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#3 out of 49 in Melbourne

Experience the best of Phillip Island Nature Parks

Visit Phillip Island for a serene getaway from the city. Visit the 3 parks: Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve, and Churchill Island, for a wonderful retreat into nature. Choose from Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets that offer entry to the Penguin Parade, a 3-park pass, or guided wildlife tours.
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Slide 1 of 10, Penguins walking on the beach at dusk during the Penguin Parade, Phillip Island.
Penguins walking on the beach at dusk during the Penguin Parade, Phillip Island.
Visitors watching penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Visitors observing a koala at a conservation reserve.
Koalas resting in a tree at the Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Visitors interacting with a horse at Churchill Island farm.
Ranger with sheepdog and lamb at Churchill Island farm.
Visitors observing penguin sculptures at Penguin Parade Visitor Centre.
Sheep grazing in a field at Churchill Island farm with ocean view in the background.
Visitors observing sheep and a dog at Churchill Island farm.
Aerial view of Churchill Island surrounded by water and lush greenery.

Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass: Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve & Churchill Island

Extended validity
1 more

  • Get access to 3 of Phillip Island’s top wildlife experiences with a single ticket: Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve, and Churchill Island.

  • Wander treetop boardwalks at the Koala Conservation Reserve and spot koalas lounging in their natural eucalyptus habitat.

  • Step into the past on Churchill Island—explore heritage farm buildings, blooming gardens, and daily farming demos.

  • Watch hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle home during the world-famous Penguin Parade.

  • Your ticket includes access to the visitor center, scenic boardwalks, and general viewing platform at Phillip Island National Park.

More details

  • Get access to 3 of Phillip Island’s top wildlife experiences with a single ticket: Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve, and Churchill Island.

  • Wander treetop boardwalks at the Koala Conservation Reserve and spot koalas lounging in their natural eucalyptus habitat.

  • Step into the past on Churchill Island—explore heritage farm buildings, blooming gardens, and daily farming demos.

  • Watch hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle home during the world-famous Penguin Parade.

  • Your ticket includes access to the visitor center, scenic boardwalks, and general viewing platform at Phillip Island National Park.

from
AU$58.50
Slide 1 of 11, Penguins walking on the beach at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Australia.
Penguins walking on the beach at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Australia.
Koala resting in a tree at Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.
Visitors seated at Phillip Island Nature Parks viewing area for Penguin Parade.
Child observing penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Wooden boardwalk on Churchill Island with visitors exploring coastal landscape.
Visitors watching penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Rocky coastline and ocean waves at sunset on Churchill Island, Australia.
Penguins walking on the beach at Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.
Penguins walking on sand at night, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Tourists boarding air-conditioned coach bus for transfer to Montserrat Monastery.
Travelers on a coach to Mount Fuji, enjoying views of cherry blossoms.

Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Catch sight of little penguins returning home at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade. The parade is particularly great for educating children on wildlife and nature awareness.

  • Admire the penguins on the new Penguins Premium viewing platform that's directly inspired by the magnificent coves of the island's southern coast.

  • You have the option to upgrade to the 3 Parks Pass for Penguin Parade, Koalas, and Churchill Island Heritage Farm, or take the Penguins Express Afternoon Day Tour from Melbourne.

  • Fun fact: Phillip Island is home to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia.

More details

  • Catch sight of little penguins returning home at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade. The parade is particularly great for educating children on wildlife and nature awareness.

  • Admire the penguins on the new Penguins Premium viewing platform that's directly inspired by the magnificent coves of the island's southern coast.

  • You have the option to upgrade to the 3 Parks Pass for Penguin Parade, Koalas, and Churchill Island Heritage Farm, or take the Penguins Express Afternoon Day Tour from Melbourne.

  • Fun fact: Phillip Island is home to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia.

from
AU$34
Slide 1 of 12, Visitors interacting with a horse at Churchill Island farm.
Visitors interacting with a horse at Churchill Island farm.
Sheep herding demonstration at Churchill Island, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Couple enjoying coffee at a cafe on Churchill Island.
Blacksmith working at an anvil in Churchill Island, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Working barn and blacksmith shop at Churchill Island, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Sheep shearing demonstration with a dog and lamb at Churchill Island.
Highland cattle grazing at sunset on Churchill Island.
Historic cottage and garden on Churchill Island, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Period-dressed guide in historic bedroom at Churchill Island, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Visitors enjoying a scenic view from a wooden lookout on Churchill Island trail.
Ranger guiding visitors on a scenic trail at Churchill Island overlooking the water.
Churchill Island Visitor Centre entrance surrounded by greenery.

