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- Melbourne To Phillip Island Tours
- Phillip Island Cruises
- Phillip Island Nature Parks
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Antarctic Journey
- Koala Conservation Reserve
- A Maze'n Things
- Chocolate Factory
- Churchill Island
- Moonlit Sanctuary
- SkyBus Melbourne
- Yarra River Cruises
- IceBar Melbourne Tickets
- Monopoly Dreams Tickets
- Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
- LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Tickets
- SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Tickets
- Ballarat Wildlife Park Tickets
- Melbourne To Great Ocean Road Tours
- Melbourne To Yarra Valley Tours
- Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs Tickets
- Healesville Sanctuary Tickets
Book Phillip Island Nature Parks Tickets
4.3(3.7K Ratings)
- 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!
- Opt for the Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass for koala spotting at the Koala Conservation Centre and farm adventures at Churchill Island.
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
Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass
- Access to the Koala Conservation Centre
- Access to Churchill Island
- Penguin Parade viewing
- Penguins will arrive at the coast at sunset. We suggest you arrive approximately 1 hour prior.
- The penguin homing usually lasts about 50 minutes.
- Photographs and video recordings are not allowed when penguins are coming home, because they are afraid that artificial light sources will stimulate the eyes of the penguins. The island implements light control at this time.
- Only small carry-on bags are allowed inside.
- You can see penguins all year round, regardless of the weather. The Penguin Parade is outside, so pack a raincoat or umbrella if rain is predicted.
- All parks are wheelchair accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass: Penguin Parade, Koalas Conservation Reserve & Churchill Island
- Explore 3 parks on Phillip Island in 1 day. Bonus – it's only 90 minutes from Melbourne, so ditch the city blues and get your nature fix!
- See penguins waddling on the beach, koalas snoozing in gum trees, and historical farm life coming to life.
- Going for the Penguin Parade? Take a seat and wait until the little waddlers appear in your sight, walking with their group into the sunset.
- Get your dose of cuteness at the Koala Conservation Reserve. Spot them in their eucalyptus hideaways as you stroll the treetop boardwalks.
- Want a taste of heritage farming? At Churchill Island, milk cows, shear sheep, and crack a whip like the early Australian settlers.
Inclusions
- Access to the Koala Conservation Centre
- Access to Churchill Island
- Penguin Parade viewing
- Tip: Bring binoculars for bird-watching and wildlife spotting. The island is a haven for various species, from the majestic white-bellied sea eagles to purple swamphens.
- You can see penguins all year round, regardless of the weather.
- All parks are wheelchair accessible.
- Click here to see the estimated penguin arrival times throughout the year.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 29 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Get an authentic representation of rural life in the 19th century at Churchill Island, the site of the first European agricultural pursuits in Victoria.
- See the vintage farming machinery that was once used in agricultural activities and take part in animal feeding, sheep shearing, whip cracking, and blacksmithing.
- Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and pose for a picture at a historic homestead, a symbol of early colonial architecture in Australia.
- Embark on the 2.5km North-Point Loop trail to explore the island's northern tip. Marvel at the ancient Moonah trees, 50-million-year-old basalt rocks, and a diverse array of seabirds.
- Admire stellar views of Western Port Bay and the coast and see migratory birds and waterfowl that inhabit the island's wetlands.
Inclusions
- Entry to Churchill Island
- Tip: Join Billy the Border Collie in herding sheep! Start by scanning the QR code at the visitor's center, then follow the sheep signs throughout the historical precinct.
- Facilities: Disabled Toilet Facilities, Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility, Parking
- This experience is suitable for people with sensory needs.
- Visitors can bring assistance animals certified by a registered authority and must remain on designated paths and restrained by a harness or lead.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Get ready for an intimate encounter with Australia's cuddly creatures - the koalas, as you stroll along the two treetop boardwalks at Philip Island.
- Nestled within 6 hectares of Australian bushland, the Koala Conservation Reserve is a haven for native species – watch out for wallabies, echidnas, and birdlife.
- Fret not about keeping the kids entertained – the Nature Play area is sure to unleash their creativity with wildlife-inspired installations.
- It's not just about sightseeing; take home a piece of the experience! You'll have a chance to plant and take home your own native seed.
Inclusions
- Entry to Koala Conservation Reserve
- Tip: Join Ranger Jess on a digital quest through the Koala Conservation Reserve. Scan the QR code at the visitor's center, follow the trail, and scan codes on signs for info and clues.
- Facilities: Disabled Toilet Facilities, Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility, Parking
- This experience is suitable for people with sensory needs.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Soak up the Aussie way of life, mingling with native wildlife and snapping vibrant beach hut shots on this full-day tour complete with a multi-lingual audio guide.
- Snap away at the picturesque Brighton beach boxes, each bursting with color and charisma.
- Embrace the exhilaration of the Nobbies blowhole and be wowed by the marine spectacle on display.
- At the Phillip Island Penguin Parade, you can see the smallest species of penguins, known as little penguins, waddling back to their burrows at dusk.
- With both bus and private car tour options, you choose how you want to explore this Aussie paradise.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour in AC bus or private car
- Brighton Beach boxes visit
- Wildlife Animal Park visit
- Nobbies Tourist Information Centre visit
- Nobbies lookout & boardwalk visit
- Phillip Island penguin parade
Exclusions
- Lunch & dinner
- Tip: Please be mindful not to disturb the penguins during the parade with flash photography or loud noises.
