Gold-infused massages, seafood buffet cruises and moonlit rollercoaster rides – you may come for the animal encounters, but you’ll stay for the unexpected.
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 spectacular light shows, or even slow down with a beauty treatment at the in-house spa.
Read on to uncover the most surprising experiences 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 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 a special someone, to experience a sky-scraping outlook of Queensland’s beloved beachfront.
2. Relax with a serene spa treatment
Balance all the excitement with some replenishing me-time at the resort’s blissful spa and salon, Relaxation Corporation. Unwind and let the experienced masseuses work their magic using aromatherapy oils, 24-carat gold pieces and even chocolate to leave you free of all tension – mental and physical. Elevate your pampering experience with a nourishing 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 new attractions are all 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.
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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 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 its pristine waters, so what better way to admire the city than from a cruise? Set sail from Surfer’s Paradise aboard a luxurious open-air vessel and enjoy panoramic views of some 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. See the spectacular Aqua Light Show at Sea World Carnivale
Set to return bigger and better than ever in 2024 for a limited time, Sea World Carnivale ignites the night with unmissable attractions, from light and water spectaculars to globally inspired precincts (think Mexico for street food and dancing to a live Mariachi band, and Rio de Janeiro for larger-than-life costumes and samba). The star of the show, the incredible Aqua Light Show, washes audiences in a spectacular sea of colour and sound. Continue the after-dark park adventure with the Affinity Dolphin Presentation by Night, and groove to the sounds of live music and the sights of glitter-covered dancers. Long after the sun sets, enjoy riding the thrilling Storm Coaster, watch Sea Jellies Illuminated and adventure through Castaway Bay playground.
Exploring the Gold Coast? Read on for The Gold Coast Renaissance: How this Family Favourite Is All Grown Up.
