Inclusions
Watching the penguins at Philip Island coming out of and returning to the water preparing their groups. I was not expecting the very close view of such a large number of penguins waddling up the hill to their burrows. The tickets were very easy to purchase and then to access online for admission.
Loved how close we got to see the penguins. The staff were awesome and helpful. Wish people would listen to the staff and not take photos.
It was easy to purchase tickets. On the other hand, it just showed one last date in December and the next one available only on January 7th, 2025. That's how we understood this would be the last chance in 2024.
The penguins and staff were awesome, disappointing was the lack of respect people had in regards to the no photography policy.
Ticketing experience was good, I actually forgot my phone at my apartment but was still able to check-in, the staff was very friendly and understanding as I didn't have any confirmaiton on me. Otherwise, the view was good and the penguins super cute
Seeing the wee penguin jn their natural habitat was so great. Learning about them and their breeding environment and hearing that the numbers of the penguin population is increasing.
I met lovely people. I was about 30cm away from several of the penguins, your staff were 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Amazing great experience from the moment I arrived I have mobility issues and was worried but was driven straight to the viewing area and a short 3 minute walk
My son was asking questions about the pingings and everything was answered with a lot of care. An amazing experience that everyone should do once in a lifetime 💙
The staff were so kind and gentle with my elderly parents and so nice to me loved every bit of jt keep up the good work so kind hearted and nice and loved the fact we could see the penguins up close thanks a dozen keep up the good work
Such a wonderful experience to see the penguins come out of the water and then up into the burrows. Simply a beautiful thing we have done as a family.
The low tide created a better experience where people sat close to the sides of the stand and on the sand. The weather was good. Overall we had a better viewing experience than previous visits. We had family visiting from Overseas who would spread a good word for the penguin parade experience.
The only problem with experience was that our sitting was next to the reserve sitting for the wildlife group who turned up late. The nation parks guide , Rosemary, talked throughout the presentation that was given by Sarah making it difficult for us to follow. Filling that idle chat continued throughout the evening handing out penguin jumpers and activity books. We have been on a number of trips where this is done before you are go into the event. In our opinion the guide should not have been talking whilst the guide for the event was speaking.
Ticketing was very easy. Everyone at the penguin parade is very helpful and courteous. It was a perfect weather night Always find it easy to walk around the gift shop and the displays Loved the movie about Philip Island. The walkways are very comfortable to walk on . Will be going back again.
Philip Island is absolutely gorgeous😍😍😍 I didn't expect that Penguin Parade would be the best experience. I ands my friends had so much fun and excitement watching and hunting Penguins 🐧🐧🐧 coming from 🌊 ocean. I will forever remember this experience.
I'm so glad we went and saw the penguins at Phillip Island and it's so popular, booking is an absolute must, as is wearing something warm. No photos do as not to frighten them and it's all about protecting the beautiful creatures and ensuring their continued safety. A fantastic experience booking through Head Out.
The stay was great, we loved how fun and safe it was for children. We were so close to many attractions and will be back again!
The penguins were cute and we got great views of them, particularly on the boardwalk. Koala conservation had some close up koalas to photograph which was great. Churchill island was very enjoyable and informative. The three park pass is great value
It was a fabulous experience watching the penguins come out of the surf and then waddle up the the hill to feed their chicks. The ticketing experience was excellent.
All three experiences were amazing! We loved Phillip Island. *also, just to let you know, you sent us the wrong address for the Koala Centre. It took us to a wildlife sanctuary that wasn't included in the package. We had to ask someone else for the address.
My wife and went to see the penguin's Melbourne Cup long weekend we couldn't to much on the beach shore , definitely not 2004. But we saw more walking up the walk, that was much , much better, but it is a shame how some people treat them, people don't listen or they don't understand or they just don't care! Especially with cameras, but they are a cute little thing!
The Penguins 💖 Please Note - I understand the money paid assists with the wildlife, however it was extremely over crowded, which impacted greatly on the experience and had a noticeable impact on the Penguins themselves. Very commercialized.
