We stayed: The Crocodile Hunter Lodge Review

What’s the deal?

As you pull up to The Crocodile Hunter Lodge  on Queensland’s glorious Sunshine Coast, any preconceptions you may have about zoo-associated accommodation are forgotten. Nestled among natural bushland beside the world-famous Australia Zoo, the lodge immerses guests in the region’s native wildlife – beginning with the charming sight of kangaroos welcoming you on arrival. 

Built to fulfil the vision of the late conservationist and former Australia Zoo owner Steve Irwin, this sustainability-driven lodge offers a unique overnight experience during which guests can connect deeply with nature. Cabins are built from timbers salvaged from the original viewing grandstands of Irwin’s famed “Crocoseum”, while native trees and carefully placed nest boxes create thriving wildlife corridors. Thoughtful operations extend to cruelty‑free, vegan‑friendly amenities, bamboo essentials, refillable bottles and the use of E‑water (electrolysed water – a sustainable alternative to chemicals) for cleaning, ensuring every stay reflects both comfort and a profound respect for the environment. 

A variety of one- and two-bedroom family-friendly cabins are available, as well as several newly opened two-storey cabins which overlook a natural pond filled with crocs and turtles. The best vantage point? Your private hot tub, of course. All cabins are kitted out with modern kitchens and luxurious amenities such as Dyson hairdryers, and guests have access to the lodge’s 25m swimming pool and award-winning restaurant, Warrior. You’ll also have the chance to meet critters such as snakes, emus and red kangaroos around the lodge – but the main attraction is your complimentary entry to Australia Zoo and The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. 

Why stay? 

In short: for a family adventure you’ll remember for years to come. Watching your children interact with animals and learn about Australia’s unique environment in such a magnificent setting means every moment is enriching – for all generations. Enjoy slow mornings in the comfort of your cabin, fuel up with breakfast at Warrior, then hop onto the complimentary shuttle bus for unforgettable encounters at the zoo, where conservation and education come alive. 

My family and I stayed in the new Crocodile Cabin, where floor‑to‑ceiling windows framed an incredible vista of turtles gliding through the water and crocs basking in the sun. The sounds of the bushland created a soothing, immersive soundtrack to our stay, while the private hot tub became our favourite spot, whether we were unwinding after a day at the zoo or simply soaking in the serenity of our surroundings. 

 editors say:

“I’ll never forget the wonder on my son’s face as he pressed against the window of our terrace to watch the crocodiles (safely) just beyond, the look of joy as he said ‘hello’ to the snake in the hotel lobby, or the excitement he could barely contain watching our bouncy kangaroo neighbours jump around.

I’m not exaggerating when I say it was an unforgettable experience; he still talks about the holiday with vivid detail, as if we were there only last week, and I know those memories will stay with him for years to come.”