Book Phillip Island Nature Parks Tickets
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Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets
- Treat your eyes to the magical sight of little penguins returning to their burrows at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island.
- Home to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia, Phillip Island is located just 90 minutes from Melbourne.
- Take your kids along and let them learn about wildlife and nature while watching the cute, pint-sized penguins scurry about.
- Choose to enjoy your parade viewing time on the General Platform, the tiered seating, through an Underground Platform, on a ranger-guided tour, or on a secluded beach!
Inclusions
Penguin Parade General Viewing Ticket
- Entry into Penguin Parade
- Penguin Parade viewing from the General Viewing Platform
Penguin Parade Penguins Plus Ticket
- Entry into Penguin Parade
- Up-close viewing with tiered seating with a capacity of 250 - 300 people
Penguin Parade Underground Viewing Ticket
- Entry into Penguin Parade
- Eye-level view from an underground viewing platform with a capacity of 70 people
Penguin Parade Guided Ranger Tour
- Entry into Penguin Parade
- Journey through the colony with informative commentary
- Expert Ranger guide
- Personal headsets
- Minimum age to participate in the activity is 12 years
Penguin Parade Ultimate Penguin Tour
- Entry into Penguin Parade
- Expert guide
- Access to a secluded beach away from the Penguin Parade
- Fully-accredited Eco Tour
- Minimum age to participate in the activity is 16 years
Exclusions
- Hotel transfers
- Personal consumption
- Insurance
This ticket offers the following options you can choose from:
- Penguin Parade General Viewing Ticket
- Penguin Parade Penguins Plus Ticket
- Penguin Parade Underground Viewing Ticket
- Penguin Parade Guided Ranger Tour
- Penguin Parade Ultimate Penguin Tour
- The Penguin Parade visitor center currently opens daily at 5pm. The penguins arrive at sunset every evening.
- We suggest you arrive approximately one hour before penguin's arrival time, check-in at the visitor center, then walk to their viewing area to wait for the penguins.
- Click here to see the penguin arrival time calendar for estimated penguin arrival times throughout the year.
- General Viewing and Penguins Plus ticket holders should plan to arrive at least 1 hour before penguin arrival time.
- Underground Viewing ticket holders should plan to arrive 1 hour before penguin arrival time.
- Ranger-guided tours each have a specific departure time, so please check your tickets.
- Note: If you are planning a visit from mid-December to late January, or during a long weekend or the school holiday period, please allow extra travel time as the traffic can get busy.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
4 Parks Pass - Penguin Parade, Koalas, Churchill Island, Antarctic Journey Tickets
- Do not miss out on this iconic, explorative, educative, immersive, and interactive journey through Philip Island's Nature Parks!
- A mere 90-minute journey from Melbourne's CBD, Philip Island is easily accessible and promises an all-inclusive and enjoyable tour for all ages.
- Explore Philip Island's rugged beauty, seascape views, and various wildlife attractions with access to 4 of its nature parks.
- The Penguin Parade's three ticket options (general viewing, penguins plus & underground viewing) for fun interaction with the amazing seabirds.
- Stroll through lush woodlands and treetop boardwalks at the Koala Conservation Reserve where you'll meet-and-greet adorable koalas, wallabies, echidnas, many bird species, and more.
- At Churchill Island, you'll get to experience daily heritage farming activities like cow milking, sheep shearing, and whip cracking. Enjoy peeks into the lives of early Australian settlers here.
- Antarctic Journey promises insight into nature conservation, climate resilience, and the inhabitants of the Southern Ocean to Antarctica!
