Sea World Resort Review Gold Coast Theme Parks Family Guide

3.3K

* This post contains affiliate links, meaning at no cost to you, we may receive a small commission for purchases made through our links. We only recommend products & services that we have personally used and believe will benefit you, that’s a promise! Your support helps us continue providing valuable free content to families like yours. Thank you. (Full Disclosure)

Are you planning a tropical family holiday on the Gold Coast? How exciting! We felt the same surge of excitement when our family landed on Queensland’s glittering shores.

I spent considerable time searching for the most family-friendly resorts on the Gold Coast during travel planning to Australia. Among the options, I came across 2 resorts known for their fantastic pools & water parks. One is RACV Royal Pines Resort, and the other, which caught our attention, is Sea World Resort.

For the first 5 days of our holiday in QLD, we took our 2 young children to 4 of the best theme parks on the Gold Coast, which are, in fact, the best in the whole of Australia. This memorable family experience was all thanks to the accommodation and theme parks package deal we booked with Sea World Resort Gold Coast.

From thrilling rides to enchanting shows, the theme parks offered a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that later prompted our family to make a life-changing decision. We were absolutely smitten with the Gold Coast’s endless sunshine, sweeping coastal stretches, and vibrant lifestyle.

📌 tap ‣ pin ‣ share ‣ save

After a whirlwind 250-day journey around the world in minimalism, we found no place in the world that captured our hearts quite like the Gold Coast. It was the epitome of our motto, ‘sun, sand, and simplicity,’ and we just knew we had to make it our forever home!

In this review, we’ll share our honest thoughts and own experiences of Sea World Resort, based on our family’s 3-night stay. We’ll go beyond the usual facts and figures you can find online, and give you a more in-depth look at everything the resort has to offer, both the good and the bad, from the water park to the dolphin shows at Sea World, we’ll cover it all.

Whether you’re thinking about a weekend stay at Sea World Resort or searching for the ideal theme park package, our travel story can provide you with a genuine insight into what it’s really like to stay with Sea World Resort. We hope it helps you determine whether Sea World Resort could be the perfect base for your family holiday on the Gold Coast. Let’s go!

About our stay

We travelled to the Gold Coast with our two young children, aged 1 and 4.

The main reason why we chose to stay at Sea World Resort is its unbeatable proximity to Sea World.

Visiting the theme parks can easily take a full day, and the kids will likely be exhausted by midday. Staying within walking distance of your room at Sea World Resort will help minimise meltdowns and reduce stress for the whole family.

At the time of our stay, the resort was running a promotion, which included a buffet breakfast and 4 theme park passes for around $225 a night on average for a family of 4. (Thanks to inflation, it is now about $300 a night.)

• Length of stay: 3 nights
• Travelling with: Family of 4 with 1yo & 4yo
• Room type & package: Deluxe Double Room & 4 Theme Park Passes
• Room allocated: 1126 Garden Wing
• Average nightly rate: $225
• Why we chose here: Proximity to Sea World and the best water park & pools
• When did we stay: End of April
• Would we stay again: For sure!

📌 tap ‣ pin ‣ share ‣ save

Gold Coast Theme Park Passes

Planning to explore Sea World and other top theme parks on the Gold Coast with your family? Booking a stay with Sea World Resort on one of their package deals could be the smartest way to stretch your budget.

The unlimited theme park passes included in the Sea World Resort package deal offer significant savings, potentially cutting costs by several hundred dollars on theme park entry tickets, especially if you’re visiting as a family.

For a family of 4, this is an opportunity to enjoy all the thrills and excitement of Gold Coast’s renowned theme parks while getting the best value for your money.

Alternatively, you can find unbeatable prices on 3-Day, 7-Day or 14-Day Theme Park Passes on this tours & activities website.

We’ll talk more about the Gold Coast theme parks in a separate post. Now, let’s continue with our Sea World Resort review.

Sea World Resort Reservation Hiccup

Booking our stay with Sea World Resort was a bit more adventurous than we anticipated. We made the reservation over the phone just 3 days before checking in, diligently confirming our details with the reservations team and eagerly awaiting a confirmation email.