Churchill Island Tickets & Optional Entry to Phillip Island Nature Parks

Explore at your pace

  • Enjoy entry to Churchill Island, a historic heritage farm with 19th-century buildings, scenic gardens, and daily farming demonstrations.

  • Opt for the 3 Parks Pass to experience three of Phillip Island’s top attractions with one convenient ticket.

  • Witness the famous Penguin Parade from the general viewing platform at Phillip Island National Park as little penguins return to shore at sunset.

  • Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve and stroll treetop boardwalks for up-close views of koalas in their natural habitat.

  • Upgrade to the Penguins Plus option for a premium viewing experience from a limited-capacity platform right next to the penguins’ main pathway.

  • Choose the Underground Viewing upgrade to watch the penguins at eye level from a weatherproof indoor space with floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

  • Make the most of your visit with flexible options to customize your penguin parade experience for comfort and the best views.

More details

  • Enjoy entry to Churchill Island, a historic heritage farm with 19th-century buildings, scenic gardens, and daily farming demonstrations.

  • Opt for the 3 Parks Pass to experience three of Phillip Island’s top attractions with one convenient ticket.

  • Witness the famous Penguin Parade from the general viewing platform at Phillip Island National Park as little penguins return to shore at sunset.

  • Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve and stroll treetop boardwalks for up-close views of koalas in their natural habitat.

  • Upgrade to the Penguins Plus option for a premium viewing experience from a limited-capacity platform right next to the penguins’ main pathway.

  • Choose the Underground Viewing upgrade to watch the penguins at eye level from a weatherproof indoor space with floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

  • Make the most of your visit with flexible options to customize your penguin parade experience for comfort and the best views.

from
AU$17.50
Slide 1 of 10, Koala resting in a tree at Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.
Koala resting in a tree at Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.
Visitors smiling outside Koala Conservation Reserve entrance, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Wallaby eating leaves in a natural setting.
Echidna walking on rocky terrain at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Visitors observing a koala at a conservation reserve.
Penguins walking on a beach during sunset at the Penguin Parade.
Family smiling near a koala at Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.
Visitors enjoying the boardwalk at Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.
Visitors at Phillip Island gift shop with koala plush toys, Koala Conservation Reserve.
Visitors entering Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.

Koala Conservation Reserve Tickets & Optional Entry to Phillip Island Nature Parks

Explore at your pace

  • Enjoy entry to the Koala Conservation Reserve, where you can wander along elevated boardwalks and observe koalas up close in their natural bushland habitat.

  • Spot other native Australian wildlife such as wallabies and echidnas as you explore the peaceful surroundings.

  • Choose the 3 Parks Pass option to enhance your visit with entry to the Penguin Parade and historic Churchill Island.

  • Experience the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island National Park from the general viewing platform as little penguins waddle ashore at dusk.

  • Step back in time at Churchill Island with access to heritage buildings, beautiful gardens, and working farm demonstrations.

  • Upgrade with the Penguins Plus option for an exclusive beachfront viewing platform positioned closest to the main penguin pathway.

  • Select Underground Viewing for an eye-level encounter from a weatherproof indoor space, offering a unique perspective of the penguins’ return.

  • Customize your adventure with flexible upgrade options for a more intimate and immersive wildlife experience on Phillip Island.

More details

  • Enjoy entry to the Koala Conservation Reserve, where you can wander along elevated boardwalks and observe koalas up close in their natural bushland habitat.

  • Spot other native Australian wildlife such as wallabies and echidnas as you explore the peaceful surroundings.

  • Choose the 3 Parks Pass option to enhance your visit with entry to the Penguin Parade and historic Churchill Island.

  • Experience the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island National Park from the general viewing platform as little penguins waddle ashore at dusk.

  • Step back in time at Churchill Island with access to heritage buildings, beautiful gardens, and working farm demonstrations.

  • Upgrade with the Penguins Plus option for an exclusive beachfront viewing platform positioned closest to the main penguin pathway.

  • Select Underground Viewing for an eye-level encounter from a weatherproof indoor space, offering a unique perspective of the penguins’ return.

