A Quick Guide to the Phillip Island Nature Parks Opening Hours
Phillip Island Nature Parks offer a rare glimpse into Australia’s rich wildlife. Located within a 90-minutes’ drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island features pristine beaches, diverse Australian flora and fauna, and breathtaking wildlife.
A visit to Phillip Island is not complete without watching the world-famous Penguin Parade, meeting koalas, taking a virtual tour at the Antarctic Journey, and enjoying the quaint Churchill Island. We’ve put together a quick guide to the Phillip Island Nature Parks opening hours and the best time to visit. Take a look!
Phillip Island Nature Parks Opening Hours
- The Koala Conservation Reserve is open daily 10 AM to 4:30 PM, except on Christmas Day. The last admission into the reserve is at 4 PM.
- The Penguin Parade visitor center is open at 5 PM. The penguins usually arrive around sunset - 6 or 7 PM. Visitors are suggested to arrive at least 1 hour before the penguins arrive.
- The Churchill Island Farm Precinct is open from 10 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays (last entry at 4 PM) and from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM on weekends (last entry at 4 PM).
- The Antarctic Journey at Nobbies Centre is open from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays (last entry at 4:30 PM).
Closed: All attractions except the Penguin Parade are closed on Christmas Day.
Duration of Visit: We suggest spending a whole day exploring all the attractions on Phillip Island. Penguin Parade tickets are the most sought-after activity on Phillip Island, so you have to plan your trip around the activity.
Grab a quick bite or enjoy a complete meal at any of the restaurants at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
- Little Penguin Café
Timings: 6 PM to 9 PM
- The Churchill Island café
Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM on weekdays; 9 AM to 4 PM on weekends. (A la carte until 3 PM)
- Nobbies Café
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM (A la carte 11 AM to 3 PM)
What is the Best Time to Visit Phillip Island Nature Parks?
Weekday vs Weekend
Weekdays see lesser crowds, while public holidays and weekends see a rise in visitors. The prime attraction of Phillip Island, the Penguin Parade, is always a packed affair.
If you are buying a bundled ticket, start your trip early. This would allow you to complete other attractions as early as possible. We also recommend that you book your tickets online and in advance.
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Peak Season vs Low Season
The best time to visit the Phillip Island Nature Parks is during the summer season, which falls between November and April. You can expect plenty of sunshine but relatively cooler weather on Phillip Island. This is also the best time to watch the penguins. However, summer is also the peak tourist season.
If you're looking for a budget trip and cooler climate with less crowds, visit during May and October.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Phillip Island Nature Parks Opening Hours
A. The Phillip Island Nature Parks attractions’ opening hours vary. The Koala Conservation Reserve is open daily 10 AM to 4:30 PM. The Penguin Parade visitor center opens at 5 PM. Churchill Island is open from 10 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays and 9 AM to 4:30 PM on weekends. The Antarctic Journey at Nobbies Centre is open from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays.
A. Yes, Phillip Island Nature Parks is open year-round.
A. Phillip Island Nature Parks is open every day, including during public holidays. However, the attractions are all closed on Christmas Day.
A. Yes, Phillip Island Nature Parks is open on public holidays, except Christmas Day.
A. Yes, you can enjoy Phillip Island Nature Parks on public holidays but you may find large crowds.
A. There’s no change in the regular timetable on public holidays.
A. We suggest spending a whole day at Phillip Island Nature Parks to make the most of your visit.
A. Most of the Phillip Island Nature Parks restaurants open at 10 AM, except the Little Penguin Café, which opens at 6 PM.
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