Discover the enchanting world of koalas in Melbourne with our guide to the best places to see these adorable marsupials. From serene state parks to captivating coastal towns, Melbourne and its surroundings offer a myriad of locations to witness these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat or at dedicated wildlife sanctuaries. Explore the lush landscapes of Warrandyte State Park, venture along the iconic Great Ocean Road to Kennett River, or immerse yourself in the conservation efforts at Healesville Sanctuary. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Melbourne’s koala hotspots are sure to leave you in awe. So, grab your camera and get ready to be captivated by the charming world of koalas in Melbourne.
1. Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island
The Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island is dedicated to the conservation of koalas and offers visitors the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat. The reserve features two treetop boardwalks, allowing for superb up-close koala viewing, as well as several walking trails through the lush native bushland.
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 also learn more about koalas and their forest habitats through interactive displays in the visitor center and join daily Koala Keeper Talks. The reserve is home to other native wildlife, such as wallabies, echidnas, and colorful native birds, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Address: 1810 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes VIC 3922, Australia
- Fare: Paid (General admission)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nrDnMGLJyJLuyu459
2. Kennett River
Kennett River, situated along the Great Ocean Road, is well-known for its koala population. The Grey River Road, surrounded by a eucalyptus forest, provides an ideal habitat for koalas and is the best place to spot them in this area. In addition to koalas, Kennett River is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Source: Great Ocean Road Tourism
Source: Darren Donlen/Visit Victoria
Source: Darren Donlen/Visit Victoria
Source: Darren Donlen/Visit Victoria
Source: Darren Donlen/Visit Victoria
Source: Great Ocean Road Tourism
The Kennett River Koala Walk offers visitors the chance to see koalas up close in their natural habitat. This short walk is perfect for families and can be easily accessed from the Great Ocean Road. While visiting Kennett River, don’t forget to stop by the local general store for some essentials and hot food.
Kennett River is not only a fantastic place to see koalas but also offers beautiful beaches, bushland, and other wildlife, making it an ideal pit stop along the Great Ocean Road.
- Address: 15 Great Ocean Rd, Kennett River, VIC, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zuF4ecogU2C6ssgn8
3. Healesville Sanctuary
Healesville Sanctuary, located in rural Victoria, is a zoo specializing in native Australian animals and is renowned for its close-up encounters with koalas, kangaroos, and other wildlife. The sanctuary is involved in breeding endangered species, such as the Helmeted Honeyeater, and plays a critical role in saving some of the world’s most endangered animals. It is just a one-hour drive from Melbourne CBD through the stunning Yarra Valley wine region.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Zoos Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Zoos Victoria
Visitors can enjoy the daily Koala Keeper Talk, where they can learn about these adorable creatures and how to protect their forest habitats. The sanctuary also offers a range of animal encounters, including the Koala Experience, where guests can get up close and personal with these sleepy marsupials. In addition to koalas, Healesville Sanctuary is home to a variety of other native animals, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Address: Badger Creek Rd, Healesville VIC 3777, Australia
- Fare: Paid (General admission and additional fees for animal encounters)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wWYEm1mcg2djiR577
4. Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park is a 25-acre biopark located on the Mornington Peninsula near Melbourne, Australia. The park offers visitors the chance to engage with over 70 Australian species, including endangered animals, in an enchanting bushland setting. Visitors can get up close and personal with iconic kangaroos and wallabies, hand-feed them, and even cuddle adorable koalas during the Koala Encounter.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
The sanctuary is an award-winning wildlife park and an easy day trip from Melbourne or a perfect detour if you are visiting Phillip Island or the Mornington Peninsula. In addition to the Koala Encounter, the park offers a range of other animal encounters and tours, allowing visitors to learn more about Australia’s diverse wildlife and the conservation efforts being made to protect them
- Address: 550 Tyabb-Tooradin Rd, Pearcedale VIC 3912, Australia
- Fare: Paid (General admission and additional fees for animal encounters)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uyjQHPkmhahwCoFy6
5. Maru Koala and Animal Park
Maru Koala and Animal Park is a family-owned wildlife park located in Grantville, Victoria, offering visitors the chance to get up close and personal with koalas and other native Australian animals. The park is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned wildlife, providing a safe haven for these animals to recover and thrive.
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 hand-feeding kangaroos and wallabies, patting koalas, and learning about the park’s conservation efforts through informative keeper talks and presentations. The park also features a mini-golf course and a pirate-themed playground, making it a fun day out for the whole family.
Maru Koala and Animal Park is an excellent destination for animal lovers of all ages, offering unique experiences and the chance to learn more about Australia’s native wildlife.