  • Customize your adventure with flexible upgrade options for a more intimate and immersive wildlife experience on Phillip Island.

from
AU$17.50
Slide 1 of 9, Boat near rugged coastline and penguins on sandy beach, Phillip Island, Australia.
Boat near rugged coastline and penguins on sandy beach, Phillip Island, Australia.
Cruise boat near Cape Woolamai rock formations, Phillip Island.
Tourists on a boat admire rocky cliffs during Cape Woolamai morning cruise, Phillip Island.
Penguins walking on the beach at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Australia.
Visitors watching penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Dolphin leaping from the water during Phillip Island Cape Woolamai cruise.
Seal swimming in clear blue water.
Child observing penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Penguins walking on the shore at Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.

Combo: Cape Woolamai Morning Cruise + Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Set sail on a 1-hour morning cruise around Cape Woolamai, Phillip Island’s highest point, and marvel at its rugged cliffs and sea caves.

  • Spot local wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and seabirds while enjoying complimentary tea, coffee, and cake on board.

  • Learn about Phillip Island’s natural and cultural history with expert commentary from experienced local guides.

  • Witness the world-famous Penguin Parade and watch hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore from the general viewing area at sunset.

  • Upgrade your experience with a 3 Parks Pass to explore Phillip Island Nature Parks, including the Koala Conservation Reserve and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

More details

  • Set sail on a 1-hour morning cruise around Cape Woolamai, Phillip Island’s highest point, and marvel at its rugged cliffs and sea caves.

  • Spot local wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and seabirds while enjoying complimentary tea, coffee, and cake on board.

  • Learn about Phillip Island’s natural and cultural history with expert commentary from experienced local guides.

  • Witness the world-famous Penguin Parade and watch hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore from the general viewing area at sunset.

  • Upgrade your experience with a 3 Parks Pass to explore Phillip Island Nature Parks, including the Koala Conservation Reserve and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

from
AU$83
Slide 1 of 9, Tour boat near seals and penguins on a beach, wildlife excursion.
Tour boat near seals and penguins on a beach, wildlife excursion.
Cruise boat departing pier for seal watching at Phillip Island.
Seals on rocks with a tour boat in the background during a Phillip Island seal watching cruise.
Penguins walking on the beach at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Australia.
Visitors watching penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Seal resting on rocks during Phillip Island afternoon cruise.
Seals resting on rocky shore during Phillip Island afternoon cruise.
Child observing penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Penguins walking on the beach at Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.

Combo (Save 5%): Seal Watching Afternoon Cruise + Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Experience the thrill of cruising to Seal Rocks, home to over 7,000 Australian Fur Seals, from adorable pups to impressive adult bulls.

  • Enjoy educational commentary on board while sipping a hot beverage and indulging in delicious cake as you spot seabirds and dolphins.

  • Witness the magical Penguin Parade as little penguins waddle ashore at dusk, creating a heartwarming spectacle for wildlife lovers of all ages.

  • Upgrade your experience with the 3 Parks Pass to encounter koalas and enjoy traditional sheep-shearing at Churchill Island.

  • The Australian Fur Seals at Seal Rocks can dive over 200 meters deep in search of fish. They can hold their breath underwater longer than we can!

More details

  • Experience the thrill of cruising to Seal Rocks, home to over 7,000 Australian Fur Seals, from adorable pups to impressive adult bulls.

  • Enjoy educational commentary on board while sipping a hot beverage and indulging in delicious cake as you spot seabirds and dolphins.

  • Witness the magical Penguin Parade as little penguins waddle ashore at dusk, creating a heartwarming spectacle for wildlife lovers of all ages.

  • Upgrade your experience with the 3 Parks Pass to encounter koalas and enjoy traditional sheep-shearing at Churchill Island.

  • The Australian Fur Seals at Seal Rocks can dive over 200 meters deep in search of fish. They can hold their breath underwater longer than we can!

