The Crocodile Hunter Lodge opens on the Sunshine Coast

News

By Danielle Reckless

On the hunt for a unique escape on the Sunshine Coast? You’re invited to explore the wild side of luxury at newly opened The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, a long-awaited and spectacular hideaway built lovingly by the Irwin family.

A beautiful retreat nestled into the bush beside Australia Zoo, near the iconic ancient peaks of the Glass House Mountains and golden Sunshine Coast beaches, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge is inspired by Steve Irwin’s life, legacy and love for wild places. It’s a place guests are sure to fall in love with, if they like things a little wild and enjoy watching kangaroos and emus play while soaking in The Billabong. That is, a 25-metre infinity pool exclusive for guest use.

The Billabong infinity pool at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge | Crocodile Hunter Lodge Sunshine Coast — Photo: Kate Berry / Australia Zoo

The lodge features eight family-friendly, two-bedroom cabins with spacious decks overlooking the bushland and native wildlife that call it home. The perfect place to unwind in nature after spending the day at Australia Zoo.

Guests receive complimentary daily breakfast, a welcome gift, unlimited entry to Australia Zoo (plus a complimentary shuttle service to take you to and from the zoo), sneak peek entry to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, and onsite fine dining at Warrior Restaurant and Bar. Simply put, a stay here is a whole new way to make your Australia Zoo visit even more unforgettable.

Cabins at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Australia Zoo | Crocodile Hunter Lodge Sunshine Coast — Photo: Kate Berry / Australia Zoo

The opening of the Crocodile Hunter Lodge is the realisation of one of Steve Irwin’s biggest dreams.

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“Steve always had a dream that one day, people would not just visit Australia Zoo, but stay overnight, and have the immersive experience of listening to and being around wildlife after dark. It was so important for us to make his dream come true through the opening of The Crocodile Hunter Lodge. This stunning luxury accommodation is surrounded by our conservation work, providing a home to endemic wildlife species while further continuing Steve’s important legacy.”

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Terri Irwin

Australia Zoo

Steve’s legacy of protecting native species lives on here too.

The Crocodile Hunter Lodge has built a remarkable multi-species habitat for red kangaroos, emus and echidnas, and has also created a home for Australia Zoo’s southern koalas, who were sadly victims of the 2019-2020 summer bushfire season.

But the sustainable initiatives run deeper than the wildlife you’ll find outdoors. The lodge was built using recycled timbers from the previous croc-viewing grandstands at Australia Zoo; over 3,000 native trees and shrubs were planted on the grounds to help native wildlife feed and nest; and eco-friendly initiatives have been implemented throughout the property to minimise its carbon footprint.

This is relaxing and unwinding in nature that feels good inside and out.

Kangaroo outside The Crocodile Hunter Lodge | Crocodile Hunter Lodge Sunshine Coast — Photo: Kate Berry / Australia Zoo

Offering a whole new way to experience the wonder of Australia Zoo, the most interactive wildlife destination on the planet, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge is now open for bookings.

Get planning with this guide to making the most of your day at Australia Zoo.