However, we never received a confirmation email, even though the payment had already been taken from our credit card. So, upon landing in Gold Coast, we emailed the reservations team again to confirm our booking, hoping for a swift resolution.

A day later, we received a reply asking for more details in order to assist us. Another day passed, and they requested even more information, as they were unable to locate our booking. The situation was becoming concerning.

My partner attempted to call Sea World Resort to sort out the booking but was informed that they couldn’t disclose any information to him since the reservation wasn’t under his name. Meanwhile, I was preoccupied with our unwell baby, adding to the stress of the situation.

Finally, the day to check in arrived. The anticipation of a family holiday was tinged with uncertainty. With two kids in tow and a mix of anxiety and hope, we prayed that Sea World Resort had our booking tucked away somewhere in their system…

A Turn of Event at the Front Desk

Arriving a little early on the day, we shared our concern with a lovely receptionist at the front desk, recounting our curious booking experience with the reservations team. To our surprise and relief, he found our booking right away, explaining that a misspelling in both my name and email was the reason behind the missing confirmation email. (I mean, what are the chances? There are only 4 letters in my name.)

Nonetheless, the receptionist’s empathy was palpable as he assured us that our booking was secure. Since we had arrived before the official check-in time, he directed us to the concierge desk to leave our luggage, which would be brought up once the room was ready.

After leaving a mobile number for updates on our room status, we went about our day, soon receiving a text that our room was ready. Returning to a bustling reception with a long queue, we were pleasantly surprised when the same receptionist spotted us and allowed us to bypass the line to collect our swipe cards. He provided a brief orientation of Sea World Resort, guided us towards our room, and even extended our theme park passes from 3 to 5 days as an apology for the reservation mix-up.

This positive check-in experience, marked by the receptionist’s kindness and understanding, significantly improved our impression of Sea World Resort, despite some of the negative reviews we had come across.

The resort itself was impressively accessible, with ramps connecting most areas, making it wheelchair and stroller-friendly throughout. Following the receptionist’s directions, we took the lift down to level 1. Though we did experience a brief moment where the lift seemed stuck, and later noticed a sign warning of wet paint, possibly indicating ongoing maintenance, these were minor hiccups in an otherwise smooth experience.

Our stay at Sea World Resort was off to a promising start, thanks in large part to the attentive and compassionate service at the front desk. It’s often the human touch that turns a good holiday into a great one, and in this case, Sea World Resort certainly delivered.

Check availability for your stay

Sea World Resort Deluxe Double Room

Upon walking through the Garden Wing to our Deluxe Double Room, we were greeted by our neatly placed luggage on the bench, ready for our stay. Contrary to some reviews, our room appeared newly refurbished and was beautifully adorned with vibrant, colourful ocean themes.

Though not particularly spacious, the room’s modern, clean, and simple aesthetic provided a welcoming atmosphere. The room featured two double beds, complete with conveniently placed light switches for both the main light and night light.

Entertainment and Comfort: Room Amenities

The large Samsung smart TV was a highlight, offering a Sea World channel that captivated our toddlers with animal rescue stories by the Sea World Research and Rescue Foundation.

The room was well-equipped with a bench/desk containing information on the resort and in-room dining menu, two round ottoman stools, a spacious cushioned luggage bench, and a large wall mirror. A mini kettle and tea bags were neatly stored in a pull-out drawer, adding to the room’s thoughtful design.

Outdoor Delight: The Backyard

Situated on the ground floor, our room opened out to a back porch with a table and two chairs, leading to a small playground just steps away. Preferring natural ventilation over constant AC, we were pleased to find a fly screen on the courtyard door. This thoughtful feature was particularly beneficial for our family, as both my daughter and I tend to attract mosquitoes.

Sleek and Functional: The Bathroom

The bathroom exuded a contemporary charm, featuring a classic sleek design complemented by a large wall mirror. Though the sink was compact, it offered ample space for toiletries, with towels thoughtfully arranged under the vanity.

While the toilet was equipped with a soft close hinge, its flush was noticeably louder than that of an average modern toilet. This led us to be mindful of flushing during the night to avoid disturbance.

Our Deluxe Double Room’s walk-in shower was graced with a round rainfall showerhead, giving a refurbished appearance with its black-framed single-panel shower screen. The design was both functional and aesthetically pleasing, adding to the room’s modern appeal.