- The audio guide is available in Arabic, Chinese simplified, Chinese traditional, English, French, German, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Thai.
- This tour is pram/stroller accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- 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
- View and learn about an array of fascinating Australian wildlife, including koalas, wombats, dingoes, and more. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Point Grant for stunning views of the Nobbies and Seal Rock.
Inclusions
- Brighton Beach Boxes
- Entry to Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park
- Hand feed wallabies, emus & more
- Entry to Point Grant and The Nobbies
- Access to Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Tour + Penguin Plus Upgrade (optional)
- Tour + Underground Viewing Experience (optional)
Exclusions
- Food & drinks
- No photography is allowed during the Penguin Parade.
- It is recommended to wear warm clothes and carry a rain jacket during the winter months.
- It is advised to carry snacks and bottled water.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- 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
- Enjoy free wifi onboard the coach with insightful commentary by an expert guide
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
- No photography is allowed during the Penguin Parade.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Experience a guided tour from Melbourne to Phillip Island, ending with nature's enchanting spectacle, the sunset penguin parade.
- Cruise in an air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi with a group of no more than 24 people for a personalized experience accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
- Savor the panoramic views of Nobbies Centre and Seal Rocks, where you can see Australia's largest fur seal colony of about 16,000 seals.
- Witness the smallest penguin species standing just 33 cm tall as they make their way across the beach to their burrows at sunset.
- Upgrade to the premium viewing for a better perspective of the penguins waddling to their burrows from the grandstand seats.
Inclusions
- Philip Island tour
- Informative driver/guide
- AC transfers from Melbourne
- Standard viewing at penguin parade
- Entry fees and taxes
- Wi-Fi onboard
- Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for larger marine species at Seal Rocks and the Nobbies Centre. You might get lucky!
- Note that the following are not allowed during this experience: large bags, luggage, prams, and strollers.
- Photography is strictly forbidden after sunset at the Penguins Parade in order to protect the little penguins.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Take a day trip from Melbourne to enjoy a steam train ride on Puffing Billy, and visit the Penguin Parade to witness the penguins at the beach.
- Stroll leisurely by the picturesque Emerald Lake, an idyllic spot for lunch in the Dandenong Ranges.
- Go to the Nobbies Tourist Center and learn about the Blowhole as you enjoy the beautiful ocean views from the lockout spot.
- View the renowned Penguin Parade as penguins return from the sea to their burrows on the sand.
Itinerary
- Pick-up from Melbourne
- Emerald Lake
- Puffing Billy
- Nobbies Tourist Information Centre
- Nobbies Lookout and Boardwalk
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Drop-off to Melbourne
Inclusions
- All entry and admission fees
- Round-trip transfers from central Melbourne CBD location
Exclusions
- Food & drinks
- Tip: If you plan to take photos, use a camera with a good low-light capability. Remember, flash photography is not allowed as it can distress the penguins.
- Bring along your sunscreen, hat, water bottle, camera, warm clothing, and umbrella.
- Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Melbourne
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.
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
Timings
Getting there
Best time to visit
Guidelines
Koala Conservation Reserve
Every day: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Last entry to the boardwalk: 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
Farm Entry:
Weekdays: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Last Entry: 4:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Last Entry: 4:00 PM
Daily activities start at 10:30 am every day. Arrive early to enjoy the views of the beautiful farm, walk around, see the animals and take photos.
Antarctic Journey
Every day: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM; Last Entry: 6:30 PM
Roads to Nobbies Centre are closed before sunset every day.
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.
- Respect wildlife: 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, practice safe swimming at all times.
- Respect nature: Visitors should be mindful of any flora and fauna on the island. Remain on designated pathways and don't remove anything from its natural environment.
- Minimise noise pollution: To maintain the tranquility of Phillip Island’s surroundings, 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 and littering restrictions.
- Be responsible with fire: Exercise caution when using an open flame while camping or barbecuing in order to avoid accidental bushfires.
Frequently Asked Questions About Phillip Island Nature Parks Tickets
Are all Phillip Island Nature Parks open?
Yes, all the Phillip Island Nature Parks are now open to visitors.
Where can I get my Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets?
You can purchase your Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets online or directly at the venue.
Are tickets to Phillip Island Nature Parks available online?
Yes, you can purchase tickets to Phillip Island Nature Parks online.
What is the best way to buy Phillip Island Parks tickets?
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.
What types of tickets to Phillip Island Parks can I choose from?
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.
What is the validity of Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets?
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.
Can I cancel my Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets?
Your tickets cannot be canceled, amended, or rescheduled.
What can I do at Phillip Island?
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.
What is the best time to visit Phillip Island Parks?
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.
Do Phillip Island Nature Parks have wheelchair facilities?
Yes, all Phillip Island Nature Parks are wheelchair-accessible.
Are guided tours available for Phillip Island?
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.
Which Phillip Island tickets should I opt for if I'm on a budget?
If you plan to spend some time exploring the island without breaking the bank, the Penguin Parade tickets are a great option to choose.
Are there combo tickets available for Phillip Island?
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.
What are the Phillip Island Nature Parks timings?
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.
What are some guidelines to keep in mind for Phillip Island?
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.
How can I get to Phillip Island by bus?
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.
How can I get to Phillip Island by car?
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.
Is there a way to see the Penguin Parade for free?
No, visitors must purchase tickets to the Penguin Parade.
Can I stay on Phillip Island?
Yes, Phillip Island has a range of accommodation options for visitors.