Where to See Wildlife

Welcome to your ultimate guide on where to see amazing wildlife on the Gold Coast! Whether you’re an animal lover, a family looking for a fun day out, or a visitor wanting to experience Australia’s unique fauna, we’ve got you covered. Here are some fantastic places to connect with nature and meet some of Australia’s most iconic creatures.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has been conserving native wildlife and nurturing the local indigenous heritage for over 75 years. This regional treasure has also been educating and entertaining families and tourists from all across the globe. Don’t miss out on the Wildlife Hospital, one of the busiest in the world.

Location: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
Website: https://currumbinsanctuary.com.au/

Highlights:

  • Grazy Arvo Experience: Spend time in the koala habitat and enjoy a gourmet grazing platter.
  • Wildlife Hospital Tour: See amazing vets in action.
  • Creature Feature Tour: A unique experience where you will be taken on a fully guided tour through the Repturnal Den.
  • Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show: Be mesmerized by the spectacular birds of prey.

David Fleay Wildlife Park

Nestled in Burleigh Heads, this park offers a tranquil experience with some of Queensland’s unique and threatened species. It’s the only place where you can see the shy bridled nailtail wallaby, thought to be extinct for over 30 years.

Location: Corner of West Burleigh Road and Loman Lane, West Burleigh
Website: https://parks.desi.qld.gov.au/parks/david-fleay

Highlights:

  • Natural Habitats: Explore rainforest and bushland environments.
  • Fleays in Flight Show: Watch large birds of prey in action.
  • Meet the Rangers: Learn from the experts who care for these beautiful animals.

Dreamworld

Dreamworld isn’t just about thrilling rides; it’s also home to incredible wildlife. At Corroboree, you can meet indigenous wildlife and support conservation efforts through the Dreamworld Wildlife Foundation.

Location: Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera
Website: https://www.dreamworld.com.au/

Highlights:

  • Koala Encounters: Pose for a photo with a koala.
  • Twilight Trail: A walkthrough experience where you can see unique nocturnal wildlife, including owls, squirrel gliders, Rufous Bettongs, a carpet python and more!
  • Wetlands: The Wetlands features a boardwalk over several water enclosures with freshwater crocodiles, turtles, wetland birds and Dreamworld’s famous saltwater crocs

Paradise Country

Discover Australia’s unique wildlife, get up close to our gorgeous farm animals and watch incredible Australian shows at this must-see destination.

Location: Production Drive, Oxenford 
Website: https://paradisecountry.com.au

Highlights:

  • Koala Breakfast: Dine beside koalas at the Farmhouse Restaurant. In this encounter you’ll enjoy a visit from our cute Koalas as they snack on their breakfast of eucalyptus leaves.
  • Stockman Show: See the art of mustering as our talented stockmen and their trusty dogs work in unison to round up their sheep. You’ll also be shown how to throw a boomerang, milk a cow and witness the skill it takes to get that almighty crack from a stock whip.

Daisy Hill Koala Centre

Nestled amongst eucalypt trees and featuring a large outdoor koala enclosure and many interactive displays, the Daisy Hill Koala Centre is a unique place to learn about koalas and their conservation.

Location: 253 Daisy Hill Road, Daisy Hill
Website: https://environment.desi.qld.gov.au/wildlife/animals/living-with/koalas/care-and-rescue/daisy-hill-centre

Highlights:

  • Koala Education: Learn about koala life cycles, biology, and conservation.
  • Wildlife Officer Talks: Daily at 11 am and 2 pm, see koalas get their fresh leaves.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the largest koala sanctuary in the world, housing over 130 koalas. It’s a perfect spot to learn about koala conservation and get some unforgettable photos.

Location: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket
Website: https://lonepinekoalasanctuary.com/

Highlights:

  • Koala Discovery Tour: Go behind the scenes to learn about koala care.
  • Sponsor a Koala: Make a lasting impact on koala conservation.

Ready to explore and meet some amazing animals? These wildlife sanctuaries and parks are perfect for creating lasting memories and supporting conservation efforts. Pack your camera, book your tickets, and get ready for a wild adventure!

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