Since moving to Maleny we have been very fortunate to spot Platypus many times. Below are some of our suggested locations to improve your chance of spotting this elusive animal along the Obi Obi Creek.

Platypus whisperer 

We highly recommend booking a walking tour with the Platypus Whisperer.  Neil’s passionate knowledge transforms a simple boardwalk stroll into an educational adventure exploring prime platypus spotting locations along the Obi Obi Creek. His enthusiasm for local wildlife is genuinely infectious.

The walking tour is along the Obi Obi Creek starting at the Maleny showgrounds. The 3 km tour takes 3 hours and is suitable for wheelchairs. The maximum number for each tour is 6 people. 

Maleny Trail 

Maleny Trail has several locations for platypus spotting. A popular spot is along the boardwalk outside Concept Coffee. We will often come across groups of people enjoying a coffee while watching the platypus play. Then the next best spot would be at the Platypus Viewing Platform, part of the Maleny Trail and only 900 metres from the roundabout in town. As it is located on the curve of the creek, you are more likely to spot platypus playing and feeding in the deeper water. The third spot we would recommend is opposite the Maleny Showgrounds entrance, this is not part of the Maleny trail, but still only a short walk from town. 

The Maleny Trail is one of our favourite walks, which you can do from your Villa when staying at Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny. This 6.7km walk takes you along the Obi Obi Creek and then around the Golf Course. The walk is wheelchair friendly.

From your balcony at Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny

While there is no guarantee that you will spot a platypus from the balcony of your Villa, several of our guests have. Sitting on the balcony gives you a serene view of the Obi Obi creek, and if you don’t spot a platypus you will definitely spot other wildlife. 

To make your viewing time more pleasant, order one of our arrival platters. As the platypus are shy creatures and won’t

always appear on demand.

Best time to spot a platypus

Platypus are most active at dawn and dusk, so early morning or late afternoon gives you the best chance of a sighting. They can occasionally be spotted throughout the day as well, particularly on overcast or quiet days when the creek is undisturbed.

We hope to see you soon,

Barb and Greg