Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo, the legendary wildlife sanctuary founded by the Irwin family, is a must-visit for animal lovers on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. This sprawling conservation park blends thrilling animal encounters with heartfelt wildlife education, carrying on Steve Irwin’s legacy with passion and energy. Expect to get up close with kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles, and to leave inspired by the zoo’s dedication to protecting Australian wildlife.

Highlights & What to See

• Crocoseum – Watch the iconic crocodile feeding show in a purpose-built arena, where keepers share Steve’s love for these ancient reptiles.
• Koala Encounter – Meet and have your photo taken with a cuddly koala at the Koala Walkthrough area.
• Kangaroo Walkabout – Roam with friendly kangaroos and wallabies in a large open enclosure; feed them by hand (food available on-site).
• Africa – A surprisingly impressive savannah section with rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs, adding a global twist to the zoo.
• Irwin’s Legacy Exhibits – Don’t miss the Steve Irwin Memorial and the Wildlife Warriors exhibit, which tell the story of the family’s conservation work.
• Dingoes, Tasmanian Devils & Reptiles – See some of Australia’s most unique and misunderstood animals in well-designed habitats.
• Shows & Talks – Daily presentations on birds of prey, snakes, and free-flight birds are both educational and entertaining.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors need a full day (6–8 hours) to see all the major exhibits and catch the key shows. Arrive early to secure a good spot at the Crocoseum and to enjoy the quieter morning hours with the animals. If you’re short on time, a half-day (4 hours) will let you see the highlights, but you’ll miss some of the deeper experiences. The zoo is large, so wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sunshine Coast – After the zoo, head to the coast for beautiful beaches like Noosa, Mooloolaba, and Caloundra, plus the lush hinterland.
• Brisbane – Queensland’s capital is just over an hour south, offering cultural attractions, riverfront dining, and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
• Gold Coast – About 2 hours south, this glitzy strip has theme parks, surf beaches, and nightlife.
• Fraser Island (K’gari) – The world’s largest sand island is a spectacular day trip or overnight adventure, with dingoes, lakes, and rainforests.
• Great Barrier Reef – For a completely different wildlife experience, fly north to Cairns or the Whitsundays for snorkelling and diving on the reef.

Please check official sources for current details.