Australia is renowned for its unique wildlife, and Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, is the perfect starting point for spotting some of the country’s most iconic animals. Among the most beloved of Australia’s creatures are koalas and kangaroos. While these animals are frequently spotted in zoos and wildlife parks, there are also several places near Brisbane where you can see them in their natural habitats. Whether you’re keen on wildlife photography or simply looking for a nature-filled day out, here are some of the best spots near Brisbane to see wild koalas and kangaroos.

1. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: An Iconic Spot for Koalas

Although Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is not located in the wild, it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to get up close to koalas. It is one of the largest and most reputable koala sanctuaries in Australia, and it’s just a short drive from Brisbane, located about 12 kilometers south of the city center.

Why Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?

At Lone Pine, you can hand-feed kangaroos, interact with native wildlife, and most importantly, see koalas in a natural, serene environment. Though not technically “wild,” the sanctuary offers an immersive experience where you can get up close and personal with these adorable marsupials. There are plenty of opportunities to cuddle a koala and take a memorable photo while learning about their natural habitat and conservation efforts.

What Else Can You See?

In addition to koalas, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to many other Australian animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, platypuses, echidnas, and various bird species. The sanctuary’s large kangaroo enclosures allow visitors to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies in a relaxed, open environment.

Best Time to Visit

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is open every day, and while koalas can be seen year-round, the cooler months from April to September are generally more comfortable for outdoor activities.

2. North Stradbroke Island: Koalas in the Wild

North Stradbroke Island (also known as Straddie) is an idyllic spot off Brisbane’s coast, about 30 kilometers from the city, and offers one of the best opportunities to see wild koalas in their natural habitat. The island is home to large koala populations, particularly around the Dunwich and Amity Point areas.

Why Visit North Stradbroke Island?

Stradbroke Island offers a great mix of coastal beauty, nature reserves, and wildlife encounters. The island is home to more than 100 koalas, and sightings are common in areas like the bushland of the island’s national parks. The koalas here live freely in the wild and can often be spotted resting in the trees, particularly around the forested areas along the beaches.

Best Places to Spot Koalas on Stradbroke Island

• Moulin Rouge Lookout and the Amity Point Bushland Reserve: These are excellent spots to see koalas in their natural environment.
• Dunwich: The area surrounding Dunwich offers opportunities to spot koalas, particularly along the walking trails and in the eucalyptus trees.
• North Stradbroke Island National Park: With its expansive bushland and coastal tracks, this park is home to a variety of wildlife, including koalas.

Best Time to Visit

Koalas can be spotted year-round, but it’s best to visit in the cooler months (April to September), when koalas are more active. The warmer months can make wildlife harder to spot as they tend to rest more.

3. Springbrook National Park: A Koala and Kangaroo Haven

Located approximately 100 kilometers south of Brisbane, Springbrook National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area famous for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. While koalas are more commonly spotted in certain areas of Queensland, the forested landscape of Springbrook offers an opportunity to see them in a beautiful, untouched setting.

Why Visit Springbrook National Park?

Springbrook is home to a variety of native wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and an array of birdlife. While it’s less likely to see koalas in large numbers compared to other places, the park’s forested areas, especially along the walking tracks, are where you might get a glimpse of these sleepy creatures nestled in the treetops.

Kangaroos in Springbrook

Though koalas are a bit rarer here, kangaroos and wallabies are frequently seen in the park’s expansive grasslands. Eastern grey kangaroos, in particular, are commonly found grazing in the early morning or late afternoon, so early risers or sunset visitors have the best chance of spotting them.

Best Time to Visit

The cooler months from April to October are ideal for spotting wildlife, as the temperatures are more pleasant for outdoor activities. Springbrook National Park’s diverse trails also offer scenic views, so any time of year is perfect for hiking.

4. Mt. Coot-tha: Brisbane’s Local Wildlife Spot

For those looking to see koalas and kangaroos without leaving Brisbane, Mt. Coot-tha is the place to go. Located just 15 minutes from the city center, this popular park offers a range of trails, lookouts, and lush forests, making it a great location for wildlife enthusiasts.

Why Visit Mt. Coot-tha?

Mt. Coot-tha is home to a range of native Australian animals, including koalas and kangaroos. While kangaroo sightings are rare, the park’s natural bushland is a haven for koalas. Koalas are commonly spotted during the day resting in the eucalyptus trees, particularly in the areas around the Mt. Coot-tha Botanic Gardens and the Mt. Coot-tha Lookout.

Best Time to Visit

Koalas are typically active during the cooler hours, so early mornings and late afternoons offer the best chances for sightings. The Botanic Gardens are also a beautiful spot to visit year-round, with spring and autumn offering especially pleasant weather for nature walks.

5. Moreton Island: Kangaroos and Koalas in the Wild

Moreton Island, located just off Brisbane’s coast, is not only famous for its sandy beaches and stunning wrecks but also for its abundant wildlife, including wild kangaroos and the occasional koala.

Why Visit Moreton Island?

While Moreton Island is best known for its pristine beaches and adventure activities like sand tobogganing and snorkeling, it also offers a chance to see kangaroos in the wild. The island’s natural bushland is home to large populations of eastern grey kangaroos, particularly around the inland areas.

Best Spots to See Kangaroos

• The Tangalooma Wrecks: While you can’t see koalas here, the Tangalooma Wrecks offer a great opportunity to spot kangaroos grazing along the island’s grassy areas.
• Moreton Island National Park: The national park offers opportunities for wildlife encounters, including kangaroos.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Moreton Island for wildlife spotting is during the cooler months (April to October), as the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities. Summer can be hot, but it’s still an excellent time for beach activities and wildlife viewing.

6. Cooroy and Noosa National Park: Kangaroos and Koalas in the Hinterland

For those willing to venture a little farther out of Brisbane, Cooroy and Noosa National Park (located on the Sunshine Coast) offer excellent opportunities to see kangaroos and koalas in their natural habitats. About 1.5 hours from Brisbane, this coastal hinterland is home to abundant wildlife.

Why Visit Cooroy and Noosa National Park?

Noosa National Park is famous for its koalas, especially along the coastal walking tracks that wind through the park’s forests. Kangaroos are more commonly found in the inland areas around Cooroy, where they graze in the open fields, particularly at dawn or dusk.

Best Time to Visit

The cooler months of April to October are ideal for wildlife viewing in this region, with early morning and late afternoon being the best times to spot both koalas and kangaroos.

Conclusion: A Wild Adventure Near Brisbane

Brisbane is perfectly positioned to offer a variety of wildlife experiences, with opportunities to see koalas and kangaroos in both wild and semi-wild settings. Whether you visit iconic sanctuaries like Lone Pine or embark on a trip to Moreton Island or the lush rainforests of Springbrook, there are plenty of places near Brisbane where you can enjoy encounters with these iconic Australian animals. With these incredible wildlife spots just a short drive away, it’s easy to add a bit of adventure and wildlife exploration to your next trip in and around Brisbane.