Inclusions
Penguin Parade General Viewing Ticket + Koala Conservation Reserve + Churchill Island + Antarctic Journey
- Penguin Parade viewing from the General Viewing Platform
- Access to the Koala Conservation Centre
- Access to Churchill Island
- Access to interactive experiences at Antarctic Journey
Penguin Parade Plus + Koala Conservation Reserve + Churchill Island + Antarctic Journey
- Up-close Penguin Parade viewing with tiered seating for a capacity of 250 - 300 people
- Access to the Koala Conservation Centre
- Access to Churchill Island Heritage Farm
- Access to interactive experiences at Antarctic Journey
Penguin Parade Underground Viewing + Koala Conservation Reserve + Churchill Island + Antarctic Journey
- Eye-level view of the Penguin Parade from an underground viewing platform with a capacity of 70 people
- Access to the Koala Conservation Centre
- Access to Churchill Island
- Access to interactive experiences at Antarctic Journey
Exclusions
- Hotel transfers
Please note in between Monday 18 July – Sunday 14 August:
- Churchill Island CLOSED on Monday
- Koala Conservation Reserve CLOSED on Tuesday
This ticket has the following options you can choose from:
- Penguin Parade General Viewing Ticket + Koala Conservation Reserve + Churchill Island + Antarctic Journey
- Penguin Parade Plus + Koala Conservation Reserve + Churchill Island + Antarctic Journey
- Penguin Parade Underground Viewing + Koala Conservation Reserve + Churchill Island + Antarctic Journey
- You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tour of Phillip Island
- Explore 3 wildlife attractions in Victoria on this guided day tour from Melbourne.
- Encounter Australia’s native species, including kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, wombats, and more at Moonlit Sanctuary.
- Select from ticket options to get the chance to see penguins flourishing in their natural habitat from exclusive viewing areas.
- Enjoy stunning coastal views of south Phillip Island at Nobbies Center
- Early afternoon pick-ups on comfortable coaches ensure a hassle-free start to the day
- Enjoy free wifi onboard the coach with insightful commentary by an expert guide
- Discounted tickets: Children under the age of 15 enjoy reduced prices on their tick.
Inclusions
- Entry to Moonlit Sanctuary
- Phillip Island tour - Nobbies Center Boardwalk and Seal Rocks
- Entry to Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Transfers to and from Melbourne
- Free Wi-Fi on board the coach
- Expert and informative guide
- Access to exclusive viewing area (optional)
- Access to private boardwalk (optional)
- Up-close viewing of penguins from underground viewing window (optional)
Exclusions
- Food & drinks
- Animal feeding at Moonlit Sanctuary
This ticket has the following options:
- Penguins Plus
- Penguins Plus Underground
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tour
- Take a day tour from Melbourne to the famous and colorful Brighton Beach boxes
- Gear up for a unique Australian wildlife experience at the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park with guided walks and hand-feeding native species
- Make way to Phillip Island and witness the cutest parade of Little Penguins as they waddle the way back to their burrows
- Upgrade either to a Penguin Plus Viewing experience for an up-close encounter, or the Guided Ranger Tour for an immersive experience of the parade
Inclusions
- Brighton Beach Boxes
- Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park guided tour
- Ranger-led Koala Presentation at Moonlit Sanctuary
- Hand feed wallabies, emus & more
- Point Grant and The Nobbies
- Standard entry to Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- FREE onboard Wi-Fi
- Hotel pick up and drop off
Penguin Plus Upgrade:
- Exclusive viewing area at the Penguin Parade
Penguin Plus Underground:
- Penguin Plus Underground viewing at the Penguin Parade
- Access to the underground viewing window
Guided Ranger Tour
- Entry fees as above plus upgrade to Guided Ranger at Penguin Parade
- Front-row viewing on the sand and access to Penguins Plus with a small group and private ranger guide
Exclusions
- Food & drinks
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Seal Watching Afternoon Cruise at Phillip Island
- Combine sightseeing with wildlife spotting on this ultra-popular seal-watching boat tour to the scenic Australian coast. Sip on beverages as you cruise to the largest colonies of fur seals.
- You'll get to drift among over 7,000 fur seals that call Seal Rocks their home, other regular spottings include sea birds and dolphins.
