Eight Australian spots to meet native wildlife up-close

Australia is renowned for its exceptional and diverse wildlife, offering numerous opportunities for captivating animal encounters in their natural habitats. Explore the best places across the continent to witness native wildlife up close.

Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangaroo Island is located 13km off the coast of South Australia. Known for its abundant and diverse wildlife, Kangaroo Island stands as a sanctuary for a wide range of endemic animals. Within the confines of Flinders Chase National Park, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the island while encountering iconic Australian species such as kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. When visiting Kangaroo Island, guests can expect five-star luxury hotels, off-grid cabins, camping, and glamping. For a more indulgent experience, there are options such as Stowaway or Sea Dragon Lodge, which offer privacy and a connection with nature. See our Kangaroo Island guide here.

Cradle Mountain National Park, Tasmania

A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, Cradle Mountain National Park in Tasmania provides a unique chance to spot animals like wombats, echidnas, and the elusive Tasmanian devils in their undisturbed natural habitat. Set amongst some of Australia’s most scenic views, accommodation ranges from luxury lodges to cozy cabins and hotels. The Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village offers private self-contained cabins with a modern flair, while the Cradle Mountain Hotel provides a stylish hotel experience suspended over Australia’s deepest lake. Check out our guide to Cradle Mountain and surrounds here.

Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

One of Australia’s most remarkable natural gifts, the Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. The reef contains an abundance of marine life such as whales, sharks, turtles, dolphins and comprises of over 3000 individual reef systems. While the Great Barrier Reef is renowned for its stunning marine life, the surrounding islands offer an unexpected twist with opportunities to encounter unique land-dwelling animals. From koalas to wallabies and various bird species, the Great Barrier Reef is the quintessential Australian wildlife experience. To start exploring the Reef, visitors can stay in nearby Cairns, or make their experience more luxurious by choosing from many premium accommodation options in the Whitsunday Islands such as the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort or the Qualia Resort. Read more about places to eat, stay and explore near the Great Barrier Reef in our guide.

Quokka

Rottnest Island’s Quokka

Rottnest Island, Western Australia

Rottnest Island is a stunning and unique holiday destination just off the Perth coast. Famous for its laid back atmosphere, crystal clear beaches and who can forget home to the adorable quokka! Rottnest Island offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to observe and even capture selfies with these amicable marsupials. Rottnest Island is surrounded by coral reefs and historic shipwrecks, making the snorkelling and diving out of this world! While many opt for a day trip by ferry, there’s accommodation available for those seeking an extended stay. Places like the Samphire Rottnest and the Discovery Resort offer beautiful accomodation, allowing you to soak in the island’s beauty and mingle with its native wildlife. Plan your unforgettable trip today to explore unspoiled beaches, encounter unique wildlife, and embark on endless adventures. See our Rottnest Island guide here

Daintree Rainforest, Queensland

The Daintree Rainforest, situated in North Queensland, is the oldest rainforest in the world. An ancient ecosystem brimming with a diverse array of wildlife, the forest spans more than 1,200 kilometres and is home to many animal and plant species not found anywhere else in the world. Within this lush area, animals like cassowaries, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species thrive. Exploring the depths of the Daintree Rainforest may reward you with a glimpse of the elusive Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos, showcasing the astounding biodiversity of this unique environment. The Daintree Rainforest is a popular day trip from Cairns and Port Douglas, otherwise accommodation is available nearby such as the Daintree Ecolodge. These treetop ‘banyans’ seamlessly blend into the rainforest canopy, allowing visitors an unparalleled and intimate connection to this ancient world. Check out our guide to Daintree Rainforest and surrounds for more!

Heron Island, Queensland

Heron Island, a coral cay, located 80 kilometres North-East of Queensland is known for its stunning coral reef and as a sanctuary for an extraordinary variety of marine life. This natural coral cay provides a genuine eco-experience and the unique opportunity to witness the magic of the world’s largest coral reef. Immerse yourself in the underwater world with sightings of turtles, rays, and myriad of fish species. Beyond the vibrant aquatic life, Heron Island is a sought-after nesting site for seabirds, providing a unique blend of marine and avian experiences. Visitors seeking a stay can enjoy the comforts of the Heron Island Resort, offering luxurious amenities along with a variety of marine and eco-friendly activities. See our Heron Island guide here.

Lucky Bay

Lucky Bay

Lucky Bay, Western Australia

Lucky Bay Beach was named No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Beaches list! This stunning beach on the south coast of WA in the Cape Le Grand National Park is an eight hours drive from Perth, however it is so worth it! Not just a picturesque beach with stunning white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, Lucky Bay in Western Australia is also home to an iconic sight—kangaroos leisurely lounging on the shore. Witness these unique encounters with Australia’s beloved animals in a coastal setting like no other. To start exploring Lucky Bay, visitors can stay in the closest coastal town of Esperance, in numerous accommodation types including holiday parks, resorts and apartments. Read more about places to eat, stay and explorenear Lucky Bay in our guide.

Freycinet and Maria Island National Parks, Tasmania

Freycinet is known as Tasmania’s oldest National Park, and offers breathtaking views of the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s east coast. The park boasts dramatic pink granite peaks, secluded bays, white sandy beaches and abundant wildlife. Walks lead to bays and beaches, while the waters beckon for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. Freycinet and Maria Island National Parks are renowned for their diverse wildlife, including the infamous Tasmanian devils, pademelons, and a variety of bird species. Maria Island, in particular, stands as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, providing unique opportunities to witness wombats, kangaroos, and wallabies in their natural habitat. Accommodation options near Freycinet and Maria Island National Park offer an immersive experience within Tasmania’s natural wonders. From cozy cabins to luxury eco-lodges and resorts, visitors can find comfortable stays catering to various preferences. Additionally, campgrounds nestled in scenic settings provide an opportunity to truly connect with the park’s breathtaking landscape. See our Freycinet and Maria Island National Parks guide and surrounds [here]