Cloud point extraction (CPE), which is the most popular coacervate-based extraction method, was utilized for the separation and preconcentration of trace amounts of cadmium, lead, and nickel. Quinalizarin was used as complexing agent and Triton X-114 was used as surfactant. After extraction, analyte ions were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The detection limits (3$s)$ of 1.8 $\mu $g L$^{-1}$ for Cd(II), 3.2 $\mu $g L$^{-1}$ for Pb(II), and 2.8 $\mu $g L$^{-1}$ for Ni(II) were obtained using 50 mL of solutions. The relative standard deviation was calculated as 4.3% for 10 $\mu $g L$^{-1}$ Cd(II), 4.9% for 50 $\mu $g L$^{-1}$ Pb(II), and 4.6% for 50 $\mu $g L$^{-1}$ Ni(II). Obtained enrichment factors of Cd(II), Pb(II), and Ni(II) were 144, 129 and 92, respectively. In addition, the method was successfully implemented for the determination of Cd(II), Pb(II), and Ni(II) in water samples and standard reference materials and satisfactory recovery values were obtained.