- No matter the month, you’ll get to spot seals year-round - from young pups to adult bulls, and everything in between.
- Learn fascinating facts about these intriguing, intelligent creatures from the wildlife commentary onboard.
- Gaze out into the infinite blue as you sip on a cup of tea or coffee on board, and keep your eyes peeled for the adorable creatures!
Inclusions
- 2-hr scenic coastal cruise
- Seal spotting
- Regular seabirds & dolphin sightings
- Tea
- Licensed bar
- Free WiFi
Exclusions
- Hotel transfers
- Tip: Keep a lookout for the famous 19th-century Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse.
- Guests prone to motion sickness are recommended to bring along appropriate medicine.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo (Save 10%): Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower + Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets
- Enjoy two enticing experiences in Melbourne with this combo ticket, which includes visits to the Sky Deck at Eureka Tower and Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.
- With access tickets to two attractions at discounted rates, this is a chance you shouldn't pass up.
- Head out to Melbourne Skydeck, the world’s tallest residential skyscraper for an unbeaten experience.
- Ascend to a height of about 300 meters above ground level in the southern hemisphere’s fastest elevator.
- Treat your eyes to the magical sight of little penguins returning to their burrows at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island located just 90 minutes from Melbourne.
- With a general viewing ticket, enjoy tiered seating on the general viewing grandstands and witness one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia.
Inclusions
Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower
- Admission to the Melbourne Eureka Skydeck
- Visitor guide brochure available in 9 languages
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade
- Entry into Penguin Parade
- Penguin Parade viewing from the general viewing platform
- Tip: It is recommended to check the weather forecast before visiting the SkyDeck in order to get unobstructed city views, which are only feasible in clear weather. Use the viewfinder at the Sky Deck to locate the top 30 Melbourne landmarks.
- Tip: As penguin homing takes place after sunset and lasts about 50 minutes, it is recommended to arrive at the coast 1 hour before penguin arrival time.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Nearly 150 km from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a place where nature flourishes; where flora and fauna come together to create unmatched beauty. The surrounding emerald waters and the pristine sandy beaches add to the magnificence of the island. Home to a number of wildlife parks — and known for its incredible water sports, especially surfing — Phillip Island makes for a great day trip from Melbourne. Learn more about Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets and how to get them, and what to expect from your visit to Phillip Island Parks.
Why Visit Phillip Island Nature Parks
Set against a scintillating backdrop, your Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets give you the chance to meet some of Australia's native fauna. With your tickets, get the chance to visit the 4 nature parks here: Penguin Parade, Antarctic Journey, Churchill Island, and Koala Conservation Reserve. Admire koalas, meet wallabies, and gather around for a Penguin Parade as you watch Little Penguins head out from the sea and into their burrows. You can also choose to take a Seal Cruise and meet large colonies of these playful, furry semi-aquatic mammals.
You can also indulge in a variety of activities like surfing, sailing, kayaking, or diving. If activities and animals are not for you, you can also head to one of the wineries to try their rich wine.
Phillip Island Nature Parks Ticket Options
4 Parks Pass
With the 4 Parks Pass, visitors get access to the Koala Conservation Reserve, Antarctic Journey, Churchill Island, and the Penguin Parade. This is a great opportunity to meet animals native to Australia like penguins, koalas, seals, and wallabies, and learn about the nature parks' conservation efforts.
The date you select upon checkout is the date valid for the Penguin parade. The other three parks can be visited within 6 months from your visit to the Penguin Parade.
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade
This ticket gives you access to the most exciting event on the island — the Penguin Parade. Phillip Island has one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia, and visitors from across the country flock here to watch the Penguin march.
Pick between four options: General Viewing, Penguin Plus, Ultimate Penguin Plus, Underground Viewing and Guided Ranger Tour. Your tickets cannot be canceled, amended, or rescheduled; and are only valid for the date & time selected at checkout.