from Original priceAU$149
AU$141.55

5% off

Slide 1 of 17, Puffing Billy steam train crossing a trestle bridge in lush forest, Melbourne.
Puffing Billy steam train crossing a trestle bridge in lush forest, Melbourne.
Feeding kangaroos at a wildlife park during Puffing Billy Steam Train & Penguin Parade Day Tour, Melbourne.
Passengers enjoying the view from Puffing Billy Steam Train in Melbourne forest.
Penguin peeking from greenery during Penguin Parade, Melbourne tour.
Visitors enjoying pedal boats on a lake near a pavilion during the Puffing Billy and Phillip Island tour.
Penguins gathered on sandy ground at Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
Koala climbing a eucalyptus tree, part of Puffing Billy Steam Train & Penguin Parade Day Tour, Melbourne.
Coastal boardwalk at Phillip Island, Melbourne, with ocean and greenery.
Passengers on Puffing Billy Steam Train with legs hanging out, Melbourne.
Colorful beach huts at Brighton Beach, Melbourne, part of Puffing Billy Steam Train & Penguin Parade Day Tour.
Tourists wearing penguin hats on a coach to Phillip Island.
Puffing Billy steam train with passengers on a wooden trestle bridge in lush forest.
Phillip Island Nobbies coastal view with boardwalk and ocean waves.
Conductor and passengers wave from a Puffing Billy carriage on a Melbourne tour.
Conductor waves as Puffing Billy steam train departs on a half-day tour from Melbourne.
Puffing Billy steam train travels through pine trees near Melbourne.
Penguins walking on Phillip Island beach during Puffing Billy and Penguin Parade tour.

From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train Ride & Phillip Island Guided Tour

11 hrs
3 more

  • See the best of Victoria on a full-day guided tour from Melbourne to Phillip Island, with round-trip transfers included.

  • Journey through the scenic Dandenong Ranges and enjoy a classic Puffing Billy steam train ride.

  • Watch the famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island as little penguins waddle ashore at sunset.

  • Travel in comfort with an English-speaking guide and air-conditioned coach, plus convenient pick-up and drop-off from the meeting point.

  • Did you know? Puffing Billy is one of the world’s best-preserved heritage steam railways, operating since 1900.

More details

  • See the best of Victoria on a full-day guided tour from Melbourne to Phillip Island, with round-trip transfers included.

  • Journey through the scenic Dandenong Ranges and enjoy a classic Puffing Billy steam train ride.

  • Watch the famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island as little penguins waddle ashore at sunset.

  • Travel in comfort with an English-speaking guide and air-conditioned coach, plus convenient pick-up and drop-off from the meeting point.

  • Did you know? Puffing Billy is one of the world’s best-preserved heritage steam railways, operating since 1900.

from
AU$195
Slide 1 of 11, Boardwalk overlooking ocean at sunset on Phillip Island.
Boardwalk overlooking ocean at sunset on Phillip Island.
Penguins walking along Summerland Beach during the Penguin Parade.
Blowholes and rock formations along Phillip Island's coastline.
Koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve.
Visitors observing a koala at a conservation reserve.
Visitors watching penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Boardwalk overlooking the ocean at Phillip Island, Australia.
Visitors entering Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.
Phillip Island penguins walking on sandy path surrounded by grass.
Tourists wearing penguin hats on a coach to Phillip Island.
Tourists boarding air-conditioned coach bus for transfer to Montserrat Monastery.

From Melbourne: Half/Full-Day Phillip Island Day Trip with Penguin Parade

10 hrs
1 more

  • Explore Phillip Island on a full-day or half-day guided tour from Melbourne, with round-trip coach transfers included for your convenience.

  • Enjoy live commentary from an English-speaking guide, with an audio translation app available in 10 languages for multilingual support.

  • Visit picturesque coastal highlights including the Nobbies Blowhole and Seal Rocks Lookout for dramatic ocean views and the chance to spot marine wildlife.

  • Experience the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island National Park, with access to the boardwalks, visitor center, and general viewing platform.

  • Choose the Penguins Plus upgrade for an exclusive viewing platform located along the penguins’ main pathway, offering an intimate and limited-capacity experience.

  • Customize your tour with flexible durations and optional upgrades for a personalized encounter with Phillip Island’s unique wildlife and landscapes.

More details

  • Explore Phillip Island on a full-day or half-day guided tour from Melbourne, with round-trip coach transfers included for your convenience.

  • Enjoy live commentary from an English-speaking guide, with an audio translation app available in 10 languages for multilingual support.

  • Visit picturesque coastal highlights including the Nobbies Blowhole and Seal Rocks Lookout for dramatic ocean views and the chance to spot marine wildlife.

  • Experience the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island National Park, with access to the boardwalks, visitor center, and general viewing platform.

  • Choose the Penguins Plus upgrade for an exclusive viewing platform located along the penguins’ main pathway, offering an intimate and limited-capacity experience.