- Address: 1650 Bass Hwy, Grantville VIC 3984, Australia
- Fare: Paid (General admission and additional fees for animal encounters)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GdTACxgnrx9EFMYR6
6. Warrandyte State Park
Warrandyte State Park, located east of Melbourne, is the closest state park to the city and offers a fantastic location for nature lovers. With a variety of nature-based experiences, including hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, and birdwatching, this park is perfect for those seeking some peace and solitude not far from the city. Home to over 120 bird species and various native animals, such as Eastern Grey Kangaroos, Swamp Wallabies, and Short-beaked Echidnas, Warrandyte State Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
Source: Mark Tindale
Source: Eric Zhang
Source: Sinah Niepel
Source: Ian Thomas
Source: Alex Passmore
Source: Lesley A Butler
The park offers several walking trails, such as the moderately challenging Jumping Creek Nature Trail, which takes you along the Yarra River corridor, providing a chance for solitude and beautiful scenery. While exploring the park, you may even come across remnants of the area’s gold mining history, adding an extra layer of intrigue to your visit.
Warrandyte State Park is an excellent destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway, offering a range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Remember to pack a picnic and enjoy the natural beauty of this park, just a stone’s throw away from Melbourne.
- Address: Pound Bend Rd, Warrandyte VIC 3113, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LxUkfUiAPsKUP1d28
7. Wildlife Wonders on the Great Ocean Road
Wildlife Wonders, located along the Great Ocean Road, is a unique wildlife reserve that offers guided tours through a stunning bushland setting. Visitors can see koalas and other native animals, such as kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas, in their natural habitat while learning about the region’s diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Wildlife Wonders/Visit Victoria
Source: Wildlife Wonders/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
The guided tours are led by experienced conservationists who share their knowledge and passion for Australia’s native wildlife, ensuring an informative and engaging experience for all ages. Wildlife Wonders is not only a fantastic place to see koalas but also offers breathtaking views of the Great Ocean Road and the surrounding landscape.
- Address: 29 Grey River Rd, Apollo Bay VIC 3233, Australia
- Fare: Paid (General admission)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9gbNttjxEVVnGLiV8
8. Lorne and Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road
Lorne and Apollo Bay are two picturesque coastal towns located along the Great Ocean Road, known for their koala populations. These towns offer beautiful beaches, lush bushland, and a variety of wildlife, making them ideal spots for koala sightings.
Visitors can explore the surrounding areas, such as the Great Otway National Park, where koalas can often be spotted in the eucalyptus forests. In addition to koalas, Lorne and Apollo Bay are home to a variety of bird species, making them great spots for birdwatching. These towns are perfect for a relaxing getaway, offering a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and activities for visitors to enjoy.
- Address: Lorne and Apollo Bay, Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3xGpgQKpzz7ZC3C69
9. Raymond Island Koala Trail
Raymond Island, located three to four hours from Melbourne, is home to over 200 koalas and offers visitors the chance to spot these animals in their natural habitat. The Raymond Island Koala Trail is a 1.2-mile circular trek that begins in a town and ends in a forest, providing ample opportunities for koala sightings.
Source: Darren Donlen/Visit Victoria
Source: Darren Donlen/Visit Victoria
Source: Everyday Nicky/Destination Gippsland
Source: Everyday Nicky/Destination Gippsland
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
In addition to koalas, Raymond Island is home to other native wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species. The island is easily accessible by a short ferry ride from the town of Paynesville, making it a great day trip or weekend getaway for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Address: Raymond Island, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (excluding ferry fare)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ztvMX8PfD9AEZQGY8
10. Cape Otway Lightstation
Cape Otway Lightstation, located along the Great Ocean Road, is Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline. In addition to its historical significance, the area is home to a large koala population, making it a great spot for koala sightings. The surrounding eucalyptus forests provide an ideal habitat for these adorable marsupials.
Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its grounds, learn about the area’s maritime history, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean. The Cape Otway Lightstation is not only a fantastic place to see koalas but also offers a unique insight into Australia’s history and the rugged beauty of the Great Ocean Road.
- Address: Otway Lighthouse Rd, Cape Otway VIC 3233, Australia
- Fare: Paid (General admission)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hq2nnfT4stiiTiYu6
11. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, located in southwestern Victoria, offers visitors the opportunity to see koalas and other native wildlife in their natural habitat. The reserve is situated within an extinct volcanic crater and features a variety of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and spot wildlife.
In addition to koalas, Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is home to kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and a variety of bird species. The reserve also offers guided tours led by experienced guides, providing an informative and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
- Address: 105 Lake View Rd, Tower Hill VIC 3283, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/w4Q1XowcrbKvaQ9y5
12. French Island National Park
French Island National Park, located in Western Port Bay, is home to a thriving koala population and offers visitors the chance to observe these animals in their natural habitat. The park is accessible by ferry from Stony Point and features a variety of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the island’s diverse landscapes and spot wildlife.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
In addition to koalas, French Island National Park is home to other native wildlife, such as echidnas, wallabies, and a variety of bird species. The park offers a unique and remote experience, with limited facilities and no shops or cafes, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a true wilderness adventure.
