7 Best Theme Parks in Australia: From Thrills to Water Slides
The best theme parks in Australia might not be quite as high-tech as the offerings in the USA, but the country still boasts several destinations perfect for those seeking thrills down under.
While they may lack some of the pizzazz found in the sprawling mega-parks overseas, Australia’s theme parks boast their own unique charm and distinct offerings. Whether you’re looking for high-speed rollercoasters, immersive themed experiences, or marine life encounters, these spots provide plenty of excitement…
Top Australian Theme Parks
1. Sea World
Image credit: Village Roadshow Theme Parks
Location: Gold Coast • Tickets: $69AUD • Opening Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm
Sea World on the Gold Coast (no relation to its Orlando counterpart, FYI) is a marine-themed park packed with exciting rides, animal encounters, and educational experiences. It has been hailed as one of Australia’s most iconic theme parks since it opened its gates in 1958.
Whether you fancy riding heart-pounding attractions like the Storm Coaster or Jet Rescue rollercoaster, or prefer to hit up the animal shows, there’s plenty to see and do. The Penguin Point exhibit is a particular favourite, offering an up-close view of adorable penguins, while the Shark Bay lets guests marvel at one of the largest open-air shark exhibits in the world.
2. Wet’n’Wild
Image credit: Village Roadshow Theme Parks
Location: Gold Coast • Tickets: $109AUD • Opening Hours: 10 am – 5 pm
When the Aussie heat gets too much, make a beeline for Wet’n’Wild. This Gold Coast staple is a must-visit water park in Australia, offering an exhilarating mix of high-speed slides, family-friendly attractions, and relaxing water features.
For adrenaline junkies, the extreme slides like The Kamikaze, AquaLoop, and Blackhole deliver pulse-pounding drops and dizzying loops. Or, if you would prefer to spend the day floating around, the Lazy River and Big Bubble provide a calmer pace.
3. Warner Bros. Movie World
Image credit: Village Roadshow Theme Parks
Location: Gold Coast • Tickets: $109 AUD• Opening Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm
Another Gold Coast gem, Warner Bros. Movie World brings your favourite moments from the big screen to life. Opened in 1991, the park boasts movie-themed attractions, live shows, and high-speed rides.
For adrenaline seekers, DC Rivals HyperCoaster delivers a hair-raising ride with steep drops and sharp twists, while Superman Escape launches riders at super-speed, simulating the power of the iconic superhero. Or, for a more family-friendly experience, Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster and The Flintstones-themed rides provide plenty of tame fun. Book a combo ticket to Sea World, Wet’n’Wild, and Warner Bros. Movie World for the best value.
4. Luna Park Sydney + 5. Luna Park Melbourne
Location: Sydney + Melbourne • Tickets: Free entry (rides extra) • Opening Hours: Varies
With its iconic entrances and vintage charm, Luna Park is a family-favourite with parks in both Sydney and Melbourne. In Sydney, Luna Park sits at the base of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the harbour alongside thrilling rides like the Wild Mouse and Hair Raiser.
In Melbourne, Luna Park is located in the vibrant St Kilda area, and it’s equally steeped in history, dating back to 1912. The Scenic Railway, Australia’s oldest rollercoaster, remains a highlight, alongside rides like the Twin Dragon and the Enterprise for those seeking a thrill. Expect a classic amusement park experience over high-tech thrills.
6. Dreamworld
Image credit: GetYourGuide
Location: Gold Coast • Tickets: $109AUD • Opening Hours: 10:30 am – 4 pm
The best theme park in Australia? Dreamworld, the largest in the country, is a pretty big contender. Tower of Terror II and The Claw are sure to get your adrenaline pumping, with massive drops and exhilarating twists. While the Dreamworld Coaster offers a classic rollercoaster experience with stunning views of the park.
Dreamworld also boasts WhiteWater World, a water park offering slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers for a perfect summer day. Add to this live shows and animal encounters, and there’s plenty to keep you entertained throughout the day here.
7. Adventure World
Location: Perth • Tickets: $71.95AUD • Opening Hours: 10 am – 5 pm (closed Tue – Thurs)
We’ll be honest: we wouldn’t necessarily make the trip to Perth solely for Adventure World… but, if you have a day spare, it’s a great spot for theme park fanatics. The park sits just 20 minutes away from central Perth, offering both big thrills and family-friendly fun.
The park’s most exciting rides include the towering, looping Atlantis rollercoaster, the dizzying Raging River water rapids, and the Wild West-themed Mini Mine Ride.
Where to Stay in Australia
The vast majority of Aussie theme parks are located on the Gold Coast, so that’s a great place to start if you’re a park hunter. We love staying on the Sunshine Coast and catching public transport to the likes of Warner Bros Movie World and Sea World. If you’re visiting Luna Park in Sydney or Melbourne, there are plenty of options for bedding down in these cities.
What to Know Before Visiting Australian Theme Parks
Australia’s school holidays (e.g., mid-December to late January, and Easter) can be extremely busy. If possible, plan your visit during the off-peak months (like February or early November) to avoid long lines and crowds.
Likewise, Australian summers can be hot and sunny, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and drink plenty of water. Some parks provide free water refill stations, but it’s always good to carry your own bottle.
