Australia Zoo
Australia's largest zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from across Australia and the world. Founded by wildlife warrior Steve Irwin, it's a must-do for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Quick Facts
About Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo's story begins in 1970, when Bob and Lyn Irwin opened a modest reptile and fauna park on the Sunshine Coast, then known as the Beerwah Reptile Park. It was here that their son, Steve Irwin, grew up surrounded by crocodiles, snakes and a deep love of wildlife. Steve took over the running of the park in the 1990s, renamed it Australia Zoo, and — alongside his wife Terri — transformed it from a small family attraction into one of the most famous wildlife destinations in the world.
It was Steve's larger-than-life enthusiasm, captured in the hit television series The Crocodile Hunter, that put the zoo on the global map. His trademark “Crikey!” and fearless, hands-on conservation work made him a household name in more than 130 countries. Following Steve's death in 2006, his family — Terri, daughter Bindi and son Robert — have continued his legacy, expanding the zoo while staying true to his mission of wildlife education and conservation.
Today Australia Zoo sprawls across more than 100 acres and is home to over 1,000 animals. A visit is very much a full day out: you can hand-feed free-roaming kangaroos, meet koalas, watch keepers wrangle enormous saltwater crocodiles in the Crocoseum — a purpose-built 5,000-seat stadium — and come face to face with tigers, cheetahs, red pandas, giant tortoises and a huge range of Australian natives. Daily keeper talks and live demonstrations run throughout the day, and the whole atmosphere is unmistakably hands-on and family-friendly.
Beyond the exhibits, the zoo is a serious conservation organisation. The on-site Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital — one of the busiest in the world — treats tens of thousands of sick and injured animals every year, from koalas to sea turtles, continuing the work that Steve began. Plan for at least four to six hours, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive early to make the most of the shows and animal encounters.
Getting There
Australia Zoo is at Beerwah, just off the Steve Irwin Way and a short detour from the Bruce Highway. Approximate driving times from around the region:
What to See
Australia Zoo spans over 18 hectares with zones dedicated to different animals — Australian wildlife (crocodiles, snakes, koalas), African savanna, Asian species, and more. Featured attractions include:
- Crocodile Cove — Giant saltwater crocs and feeding demonstrations
- Koala Encounter — Hand-feed and get up close with koalas
- Kangaroo zone — Walk among free-roaming red and grey kangaroos
- Reptile shows — Snake handling and lizard demonstrations
- Big Cat Country — Lions, tigers, and other big cats
Shows & Experiences
Multiple keeper talks and shows run throughout the day covering various animal encounters. Check the daily schedule at entry. Premium experiences like crocodile cage dives and private koala encounters are available at additional cost.
Visiting Tips
- Book tickets online in advance — faster entry and sometimes cheaper
- Arrive early (9–9:30am) — parking and crowds build quickly by mid-morning
- Wear comfortable shoes — you'll walk 5+ km through the zoo
- Bring sun protection and water — minimal shade and it gets hot
- Watch a keeper talk early — they're informative and often crowded mid-day
- Hit the koala encounter and reptile shows early — these fill up quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
Adult entry is typically around $59–$65 AUD and children around $35–$40 AUD, though prices are updated periodically. Concession prices are available for students, pensioners, and emergency services workers. Booking online in advance is recommended.
Most families spend a full day — allow 6 to 8 hours to see the main exhibits, watch the daily Crocoseum shows, visit the African savanna, and interact with the animals. The zoo opens at 9am and closes at 5pm.
Australia Zoo is located in Beerwah, about 30 minutes south of Mooloolaba and 45 minutes south of Noosa by car. It is well signposted off the Bruce Highway. Check the Australia Zoo website for current shuttle bus options from local areas.
By sunshinecoast.travel team · Updated Jul 26