Dolphin Cove at Sea World

A common question among families visiting the Gold Coast is whether the region’s theme parks are suitable for families with young children.  Well, let me tell you, there is one that definitely is.  Located on the Broadwater in Queensland’s Gold Coast, Sea World is my top pick of theme parks in Australia for families with small children.    The varied rides, shows and sea life experiences act to engage all family members, not just little ones.

Antarctic Penguins the Penguin Encounter

Regular readers will know that our family enjoys animal attractions and aquariums in particular.  The dolphin show was spectacular, and the Antarctic Penguin encounter was a favourite with all of us.  More interactive animal encounters are available at extra cost, and let’s face it, who wouldn’t want the opportunity to get closer to the dolphins?  We passed on this opportunity this  time however due to the young age of our kids (children must be at least 5).

Injured sea birds at Sea World

Shark Bay is the most fantastic aquarium we have visited and its aquatic touch tanks gives small kids the opportunity to handle sea cucumbers and starfish.  There was a solid educational component to all of the animal encounters as a result of, voice-overs, and displays.  The content of much of these incorporated an environmental message and emphasis on marine preservation.

Dinosaur Island at Sea World

I am not sure what it is about little boys and dinosaurs but mine are mad for them.  Sea World’s newest attraction, Dinosaur Island hosts life sized animatronic dinosaurs.  I loved that in addition to the dinosaur displays there was a sandpit allowing my kids a little quiet fossil excavation time, located ever so conveniently (for me) next to the ice-cream stall.

Digging for fossils at Sea World

There are also a number of rides just for little kids and our kids made the most of these.  We visited in May and the queues were not long (less than 5 minutes) meaning they were able to enjoy them repeatedly.

Sea World’s Battle Boats

Favourite rides for little kids were Castaway Bay – the best adventure playground ever and Battle Boats,  involving a pirate ship waterfight.  Our four year old could ride the Viking Revenge Flume accompanied by an adult (which he did again and again).

The view from Castaway Bay adventure playground at Sea World

The Jet ski stunt show at Sea World

Splash down in the Viking Revenge Flume ride

Tips for to make the most of your time at Sea World.

• There is so much to do at Sea World that families with small children should consider staying at the Sea World resort.  We stayed at the resort allowing us to enjoy a number of shorter visits instead of one long day.
• Purchase a multiple entry ticket that gives you flexibility to return another day just in the kids become overtired.
• Hang onto toddlers in Castaway Bay adventure playground.  The playground is great for them but if they are quick, like mine is, they can get away from you, and be difficult to find again inside the complex.
• Sea World asks that visitors do not bring their own food on site, with two exceptions.  They allow food brought for infants and babies, and they allow you to bring your own fruit and water.
• Some of the rides will get you wet.  Throw the kid’s bathers, towels and a change of clothes in bag to take with you.
• Take note of show times.  All of them are suitable for families with young kids however the Dolphin presentation and the Sponge Bob Square Pants parade and the Dora the Explorer show should be made a priority.
• Hate queues?  Plan your  visit to avoid public holidays and weekends.

Rope bridges in Sea World’s Castaway Bay

This blog provides tips and advice for parents traveling with small children including attraction and accommodation reviews.  You can join us on Facebook to receive updates to your news feed.

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