  • Customize your tour with flexible durations and optional upgrades for a personalized encounter with Phillip Island’s unique wildlife and landscapes.

from
AU$155
Slide 1 of 11, Penguins on a beach and whale watching tour in Australia.
Penguins on a beach and whale watching tour in Australia.
Koala resting in a tree at Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.
Visitors seated at Phillip Island Nature Parks viewing area for Penguin Parade.
Whale breaching in ocean during Phillip Island Dolphin & Whale Cruise.
Phillip Island dolphin and whale cruise with tourists observing marine life.
Child observing penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Visitors watching penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Penguins walking on the beach at Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.
Penguins walking on sand at night, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Playful seals resting on rocks in a natural setting.
Dolphins swimming in the ocean during England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Combo (Save 6%): Phillip Island Penguin Parade + Dolphin & Whale Cruise Tickets

50 mins - 3 hrs 15 mins

  • Watch the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island from the general viewing platform.

  • Cruise past Cape Woolamai and spot whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds along the island’s southern coast.

  • Get two signature Phillip Island wildlife experiences in one combo—ideal for nature-loving travelers.

  • Enjoy expert commentary and a relaxed cruise, complete with complimentary tea and snacks.

  • Fun fact: Phillip Island is home to Australia’s largest Little Penguin colony and a key point on the whale migration route.

More details

  • Watch the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island from the general viewing platform.

  • Cruise past Cape Woolamai and spot whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds along the island’s southern coast.

  • Get two signature Phillip Island wildlife experiences in one combo—ideal for nature-loving travelers.

  • Enjoy expert commentary and a relaxed cruise, complete with complimentary tea and snacks.

  • Fun fact: Phillip Island is home to Australia’s largest Little Penguin colony and a key point on the whale migration route.

from Original priceAU$169
AU$158.86

6% off

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Choose a Penguin Parade-only ticket if you only have an evening. A 3 Parks Pass is better value only if you can realistically visit 2–3 included sites such as Koala Conservation Reserve and Churchill Island.

Premium Penguin Parade tiers such as Penguins Plus or Underground Viewing are most useful in school holidays, summer weekends, or if you want closer views, less crowding, or more shelter.

Arrive about 1–1.5 hours before the published penguin arrival time, especially for standard viewing. That gives you time for parking, facilities, exhibits, and better seat choice before the wait begins.

Nature Parks visits are generally self-guided. Research mentions ranger talks or announcements at the Penguin Parade and live commentary on coach tours, but not an audio guide, so check your voucher if guided interpretation matters to you.

If you do not want to drive back to Melbourne late at night, compare self-drive tickets with full-day coach tours. Tours usually include return transport and commentary, but give you less flexibility at each stop.

Dress for colder, windier conditions than Melbourne, even in summer. Standard viewing and Penguins Plus are exposed, while Underground Viewing gives more shelter in wet or windy weather.

Public transport is possible but slow for this trip. Melbourne to Cowes by V/Line takes about 3–3.5 hours including connections, and you still need a taxi or pre-arranged shuttle for the final 10–12 km to the Penguin Parade.

If you are using a multi-attraction pass, plan daytime sites first and the Penguin Parade last. Trying to fit several parks into a short late-afternoon arrival often leads to underused passes and a rushed evening.

Similar things to do in Melbourne

About Phillip Island Nature Parks

Phillip Island Nature Parks combines wild little penguins, koala habitat, headland lookouts, and a heritage farm within one not-for-profit conservation network rather than a single zoo-style site. Visitors move between boardwalks, visitor centres, and coastal reserves, with profits reinvested into habitat protection, research, and wildlife rescue. That mix of evening wildlife viewing and daytime outdoor stops shapes most itineraries.

Address252 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Also known asPhillip Island Nature Reserve
Year opened1996
Visitors per year1000000
Expected wait time - Standard30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

Phillip Island Nature Parks is a Victorian Government-created not-for-profit that manages about 20% of Phillip Island as conservation reserves and visitor attractions.

The Penguin Parade follows sunset rather than a fixed nightly schedule, so arrival times shift through the year and the experience can finish quite late in summer.

Photography and filming are completely banned during the Penguin Parade because lights and screens can affect the penguins’ sensitive eyes and orientation.

The Nature Parks run nightly penguin counting and other monitoring programs to track population health and guide conservation work.

Churchill Island is one of Victoria’s earliest farming sites, with 19th-century homestead buildings, heritage gardens, and traditional farming practices still interpreted for visitors.

