Australia Zoo

Last updated February 2026

Australia Zoo is a large private wildlife facility located at Beerwah on the Sunshine Coast, approximately 80 kilometres north of Brisbane, and was founded by Steve and Terri Irwin. The zoo has grown substantially since its founding and now covers more than 100 acres, housing a collection of more than 1,200 animals across 400 species including crocodiles, tigers, cheetahs, koalas, wombats, elephants, and a wide range of native Australian wildlife. The Crocoseum is the zoo's signature experience — a large stadium-style arena where crocodile feeding and wildlife demonstrations take place several times daily. The zoo maintains a strong connection to the Irwin family brand, with family members involved in the facility's operations and its conservation media output. It is one of the largest tourist attractions in Queensland and the most visited wildlife facility on the Sunshine Coast. **What to Bring** Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable closed-toe shoes are essential given the outdoor scale of the park and Queensland's UV intensity. Bringing a packed lunch is practical; the zoo has food outlets but most families prefer to reduce on-site costs given the full-day nature of the visit. A camera for the Crocoseum shows and wildlife encounters is worthwhile. **Best Age Range** Australia Zoo works well from around 3 years and up. The Crocoseum show is engaging across a wide age range, including very young children drawn by the spectacle. Children aged 5–12 tend to get the most from the keeper talks, the native animal sections, and the broader scope of the zoo. The tigers, elephants, and cheetahs are consistent highlights across all age groups. **Good to Know** The Crocoseum shows run at scheduled times — checking the schedule at entry and treating it as the anchor point of the day is recommended. The zoo is a full-day destination and most families spend 5–8 hours on site. Entry is considerably cheaper when booked online. The zoo operates its own shuttle from Beerwah train station for visitors arriving by public transport from Brisbane. **Nearby** Beerwah is a small town with limited dining beyond the immediate highway area; the zoo itself has the most practical food options for families on site. Glass House Mountains National Park is approximately 15 minutes by car and adds a scenic outdoor element for families extending the Sunshine Coast trip. **Tips From Other Parents** The Crocoseum show is considered non-negotiable by most families who visit — timing the day's activities around it ensures it is not missed. The zoo's scale means comfortable walking shoes make a meaningful difference across a full day. Visitors coming from Brisbane by train using the zoo shuttle report it as a practical and affordable option that avoids the stress of parking.