experience that is unique to Sea World.

New Atlantis Precinct & Thrill Rides

Adventure seekers can enjoy the New Atlantis Precinct, home to Leviathan, Australia’s first wooden coaster in 35 years. For extra thrills, the rear two seats face backwards, a unique “pro-tip” for coaster fans. Other rides include Trident and Vortex, delivering heart-pumping excitement. Classic thrill rides like Storm Coaster, a water coaster with splashes and drops, and Jet Rescue add more adrenaline-packed fun.

Castaway Bay & Water Play Zones

Kids can explore Castaway Bay, a multi-level adventure playground with slides, water cannons, splash areas, and interactive features. Some attractions, like the Battle Boats, may be seasonal, but the area remains a perfect spot for safe, supervised water play for young children.

Nickelodeon Land

Designed for young visitors, Nickelodeon Land features character-themed rides, interactive zones, and meet-and-greets with favourites like SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, and Dora the Explorer. It’s a must-visit for families with toddlers or preschoolers.

Thunder Lake Stunt Show

This high-energy show now features a storyline showdown between the Sun State All Stars and the Bay City River Rats, incorporating jet-ski stunts, BMX tricks, acrobatics, and water-skiing. Included with park admission, it’s a thrilling spectacle for all ages.

Castaway Bay & Water Play Zones

Kids can cool off in Castaway Bay, a vibrant water play area with slides, water cannons, splash zones, and interactive features. This zone is ideal for younger visitors and families, providing safe, supervised, and endless wet fun during warm days.

Educational Experiences & Conservation Programs

Sea World emphasizes learning and conservation. Interactive sessions, behind-the-scenes tours, and talks explain marine animal care, rescue efforts, and environmental awareness. A portion of ticket sales supports the Sea World Foundation, which rehabilitates sick or injured marine life and funds conservation initiatives.

Nighttime & Seasonal Events

During select periods, the park hosts seasonal events, extended hours, and themed shows, including holiday light displays, special character meet-and-greets, and seasonal conservation exhibitions. These add a fresh experience for repeat visitors.
 

Dining inside Sea World Gold Coast is primarily fast-casual and quick-service, with counter-service outlets spread throughout the park. While there are no full sit-down restaurants inside the theme park gates, visitors looking for table-service dining can head to the Sea World Resort next door, which offers higher-end meals with scenic views.

Key Dining Outlets Inside the Park

• Dockside Bistro & Rooftop Bar: Located near The New Atlantis precinct, this is the best spot for classic fish and chips, daily specials, and panoramic views of the park’s thrilling rides.
• Castaway Tiki Terrace Bar: A newer addition for adults, serving cocktails, frozen drinks, and light bites in a tropical-themed setting.
• Top Terrace Café: Found near the park entrance, ideal for loaded hot dogs, “chip & gravy” rolls, and quick breakfast options.
• Village Bean: The go-to spot for barista-made coffee, tea, and light snacks, perfect for a mid-park refresh.
• Pizza Shack: Offers freshly made pizzas, available in individual or family-sized portions, perfect for sharing during a family visit.

Pro Tips for 2026 Visitors

• Dietary Requirements: While outside food is generally prohibited, guests with severe allergies or medical dietary needs may bring their own food after arranging a Medical Exemption with Guest Services in advance.
• Refillable Souvenir Sippers: These allow for discounted or all-day refills of soft drinks and frozen Cokes at stations like the Frozen Coke Zone, keeping visitors refreshed throughout the day.
• Resort Dining: For a true sit-down experience, guests can exit the park and dine at the Sea World Resort. Make sure to get your hand stamped at the exit to re-enter the park afterward.

Sea World Gold Coast combines immersive marine habitats with conservation-driven education. While animal encounters are a major highlight, the park places strong emphasis on rescue, rehabilitation, and awareness rather than permanent captive displays.

1. Polar Bear Shores

Visit one of the most advanced polar bear habitats in the world, home to resident bears such as Hudson, Nelson, and Mishka (subject to care rotations). Daily educational talks focus on Arctic ecosystems, climate change, and Sea World’s role in global polar conservation efforts.

2. Shark Bay

Explore Shark Bay, one of the world’s largest man-made shark lagoon systems. This expansive precinct is divided into zones such as the Reef Lagoon and Shark Lagoon, allowing guests to view multiple shark species and tropical fish from surface walkways and large underwater viewing windows.

3. Penguin Encounter & Penguin Point

• Penguin Encounter (Indoor): Step into a sub-Antarctic environment housing King and Gentoo penguins, complete with icy temperatures and immersive theming.
• Penguin Point (Outdoor): A separate outdoor exhibit featuring a colony of Little Penguins (Fairy Penguins), where guests can attend scheduled feeding and educational talks.

