
Australia Zoo is a popular tourist destination for visitors to Noosa, with the two locations being around 38 miles apart by road. The quickest way to travel between the two is by car, which takes around 54 minutes, while the cheapest option is by bus, which costs $2-6 and takes 2-4 hours. There are also several tour operators that offer day trips to Australia Zoo from Noosa, which include hotel pick-up and drop-off.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance | 49 miles (78.86 km) |
| Road Distance | 38 miles (61.15 km) to 38.4 miles (61.76 km) |
| Cheapest Travel Option | $2 - $6 |
| Fastest Travel Option | 53-54 minutes |
| Travel Time by Bus | 2 hours 54 minutes to 3 hours 56 minutes |
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What You'll Learn

Travel by bus
The distance between Noosa and Australia Zoo is approximately 60 kilometres, and one of the ways to travel between these two places is by bus. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to travel by bus from Noosa to Australia Zoo:
Step 1: Get to Noosa Heads Bus Station
Make your way to the Noosa Heads Bus Station, which is located on Noosa Drive, just a short distance from the Noosa River. This is the main bus interchange for the Noosa region and will be your starting point for the journey to Australia Zoo.
Step 2: Board the Bus to Maroochydore
From the Noosa Heads Bus Station, you will need to take a bus to Maroochydore. This bus trip takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. You can purchase a ticket onboard or use a pre-purchased ticket or transport card. The bus generally departs from Platform 2 at the bus station, but it's always good to check the timetable and platform information on the day of your travel.
Step 3: Alight at Maroochydore and Change to the Caloundra Bus
Once you arrive at the Maroochydore Bus Station, located on Horton Parade, you will need to change buses. Look for the bus that travels to Caloundra and board that service. This leg of the journey will take around 40 minutes. Again, you can purchase a ticket onboard or use a pre-purchased ticket or transport card.
Step 4: Get off at Beerwah Parade, Close to Australia Zoo
You will need to alight the bus at the stop located on Beerwah Parade, which is the main road that leads to Australia Zoo. From this stop, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to the zoo entrance. Look for the signs pointing you in the right direction.
Additional Information
The total travel time for this journey can vary depending on traffic and connections, but it generally takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours. It is always a good idea to allow some extra time for potential delays and to check the bus timetables in advance to ensure a smooth connection in Maroochydore.
Remember to bring water and snacks for the journey, especially if you are travelling with children, as the trip can be quite long.
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Travel by train
Travelling by train is a convenient and scenic option for getting from Noosa to Australia Zoo. The journey takes you through the beautiful Queensland countryside and offers a relaxed and comfortable way to reach your destination. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you plan your train journey:
Step 1: Getting to the Train Station in Noosa
Noosa does not have its own train station, so you'll need to get to the nearest station, which is in Cooroy. You can either drive to Cooroy station or take a bus. If you're taking the bus, you can catch the 631 or 632 from Noosa Heads or Noosaville, which will take around 30 minutes. These buses typically depart every hour, but it's a good idea to check the timetable in advance to ensure you don't miss your connection.
Step 2: Boarding the Train
From Cooroy, you'll board a train operated by Queensland Rail. The train line you'll be using is the Sunshine Coast Line, and you'll want to take a train heading towards Brisbane. These trains typically depart every hour or two, so there's no need to rush between the bus and train connections. The journey from Cooroy to Nambour, your next stop, takes around 30 minutes.
Step 3: Changing Trains at Nambour
At Nambour station, you'll need to change trains to continue your journey to Australia Zoo. From here, you'll board the Traveltrain, which is a long-distance train service. You'll want to take the Traveltrain heading towards Gympie or Maryborough. These trains usually depart a few times a day, and the journey from Nambour to Landsborough, your final stop, takes about 45 minutes.
Step 4: Arriving at Landsborough and Reaching Australia Zoo
Once you arrive at Landsborough station, you're just a short distance from Australia Zoo. From here, you can take a bus or a taxi to the zoo. The bus journey takes around 20 minutes, and you can catch the 649 or 655 bus from Landsborough station. These buses typically depart every hour, so you won't have to wait long to continue your journey.
Train Travel Tips:
- It's recommended to check the Queensland Rail website for up-to-date timetables and to purchase tickets in advance.
- If you plan to take multiple train journeys during your stay, consider purchasing a Go Card, which offers discounted fares and easy tap-on, tap-off travel.
- The total journey time, including connections, is approximately 2 to 3 hours, so it's a good idea to bring some entertainment or snacks to enjoy along the way.
- The train journey offers beautiful views of the Queensland countryside, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
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Travel by car
Travelling by car from Noosa to Australia Zoo is a straightforward and scenic drive. The distance between the two locations is approximately 85 kilometres, and the drive typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the journey:
As you leave Noosa, join the Noosa Parkway heading south-west. This modern road will take you through some lovely countryside with glimpses of the ocean. After approximately 13 kilometres, the Noosa Parkway joins the Sunshine Motorway. Take the ramp on the left to merge onto the Sunshine Motorway, heading west. This is a convenient highway that will take you directly towards Australia Zoo.
Continue on the Sunshine Motorway for around 45 kilometres. Along the way, you'll pass through (or near) towns such as Sippy Downs, Buderim, and Mooloolaba. The motorway offers a pleasant drive with some nice views of the surrounding suburbs and, at times, the Glass House Mountains in the distance. When you're about 35 kilometres into your journey, keep an eye out for the iconic Australia Zoo signage on the left side of the motorway.
