Burning grass caused a hazy start to Schoolies celebrations on the Gold Coast today, after a fire sparked the evacuation of Sea World and nearby beaches.

The fast-moving grass fire caught beachgoers unaware at The Spit, with some families and tourists forced to take shelter in the sea.

Footage shows people trying to flee the fire and being forced into the water after the paths to their cars were cut off.

Crowds wait outside Sea World after the park evacuation. (9NEWS / Brittney Kleyn)

“You’ve got to go, go quick, think about your life,” a police officer told one person.

Jet-skiers offered to take people to safety, and police boats helped to ferry those trapped.

“The police picked us up and said we have to evacuate you,” one man said.

A helicopter water-bombs The Spit. (Supplied / Tim Cram)

Smoke seen from Crystal Bay Resort. (Supplied / Tim Cram)

Thirteen fire crews and water-bombing helicopters were called in to fight the blaze, which broke out near Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, about 9.40am (AEST).

It was brought under control about 2pm (AEST), Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said.

Sea World was left empty for about three hours, and police also closed Seaworld Drive through to The Spit under an emergent situation declaration.

A grass fire has broken out at The Spit. (9NEWS / Brittney Kleyn)