While aesthetically pleasing, the water pressure was only average, and the fixed position of the showerhead meant that showering the kids took a bit longer than usual. However, this was a minor issue and didn’t significantly disrupt our stay.

A Note on Noise for Interconnecting Rooms

The Deluxe Double Room we occupied was an interconnecting room, and we soon discovered that the walls were rather thin. Sounds from our neighbours’ conversations, their children, and even their television were quite audible. Footsteps from the room above, noises from the corridor, and car alarms from the car park outside were also easily heard.

Fortunately for us, our neighbours were quiet at night. Had this not been the case, this particular flaw of the resort could have impacted our overall stay.

Parking at Sea World Resort

Sea World Resort has a spacious outdoor parking area, yet during peak season, it can quickly reach capacity.

Upon checking in and acquainting ourselves with the resort, we discovered street parking on one of the back streets around the resort, considerably closer to our room. We conveniently parked there for the remainder of our stay.

However, we noticed some vehicles were found parked illegally on the grass and were subsequently fined. So be sure to read the parking signs to avoid any unwelcome surprises.

Sea World Resort Pools & Water Park

It goes without saying that the pools at Sea World Resort are among the standout features, offering a fun-filled aquatic experience that rivals even 5-star family resorts like RACV Royal Pines and top water park holiday parks such as Big4 Gold Coast.

Upon arrival at the pool area, guests are greeted by a variety of water features, including the main lagoon pool, heated for comfort, and adorned with a charming waterfall feature. The loungers by the pool provide a perfect spot for parents to relax, creating a pleasant ambience that resonates with both children and adults.

For the younger guests, the Spongebob SplashBash water play area is a hit, filled with interactive elements that provide endless entertainment. While some water slides were closed during our stay, it didn’t dampen our spirits, as our children were more interested in the lagoon pool and other accessible features.

Towels are provided for resort guests, though it’s worth mentioning that they need to be collected near the Waterfall Café, located around the back of the pools. This information might be easily missed, as we discovered after our water play session.

A little away from the crowd, up a few steps, is a small spa pool. While it offers a more secluded experience, its size might make it a bit too cosy if shared with other guests.

But the real highlight of the water park is the night light show. As the sun dips below the horizon, the pool area transforms into a magical spectacle. Dancing lights dance across the water, attracting both little ones and older kids, weaving a spell of enchantment that lingers into the evening.

In a nutshell, the Sea World Resort pools are a central part of the resort’s appeal, offering a range of experiences to suit all ages.

Activities at Sea World Resort

Dolphin Discovery Presentation

Among the many attractions at Sea World Resort, the complimentary Dolphin Discovery Presentation stands out as a truly unique and engaging experience for families. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of dolphins offers a blend of education, entertainment, and personal connection that resonates with both adults and children.

The presentation begins at 9 am, with guests gathering outside the resort gift shop in the lobby. From there, a knowledgeable staff member guides the group to the Affinity Dolphin Arena within Sea World, setting the stage for an unforgettable encounter with these graceful marine mammals.

The Dolphin Discovery Presentation is an educational journey that sheds light on the training process for both dolphins and their human trainers. Guests are treated to a live practice session, where they can observe the intricate techniques used to teach dolphins their mesmerising tricks.

But what truly sets this experience apart is the opportunity for up-close interaction. Guests are invited to sit near the water’s edge, where they can watch the dolphins perform their acrobatics and even wave to these friendly creatures. The trainers are on hand to answer questions, providing insights into the dolphins’ behaviour, intelligence, and natural habitat.

For our family, this presentation was a highlight of our stay at Sea World Resort. Our children were utterly fascinated by the dolphins, captivated by their agility and charm. The chance to see these animals in such an intimate setting, and to learn about the care and attention that goes into their training, added a layer of depth to our holiday experience.

In short, the Dolphin Discovery Presentation at Sea World Resort is a must-see for dolphin lovers and curious minds. It offers a rare glimpse into the world of these incredible animals, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation that lingers long after the show is over. Whether you’re travelling with young children or simply have a passion for marine life, this free activity is sure to enhance your stay at Sea World Resort Gold Coast.

