As the gateway to Australia’s Sunshine Coast and only an hour’s drive from Brisbane, this town is an excellent getaway for travelers. Families will love the close proximity to the Australian Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter, as well as the Big Kart Track, Australia’s largest go-kart track. Also a family favorite is Aussie World, a diverse theme park where you can ride the second largest ferris wheel in the Southern Hemisphere. The park is also home to the Ettamogah Pub, a recreation of the pub from the Ken Maynard cartoon series. Visitors are drawn to the pub’s caricature architectural style. Aussie World also boasts the Sunshine Coast’s largest collection of Aboriginal art and artifacts. Another excellent stop is the Queensland Air Museum, where guests can explore the history of aircraft back to World War II.
Caloundra is also an wonderful place to enjoy Australia’s beautiful great outdoors. Pumicestone Passage Marine Park is full of mangroves and sea grasses, and is home to more than 350 species of birds. Local tour guides offer boat cruises in the area, or you can kayak or even walk along the coastal beach trail. The Glass House Mountains are also nearby, and can be enjoyed by taking a scenic tourist drive. The Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is a forty hectare area of protected land that is home to many different species of wildlife. Guided tours are available and it is also a popular picnic and barbecue spot.
Dining is an experience in Caloundra and there is cuisine to suit everyone’s taste. The Velvet Waters restaurant is similar to a Hard Rock Café, and also is home to the Walk of Stars, a tribute to Australian musicians. The walk extends to the top of the hill and includes commemorative plaques.
Located on the Australia’s Sunshine Coast, only an hour’s drive from Brisbane, the Australia Zoo is a favorite destination with families and fans of the Crocodile Hunter television program. The Zoo has remained in operation since Irwin’s death, and continues to draw people from all over the world. The zoo offers something for everyone, and to many visitors’ surprise, is not just a home for crocodiles. The zoo has several large cats, including five tigers, elephants, kangaroos, and many other furry critters.
Since there is so much to see and do, it is advisable to plan your day ahead of time. Take a look at the show times posted on the website to determine what you want to see. You might also consider signing up for one of the many guided tours, or even the Platinum Adventure, which includes VIP treatment and behind-the-scenes interaction with the animals and their handlers. The Animal Encounters program allows visitors to get up close and personal with their favorite animals, including tigers, dingoes, tortoises, wombats and more. Be sure to book ahead. The zoo is also home to many events throughout the year including music festivals and Halloween celebrations, which is another great reason for carefully planning your visit.
The main areas to visit are the Tiger Temple and the Crocoseum, a 5000 seat arena where most of the zoo’s shows, including the crocodile feedings, take place. Steve and Terri’s daughter, Bindi, also performs here in shows that are very popular with the younger crowd. Many visitors also enjoy the daily elephant feedings and feeding the kangaroos. Children may feel especially comfortable at the Kids Zoo, where baby animals are housed and fed. The zoo’s amenities include a food court and several restaurants, however they also encourage guests to bring their own lunch and picnic in the park.