Guided Tour
For those looking to explore what this stunning location has to offer, there’s no better way than with a guided tour. Guided tours of Phillip Island are conducted by experienced guides who know the area inside out. They will take you on an unforgettable journey around the island and make sure you get the most out of your visit. You will learn about the history of the island, discover hidden gems that are off-the-beaten paths and see some amazing wildlife up close.
Phillip Island Cruise
During your cruise, you will be able to spot Australian fur seals up close in their natural habitat and observe them as they go about their daily activities such as hunting for food and resting on rocks along the shoreline. In addition, you may have the opportunity to spot other native wildlife such as dolphins, penguins, sea birds and even humpback whales from time to time.
Combo Tickets
Phillip Island Combo Tickets are an ideal solution for travelers looking to explore multiple Melbourne attractions. These tickets include entry to multiple Phillip Island attractions, including the Penguin Parade, Churchill Island Heritage Farm, and Koala Conservation Centre. With Phillip Island Combo Tickets, you can experience all that this beautiful part of Australia has to offer without breaking your budget.
Best Way to Purchase Your Tickets to Phillip Island Nature Parks
The best way to purchase your tickets to Phillip Island Parks is to get them online. While tickets are available at the venue, albeit in a cashless transaction, purchasing them online offers a safe, contactless experience.
- Convenience: You will not have to stand in long queues to get your tickets.
- Advance Purchases: You can book your tickets well in advance to ensure you get a seat for the date of your choosing, consider the venue is not operating at full capacity and tickets may be quick to sell out.
- Mobile Tickets: Your Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets will also be sent as mobile tickets, making it easier for you to just show your tickets on the phone and not worry about misplacing them.
Which Phillip Island Nature Parks Ticket Should You Opt For?
1. For those on a budget
If you want the most special experience of Phillip Island while keeping it budget-friendly, opt for the Penguin Parade tickets. Available in four variants ranging from AUD 27.5 to AUD 80, you can pick and choose the experience of your preference.
2. For those who want to discover all Nature Parks
If you're looking to explore all four Nature Parks, the 4 Parks Pass is for you. Giving you access to Koala Conservation Reserve, Antarctic Journey, Churchill Island, and the Penguin Parade, the 4 Parks Pass lets you connect with nature and discover a myriad of fauna native to Australia and the Southern Hemisphere.
3. For those who want to explore multiple attractions
Phillip Island Combo Tickets offer a great value way to experience multiple Melbourne attractions in one go. With the combo ticket, you can visit Phillip Island Nature Parks and Eureka Skydeck, two of the city's most popular attractions.
4. For those who want to discover hidden gems
A guided tour is an excellent way to get off the beaten path and discover hidden gems in Phillip Island. Your knowledgeable guide will take you along scenic tracks that are often overlooked by visitors and show you places where Australian wildlife thrives.
Things To Do at Phillip Island
Phillip Island is home to wonderful variety of animals, birds, flowers, and trees. Here is what to expect at each of the 4 parks:
Penguin Parade
Phillip Island is home to one of the largest colonies of Little Penguins in the Southern hemisphere. At the Penguin Parade, enjoy the unique opportunity to watch these penguins waddle home from the sea and learn about their fascinating behavior.
Churchill Island
Churchill Island is a tranquil paradise for those looking to reconnect with nature. Visitors can use the many walking and cycling trails, or indulge in a host of activities such as whip cracking, blacksmithing, and sheep shearing, among others.
Koala Conservation Reserve
True to its name, the Koala Conservation Reserve gives visitors a chance to see native Australian animals, especially the koala. Use the boardwalks to walk around the Australian bushland and spot the animals in their natural habitat.
Antarctic Journey
Here, you can learn about the animals that live in the Antarctic region; check out sustainable seafood options, conservation efforts, and research; and participate in a multimedia experience where you can "float" on ice and meet the animals on screen.