📌 tap ‣ pin ‣ share ‣ save

Meet SpongeBob and Nickelodeon Characters

For families with children who adore the whimsical world of Nickelodeon, Sea World Resort offers a delightful opportunity to meet and greet some of the most beloved characters, including the ever-popular SpongeBob SquarePants.

Held in the resort’s picturesque lobby garden, adorned with dolphin-shaped plant sculptures, this event provides a vibrant backdrop for memorable photos. The garden’s small viewing platform also offers a sweeping view of the resort’s pools and water park.

However, an oversight in event scheduling during our stay led to a clash between the Meet SpongeBob event and the Dolphin Discovery Presentation, both set for 9 am. This overlap means that guests must choose between two equally appealing activities, potentially missing out on one or the other.

In our family’s case, the allure of the dolphins won us over, and we opted for the Dolphin Discovery Presentation. Though we managed to catch a fleeting glimpse of SpongeBob in the garden, the timing conflict meant that we couldn’t fully enjoy both experiences without extending our stay at Sea World Resort. We couldn’t help but wish that Sea World Resort would consider spacing out these two activities, so guests can enjoy both experiences without feeling rushed or having to make a difficult choice.

SpongeBob Light Show & Aqua Play

For families seeking an evening filled with fun and entertainment, the SpongeBob Light Show & Aqua Play at Sea World Resort’s SpongeBob SplashBash is an absolute must-see. This nightly spectacle, commencing at 7 pm, transforms the kids’ poolside into a dazzling display of dancing LED lights, all set to the catchy tunes of SpongeBob SquarePants.

The atmosphere is electric, and the energy of the older children splashing and dancing to the rhythm of the music is contagious. It’s a sight that captures the imagination and brings joy to both the young and those young at heart.

However, for families with younger children, particularly those adjusting to different time zones, the timing of the event might require a little extra enthusiasm to muster the will to get out at night. In our case, with our children still adjusting to the time zone difference between New Zealand and Australia, the 7 pm local start time meant it was 9 pm back home, which was past their usual bedtime.

Despite this, we managed to rally the family for one special evening at the SpongeBob Light Show, and it was well worth the effort. Watching the older children having a blast, immersed in the colourful lights and lively music, was a memorable experience that added a touch of magic to our stay.

Whether your children are old enough to join the splash party or simply want to watch and enjoy the show, this event is sure to be a highlight of your stay. Just be mindful of the timing if you have younger children, and plan accordingly to ensure that everyone can enjoy this fantastic evening entertainment.

Restaurants & Dining at Sea World Resort

When you’re staying at Sea World Resort Gold Coast, mealtime becomes a delightful part of the adventure. With six different dining spots right on the premises, you’ll find something to please everyone in the family.

Each restaurant is designed with a contemporary flair, adding a touch of modern elegance to your dining experience. And they all come with beautiful views, whether it’s looking out over the meticulously landscaped garden or the inviting pools.

From casual cafés to fine dining, Sea World Resort Gold Coast offers a culinary journey that’s as diverse and enjoyable as the rest of your holiday, all within the comfort of the resort.

Shoreline Restaurant

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Shoreline offers a buffet that spans the globe. From Asian stir-fry to Italian pasta, there’s something for every palate. Some of the highlights in this restaurant include a seafood platter and grilled seafood, offering a fresh taste of the ocean that’s sure to delight seafood enthusiasts.

Hatsuhana Japanese Restaurant

For a special Japanese dining experience, Hatsuhana is open for lunch and dinner. Indulge in authentic sushi, sashimi, tempura, and teppanyaki, all are prepared with flair and served with elegance. It’s a must-visit for those craving the rich and diverse flavours of Japanese cuisine.

The Lobby Lounge

Open until 10 pm, The Lobby Lounge serves as a relaxing spot for guests to enjoy coffee, tea, pastries, and light snacks throughout the day. Whether you’re meeting friends or simply taking a break, the Lobby Lounge is a great place to enjoy the lobby buzz and nightlife at the Sea World Resort.

Melrose Italian

During our stay at Sea World Resort, one dining experience that stood out for its family-friendly atmosphere was Melrose, the Italian restaurant. What made it particularly appealing were its relaxed and casual vibes. Unlike many other restaurants at the resort, Melrose didn’t require reservations, and it offered a laid-back ambience amidst the bustling lobby.

