Forget crowded zoos – if you want to see kangaroos in Melbourne, here are the places to see them up close! From scenic parks to surprising semi-urban spots, get ready to go on a true Aussie adventure and find these fascinating marsupials.
1. Seawinds Garden, Arthur Seat
Seawinds Gardens, located near Arthur Seat in Mornington, is a serene location that offers visitors the opportunity to see kangaroos in their natural habitat. The gardens are situated on a hilltop, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Port Phillip Bay.
The Eastern Grey Kangaroos can often be spotted grazing in the open grassy areas of the gardens, particularly near the Bay Lookout and Rose Garden. The kangaroos are typically most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these ideal times to visit for the best chance of spotting them.
In addition to kangaroo sightings, Seawinds Gardens offers a variety of walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic lookouts for visitors to enjoy. The gardens are also home to an array of native flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
- Address: Seawinds Garden, Purves Rd, Arthurs Seat VIC 3936
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vnvgMuLSPbao4T3t7
2. Anglesea Golf Course
Located along Victoria’s stunning Great Ocean Road, Anglesea Golf Course is famous for its colony of Eastern Grey kangaroos and beautiful landscape. The course is challenging yet enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.
Source: William Watt/Visit Victoria
Source: William Watt/Visit Victoria
Source: William Watt/Visit Victoria
Source: William Watt/Visit Victoria
Source: William Watt/Visit Victoria
Source: William Watt/Visit Victoria
The club is frequently described as the friendliest golf club on the Great Ocean Road and is home to an abundance of native bird species. With meticulously presented fairways and greens, the course offers a unique golfing experience amidst breathtaking scenery.
- Address: 45 Golf Links Road, Anglesea, Victoria, 3230, Australia
- Fare: $35 per family
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7cUtJ2NKJ4p5aZFn7
3. Ballarat Wildlife Park
Situated on 37 acres of natural bushland, Ballarat Wildlife Park is an interactive wildlife park that allows visitors to get up close and personal with native Australian animals, including kangaroos. The park is family-owned and offers daily animal presentations, access to the park’s souvenir shop, and a café for refreshments.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Visitors can enjoy a comfortable walk around the park’s facilities and engage in unique experiences such as animal encounters and keeper presentations. With over 100 free-roaming kangaroos, more than 35 koalas, wombats, emus, and even Sumatran/Siberian tigers, Ballarat Wildlife Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.
- Address: 250 Fussell St, Ballarat East, Victoria, 3350, Australia
- Fare: Paid (Admission fees apply)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/39n3xgCn7iGzsYYg7
4. Princetown (near the Great Ocean Road)
Princetown is a small town located near the Great Ocean Road, offering visitors the opportunity to spot kangaroos in their natural habitat. The area is known for its mesmerizing ocean views and towering rainforest, making it a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
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Source: Kristian Oosterveen
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After a day of sightseeing on the Great Ocean Road, head to Princetown around dusk for one of the best places to see kangaroos in Victoria. Spend hours admiring the kangaroos and their joeys as they roam around the Gellibrand River flats.
- Address: Princetown, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ukCEKUitseq3gHYDA
5. Gresswell Forest, Greensborough
Gresswell Forest Nature Conservation Reserve is a remnant patch of bushland located in the suburb of Watsonia, in Melbourne’s north-east. The reserve is home to a population of Eastern Grey kangaroos and offers visitors the chance to observe them in their natural environment.
Visitors can access the reserve from various points, including through a gate at the playground on Greenwood Drive. There are several walking trails throughout the reserve, allowing you to explore this precious pocket of wilderness in Melbourne’s north-east.
- Address: Greensborough, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BouR7mkAWkDi5GfR9
6. Lysterfield Park, Dandenong
Lysterfield Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is home to a population of Eastern Grey kangaroos. The park offers various walking and cycling trails, allowing visitors to explore the area and spot kangaroos. The park also features a beautiful lake, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming during the warmer months.
Source: Greenfleet Australia
Source: Greenfleet Australia
Source: Greenfleet Australia
Source: Greenfleet Australia
Source: Greenfleet Australia
Source: Greenfleet Australia
In addition to kangaroos, Lysterfield Park is home to a variety of bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. With its diverse range of recreational activities and opportunities for wildlife sightings, Lysterfield Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
- Address: Lysterfield, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gnJD5ejywrzaVMjz7
7. You Yangs Park, near Little River
You Yangs Park is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The park is home to a population of Eastern Grey kangaroos, which can be spotted along the various trails. The park features over 50 kilometers of tracks, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, offering something for everyone.
The park’s stunning granite peaks provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts. With its diverse range of activities and opportunities for wildlife sightings, You Yangs Park is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
- Address: Little River, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wZqbLLrmG3FxEq8L7
8. Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park
Grampians National Park, also known as Gariwerd, is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can spot Eastern Grey kangaroos while exploring the park’s various walking trails and lookouts. The park is also home to a variety of other native Australian animals, including wallabies, echidnas, and emus.
The Grampians offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and abseiling, as well as opportunities to learn about the region’s Indigenous history and culture. With its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife, the Grampians National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Address: Grampians National Park, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K4uwmhPGGrF8bGct5
9. Wilsons Promontory National Park
Wilsons Promontory National Park, affectionately known as “The Prom,” is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The park is home to a variety of native Australian animals, including Eastern Grey kangaroos, which can be spotted throughout the park’s diverse landscapes.
