David Fleay Wildlife Park

David Fleay Wildlife Park, nestled in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast, is a sanctuary dedicated to Australian native wildlife. Named after the pioneering naturalist David Fleay, this park offers an intimate, conservation-focused experience where you can see kangaroos, koalas, platypuses, and a remarkable collection of birds and reptiles. The park’s natural bushland setting and elevated boardwalks make it feel more like a nature reserve than a zoo, perfect for travellers seeking an authentic wildlife encounter.

Highlights & What to See

• Platypus Nocturnal House: One of the few places where you can reliably spot these elusive monotremes swimming in specially lit pools.
• Koala Boardwalk: Up-close views of koalas dozing in eucalypts; talk to keepers during daily talks.
• Free-flight Bird Show: Watch majestic raptors, cockatoos, and parrots fly overhead in a demonstration that highlights natural behaviours.
• Night Encounters: A twilight tour (by booking) to see nocturnal creatures like bilbies, greater gliders, and quolls active in their habitats.
• Reptile House: Includes freshwater crocodiles, goannas, and pythons – fascinating for reptile enthusiasts.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the park and attend the main wildlife talks and shows. Mornings are generally quieter and cooler, making it the best time to see animals most active. If you’re staying on the Gold Coast, you can easily combine a morning visit with a beach afternoon or a hike in nearby Burleigh Head National Park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Burleigh Head National Park: A coastal rainforest with walking tracks offering stunning ocean views and whale-watching in season.
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Another excellent wildlife park with a focus on conservation and a huge free-flight aviary.
• Gold Coast Beaches: Burleigh Beach, just minutes away, is a favourite for swimming, surfing, and café culture.
• Tallebudgera Creek: A calm, patrolled estuary perfect for a paddle or picnic after your wildlife visit.

Please check official sources for current details.