The charm of Melrose Italian lies in its simplicity. Nestled in the lobby and overlooking a tranquil fountain pool, it provided a beautiful setting to indulge in some authentic Italian flavours. The menu wasn’t extensive, mirroring the uncomplicated decor of the restaurant, which only added to its easygoing allure. As you already know, our family fully embraces the beauty of simplicity, and Melrose Italian’s unassuming elegance resonated with us in every way.

While there was a slight wait for our food, it hardly bothered us, given the lively lobby offered an ideal space for our little ones to explore during dinner time. The captivating ocean-themed disco lights cast enchanting patterns across the lobby ceiling, capturing the fascination of our kids. Meanwhile, the lobby bar entertained older children with episodes of The Simpsons on the TV.

Back at Melrose Italian, the cuisine lived up to its promise. However, considering the resort-restaurant pricing, we held higher culinary expectations that weren’t quite met. The overall quality of the food fell slightly below what we had anticipated. Nevertheless, the restaurant’s prime location and its welcoming atmosphere compensated for any culinary letdown.

While the food might have been average in value, the restaurant’s picturesque surroundings and family-friendly environment made it a top choice for our dining escapades during our stay. Melrose Italian may not have achieved perfection on the plate, but it certainly offered a memorable dining experience with its laid-back charm and inviting setting.

The Waterfall Café

Situated by the resort pools, this laid-back café serves sandwiches, salads, and cool drinks. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or a quick snack.

On our pool day, we opted to enjoy lunch at the Waterfall Café, conveniently located by the resort pools. The menu, though leaning towards fried and fast foods like hot dogs and chips, offered a selection that was perfect for a casual poolside meal.

While we were hoping for a few more healthy options, the convenience of dining by the pool made up for it. The prices were a bit on the higher side, and the food quality was average, but it provided a satisfying and quick bite. If you’re looking for a simple and easy meal without leaving the pool area, the Waterfall Café has you covered.

Kids Club

For parents in need of some well-deserved alone time, the Kids Club at Sea World Resort is open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. At an additional cost, it’s packed with a diverse range of activities, from arts and crafts to swimming and meet-and-greets with Sea World characters. The little ones will be entertained and cared for, while parents can relax and enjoy their holiday, confident that their children are in a safe and engaging environment.

Gym

For those who like to keep up with their fitness routine even while on holiday, you’ll be glad to know the gymnasium at Sea World Resort is fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment.

Spa

Lastly, the massage and beauty salon at Sea World Resort offers a luxurious escape for those fortunate enough to find some time away from the children. The spa appears to be a haven of pampering and relaxation, providing a range of treatments to rejuvenate the body and mind. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy some well-deserved self-care.

The Final Splash

Our family of 4 had a blast at Sea World Resort Gold Coast, so much so that we extended our stay from 2 nights to 3 nights. There was so much to do and see at Sea World, and we didn’t want to miss a thing, especially with our 2 little ones.

Despite a few minor hiccups here and there, our stay was nothing short of memorable. The front desk went above and beyond, not only rectifying the situation but also providing exceptional customer service. We really appreciated that.

As we’ve already spoken highly of, the resort pool & water park could easily take up a whole day. We all had so much fun splashing around, and the kids couldn’t get enough of it.

The Dolphin Discovery Presentation was amazing. The kids were wide-eyed watching the dolphins, and we all learned something new. It was a great way to spend part of our day.

Overall, Sea World Resort Gold Coast was a delightful experience that resonated with each one of us. From the thrilling theme parks to the relaxing resort amenities, it was a well-rounded holiday that catered to our family’s diverse interests.

We loved our stay at Sea World Resort and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to our family and friends thinking of visiting Sea World and the theme parks on the Gold Coast. It’s a place where fun meets relaxation, and memories are crafted with love and joy.

So, if you’re planning a family getaway that promises a splash of fun and a wave of memories, Sea World Resort Gold Coast might just be the destination you’ve been looking for.

📌 tap ‣ pin ‣ share ‣ save

If Sea World Resort isn’t what you’re looking for, take a look at our family review on the luxurious RACV Royal Pines Resort.

---