4. Ray Reef

Ray Reef is an interactive lagoon featuring Eagle Rays and Stingrays. Specialist-led presentations educate guests about ray behavior, marine ecosystems, and why rays are often called the “birds of the sea.”

5. Seal Harbour

Seal Harbour is a naturalistic habitat home to Australian Sea Lions, Californian Sea Lions, and Fur Seals. Educational presentations highlight their playful behaviors while sharing rescue and rehabilitation stories, including seals like Tilly.

6. Dolphin Experiences

The primary dolphin experience at Sea World Gold Coast is the ONE Dolphin Presentation, held at the main stadium. While mothers and calves may occasionally be seen at Sandy Shores Lagoon, most nursery and training activities occur in back-of-house areas not accessible with standard park admission.

7. Dugong Rescue & Rehabilitation Focus

Sea World Gold Coast does not have permanent resident dugongs. The park focuses on short-term dugong rescue and rehabilitation, supporting injured or stranded animals (such as past rescues like Merimbula) before release or transfer to specialist facilities.

1. Marine Wildlife Encounters

Sea World is renowned for its immersive marine life experiences, featuring dolphins, seals, sharks, rays, penguins, and polar bears. Purpose-built habitats such as Polar Bear Shores, Shark Bay, and Penguin exhibits allow visitors to observe animals up close while learning about conservation, rescue, and marine research.

2. ONE Dolphin Presentation

The park’s flagship dolphin show focuses on the intelligence and natural behaviours of bottlenose dolphins. This inspiring presentation highlights the deep connection between humans and the ocean while delivering strong conservation messages through live demonstrations.

3. The New Atlantis Precinct

This major thrill zone is home to Leviathan, Trident, and Vortex. Leviathan stands out as Australia’s first wooden roller coaster in over 35 years, with rear seats that face backwards for an added adrenaline boost. It’s a must-visit area for thrill-seekers.

4. Storm Coaster & Jet Rescue

Storm Coaster combines high-speed flume sections with coaster-style drops, delivering splash-filled excitement. Jet Rescue launches riders at rapid speeds on jet-ski-inspired tracks, making both rides favourites for guests looking for fast-paced fun.

5. Nickelodeon Land

Perfect for younger visitors, Nickelodeon Land features gentle rides, colourful attractions, and character experiences with favourites like SpongeBob SquarePants and PAW Patrol. It’s one of the most family-friendly zones in the park.

6. Ray Reef Interaction

At Ray Reef, visitors can touch stingrays for free in designated safe areas—specifically their wings—under close staff supervision to ensure the safety of both guests and animals. Feeding the rays requires the purchase of a feeding tray and is limited daily.

7. Seal Harbour

This natural harbour-style habitat is home to Australian sea lions and New Zealand fur seals. Scheduled talks and feeding sessions showcase their playful behaviour while educating visitors about marine conservation.

8. Penguin Encounter (Indoor Exhibit)

Located near the front of the park, Penguin Encounter is a refrigerated, Antarctic-style habitat housing King and Gentoo penguins. It offers a unique icy environment and is one of Sea World’s most popular indoor attractions.

9. Penguin Point (Outdoor Exhibit)

Separate from Penguin Encounter, Penguin Point is an outdoor habitat located near Shark Bay. It is home to Little (Fairy) Penguins and provides a different viewing experience focused on Australia’s smallest penguin species.

10. Sea Jellies Illuminated

A visually striking exhibit featuring glowing jellyfish displayed in a purpose-built gallery. Sea Jellies Illuminated also includes a working research lab, making it both educational and one of the park’s most photographed attractions.

11. Thunder Lake Stunt Show

A high-energy live performance featuring jet skis, water stunts, BMX bikes, and explosive action. The current storyline follows a rivalry between two stunt teams, delivering one of the park’s most adrenaline-filled shows.

12. Castaway Bay Adventure Playground

A multi-level adventure playground designed for kids, featuring climbing structures, slides, and interactive elements. The Sky Fortress climbing area is generally open year-round, while the Battle Boats water-cannon ride may be subject to seasonal operation or maintenance.

13. Educational & Conservation Programs

Sea World integrates conservation education throughout the park, supported by the Sea World Foundation. Animal presentations and exhibits highlight rescue, rehabilitation, and ongoing efforts to protect marine life.