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
The park offers over 130 kilometers of walking tracks, ranging from short strolls to multi-day hikes, allowing visitors to explore its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rugged mountains. With its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife, Wilsons Promontory National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Address: Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f8HD1HtcYdAcHpZa7
10. Halls Gap Recreation Reserve, Grampians
Located in the heart of the Grampians National Park, Halls Gap Recreation Reserve offers visitors the opportunity to spot Eastern Grey kangaroos while enjoying the park’s various recreational facilities. The reserve features a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for a family outing.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
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Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Halls Gap is also the gateway to the Grampians National Park, with easy access to numerous walking trails, lookouts, and waterfalls. With its picturesque setting and opportunities for wildlife sightings, Halls Gap Recreation Reserve is a must-visit destination for families and nature lovers.
- Address: Halls Gap, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cqkPWUYvSURSxryt8
11. Plenty Gorge Park
Plenty Gorge Park offers a range of recreational activities, including walking, cycling, and birdwatching. Eastern Grey kangaroos can be spotted throughout the park, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park features a variety of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands, providing a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Source: Rob Solic
Source: David O’Keeffe
Source: David O’Keeffe
Source: Philip Mallis
Source: Philip Mallis
Source: Julie McLennan
The park also offers picnic areas and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. With its beautiful scenery and opportunities for wildlife sightings, Plenty Gorge Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
- Address: Plenty, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LpcTSN2Pj3yRcQbt7
12. Westerfolds Park
Westerfolds Park is a popular destination for picnics, walking, and cycling. The park is home to a population of Eastern Grey kangaroos, which can be observed in their natural habitat. The park features a variety of walking and cycling trails, allowing visitors to explore its picturesque landscapes and spot kangaroos along the way.
Source: Ginny Winblad
Source: Ginny Winblad
Source: Ginny Winblad
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Source: Cecilia A
In addition to kangaroos, Westerfolds Park is home to a variety of bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. With its beautiful scenery and opportunities for wildlife sightings, Westerfolds Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and families alike.
- Address: Templestowe, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gb4GbyZo7Z7Mpz4D9
13. Cardinia Reservoir Park
Cardinia Reservoir Park offers visitors the chance to spot Eastern Grey kangaroos while enjoying the park’s various walking trails and picnic areas. The park features a range of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands, providing a diverse range of flora and fauna.
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Source: Sam Posnick
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The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, including birdwatching, fishing, and boating. With its beautiful scenery and opportunities for wildlife sightings, Cardinia Reservoir Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and families.
- Address: Emerald, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/58XFzMKsnZqnbnJv8
14. Woodlands Historic Park
Woodlands Historic Park is home to a population of Eastern Grey kangaroos and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s various walking trails and historic sites. The park features a range of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands, providing a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Source: Russell Scott
Source: Russell Scott
Source: Russell Scott
Source: Russell Scott
Source: Russell Scott
Source: Russell Scott
The park is also home to several historic sites, including the Woodlands Homestead, which dates back to the 1840s. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and opportunities for wildlife sightings, Woodlands Historic Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
- Address: Greenvale, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (Natural habitat)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NJPxZZ8P2YUGjTS9
15. Gisborne Golf Club
Nestled in the Macedon Ranges, Gisborne Golf Club offers an attractive and challenging 18-hole golf course just 45 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. The course is home to a large population of Eastern Grey kangaroos, making it an ideal spot for kangaroo sightings. With well-maintained fairways and greens, the club welcomes green fee players, corporate, and social groups.
The club also features a new driving range and a bar & bistro offering simple meals at affordable prices. The clubhouse has one of the largest function spaces in the Macedon Ranges, making it a great venue for events and gatherings.
- Address: 25 Daly St, Gisborne, Victoria, 3437, Australia
- Fare: Paid (Green fees apply for playing golf)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/46LLcqbbFRRMdJC29
16. Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
The award-winning Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park is located 50 minutes southeast of Melbourne’s CBD. Set within 25 acres of enchanting bushland, the park offers visitors the chance to engage with over 70 Australian species, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and various birds and reptiles.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
The park is dedicated to the conservation of Australia’s unique wildlife and offers a range of experiences, including guided tours, animal encounters, and keeper presentations. With its diverse range of activities and beautiful setting, Moonlit Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Address: 550 Tyabb-Tooradin Rd, Pearcedale, Victoria 3912, Australia
- Fare: Paid (Admission fees apply)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7SPP5Arqqss8Yh5E8
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see kangaroos in Melbourne?
The best time to spot kangaroos in Melbourne is typically around dawn or late afternoon, as they are most active during these times.
Can I see kangaroos within Melbourne city?
While kangaroos are not typically found within the heart of Melbourne city, there are several locations in the surrounding areas where you can spot them, such as Gresswell Forest, Greensborough, Lysterfield Park, Dandenong, and Westerfolds Park.
Are there any guided tours or wildlife parks to see kangaroos in Melbourne?
Yes, there are several wildlife parks and sanctuaries where you can see kangaroos, such as Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park and Ballarat Wildlife Park. Some of these parks offer guided tours and interactive experiences, allowing you to get up close and personal with the kangaroos.
Is it safe to approach wild kangaroos?
It is best to maintain a safe distance from wild kangaroos, as they can be protective of their young. When observing kangaroos in their natural habitat, do so quietly and respectfully to avoid disturbing them.
Can I see other Australian wildlife in these locations?
Many of the locations mentioned in the list are home to a variety of native Australian animals, such as wallabies, koalas, and various bird species. For example, Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park is home to over 70 Australian species.