Seeing the penguins. My family really enjoyed the experience - getting to see them coming out of the water and cautiously walking their way to their nest. I only WISH we were allowed to take photos/videos of the penguins. I know the flash will distract or scare them off, but atleast we should be able to record them as long as we turn the flash off. It'll be a great thing for us to reminisce and share with out loved ones.
We loved watching the penguins coming up from the Ocean back to their burrows . The most disturbing part was the lack of respect the tourists have for the Parks staff and the penguins themselves. Taking photos with flashes after being told several times to put them away. Standing up and not taking any notice of rules. I think as humans we have / are interfering too much with the Penguin habitat and should limit the nights / amount of people aloud in one area. Quite sad to watch the penguins get scared to walk back into their own territory.
The ease of entry and the information provided was very good,overall the experience was far more enjoyable than we expected.We travelled down from Sydney to do this and we have not stopped recommending this to family and friends.
Inclusions
Loved how close we got to see the penguins. The staff were awesome and helpful. Wish people would listen to the staff and not take photos.
It was easy to purchase tickets. On the other hand, it just showed one last date in December and the next one available only on January 7th, 2025. That's how we understood this would be the last chance in 2024.
The penguins were cute and we got great views of them, particularly on the boardwalk. Koala conservation had some close up koalas to photograph which was great. Churchill island was very enjoyable and informative. The three park pass is great value
All three experiences were amazing! We loved Phillip Island. *also, just to let you know, you sent us the wrong address for the Koala Centre. It took us to a wildlife sanctuary that wasn't included in the package. We had to ask someone else for the address.
Been able too see the sites on our own schedule with no time frame was fantastic, staff were very helpful and friendly thank you
Churchill island Farm sits on a breathtaking piece of land with gorgeous views! Loved the animals and reading about the history. The Koala Conservation Reserve gave us a chance to see koalas, wallabies and an echidna up close. Just fantastic! At the Penguin Parade, we held our breath waiting for the penguins to return to their babies. We were situated in front of the device that weighs and scans the penguins upon their return to land. It was fascinating! And we also visited the Nobbies along the way. Phillip Island is a definite must see! ❤️
I felt Churchhill Island was brilliant. So much to see of our history. Little disappointed with the penguins only saw 20 penguins and told no photos. A long way to travel from Brisbane. I felt the lights that were up were bright and more frightening for them. Koala ? Thank you Christina
Phillip Island is amazing, lots to see and do. Very easy to navigate and we loved it. Easily booked and the three park pass was perfect for us.
We enjoyed the history of Churchill island. The koala conservation and the highlight the penguin parade. It had an amazing day.
All the 3 places we went to were amazing! Koala Conservation Reserve, Churchill Farm and Penguin Parade. My personal favourite is the Churchill Farm!
Stunning views ar Churchill Island and House. Activities for young and old! Lovely to see the Old Amess House. Koala Sanctury just amazing for us tourists ( UK) who dont get to see Koala'a. We were very close and able to see them clearly as well as bird life and Wallabies! Penguin Parade- just so much excitement and anticipation and it paid off- 770 Penguins around our night. So wonderful to see them come in from the shore and waddle to their 'beds' for the night.
It was easy to book the tickets. Got to the Penguins in plenty of time. Was a great experience. Food in both cafes were lovely and there was plenty of choice in the souvenir shops
Very well organised and penguins were awesome
Loved watching little penguins. Koala reserve & churchill island has good views as well.
We loved the penguin parade and we enjoy our trip
Peckook full view and cow feeding milk to her child
The ticketing process was easy. The parade was well organised and we loved seeing the penguins
Quiet at the Farm. Friendly staff there
It was an incredible experience to be able to see the penguins coming back from the ocean to their nest!
James made the whole trip fun. It was worth every penny we spent.
Great natural experience seeing koalas peacocks farm animals penguins were the highlight
Headout experience was good. No issues. We loved Phillip Island. So much to see and do.
beautiful venue with proper hygiene and friendly staff.
The all family like most of it
Easy to exchange tickets at all three attractions. Staffs are very kind and warm.