- Address: French Island, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free (excluding ferry fare)
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GxgpHMbEX6Hriyeq6
13. Werribee Gorge State Park
Werribee Gorge State Park, located west of Melbourne, offers a variety of nature-based experiences, including hiking, rock climbing, and birdwatching. The park is home to various native animals, including koalas, and features a range of walking trails that allow visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and spot wildlife.
Source: Russell Scott
Source: Christine Ellsay
Source: Russell Scott
Source: Michael Williams II
Source: Russell Scott
Source: Russell Scott
The park’s most popular trail, the Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk, takes visitors through the stunning gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and river. In addition to koalas, Werribee Gorge State Park is home to kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Address: Myers Rd, Ballan VIC 3342, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iXrHz5dG7aSUZRg39
14. Budj Bim National Park
Budj Bim National Park, located in southwestern Victoria, is known for its koala population and offers visitors the opportunity to spot these animals in their natural habitat. The park is also home to a variety of other native wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, and a range of bird species.
In addition to its wildlife, Budj Bim National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its ancient Aboriginal aquaculture systems and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the park’s walking trails, learn about its rich history, and enjoy the stunning landscapes and wildlife that the park has to offer.
- Address: Macarthurs Rd, Macarthur VIC 3286, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3MmTXgsGgs3VrV8p9
15. River Murray
The River Murray area, located in southeastern Australia, is home to a koala population and offers visitors the chance to observe these animals in their natural habitat. The river and its surrounding areas provide a variety of recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, and birdwatching.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Nadir sYzYgY
Source: Visit Swan Hill
Source: Edward Wilson
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Visitors can explore the riverbanks and surrounding bushland, where they may spot koalas resting in the eucalyptus trees. In addition to koalas, the River Murray area is home to a variety of other native wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, and a range of bird species, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Address: River Murray, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/A4Ee8uf7kA7LJDmF7
16. You Yangs Regional Park
You Yangs Regional Park, located southwest of Melbourne, offers a variety of nature-based experiences, including hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. The park is home to various native animals, including koalas, and features a range of walking trails that allow visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and spot wildlife.
The park’s most popular trail, the Big Rock Walk, takes visitors to the summit of Flinders Peak, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. In addition to koalas, You Yangs Regional Park is home to kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Address: Branch Rd, Little River VIC 3211, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sZPuBQ3xc77iWY557
17. Serendip Sanctuary
Serendip Sanctuary, located near Geelong, offers a variety of nature-based experiences, including hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. The sanctuary is home to various native animals, including koalas, and features a range of walking trails that allow visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and spot wildlife.
Source: Vicki G2011
Source: Fabiana Rizzi
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Source: Craig Garrett
Source: Dan
Source: Anthony Ang
The park’s most popular trail, the Wildlife Walk, takes visitors through the park’s wetlands and woodlands, offering the chance to spot a variety of bird species and other native animals, such as kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas. Serendip Sanctuary is an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families looking for a fun day out in nature.
- Address: 100 Windermere Rd, Lara VIC 3212, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bCzNeevR5cDGqU4q8
18. Great Otway National Park
Great Otway National Park, located along the Great Ocean Road, is known for its koala population and offers visitors the opportunity to spot these animals in their natural habitat. The park is also home to a variety of other native wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, and a range of bird species.
Visitors can explore the park’s walking trails, such as the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, which takes you through a lush rainforest filled with ancient tree ferns and towering eucalyptus trees. In addition to koalas, Great Otway National Park offers stunning waterfalls, rugged coastline, and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
- Address: Great Otway National Park, Victoria, Australia
- Fare: Free
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ui9ro2P8HjTRcAqy7
Best Places to See Koalas in Melbourne at a Glance
Our list of best places to see koalas in Melbourne goes like this:
- The best place to see koalas near Melbourne: Warrandyte State Park
- The best place to see koalas along the Great Ocean Road: Kennett River
- The best wildlife sanctuary for koalas: Healesville Sanctuary
- The best conservation park for koalas: Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
- The best koala reserve on Phillip Island: Koala Conservation Reserve
Discover these fantastic locations and more in our comprehensive guide to the best places to see koalas in Melbourne and its surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see koalas in their natural habitat near Melbourne?
Warrandyte State Park and Kennett River along the Great Ocean Road are great places to see koalas in their natural habitat near Melbourne.
Which wildlife sanctuaries near Melbourne are best for koala encounters?
Healesville Sanctuary and Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park are excellent wildlife sanctuaries near Melbourne for koala encounters.
Can I hold a koala in Melbourne?
It is not allowed to hold koalas in Victoria, but you can have a photo taken with one at Ballarat Wildlife Park, Moonlit Sanctuary, or Healesville Sanctuary.
Are there any guided tours to see koalas near Melbourne?
Yes, there are guided tours available to see koalas near Melbourne, such as Wildlife Wonders on the Great Ocean Road, which is led by experienced conservationists.
How far are these koala hotspots from Melbourne’s city center?
Many of these koala hotspots are within a 1-4 hour drive from Melbourne’s city center, making them ideal for day trips or weekend getaways.