Why visit Phillip Island Nature Parks?

Nightly Little Penguin Arrivals at Dusk

The Penguin Parade lets you watch hundreds of wild little penguins emerge from the surf at dusk and cross the beach to their burrows. Standard tickets use tiered outdoor seating, while boardwalks and premium areas bring you closer along the penguin pathways. Photography and filming are banned to protect the birds.

Eye-Level Koala Views on Treetop Boardwalks

The Koala Conservation Reserve uses elevated wooden walkways and treetop platforms through eucalypt stands, making koalas easier to spot than in open bushland. Ground-level bush tracks and interpretive signage add more context on koala ecology and threats. The layout is designed for low-impact viewing rather than animal encounters or feeding.

19th-Century Farm Life on Churchill Island

Churchill Island adds a heritage layer to the wildlife visit with a historic homestead, old farm buildings, heritage gardens, and paddocks with farm animals. It is one of Victoria’s earliest farming sites, and scheduled demonstrations such as sheep shearing or working dogs may be part of the visit. Coastal walking trails around the island broaden the experience.

Bass Strait Lookouts at the Nobbies

The Nobbies Boardwalks and lookouts give you cliff-top views over rock formations, seabird areas, and the exposed Bass Strait coastline. On rough days, the blowhole viewpoint becomes a highlight. From here, you can also look toward Seal Rocks, where a large Australian fur seal colony lives offshore.

Tickets Fund Habitat Protection and Research

Visits here support more than sightseeing. Profits are reinvested into habitat protection, wildlife rescue, and research across Phillip Island Nature Parks. The organisation also counts penguins nightly and runs monitoring programs that help track population health and guide conservation decisions.

Plan your visit

Penguin Parade Main Entrance

Located at the main visitor centre at 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, this is the primary entry for all Penguin Parade visitors, including standard tickets, premium viewing guests, and coach tour groups. Mobile or printed tickets are scanned here before you move into the centre and out to the viewing areas. Facilities include interpretive displays, a gift shop, café, and toilets. The route from the adjacent car park is step-free, with ramps, lifts, and dedicated accessible viewing areas. This entrance is busiest around 1 hour before penguin arrival in peak periods, so allow extra time if you are using standard seating.

Koala Conservation Reserve Visitor Centre Entrance

Found off Phillip Island Tourist Rd and clearly signed as the Koala Conservation Reserve, this entrance is for single-site koala tickets and multi-park pass holders. Tickets are scanned at the visitor centre before you access the elevated boardwalks and bush tracks. The site also has exhibits, ranger talks, a small shop/café, and toilets. Queues are generally light compared with Penguin Parade. The boardwalk network is designed for wheelchair and pram access, although some gradients may require extra effort or assistance.

Churchill Island Heritage Farm Entrance

This entrance is reached via the bridge off Phillip Island Rd onto Churchill Island, where visitors enter through the visitor centre and homestead area. It is used by Churchill Island ticket holders and multi-park pass visitors. Entry here is typically straightforward, with lighter queues than Penguin Parade, though demonstrations and farm activities can draw small crowds. Grounds are mostly level, but surfaces can be uneven in places, and some heritage buildings have steps, so accessibility is more mixed than at the newer visitor centres.

Travel guides and tips

11 essential tips to visit Phillip Island Nature Park

11 essential tips to visit Phillip Island Nature Park

Phillip Island Nature Park is a wonderful destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Situated just a short drive from Melbourne, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to witness Australian wildlife in its natural habitat. From observing the famous penguin parade to exploring serene beaches and lush walking trails, there’s much to do and see. […]

Explore Phillip Island Nature Park: Must-do guided tours for nature lovers

Explore Phillip Island Nature Park: Must-do guided tours for nature lovers

Phillip Island offers a bunch of truly unique experiences, just a short distance from Melbourne. While you can drive, take a train, or even fly to Phillip Island, booking a guided tour simplifies your trip by handling all transportation needs. Guided tours not only plan your entire day, including visits to other attractions, but they […]

The best day trips from Melbourne to Phillip Island

The best day trips from Melbourne to Phillip Island

Just 140 kms south-east of Melbourne dividing Western Port Bay and Bass Strait lies Phillip Island, a jewel surrounded by sea. The island is one of the most scenic natural hotspots in all of Australia and is known for its wildlife parks, nocturnal sight of penguins walking home, motorsport history and sandy, sun kissed beaches.The […]