Inclusions
Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade
Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade
Watching the penguins at Philip Island coming out of and returning to the water preparing their groups. I was not expecting the very close view of such a large number of penguins waddling up the hill to their burrows. The tickets were very easy to purchase and then to access online for admission.
The penguins and staff were awesome, disappointing was the lack of respect people had in regards to the no photography policy.
Ticketing experience was good, I actually forgot my phone at my apartment but was still able to check-in, the staff was very friendly and understanding as I didn't have any confirmaiton on me. Otherwise, the view was good and the penguins super cute
Seeing the wee penguin jn their natural habitat was so great. Learning about them and their breeding environment and hearing that the numbers of the penguin population is increasing.
I met lovely people. I was about 30cm away from several of the penguins, your staff were 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Amazing great experience from the moment I arrived I have mobility issues and was worried but was driven straight to the viewing area and a short 3 minute walk
My son was asking questions about the pingings and everything was answered with a lot of care. An amazing experience that everyone should do once in a lifetime 💙
The staff were so kind and gentle with my elderly parents and so nice to me loved every bit of jt keep up the good work so kind hearted and nice and loved the fact we could see the penguins up close thanks a dozen keep up the good work
Such a wonderful experience to see the penguins come out of the water and then up into the burrows. Simply a beautiful thing we have done as a family.
The low tide created a better experience where people sat close to the sides of the stand and on the sand. The weather was good. Overall we had a better viewing experience than previous visits. We had family visiting from Overseas who would spread a good word for the penguin parade experience.
The only problem with experience was that our sitting was next to the reserve sitting for the wildlife group who turned up late. The nation parks guide , Rosemary, talked throughout the presentation that was given by Sarah making it difficult for us to follow. Filling that idle chat continued throughout the evening handing out penguin jumpers and activity books. We have been on a number of trips where this is done before you are go into the event. In our opinion the guide should not have been talking whilst the guide for the event was speaking.
Ticketing was very easy. Everyone at the penguin parade is very helpful and courteous. It was a perfect weather night Always find it easy to walk around the gift shop and the displays Loved the movie about Philip Island. The walkways are very comfortable to walk on . Will be going back again.
Philip Island is absolutely gorgeous😍😍😍 I didn't expect that Penguin Parade would be the best experience. I ands my friends had so much fun and excitement watching and hunting Penguins 🐧🐧🐧 coming from 🌊 ocean. I will forever remember this experience.
I'm so glad we went and saw the penguins at Phillip Island and it's so popular, booking is an absolute must, as is wearing something warm. No photos do as not to frighten them and it's all about protecting the beautiful creatures and ensuring their continued safety. A fantastic experience booking through Head Out.
The stay was great, we loved how fun and safe it was for children. We were so close to many attractions and will be back again!
It was a fabulous experience watching the penguins come out of the surf and then waddle up the the hill to feed their chicks. The ticketing experience was excellent.
My wife and went to see the penguin's Melbourne Cup long weekend we couldn't to much on the beach shore , definitely not 2004. But we saw more walking up the walk, that was much , much better, but it is a shame how some people treat them, people don't listen or they don't understand or they just don't care! Especially with cameras, but they are a cute little thing!
The Penguins 💖 Please Note - I understand the money paid assists with the wildlife, however it was extremely over crowded, which impacted greatly on the experience and had a noticeable impact on the Penguins themselves. Very commercialized.
Seeing the penguins. My family really enjoyed the experience - getting to see them coming out of the water and cautiously walking their way to their nest. I only WISH we were allowed to take photos/videos of the penguins. I know the flash will distract or scare them off, but atleast we should be able to record them as long as we turn the flash off. It'll be a great thing for us to reminisce and share with out loved ones.
We loved watching the penguins coming up from the Ocean back to their burrows . The most disturbing part was the lack of respect the tourists have for the Parks staff and the penguins themselves. Taking photos with flashes after being told several times to put them away. Standing up and not taking any notice of rules. I think as humans we have / are interfering too much with the Penguin habitat and should limit the nights / amount of people aloud in one area. Quite sad to watch the penguins get scared to walk back into their own territory.
