About Us
Our purpose is to create an awareness of the importance of respecting our natural world together with the community, by offering experiences that enable visitors to leave feeling fulfilled, with a newfound understanding and enjoyment of what Australia’s natural landscape has to offer, with the priority to respect, protect and enjoy our native flora & fauna.
The Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is open to the public 7 days a week and offers a comprehensive daily activity schedule including Keeper talks and wildlife presentations including Free Flight Birds. The park also offers interactive wildlife experiences that give you an up-close and personal experience with native animals. The Sanctuary also has a café, a unique retail store, with a focus on locally produced and sustainable gifts alongside a large fine-foods department and hot-nut bar.
Our wildlife education programs are available to book for schools or groups interested in learning more about Australian wildlife, conservation and the environment. We also offer comprehensive kids’ day programs during the school holidays which allow kids to get a hands-on experience at The Sanctuary where learning and fun combine.
Australia’s first and only Mobile Wildlife Hospital, The Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, ‘Matilda’ is located on-site at the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. The expert veterinary team provides critical services to save and recover our local wildlife.
Every dollar spent at the Sanctuary is reinvested in the conservation, rehabilitation, and future of Australian wildlife.
〰️
Every dollar spent at the Sanctuary is reinvested in the conservation, rehabilitation, and future of Australian wildlife. 〰️
The Sanctuary:
6 Acres of Sanctuary providing Australian Wildlife experiences and education for the community.
Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital’s mobile hospital, “Matilda” located on site.
300,000 visitors annually.
Cafe serving freshly prepared local produce and barista-made coffee with all profits going back to wildlife conservation.
18 Hole Mini Golf course.
Water park & children’s play area.
Keeper talks and hands-on animal experiences available everyday as part of our daily activity schedule
Comprehensive education programs available for schools groups, home-schooling families, corporate groups and local community focused on wildlife and conservation.
Over 500 products available in our gift store with all profits going back to wildlife conservation.
Expansive fine foods department filled with local produce.
Large conference and special event facilities for corporate and private events
Our Vision:
To inspire people to live alongside wildlife.
Our purpose is to create an awareness of the importance of respecting our natural world together with the community, by offering experiences that enable visitors to leave feeling fulfilled, with a newfound understanding and enjoyment of what Australia’s natural flora and fauna has to offer.
With the mission to empower and enable all Australians to save wildlife, every dollar spent at the Sanctuary is reinvested in the conservation, rehabilitation, and future of Australian Wildlife.
During the development, the Sanctuary’s focus will shift towards a bio-park, to respect, protect and enjoy Australian Native Wildlife.
Our vision is to develop the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary into a world-class bio park with a focus on Australian Wildlife through conservation, education, Indigenous engagement and ecotourism initiatives.
-
![]()
Dirawong Conference Room
-
![]()
Mini Golf Course
-
![]()
Retail Gift Shop
-
![]()
Children's Playground
-
![]()
Tesla Supercharger Station
-
![]()
Pond Amphitheatre
-
![]()
Farmyard
-
![]()
BBQ Facilities
-
![]()
Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital
-
![]()
Gather at the Sanctuary Cafe
-
![]()
Hot Nut Bar
-
![]()
Pond Marquee
-
![]()
Sky Puppy Marquee
-
![]()
Ice Cream Bar
-
![]()
Water Splash Park
-
![]()
Holiday Programs
Getting to The Sanctuary
Nestled in the leafy hinterland above Byron Bay, the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary offers a convenient and picturesque escape for nature lovers. The sanctuary is enveloped in mature eucalyptus trees, providing a serene and lush environment that is perfect for a family day out. With its tranquil setting and close proximity to Byron Bay, the sanctuary is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying a fun and educational experience with the whole family.
Address
419 Hinterland Wy Knockrow NSW 2479
We are just two minutes from the Lennox Head exit off the Pacific Motorway.
Contact us:
(02) 6687 8432 | info@byronbaywildlifesanctuary.com.au
Opening Hours
Park open: 9 am to 4 pm every day except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.
Cafe open: 9 am to 2:30 pm.
Sanctuary Socials
Frequently asked questions
-
We are located in the Northern Rivers Hinterland, just a short drive from Byron Bay and Ballina in NSW. Our Sanctuary is surrounded by beautiful Australian bushland, providing a natural setting for both our wildlife and visitors.
-
We are open 7 days a week, from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The café, Gather at the Sanctuary, is open during these hours for breakfast, lunch, and delicious coffee until 2:30pm.
-
While tickets can be purchased on arrival, we recommend booking online, especially during school holidays and weekends, to avoid missing out on special experiences.
-
Yes! We took over the Macadamia Castle in 2021 and transitioned it into a non-profit organisation focused on Australian wildlife conservation and education. Every dollar spent at the Sanctuary goes directly into caring for our animals and supporting conservation programs.
-
Yes! We took over Macadamia Castle in 2021 and transformed it into Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, a non-profit dedicated to Australian wildlife and education. While we’ve made changes to focus more on conservation, we still have some beloved favourites from the Macadamia Castle days, including the Hot Nut Bar, farmyard petting area, wildlife talks, and our famous pancakes at the café!
-
We are home to a diverse range of Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, emus, reptiles, birds of prey, and farmyard animals. You can also meet some of our unique residents, like Ziggy Stardust the rainbow lorikeet and Mr. Sprinkles the emu!
-
Yes! We offer a variety of hands-on wildlife experiences, including koala photos, reptile encounters, and up-close kangaroo feeding. Check our website for available encounters and booking details.
-
Yes! We offer special animal feed for kangaroos and farmyard animals, available for purchase at the Sanctuary. Please do not feed any animals your own food, as it may be harmful to them.
-
Yes! We offer holiday programs, school excursions, and homeschool sessions focused on wildlife conservation and environmental education. Check our website for details on our upcoming programs!
-
Absolutely! We provide interactive school programs tailored to different age groups, covering topics like wildlife conservation, Australian ecosystems, and responsible pet ownership. Contact us for bookings.
-
Yes! Gather at the Sanctuary Café serves locally sourced breakfast, lunch, and coffee. We’re especially famous for our pancakes—a legacy from the Macadamia Castle days!
-
No, our café is open to the public—you don’t need a Sanctuary ticket to enjoy a meal or coffee.
-
Yes! Our café offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. If you have specific dietary needs, just ask our friendly staff.
-
Yes! Our Wildlife Guardian Membership gives you unlimited entry for a year, plus discounts on encounters, café purchases, and special events.
-
Yes! We have discounted family passes available, as well as special rates for seniors and concession card holders.
-
Yes! We offer birthday party packages, corporate events, and private functions. Contact our team to discuss your event needs.
bookings@byronbaywildlifesanctuary.com.au
-
As a non-profit, we rely on donations, memberships, and café purchases to fund our wildlife care and conservation efforts. You can support us by donating, visiting, becoming a member, or attending our special events.
Got more questions? Contact us or visit our website for more information!