The ultimate guide to watch the Phillip Island Penguin Parade

The ultimate guide to watch the Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Have you seen those viral videos of Little Penguins waddling on the beach? Fun fact, the world’s largest colony of Little Penguins is on the tiny Phillip Island in Melbourne and you can watch them up close if you happen to be around in the evening! The Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade is just one of […]

The perfect guide to Phillip Island cruises

The perfect guide to Phillip Island cruises

Phillip Island, located on Victoria’s southern coast, is a great holiday destination in Australia, especially if you’re looking for a quick escape from the city of Melbourne. Known for its stunning beaches, penguins, unique wildlife, and exciting activities, the island offers absolutely stunning views, which are only elevated if you choose a Phillip Island Cruise! […]

Exploring Phillip Island: Tourist attractions and unmissable highlights

Exploring Phillip Island: Tourist attractions and unmissable highlights

Phillip Island is a gem for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, wildlife, and stunning scenery. Located just off Australia’s southern coast, this island offers a bunch of things to do. From watching the famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island Nature Park to the picturesque paradise of Churchill Island, the Phillip Island tourist attractions promise […]

How to plan a seamless visit to Phillip Island Nature Park

How to plan a seamless visit to Phillip Island Nature Park

Phillip Island Nature Park, located in Victoria, Australia, is a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its stunning coastal scenery, the park offers various activities, including watching the famous Penguin Parade, exploring the Koala Conservation Centre, and walking along scenic trails. Visitors can also enjoy the Nobbies Centre, with its spectacular views and […]

Phillips Island Nature Parks: Where penguins parade and koalas whisper

Phillips Island Nature Parks: Where penguins parade and koalas whisper

Phillip Island Nature Park (PINP), located on Phillip Island, Victoria, is a conservation park created in 1996 and owned by the Victorian State Government. This park operates complementary ecotourism experiences on Philips Island, generating revenue which is invested in vital research, environment and education programs. Phillip Island Nature Parks – In a nutshell Handy information […]

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What our guests say

Umi H

Australia
Couple
4 days ago

+2 more

What made my visit with Headout special was how easy and convenient the whole experience was. The booking process was simple, everything went smoothly on the day, and I also received a discount on other tickets, which was a great bonus. It made the whole experience even more enjoyable and worthwhile.

Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets

Melissa R

Australia
Family
5 days ago
The crew and captain were fantastic and knowledgable. Our family had an amizing time and we enjoyed learning about the local wildlife and environment.

Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets

Peter M

Australia
Couple
Last week

+2 more

Tom made the day so fantastic and we couldn't recommend anyone higher for your first experience out to Phillip Island. The knowledge he passed on, the little jokes he made here and there made the day so memorable. To top it all off, Tom essentially dropped everyone back to their hotel so no one had to walk far at night time. Thank you Tom.

From Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguin Parade Afternoon Guided Tour

Manjot B

Australia
Group
2 weeks ago
Best money ever spent. Have been living in Melbourne for 10years, so it was beautiful to see it from up top. Beautiful views, great snacks options. Highly recommend visiting around the sunset time.

Combo: Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower + Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tickets

Angela A

Australia
Family
Jul 2026
Was so remarkable and amazing adventure I had ever experienced. I would love to go there the second time 🥰

Combo: Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower + Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tickets

Mr Gavin O

Australia
Couple
Jul 2026
It was a great day with a very good tour guide name Vance. We loved it, thank you very much cheers, Jane and Gavin O'Brien

From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train Ride & Phillip Island Guided Tour

Marcus C

Australia
Couple
Jul 2026
Although it was really thick fog and visibility was almost non existent the skipper managed to locate some whales as well as a nice sized pod of dolphins. It was well worth going and I would recommend this trip to anyone wanting to see the whales. We also saw some great scenery along the coast in one of the rare clear fog free spots.

Combo: Phillip Island Penguin Parade + Dolphin & Whale Cruise Tickets

Monique C

Australia
Couple
Jun 2026

+2 more

We had James who was extremely knowledgeable, full of information and gave us a good laugh. It was such a nice day & really enjoyed every moment. Didn't once feel rushed on the tour, felt like there was plenty of time at each spot and really got to know all about Melbourne, Penguins and the good that the sanctuary does. Highly recommend

From Melbourne: Brighton Beach, Moonlit Sanctuary & Phillip Island Day Trip with Penguin Parade

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