Opening Hours

Sea World generally operates daily, with slight variations during peak seasons and public holidays:

• Standard Gates Open: 9:30 AM
• Standard Attraction Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Peak Season (January 2026): During the summer school holidays (approx. Jan 7–18), the park often extends hours, with gates opening at 9:30 AM and attractions running until 5:30 PM or 6:00 PM.

• Public Holidays: * Anzac Day (April 25): 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM.
• Christmas Day (Dec 25): Closed.

Accessibility & Entry

Sea World Gold Coast is fully wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Companion Card holders are entitled to one free entry for their carer, a significant cost-saving feature. Wheelchairs are available for hire at no charge, but numbers are limited, guests are strongly advised to pre-book by calling Guest Services at least 24 hours in advance.

Guests must be 14 years or older to enter the park without a supervising companion aged 16 or above. Standard ticketing procedures apply, and large bags are subject to inspection.

How to Reach Sea World

• By Tram & Bus: Take the G:link (Tram) to Southport Station, then transfer to Bus Route 705, which stops directly at Sea World.
• By Car/Parking: On-site parking is free for all guests, including accessible spots near the entrance.
• By Ferry: The Hopo Gold Coast Ferry offers a scenic alternative, with a dedicated stop at Sea World, helping you avoid road congestion.

Visitors should plan for potential delays during peak summer periods (late December-January), as both the park and Bus 705 can reach capacity.

Best Time to Visit

The park is generally busiest during school holidays, summer, and weekends. To avoid crowds, consider arriving early in the morning. Evening visits during special events or extended hours offer a relaxed experience and illuminated rides and exhibits.

Average Visit Duration & Strategy

A typical visit lasts 6 to 8 hours, especially if you want to catch the main shows:

• ONE Dolphin Presentation
• Seal Harbour Feeding & Stunt Shows
• Thunder Lake Stunt Show
• Showtimes are staggered, so to see them all in one day, plan your schedule carefully.

Digital Tools & Tips

The Village Roadshow app is essential in 2026. It provides up-to-date show schedules, ride wait times, and park maps, as most printed maps no longer include this information. Check the app regularly during your visit to optimize your route and ensure you don’t miss key experiences.
 

1. Sea World Gold Coast Entry Ticket

Price: AUD 123.94

Includes:

• One-day entry to Sea World Gold Coast
• Access to all rides, shows, marine exhibits, and themed zones
• Best for: First-time visitors and families planning a single-park visit

2. ​Sea World Entry + Hopo Ferry Return Transfer Combo

Price: AUD 123.94 

Includes:

• Sea World Gold Coast admission
• Return transfers via the Hopo Gold Coast Ferry
• Best for: Visitors looking for a scenic, stress-free journey without driving or parking concerns

3. Unlimited Multi-Day Theme Parks Pass

(Movie World, Sea World & Wet’n’Wild)

Price: From AUD 123.94 

Includes:

• Unlimited entry to Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast
• Valid for multiple consecutive days (as per pass terms)
• Best for: Theme park lovers and families planning a multi-day Gold Coast adventure

Sea World Resort & Water Park

Stay right next to Sea World at this family-friendly resort, featuring multiple swimming pools, kids’ splash zones, and exclusive character meet-and-greets for guests. While the resort no longer offers early park access, it does provide a dedicated guest entrance to skip the main queues, and select packages include meet-and-greets and other perks.

Main Beach & Tedder Ave Precinct

Main Beach is technically the suburb where Sea World is located, but the popular swimming beach and Tedder Avenue dining precinct are about 3 km away, a short drive or bus ride rather than a casual walk. Enjoy cafés, casual dining, boutique shops, and coastal strolls after your theme park visit.

Surfers Paradise

This iconic beachfront precinct is 10 to 15 minutes by car or tram from Sea World. Visitors can enjoy shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and the lively beach promenade. While it’s a convenient nearby stop, it’s not a destination you’d casually pop into on foot from Sea World.

Broadwater Parklands

A family-friendly green space along the Gold Coast Broadwater, featuring picnic areas, playgrounds, and calm waterfront spots. Ideal for relaxing after a day at Sea World or letting kids run off extra energy.

The Spit & Federation Walk Coastal Reserve

Directly adjacent to Sea World, this 3.5 km nature trail leads to the Sand Bypass Jetty. It offers a quieter, natural beach experience away from the crowds, perfect for scenic walks, photography, and whale watching in winter.

Hopo Gold Coast Ferry

A scenic and practical alternative to road transport, the Hopo connects Sea World with Marina Mirage, HOTA (Home of the Arts), and Surfers Paradise. It’s a relaxing way to travel while enjoying views of the waterways, and it’s often faster than driving during peak hours.

