Things to do in Mapleton

Australia Zoo offers each visitor an up-close animal experience unlike any other. From petting cuddly koalas to hand-feeding magnificent Asian elephants, walking with majestic Sumatran tigers to watching nail-biting crocodile shows, it's easy to see why world-famous crocodile wrestler Steve Irwin and his family called Australian Zoo home.

Come to the bustling Mooloolaba Esplanade to dine or shop with a view of the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Along with the beach, the boat harbor and rock wall of The Spit, this central strip is a highlight along the scenic Mooloolaba waterfront.

The north-facing Mooloolaba Beach, with its pristine white sand, calm lapping water and surrounding grassy knolls, is a great spot for a day of rest by the seaside. Lounge about on the grassy areas, sunbathe on the beach, snorkel, swim or body board over the surf and scuba dive on the sunken HMAS Brisbane.

Discover the array of creatures that live below the surface of the ocean at Underwater World SEA LIFE Mooloolaba. This indoor marine park has 16 themed zones and habitats, from Jellyfish Kingdom to Seal Island. Walk through a tunnel surrounded by deadly sharks and colourful fish. You can touch starfish and other friendly creatures in a shallow pool. Watch your favourite animals being fed and seals interact with their trainers.

Turn your world upside down with thrilling rides at Aussie World. Play arcade games, explore the sideshow and discover bizarre and curious rooms. With more than 30 rides, games and activities, this theme park provides an exhilarating day out for the young and the young at heart.

As Captain James Cook sailed along Australia's east coast in 1770, he noted that these giant volcanic plugs resembled the huge glass furnaces back in his hometown of Yorkshire. Using this nugget of inspiration he named the peaks the Glass House Mountains.