From Brisbane: Australia Zoo, Mooloolaba Beach & Surf Club Tour with Lunch & Drinks

Spend a full day exploring Australia Zoo and Mooloolaba Beach, with expert-guided stops and local tastings included.

Getting started

Begin your adventure with a convenient hotel pick-up in Brisbane CBD. Meet your guide, who will outline the day’s itinerary before you set off for the Sunshine Coast. Your first stop is Mooloolaba Beach, where you’ll receive a complimentary beach towel and a quick introduction to the area.

What to expect

This curated day trip blends two signature Queensland highlights: the world-renowned Australia Zoo, founded by the Irwin family, and the relaxed seaside town of Mooloolaba, famed for its beach, esplanade, and surf club culture. Enjoy local flavours, wildlife encounters, and free time to soak it all in.

Features

• Mooloolaba Beach, Wharf & Esplanade: Free time at Mooloolaba’s beachfront, with a complimentary towel so you can swim, shop, or simply watch the waves roll in.

• Mooloolaba Surf Club: Step inside a classic Aussie surf club and soak up the laid-back coastal atmosphere, with guaranteed oceanfront dining.

• Local tastings: Sample fresh Mooloolaba prawns and a glass of Queensland XXXX beer, offering a taste of regional specialties.

• Australia Zoo admission: Enjoy five hours at Australia Zoo, a leading wildlife conservation facility founded by the Irwin family.

• Wildlife Warriors show: Watch the famous Wildlife Warriors Show, which highlights conservation efforts and features native species.

• Wildlife Hospital peek: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, where injured animals receive expert care.

• Hotel transfers: Relax with round-trip transport from Brisbane, making your day seamless from start to finish.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Bring sun protection and pack a poncho or rain jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable.

• Carry a refillable water bottle; water fountains are available throughout the zoo.

• You may bring your own food and snacks; picnic areas are available.

• Pack swimwear and a towel for Mooloolaba Beach or the kids’ splash play area (complimentary towel provided, but bring your own swimwear), and a change of clothes for the beach and surf club visit.

• Bring some cash or a card; ATMs and EFTPOS are available, but cash is handy for small purchases.

• Bring any personal medications you may require; basic supplies are available at gift shops.

What’s not allowed

• Glass containers, alcoholic beverages, plastic straws, balloons, balls, frisbees, and kites are not permitted.

• Scooters, bikes, roller-blades, and skateboards are not allowed (except for mobility aids).

• Weapons, drugs, drones, and any items that may harm wildlife are strictly prohibited.

• Feeding animals is only allowed with approved food purchased at the zoo.

• Smoking and vaping are permitted only in designated areas.

Accessibility

• While Australia Zoo is wheelchair accessible with hire options available on-site, please note that the transfer vehicle for this tour is not wheelchair accessible. If you're able to transfer in and out of the vehicle with some assistance, this tour might still be an option for you.

• Wheelchairs are available for hire at Australia Zoo for $35 per day ($30 with a pension discount). A refundable security deposit is required. It is strongly recommended to pre-book by calling +61 7 5436 2000, as stock is limited.

• Mobility scooters are also available for hire at Australia Zoo for $70 per day ($65 with a pension discount). There's a weight limit of 135kg and a minimum age of 18. A refundable security deposit is required, and pre-booking is strongly recommended.

• Australia Zoo offers a free internal shuttle service that is wheelchair accessible. However, mobility scooters are generally not able to be put on the shuttles.

• We strongly recommend contacting the tour operator directly before booking to discuss your specific needs and confirm if they can accommodate you.

Additional information

• Lunch and drinks at the surf club are included; inform the operator of any dietary needs in advance.

• Lockers are available for hire in various sizes for storing belongings.

• First aid is available on-site; contact any staff member if needed.

• Arrive early for popular shows, such as the Wildlife Warriors show, to secure good seats.

• A free internal shuttle service is available to help with long distances within the zoo.

• Bringing your own snacks is encouraged, especially for those with dietary restrictions; halal options are not available on-site.

• Most of the zoo is outdoors; check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

• Arrive at your hotel pick-up point on time for transfers.

• Six hours at the zoo is sufficient to see major exhibits—plan your route using the zoo map provided.

• Pre-book animal encounters or photo sessions to avoid missing out.