Queensland's best animal experiences

Australia has a reputation for unique and wonderful wildlife, and one of the best parts of the country for a thrilling encounter is the sunny state of Queensland. From sunrise moments with kangaroos on the beach to up close encounters with prehistoric crocodiles, here’s our comprehensive guide to Queensland’s premier animal experiences.

This iconic wildlife park in the beautiful Sunshine Coast hinterland is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most famous. Founded by the legendary Steve Irwin and his family, Australia Zoo is the home of the original Crocodile Hunter, and over 1000 mammals, birds and reptiles from Australia and around the world. Here you can see how saltwater crocodiles live and behave in the wild as part of the Australia Zoo crocodile show in the world-famous Crocoseum. Watch as the expert rangers feed these apex predators, alongside colourful birds and big snakes.

Accommodation in Mooloolaba

Enjoy luxury accommodation on the beach at Breeze Mooloolaba, in modern resort-style apartments with free on-site parking. Getting from Mooloolaba to Australia Zoo is an easy 30 minute drive southwest from the coast.

Something magical happens every year between November and March on Mon Repos Beach​, known as Bundaberg turtle season. An important nesting site for endangered marine turtles, the Mon Repos Conservation Park is home to the largest turtle rookery in the South Pacific. On nightly ranger-guided tours, you can witness a rare and wonderful event as tiny turtle hatchlings emerge from their nests after dark and make their perilous journey to the sea. You can also find out more about turtle conservation and research at the Mon Repos Turtle Centre.

Accommodation in Bundaberg

Stay in comfort at the Econo Lodge Park Lane in nearby Bundaberg, centrally located with a large outdoor pool and the acclaimed on-site Park Lane restaurant.

The heritage-listed Rockhampton Botanic Gardens is not only one of the oldest public gardens in Australia, it’s also home to one of the best zoos in Queensland. Across 10 acres, the Rockhampton Zoo houses close to 100 animals from more than 30 native Australian and exotic species. Meet the cheeky Meerkat family on a special Meerkat encounter, see frilled lizards up close, and marvel at the giant resident saltwater crocodile called The Colonel. Best of all, entry to the zoo is free.

Accommodation in Rockhampton

A short drive from the city centre and the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo, you’ll find relaxing and modern accommodation at Quality Resort Parkhurst, home to the popular Oasis Restaurant.

As the morning sun rises over Casaurina Beach at Cape Hillsborough National Park, north of Mackay, it sets the scene for a special wildlife experience. Each day at sunrise, wallabies and kangaroos emerge from the surrounding bush and gather on the beach in the predawn light. The beach is not their usual habitat but they come here to forage for mangrove seed pods and seaweed washed up by the overnight tide. After spending the morning with the Cape Hillsborough kangaroos, make a day of it and explore the national park’s scenic coastal trails and rugged beauty. 

Accommodation in Mackay

Relax and unwind in spacious accommodation at the beachside Comfort Resort Blue Pacific in nearby Mackay, a short drive from the city’s restaurants and attractions.

Enjoy an unforgettable koala experience with Australia’s most beloved marsupial at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane​. Home to the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine specialises in koala conservation and education, caring for over 100 koalas and 75 species of native Australian animals in a peaceful riverside setting. Choose from a range of encounters from behind-the-scenes discovery tours to close-up connections with a koala and their carer. Observe these beautiful creatures doing what they do best - eating, sleeping and relaxing in their natural habitat.

Accommodation in Brisbane

You’ll find plenty of premium hotels in Brisbane, from boutique accommodation to self-contained apartments, with the city’s attractions all within easy reach.

High on the escarpment, overlooking the spectacular Glass House Mountains, Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World is a tranquil haven set in 23 acres of exquisite landscaped gardens and tropical rainforest. On a guided interactive tour, explore the walk-through aviaries housing 600 native and exotic birds from around the world, many of them rehomed or rescued. You can also hand-feed seriously cute farm animals such as micro donkeys, baby-doll sheep, and miniature goats and pigs in the farm shed.

Accommodation in Bokarina

Enjoy superb beachside accommodation in nearby Bokarina at Bokarina Beach Apartments, whether it’s a cosy apartment for two or something spacious for the whole family.

Stretching between the Gold Coast and Cairns, Queensland’s Fraser Coast is renowned for its natural beauty and wildlife. Visitors flock here to see whales on their annual migration and to spot dingoes in the wild at K’gari (formerly Fraser Island). But if you’re keen to see a dingo up close, the best (and safest) place to do that is the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. In a quiet bush setting, enjoy an interactive encounter with one of the sanctuary’s resident dingoes and learn about dingo behaviour and pack dynamics. You can also meet friendly kangaroos, see snakes at feeding time, and stroll through the free-flight aviaries filled with colourful native birds. 

Accommodation in Hervey Bay

Stay atComfort Inn on Main and enjoy all the best things to do in Hervey Bay right on your doorstep, including the WetSide Water Park.

In protected habitats of eucalypt forest, rainforest and wetlands, the Billabong Sanctuary Townsville​ offers some of Queensland’s best interactive animal encounters. From cuddling a koala and meeting Yala the wombat to the thrilling free flight bird displays and croc-feeding shows, there’s a range of wildlife experiences to choose from. Explore the walking trails around the 11-hectare sanctuary, cool off in the resort-style pool, and indulge in an afternoon Devonshire tea at Blinky Bill’s cafe.

Accommodation in Townsville

Stay in spacious, contemporary rooms in the heart of Townsville at the Clarion Hotel, within easy walking distance of local boutique shops and restaurants.