Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area

woman and two children on boardwalk in bushland

Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area is a special place to connect with nature, covering more than 1200 hectares of wetland, eucalypt forests, salt marshes and mangroves. It provides important habitat for a wide range of wildlife and is part of the internationally recognised Southern Moreton Bay Marine Park.

Why is the area important?

The area provides habitat for 274 animal species, including koalas, powerful owls, and grey-headed flying-foxes, which are listed as vulnerable or near threatened. It is also an important wetland, supporting 24 internationally protected migratory bird species and recognised under the Ramsar Convention for its global significance.

Things to see and do

Coombabah Lakelands is perfect for a walk, bike ride, trail run, or birdwatching. The flat tracks make it easy for all ages and fitness levels to explore. Keep an eye out for koalas resting in the trees and kangaroos grazing in the grasslands.

two women walking towards bird hide in bushland

Bird hide – a peaceful spot for birdwatching

The walk to the bird hide begins through eucalypt forest along a flat bitumen path, then transitions into a winding boardwalk through the mangroves, offering a scenic journey to the hide.

Informational signage provides insights into the diverse bird species that call this wetland home. Take a seat, soak in the natural surroundings, and enjoy spotting a variety of local and migratory birds.

The bird hide is located 800 metres from the Shelter Road car park.

koala resting in tree

Koala trail – spot koalas and kangaroos in the wild

This trail is a great place to see koalas resting in the trees and kangaroos grazing in the open grasslands. It is perfect for a leisurely walk, trail run, or a picnic surrounded by nature.

The trail also links to several other trails within the Conservation Area, offering plenty of opportunities to explore more of this unique environment.

Access the trail from Lakelands Road via Pine Ridge Road.

man jogging along boardwalk next to water

Myola Court boardwalk trail – relaxing waterway walk

This flat linear trail is approximately 2 kilometre return, following the banks of a scenic waterway. It is suitable for all fitness levels, offering a peaceful walk with beautiful views of the surrounding bushland environment.

Access the trail from car park opposite 29 Myola Court.

woman and child walking through bushland

Melaleuca boardwalk trail – walk above the wetlands

This trail is part of the Wallaby Circuit (1.2 kilometre loop), making it an easy and scenic way to explore Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area.

The start of the trail has educational signage and maps providing insights into the area's wetlands, flora, and fauna. This elevated boardwalk winds through a melaleuca forest, offering a peaceful walk while protecting the delicate wetlands below. Listen for frogs and native birdlife and look up—you may spot a koala.

Access the trail from the car park on Lakelands Drive via Pine Ridge Road.

Trail maps

With over 16km of trails in Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area, there's a route for every fitness level. Download the map below for trail locations, track details, and parking information.