Take the Australia Zoo exit and turn left onto Steve Irwin Way. This road is named after the famous crocodile hunter and zoo owner, Steve Irwin. From here, it's a straightforward 10-kilometre drive southwest to the zoo. You'll pass through a mostly rural area with some light industrial zones. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, especially around dawn and dusk, as they are often spotted in this area.
Finally, you will arrive at Australia Zoo, located at 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah. There is ample parking available, including spaces for caravans and RVs if you're travelling with a larger vehicle. From the car park, you can easily access the zoo's main entrance and begin your wild adventure.
Remember to plan your journey to coincide with the zoo's opening hours, which are typically 9 am to 5 pm daily, and allow enough time for your return trip to Noosa, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed day out.
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Travel by plane
The distance between Noosa and Australia Zoo, located in Beerwah, Queensland, is approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles) if you choose to travel by plane, which is indeed the fastest means of transportation between these two locations. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to travel by plane from Noosa to Australia Zoo:
Private Plane or Charter Flight: One option for travelling by air is to arrange a private plane or charter a flight specifically for this journey. This option can be relatively expensive but offers the advantage of direct point-to-point travel. You can contact local air charter companies or private aviation services to inquire about pricing and availability. When booking, ensure you have flexibility in your travel plans, as flight times may vary depending on weather conditions and aircraft availability.
Commercial Flights: There are no direct commercial flights specifically from Noosa to Australia Zoo; however, you can consider flying into a nearby airport and then arranging ground transportation to the zoo. The Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) is the closest major airport to Noosa, and it offers regular commercial flights. From the airport, Australia Zoo is approximately a 30-minute drive away. Several airlines operate from this airport, providing connections to other major cities in Australia. Alternatively, you can fly into Brisbane Airport (BNE), which offers a wider range of flight options. Brisbane Airport is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Australia Zoo.
Arranging Ground Transportation: When planning your journey by plane, it is important to organise ground transportation in advance. This can include booking a rental car, arranging a taxi or ride-sharing service, or even opting for a shuttle service specifically designed for travellers visiting Australia Zoo. Some shuttle services offer packages that include zoo admission tickets and transportation, providing a convenient and cost-effective option. If you choose to rent a car, you can easily explore the surrounding areas at your own pace and enjoy the flexibility of having your own vehicle.
Flight Times and Planning: When planning your travel by plane, consider the flight times and allow for potential delays or cancellations. It is always advisable to build some flexibility into your itinerary. Aim to arrive at the airport early to account for any check-in or security delays, especially during peak travel seasons. Keep in mind any time differences if you are flying from another state or country. Additionally, ensure you are aware of the operating hours of Australia Zoo, as these may influence your travel plans. The zoo typically opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, last admissions at 3:30 PM, but it is always good to check their website for any updates or changes.
Consider a Return Journey or Extended Stay: Depending on your travel plans and preferences, you may want to consider a return journey by plane or even an extended stay in the area. If you opt for a return flight, ensure you allow sufficient time between your zoo visit and your return flight departure. Alternatively, you could plan a longer trip, exploring Noosa and its surroundings, and include a visit to Australia Zoo as part of your itinerary. This way, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful region of Queensland.
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Tour groups
If you're looking to visit Australia Zoo from Noosa as part of a tour group, there are several options available to you. The distance between Noosa and Australia Zoo is about an hour's drive, and there are several tour companies that can help with transportation and provide a guided experience.
Joel's Journeys
Joel's Journeys is a Noosa-based tour operator offering transfers and tours to Australia Zoo. They provide private transfers directly from your accommodation in Noosa, Coolum, Twin Waters, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, and surrounding areas. The trip includes entry tickets to the zoo and approximately six hours of exploration time. Your host and driver is an experienced tour guide with extensive knowledge of the region and its natural wonders. Joel's Journeys also offers a combined trip that includes a visit to the Glass House Mountains, with lunch included.
SkyDrive Transfers
SkyDrive Transfers offers comfortable and convenient private transfers to Australia Zoo from Noosa and other locations on the Sunshine Coast. Their experienced drivers will pick you up directly from your accommodation and take you to the zoo, ensuring a stress-free journey. Their fleet of premium vehicles can accommodate groups of various sizes, making group transfers easy and enjoyable. SkyDrive Transfers prides itself on providing a top-quality, professional service.
Croc Tours
Croc Tours specialises in small group tours to Australia Zoo, operating seven days a week. They offer a comfortable, safe, and friendly service in luxury, air-conditioned vehicles. The day tour includes a guaranteed six hours at Australia Zoo and a sneak peek at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. They depart daily from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, and bookings can be made online or via phone.
In addition to these dedicated tour groups, Contiki offers tours that include a stop in Noosa on the Sunshine Coast, and you may be able to visit Australia Zoo on a free day during one of these tours.
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Frequently asked questions
The distance between Noosa Heads and Australia Zoo is around 46 to 49 miles. The road distance is approximately 38 miles.
The quickest way to get to Australia Zoo from Noosa Heads is by car, which takes around 53 to 54 minutes. The bus takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes to 3 hours and 56 minutes.
The cheapest way to get to Australia Zoo from Noosa Heads is by bus, which costs around $2 to $6. Driving costs around $7 to $12.
Yes, there are several tour operators that offer transfers and tours from Noosa to Australia Zoo, including Joel's Journeys and Croc Tours. These tours typically include hotel pick-up and drop-off, entry tickets to the zoo, and a guide.
Australia Zoo offers a range of interactive wildlife experiences, such as lounging with kangaroos, cuddling koalas, and watching crocodile feedings. You can also take a peek behind the scenes at the Wildlife Hospital, where vets work to save endangered Australian animals.

















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