Seal Cruises
Phillip Island Seal Cruises offers a unique experience for visitors to the island. You will be taken on an unforgettable journey as you explore the breathtaking scenery and fascinating wildlife of this nature reserve. Along the way, you will have plenty of opportunities to take photographs and observe some of nature’s most incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
A Maze'N Things Theme Park
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly activity, then head to A Maze’n Things at Phillip Island. This unique attraction is full of interactive mazes and puzzles that will challenge your mental skills and keep the kids entertained for hours. A Maze’n Things has something for everyone – from small children with their parents to adults who get a thrill out of solving complex puzzles.
Chocolate Park
Phillip Island’s Chocolate Park is a chocolate lover’s paradise! Located in Ventnor, the park features an array of delectable treats for visitors of all ages. From decadent chocolates to sugary-sweet fudge, there's something for everyone at this delightful attraction. There are also plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained throughout your visit.
Plan Your Visit to Phillip Island Parks
Koala Conservation Reserve
It is open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day of the week.
(Last entry to the boardwalk: is 4 PM; Last entry for treetop boardwalks: 30 minutes before closing time).
Penguin Parade
The parade begins everyday from 5:00 PM. It is recommended that guests reach the attraction at least 1 hour prior to the penguin arrival time. Please check the timings on the penguin calendar for details regarding the penguin arrival time during the month of your visit.
After checking in at the visitor center, guests can walk to their viewing area to wait for penguin sighting. The last check-in time for Penguin Parade will be the time mentioned on your tickets.
Churchill Island
It is open from 10:00 AM during the weekdays and from 9:00 AM during the weekends. The farm closes at 5:00 PM.
(Last entry: 4 PM). Daily activities start at 10:30 am everyday. If you arrive early enjoy the views of the beautiful farm, walk around, see the farm animals and take photos.
Antarctic Journey
It is open from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with final entry at 6:30 PM. It is important to note that roads to Nobbies Centre is closed before sunset every night.
Car: Phillip Island is a 90-minute drive from Melbourne city. You will need another 10-20 minutes from the bridge to get to the park of your choice.
Parking: Free parking is available on-site at the parks.
Bus: There isn't much public transportation on the island. You can take a V-line bus from Southern Cross station, Melbourne to Cowes on Phillip Island. From there, you can take a taxi to the venue of your choice.
Ferry: You can take a ferry from Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula to Phillip Island.
The best time to visit the Phillip Island Nature Parks is between November and April. The weather is pleasant and sunny, and more penguins tend to visit during this time.
However, if you are looking to have a budget-friendly trip, you can go between May and October — while the weather is cooler, the crowds are less and the accommodation is reasonably priced.
• Be prepared for all weather: Phillip Island has a temperate climate with frequent changes in weather. Pack clothes that are suitable for all seasons, including warm jackets and hats as well as sun protection such as sunglasses.
• Bring along plenty of water and snacks: There are many places to purchase food on Phillip Island, but if you’re planning extended stays at some of its remote locations, it’s always wise to have the necessary provisions so you don’t go hungry or thirsty during your travels.
• Don’t forget your camera: Phillip Island is known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife, so don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone with you. You’ll want to capture all of the amazing sights, sounds and smells this unique island has to offer.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Exploring Phillip Island can involve quite a bit of walking, so be sure to bring along some suitable footwear that provides good support and cushioning. Sturdy sandals or sneakers are usually best.
• Avoid large crowds: As one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, it can get crowded in certain spots during peak season. If you wish to avoid the crowds try visiting at off-peak times such as early morning or late afternoon.
- Respect wildlife: Wildlife on Phillip Island must be respected at all times. Do not approach, feed or disturb any native wildlife, including penguins and seals, as this may disrupt their natural behavior or cause them harm.
- Practice safe swimming: For your own safety and in consideration of other swimmers around you, please practice safe swimming at all times while visiting the island’s beaches.
