Just an hour’s drive north of Brisbane, immerse yourself in a unique landscape that stretches across sparkling coastline, lush subtropical rainforests, and iconic mountain peaks. Here, you’ll find unparalleled opportunities to get to know some of the creatures that live in this special part of the world.
Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo
The home of the original Wildlife Warrior, Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo offers up an array of animal encounters to choose from. Here, you’ll have opportunities to watch saltwater crocodiles in action at daily shows in the Crocoseum, buy roo food and enjoy the sensation of kangaroos and wallabies nibbling out of the palm of your hand, or take things to the next level with a special animal encounter. Get up close with spectacular lemurs, pat a wombat, pose for a photo with an adorable quokka, and more. Make sure to book yourself a spot on a tour at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital before returning to your luxurious accommodation at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge... where the infinity pool boasts views of grazing kangaroos beyond.
Swimming with humpback whales
Getting ready to swim with the Whales with Sunreef
Watching majestic humpback whales from afar is special enough, but from June to October each year, Sunreef Mooloolaba gives you the chance to be IN the water alongside the whales. As you zip up the wetsuit and hop into the sparkling embrace of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find that nothing will prepare you for the size and grace of these beautiful creatures. Watching them swim up close is an experience you’ll forever carry with you (and may just be your new #sunshinemoment).
Wildlife HQ
Up close at WildlifeHQ
You’ll find it hard to miss Wildlife HQ: it’s located right next door to The Big Pineapple in Woombye. Tucked amongst lush subtropical rainforest, Wildlife HQ plays host to a unique collection of animals that include Squirrel Monkeys, Capybaras, and Red Pandas. Don’t just stop at the enclosure, though! This is your sign to book yourself a close-up encounter and snap the ultimate Instagram snap. Come spring, sundown brings a unique Night Zoo experience, where Wildlife HQ's nocturnal residents come out to play.
Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World, Maleny
Imagine if flourishing flora combined with spectacular birdlife and farmyard friends. The result? Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World, which sprawls across 23 acres of stunning land overlooking the Glass House Mountains. Here, you can stroll the grounds, enjoy a picnic in the sunshine, hire an accessible buggy to make the most of the surroundings, and immerse yourself in the animal kingdom with a visit to the aviaries and Farm Friends sections. Count us in!
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
Accessibility at Sea Life Sunshine Coast
Situated right near the sparkling waters of The Wharf Mooloolaba, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast is home to an impressive display of underwater creatures that’ll keep the whole family entertained. Linger at the interactive Tidal Touchpool, step through the immersive Ocean Tunnel, and make sure to check out the adorable colony of Little Blue Penguins. For an iconic up-close experience, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast also offers the chance to hop into the water with their resident seals on a fun-filled Seal Swim. You'll also get a photo to take home as a memento.
Sunshine Coast Insiders Guide
If you'd prefer to take your Sunshine Coast trip planning offline and are looking for the inside scoop on what to see and do here, then look no further!
With inspiring imagery, bite-sized info and local recommendations, you'll be beaming from the inside out as you plan your trip.