The ease of entry and the information provided was very good,overall the experience was far more enjoyable than we expected.We travelled down from Sydney to do this and we have not stopped recommending this to family and friends.
I was very disappointed when I found out that "head out" is an international company Hence I was charged an extra $5.60 international transfer fee on my tickets. Had I known this I would not have purchased the tickets thro headout.
It's amazing to see the penguins, however we have done this a few times now and the experience is pretty much the same... The souvenir shop is expensive and there is not much in terms of affordable variety.
Loved viewing the penguins - speaker was informative. Love the work you do to maintain and protect the wildlife on the island. Truly incredible experience
We particularly loved seeing the dear little penguins waddling up beside us, loaded with fish for their chicks, as we walked along the boardwalk. It was such a long way for them, but they bravely kept going, fallowing the peeping of their babies.
Inclusions
Our driver Phil was down to earth, full of info, prompt and got us in and set for the activities on the itinerary with no dramas :)
Ride with Puffing Billy was good, despite the rain. Animal "spotting" and the pinguins were also good. Gavin, the driver, had a lot of knowledge that he willingly shared.
The app showed pick up time 10:15 However the tour guide sent us a text message saying that pick up time 8:30 but i did't see the message…
To be honest I loved everything about it. It's went exactly as I expected. I should've brought a warmer jacket with me to the penguins though. I can't remember our guides name but he was really good and informative. I'm very glad that I did the tour and I would recommend it.
Great weather, great sights and sweet guide.
Inclusions
The tour was amazing! Definitely recommend if you're wanting to see the beautiful views victoria has to offer. Moonlit sanctuary homing an incredible range of native animals offering close up experiences. Phillip Island did not disappoint, being able to see the penguins in their natural habitat was a once in a lifetime experience. Our journey made even better by our tour guide Jonno who was friendly, knowledgeable and clearly passionate about his job.
The tour guide Graeme was great and went out of the way to stop the bus and help us spot roos, wallabies and other wild life on our journey.
Loved moonlit sanctuary, getting up close to the animals was great. Also the penguin parade, such awesome little animals. Israel our driver made the whole experience a joy with his knowledge & friendliness
Frank, our tour guide, was very friendly and knowledgeable.
Our guide, Chris H was fabulous. Penguins were awesome. Minnlit sanctuary was fun.
All stops were great, but seeing the penguins popping out of the see, walking nearby was amazing.
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Loved how close we got to see the penguins. The staff were awesome and helpful. Wish people would listen to the staff and not take photos.
It was easy to purchase tickets. On the other hand, it just showed one last date in December and the next one available only on January 7th, 2025. That's how we understood this would be the last chance in 2024.
The penguins were cute and we got great views of them, particularly on the boardwalk. Koala conservation had some close up koalas to photograph which was great. Churchill island was very enjoyable and informative. The three park pass is great value
All three experiences were amazing! We loved Phillip Island. *also, just to let you know, you sent us the wrong address for the Koala Centre. It took us to a wildlife sanctuary that wasn't included in the package. We had to ask someone else for the address.
Been able too see the sites on our own schedule with no time frame was fantastic, staff were very helpful and friendly thank you
Churchill island Farm sits on a breathtaking piece of land with gorgeous views! Loved the animals and reading about the history. The Koala Conservation Reserve gave us a chance to see koalas, wallabies and an echidna up close. Just fantastic! At the Penguin Parade, we held our breath waiting for the penguins to return to their babies. We were situated in front of the device that weighs and scans the penguins upon their return to land. It was fascinating! And we also visited the Nobbies along the way. Phillip Island is a definite must see! ❤️
I felt Churchhill Island was brilliant. So much to see of our history. Little disappointed with the penguins only saw 20 penguins and told no photos. A long way to travel from Brisbane. I felt the lights that were up were bright and more frightening for them. Koala ? Thank you Christina
Phillip Island is amazing, lots to see and do. Very easy to navigate and we loved it. Easily booked and the three park pass was perfect for us.
We enjoyed the history of Churchill island. The koala conservation and the highlight the penguin parade. It had an amazing day.
