Sunshine Coast Region

Wildlife and Nature in Sunshine Coast

Explore the Sunshine Coast's diverse natural landscapes, from the 700-acre Australia Zoo in Beerwah to the ancient rainforests of the hinterland. This collection features notable cascades including the 90-meter drop of Kondalilla Falls and the swimming holes of Gardners Falls. Significant conservation areas like the 55-hectare Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve offer views of the Glass House Mountains, while coastal spots like La Balsa Park provide access to the Mooloolah River and local walking tracks.

Wildlife & Nature — Map

Kaus / Public domain

A

Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo is a 700-acre zoo in the Australian state of Queensland on the Sunshine Coast near Beerwah/Glass House Mountains.

B

Kondalilla Falls

Located within Kondalilla National Park, these falls feature a 90-meter drop into a rainforest valley. A 4.7-kilometer circuit track leads to a deep rock pool at the top of the falls.

C

Booloumba Falls

Situated in Conondale National Park, these falls feature a series of cascades and a deep turquoise swimming hole reachable via a 3-kilometer return walking track.

D

Gardners Falls

A short walk from Maleny leads to these falls on the Obi Obi Creek. The area includes several shallow rock pools and a deeper swimming hole with rope swings.

E

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

This 55-hectare remnant of subtropical rainforest overlooks the Glass House Mountains. It includes a discovery center and a 1.7-kilometer looped boardwalk through ancient canopy trees.

F

Peters Falls

A remote waterfall located within the Conondale National Park near Booloumba Creek, accessible via hiking trails.

G

Serenity Falls

Located in Buderim Forest Park, these falls are reached via a boardwalk and forest trail. A high arch bridge spans the top of the falls, providing views of the pool below.

H

Baxter falls

Part of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk near Flaxton, these falls are accessible via a track that includes a suspension bridge crossing Baxter Creek.

I

Gheerulla Falls

Located in Mapleton National Park, these falls are a key stop on the Gheerulla Valley section of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk.

J

Wappa Falls

Found near Wappa Dam, these falls consist of rocky cascades and a large swimming hole surrounded by native bushland.

K

La Balsa Park

A riverside park in Buddina along the Mooloolah River, featuring picnic facilities, a boat ramp, and access to the Point Cartwright walking track.

L

Vandrieke Park

A local park in Maleny situated near the banks of the Obi Obi Creek, offering open green space and picnic areas.

M

Russell Family Park

Located in Montville, this park features large grassy slopes, lily-filled lagoons, a nature-themed playground, and walking paths through restored rainforest.

N

Buderim Village District Park

A 3.4-hectare park on the site of a former nursery, offering expansive panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast coastline and large open lawns.

Other Lists

Sunshine Coast Essentials Sunshine Coast Highlights Coastal Wonders Hinterland Peaks & Lookouts