- Respect nature: Visitors should be mindful of any flora and fauna on the island, so please remain on designated pathways at all times and never remove anything from its natural environment.
- Minimise noise pollution: To ensure the tranquillity of Phillip Island’s natural surroundings, we kindly request that visitors refrain from making excessive noise while visiting.
- Follow local laws: All national and local laws must be observed while visiting Phillip Island, including but not limited to parking regulations or littering restrictions.
- Be responsible with fire: Please exercise extreme caution when using an open fire while camping or barbecuing in order to avoid risks such as accidental bushfires.
Tips for Visiting Phillip Island Nature Parks
- Ensure you wear comfortable shoes as you will have to walk quite a bit.
- Carry along insect repellant, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses — especially if you're visiting in the summer.
- The venue offers drinking water fountains, so carry along a reusable water bottle.
- Since the parks are open, it is advised that you carry along a light jacket or raincoat, especially if you're visiting on a rainy day. Avoid using umbrellas as rain is usually followed by heavy winds where umbrellas might cause problems.
- Please note small carry-on bags are allowed inside, so avoid carrying large backpacks or luggage.
- Weekdays are the best time to visit Phillip Island, as weekends see a flock of tourists and locals descend to meet the little penguins.
- It is advised that you purchase your tickets in advance, as the attraction is extremely popular.
Frequently Asked Questions About Phillip Island Nature Parks Tickets
Yes, all the Phillip Island Nature Parks are now open to visitors.
You can purchase your Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets online or directly at the venue.
Yes, you can purchase tickets to Phillip Island Nature Parks online.
The best way to get Phillip Island Parks tickets is to get them online. This ensures contactless delivery, eliminates the hassle of standing in long queues to get tickets, and also helps you enjoy the benefits of advance booking.
You can choose between the Penguin Parade ticket and the 4 Parks Pass. The Penguin Parade ticket gives you access only to the parade, while the 4 Parks Pass gives you access to the Penguin Parade, along with the other 3 parks.
Your Penguin Parade tickets are valid for the date and time selected at checkout. As for the 4 Parks Pass, entry to the Penguin Parade is valid for the date and time selected at checkout. However, you can visit the other three parks at any time within six months from the Penguin Parade.
Your tickets cannot be canceled, amended, or rescheduled.
Apart from visiting the wineries and indulging in a host of water activities, you can watch the Penguin Parade, or head to Churchill Island, Antarctic Journey, and Koala Conservation Reserve.
The best time to visit Phillip Island parks is between November and April which is when the weather is mild and pleasant making it easy to be outdoors.
Yes, all Phillip Island Nature Parks are wheelchair-accessible.
Yes, guided tours of Phillip Island are available. The tours provide an excellent overview of the island and its many attractions, including Phillip Island Nature Parks.
If you plan to spend some time exploring the island without breaking the bank, the Penguin Parade tickets are a great option to choose.
Yes, Phillip Island offers combo tickets that provide visitors with access to a variety of popular attractions. These tickets can be purchased online or at one of the many kiosks on site.
The Phillip Island Nature Parks are open from 9:00am until 5:00pm in summer (October to April) and from 10:00am until 4:00pm in winter (May to September). The parks are open 365 days a year, except for Christmas Day. Last entry is one hour before closing times.
When visiting Phillip Island, it is important to keep safety in mind. Always be aware of your surroundings and the potential for dangers such as strong currents and tides or dangerous wildlife. Also, it is a good idea to wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions and protect yourself with sunscreen and insect repellent.
Phillip Island can be reached by bus quite easily. Most buses that service Phillip Island depart from Melbourne and/or the nearby towns of Wonthaggi, Inverloch or San Remo. The most popular route is from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne to Cowes on Phillip Island.
The quickest route to get to Phillip Island by car is via the M1/M11 motorway. This route will take approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
No, visitors must purchase tickets to the Penguin Parade.
Yes, Phillip Island has a range of accommodation options for visitors.