City offers plenty of opportunities to experience Australia’s diverse wildlife and landscapes. Whether you're cuddling a koala at Lone Pine, exploring the Scenic Rim, or taking a river cruise, Brisbane is the perfect destination for outdoor adventurers and animal lovers.
1. Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is one of Brisbane’s top attractions and the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary. Here, visitors can get up close to some of Australia’s most iconic animals, including koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and emus. The sanctuary also offers opportunities to hand-feed kangaroos and learn about native wildlife conservation.
2. Explore Brisbane’s Botanic Gardens
Brisbane is home to beautiful botanic gardens that offer a peaceful escape from the city. The City Botanic Gardens, located along the Brisbane River, feature lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic spots. For a more immersive experience, head to the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, where you can explore themed gardens, a tropical rainforest dome, and panoramic views from the summit lookout.
3. Take a Cruise on the Brisbane River
A river cruise is one of the best ways to see Brisbane’s skyline and natural surroundings. There are multiple options, including guided sightseeing tours, sunset cruises, and wildlife river safaris. For a unique experience, take a trip to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary by boat and enjoy the scenic journey along the river.
4. Discover Moreton Island and Tangalooma
Just a short ferry ride from Brisbane, Moreton Island is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and abundant marine life. Visitors can go snorkeling around the Tangalooma Wrecks, hand-feed wild dolphins at sunset, or explore the island’s sand dunes on a 4WD tour.
5. Hike in the Scenic Rim
Located just outside Brisbane, the Scenic Rim is a breathtaking region filled with mountains, rainforests, and waterfalls. This area is perfect for hiking, with popular trails such as the Mount Barney Summit Walk, the Rainforest Circuit at Lamington National Park, and the Cunninghams Gap lookout. The region is also home to several eco-lodges and farm stays, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature.
6. Visit North Stradbroke Island
North Stradbroke Island, or “Straddie” as the locals call it, is one of the best places near Brisbane to spot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. The island’s main attraction is the North Gorge Walk, a stunning coastal trail with sweeping ocean views. Stradbroke Island is also known for its relaxed beach culture, making it an ideal spot for swimming, fishing, and surfing.
7. Walk or Cycle Along the Brisbane Riverwalk
The Brisbane Riverwalk is a scenic pedestrian and cycling path that runs along the river, offering stunning views of the city. It is a great way to explore Brisbane’s waterfront, connecting key attractions such as the Story Bridge, Howard Smith Wharves, and South Bank Parklands.
8. Visit South Bank Parklands
South Bank is Brisbane’s cultural and recreational hub, featuring lush gardens, walking trails, and the iconic Streets Beach—a man-made lagoon perfect for swimming on a warm day. The parklands also host free outdoor events, markets, and live performances, making it a lively spot for visitors of all ages.
9. Explore D’Aguilar National Park
Just a short drive from Brisbane, D’Aguilar National Park offers stunning bushland, lookouts, and waterfalls. Popular activities include bushwalking, birdwatching, and picnicking in the scenic Enoggera Reservoir. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including wallabies, koalas, and various bird species.
10. Take a Sunset View from Mount Coot-tha Lookout
For the best panoramic view of Brisbane, head to Mount Coot-tha Lookout. This popular spot offers breathtaking sunset views over the city skyline and the surrounding countryside. There are several walking trails leading to the summit, or visitors can drive up and enjoy a meal at the summit café.
