
Sea World Gold Coast may be famed for its marine exhibits and wildlife encounters, but there’s a lot more than meets the eye at this Gold Coast family favourite. You can level up your adventure with a helicopter flight over the Gold Coast skyline, ride a roller coaster backwards, witness awe-inspiring whales in their natural habitat or slow down with a beauty treatment at the in-house spa.
Read on to uncover the six most surprising things to do at Sea World Resort, Gold Coast.
1. Take a helicopter flight over the Gold Coast skyline

Leave the Gold Coast’s vibrancy at ground level and ascend to the skies on a Sea World Helicopters scenic Gold Coast tour. Discover the sparkling coastal city from a new point of view, with one of the many routes available departing directly from Sea World’s helicopter terminal and journeying over Broadwater. Take in stunning views of the Gold Coast’s famous skyline, including the landmark Q1 Building or bask in glimpses of Porpoise Point’s turquoise waters before gliding over South Stradbroke Island. Round up the whole family or take someone special to experience a sky-scraping outlook of Queensland’s beloved beachfront.
2. Relax with a serene spa treatment
Balance the excitement of Sea World Resort with replenishing me-time at the resort’s blissful spa and salon, Relaxation Corporation. Relax and let skilled masseuses work their magic with soothing aromatherapy oils, luxurious 24-carat gold and even indulgent chocolate, melting away every trace of mental and physical tension. Elevate your pampering experience with a facial complete with hand, scalp and foot massages, with additional options for eyelash tinting, eyebrow waxing, manicures and pedicures to leave you feeling your holiday best.
3. Ride an 80kmph rollercoaster backwards

Dial up the fun at The New Atlantis, a theme park precinct inspired by the legendary heroes of Old Atlantis. Here, three thrilling, adrenaline-pumping attractions are ready to be challenged and conquered. The first, Leviathan, is a fantastic wooden roller coaster that will send you speeding backward at up to 80kmph. Take to the skies atop Sea World’s newest and tallest landmark, the magical Trident. Towering in the heart of The New Atlantis, defy gravity as you soar and spin freely 42 metres above the realm of the utopian destination. Finally, get ready to brave the colossal currents of the Vortex, drawing you in with an irresistible force to twist, spiralling 15 metres above sea level.
4. Book a professional photoshoot
Want to take your holiday photos next level? Enlist a professional and treasure the memories for years to come with a Sea World Resort Travelshoot experience. Sessions range from 30 minutes (ideal for less attentive younger children) to two hours, held either within private locations at Sea World Resort or stunning spots along the beach. Whether you’re looking to capture the moment during a family vacation, immortalise a significant event like a proposal or simply update the photo album, this experience can be as family-friendly or romantic as you please. After you’re matched with an experienced Gold Coast photographer and have enjoyed your shoot, you’ll receive the full album in high resolution within a week.
5. Soak up the sun on a seafood buffet lunch cruise
The Gold Coast is renowned for pristine waters, so what better way to admire the city than from a cruise? Set sail from Surfers Paradise aboard a luxurious open-air vessel, Spirit Of Elston, and enjoy panoramic views of the city’s most renowned landmarks, including Gold Coast Broadwater and HOTA (Home of the Arts). While you cruise, indulge in a top-notch buffet dining experience featuring locally sourced king prawns, succulent roast chicken, fresh fruit platters and more, paired with your choice of wine, craft beer or a cocktail. Ascend to the open-air top deck with your drink to bask in the sun while floating past glittering buildings and gaining fascinating insights into the Gold Coast’s allure.
6. Get up close and personal with the gentle giants of the sea
Voted Gold Coast’s number one whale watching tour, embark on an unforgettable adventure and witness majestic humpback whales up close. With a 100% whale sighting guarantee, be in the presence of awe-inspiring whales aboard a luxury vessel. But that’s not all – keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, seabirds and more as you cruise through their natural habitat. Before boarding your spacious vessel, take some time to explore an informative humpback whale history exhibit. Witness breathtaking displays of beautiful creatures who are as giant as they are gentle. In addition to the special experience, your ticket purchase directly contributes to marine conservation efforts through partnerships with the Sea World Foundation.