Marina Mirage & Waterfront Dining

Currently undergoing significant redevelopment, Marina Mirage still offers fine seafood dining with beautiful views over the Gold Coast waterways. While many retail shops are closed in 2026, it’s an excellent spot for lunch, dinner, or evening cocktails.

SkyPoint Observation Deck

Located at the top of Q1 in Surfers Paradise, SkyPoint offers breathtaking 360° views of the city, ocean, and hinterland. Sunset and twilight visits are highly recommended for photographers and anyone looking for panoramic Gold Coast vistas.

Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast

Located 20 to 25 km north in Oxenford, this water park is a full-day excursion from Sea World rather than a casual stop. It features thrilling slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and family-friendly water play areas. Travel time in peak traffic can be 30 to 45 minutes.

Dreamworld & WhiteWater World

Also 20 to 25 km north in Coomera, these parks offer a variety of rides, wildlife attractions, and water-based fun. Like Wet’n’Wild, they require planning for a separate day trip rather than an impromptu visit after Sea World.

Doug Jennings Park

Located at the tip of the Spit, this is an excellent spot for whale watching during winter months and for observing cruise ships entering the Gold Coast Seaway. It’s a hidden gem for visitors wanting natural scenery without the crowds.

Aquaduck Tours

While the tours start in Surfers Paradise, the route passes Sea World and The Spit, offering a fun amphibious sightseeing experience for families and first-time visitors. For those already at Sea World, the Hopo Ferry is often more efficient for direct access to key waterfront locations.

Q1. What is Sea World Gold Coast?

Sea World Gold Coast is a premier marine-themed park combining immersive animal exhibits, thrill rides, interactive play zones, and live shows. It offers a unique mix of entertainment, education, and conservation experiences for families and visitors of all ages.

Q2. Are the animal exhibits safe and educational?

Yes, Sea World prioritizes the health and welfare of its animals. Visitors can learn about marine life through interactive displays, guided talks, feeding demonstrations, and conservation-focused presentations.

Q3. Do I need a ticket for shows and rides?

Most shows and all mechanical rides, including the high-thrill New Atlantis coasters like Leviathan, Vortex, and Trident, are included with your general admission. Extra fees only apply for "Animal Adventures" (interactive programs), souvenir photos, and optional "Fast Track" queue-skipping passes.

Q4. Can I interact with the animals?

Yes! You can gently touch rays at Ray Reef for free, but feeding them requires purchasing a food tray. For more immersive experiences, like the Dolphin Deep Water Adventure or Seal Encounter, you must book a separate "Animal Adventure" ticket. These sell out quickly, especially during school holidays.

Q5. Is Sea World good for young children?

Absolutely. Children under 3 enter for free. Areas like Nickelodeon Land and Splashaway Bay water zones are ideal for toddlers, while most thrill rides have minimum height requirements of 110 to 122cm for safety.

Q6. Is there accommodation nearby?

Yes, the Sea World Resort offers direct park access, family-friendly amenities, themed rooms, and character experiences. Main Beach and Surfers Paradise provide a wide range of hotels, resorts, and apartments suitable for all budgets.

Q7. When is the best time to visit Sea World?

Weekdays outside school holidays generally have shorter queues and cooler temperatures early in the day. Arriving at park openings allows visitors to enjoy popular rides and shows before crowds build.

Q8. Are there seasonal experiences?

Yes, Sea World hosts seasonal events such as whale-watching cruises, festive shows, and character meet-and-greets. Special programs like the Sea Jellies Illuminated exhibit or limited-time thrill ride features also appear throughout the year.

Q9. Is Sea World Gold Coast wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the park is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Companion Card holders receive one free entry for their carer. Wheelchair hire is complimentary but requires a refundable deposit or ID and is strictly subject to availability, so pre-booking is strongly recommended.

Q10. How do I get to Sea World using public transport?

Take the G:link Tram to Southport Station, then transfer to Bus Route 705, which stops at the Sea World entrance. Alternatively, the Hopo Gold Coast Ferry provides a scenic route directly to the park from Surfers Paradise and nearby waterfront attractions.

Q11. How long should I plan for a visit?

A typical visit takes 6 to 8 hours to see shows, rides, and exhibits. The show schedule is staggered, so to enjoy Dolphin, Seal, and Stunt shows in one day, plan to stay until at least mid-afternoon.

Q12. Can I bring my own food?

Sea World has a strict no outside food policy for commercial items. You can bring small snacks, fruit, and bottled water. Guests with specific medical dietary requirements should contact Guest Services in advance to request an exemption.