All the 3 places we went to were amazing! Koala Conservation Reserve, Churchill Farm and Penguin Parade. My personal favourite is the Churchill Farm!
Stunning views ar Churchill Island and House. Activities for young and old! Lovely to see the Old Amess House. Koala Sanctury just amazing for us tourists ( UK) who dont get to see Koala'a. We were very close and able to see them clearly as well as bird life and Wallabies! Penguin Parade- just so much excitement and anticipation and it paid off- 770 Penguins around our night. So wonderful to see them come in from the shore and waddle to their 'beds' for the night.
It was easy to book the tickets. Got to the Penguins in plenty of time. Was a great experience. Food in both cafes were lovely and there was plenty of choice in the souvenir shops
Very well organised and penguins were awesome
Loved watching little penguins. Koala reserve & churchill island has good views as well.
We loved the penguin parade and we enjoy our trip
Peckook full view and cow feeding milk to her child
The ticketing process was easy. The parade was well organised and we loved seeing the penguins
Quiet at the Farm. Friendly staff there
It was an incredible experience to be able to see the penguins coming back from the ocean to their nest!
James made the whole trip fun. It was worth every penny we spent.
Great natural experience seeing koalas peacocks farm animals penguins were the highlight
Headout experience was good. No issues. We loved Phillip Island. So much to see and do.
beautiful venue with proper hygiene and friendly staff.
Underground is good to see the penguin closely and warm.
The all family like most of it
The parade is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience where just after sunset, you’ll get to see Little Penguins waddle their way back home. An experience like no other, you’ll have the choice between 3 optimal viewing platforms to catch the best views of these tiny birds – at just 33 centimeters, these might just be the cutest things you see up close!
Recommended experiences:
Koala Conservation Reserve Tickets & Optional Entry to Phillip Island Nature Parks
Churchill Island Tickets & Optional Entry to Phillip Island Nature Parks
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets
Recommended experience:
Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass
Recommended experience:
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets
Recommended experiences:
From Melbourne: Half-Day or Full-Day Phillip Island Guided Tour
From Melbourne: Brighton Beach & Phillip Island Tour
With return transfers sorted out with your day tour tickets, you can kick back and relax, knowing that your transportation is all taken care of. No need to stress about finding your way around or dealing with parking hassles – just focus on soaking in the sights and experiences.
Distance from Melbourne: 141.8 km
If you're planning on travelling to Phillip Island by yourself, these are your best options:
Some of the top-rated hotel and motel options at Phillip Island are:
Some famous restaurants at Phillip Island include:
Absolutely! Phillip Island is one of the most unique experiences in Australia, with untouched wild forests and beaches, penguins visiting every day, whales and dolphins making their presences known to visitors, and a beautiful bar/pub culture. It’s a wonderful experience to go on if it’s your first time in Australia!
Taking a guided tour can enhance your experience, especially if you want to learn more about the island's history, wildlife, and conservation efforts. There are different types of tours, like half and full day tours, and ones that include access to some of Melbourne’s landmarks.
To reach Phillip Island from Melbourne city center, you can drive, take a bus, or join a guided tour that includes transportation. The distance is approximately 140 km, and the journey takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic.
If you want to see the famous Penguin Parade, the best time is during the cooler months from September to April when the penguins return to shore at sunset. However, if you're interested in whale watching, the best time is from May to October when whales migrate along the coast.
We’d recommend booking your Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons like holidays and weekends, as it is a popular tourist destination. This applies particularly to attractions like the Penguin Parade and the Koala Conservation Centre.
Dogs are generally not allowed inside most attractions on Phillip Island due to conservation efforts and the protection of wildlife.
Weather can affect transportation options to Phillip Island, particularly if you're planning to take a ferry. Rough seas or inclement weather might cause cancellations or delays, so it's advisable to check weather forecasts and transportation updates before your trip.
Phillip Island provides amenities and assistance for people with disabilities at most attractions. These include wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, ramps, special parking and wheelchairs for rent.
There's no strict dress code for entering Phillip Island, but it's advisable to dress comfortably and consider the weather conditions, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors. Carry layers in case it gets cold, especially for the Penguin Parade.