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Experience a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you’ll get to see Little Penguins waddle their way back home just after sunset. Standing tall at just 33 centimeters, they might just be the cutest things you see up close!
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Book Phillip Island Nature Park tickets
- Treat your eyes to the magical sight of little penguins returning to their burrows at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island.
- Spot koalas lounging in their eucalyptus haven and traditional sheep-shearing, herding techniques used for generations at Churchill Island with an upgrade to 3 park passes.
- Upgrade to Penguin Plus for an up-close viewing experience - perfect for kids to learn about wildlife while watching the cute, pint-sized penguins scurry about.
- Join a ranger at the visitor center for insights into the penguins' world. Then, descend to the "Burrow" for an underground penguin encounter as they make their grand entrance.
- Home to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia, Phillip Island is located just 90 minutes from Melbourne.
- 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.
- Spot koalas lounging in their eucalyptus haven and traditional sheep-shearing, herding techniques used for generations at Churchill Island with an upgrade to 3 park passes.
- Upgrade to Penguin Plus for an up-close viewing experience - perfect for kids to learn about wildlife while watching the cute, pint-sized penguins scurry about.
- Join a ranger at the visitor center for insights into the penguins' world. Then, descend to the "Burrow" for an underground penguin encounter as they make their grand entrance.
- Home to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia, Phillip Island is located just 90 minutes from Melbourne.
Inclusions
- Penguin Parade from the general viewing platform
- Access to 3 Parks Pass (optional)
- Access to up-close viewing with penguin plus (optional)
- Access to the underground viewing platform (optional)
- Access to Penguins Premium viewing platform (optional)
- Tip: Phillip Island boasts stunning coastlines. Ask a local about hidden coves or beaches for a more secluded experience. Pack a picnic and enjoy the tranquility!
- Penguins will arrive at the coast at sunset. It is recommended to arrive approximately 1 hour prior.
- Photographs and video recordings are not allowed when penguins are coming home, because the artificial light sources will stimulate the eyes of the penguins. The island implements light control at this time.
- 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 29 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass: Penguin Parade, Koala 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!
- Get your dose of cuteness at the Koala Conservation Reserve. Spot them in their eucalyptus hideaways as you stroll the treetop boardwalks.
- 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.
- Enjoy the penguin parade from a tiered seating, or choose an immersive, eye-level experience from the underground viewing area.
- Want a taste of heritage farming? At Churchill Island, milk cows, shear sheep, and crack a whip like the early Australian settlers.
- 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!
- Get your dose of cuteness at the Koala Conservation Reserve. Spot them in their eucalyptus hideaways as you stroll the treetop boardwalks.
- 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.
- Enjoy the penguin parade from a tiered seating, or choose an immersive, eye-level experience from the underground viewing area.
- 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
- Penguin plus viewing (optional)
- Underground viewing (optional)
- 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.
Combo: Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower + Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets
from
AU$68
- Enjoy two enticing experiences in Melbourne with this combo ticket, which includes visits to the Sky Deck at Eureka Tower and Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.
- With access tickets to two attractions at discounted rates, this is a chance you shouldn't pass up.
- Head out to Melbourne Skydeck, the world’s tallest residential skyscraper for an unbeaten experience.
- Ascend to a height of about 300 meters above ground level in the southern hemisphere’s fastest elevator.
- Treat your eyes to the magical sight of little penguins returning to their burrows at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island located just 90 minutes from Melbourne.
- With a general viewing ticket, enjoy tiered seating on the general viewing grandstands and witness one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia.
- Enjoy two enticing experiences in Melbourne with this combo ticket, which includes visits to the Sky Deck at Eureka Tower and Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.
- With access tickets to two attractions at discounted rates, this is a chance you shouldn't pass up.
- Head out to Melbourne Skydeck, the world’s tallest residential skyscraper for an unbeaten experience.
- Ascend to a height of about 300 meters above ground level in the southern hemisphere’s fastest elevator.
- Treat your eyes to the magical sight of little penguins returning to their burrows at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island located just 90 minutes from Melbourne.
- With a general viewing ticket, enjoy tiered seating on the general viewing grandstands and witness one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia.
Inclusions
Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower
- Admission to the Melbourne Skydeck
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade
- Entry into Penguin Parade
- Penguin Parade viewing from the general viewing platform
- Tip: It is recommended to check the weather forecast before visiting the SkyDeck in order to get unobstructed city views, which are only feasible in clear weather. Use the viewfinder at the Sky Deck to locate the top 30 Melbourne landmarks.
- Tip: As penguin homing takes place after sunset and lasts about 50 minutes, it is recommended to arrive at the coast 1 hour before penguin arrival time.
- It's recommended to arrive approximately 1 hour before the penguin arrival time, check in at the visitor center, then walk to their viewing area to wait for the penguins.
- Click here to see the estimated penguin arrival times throughout the year.
- Penguins will arrive at the coast at sunset and the penguin homing usually lasts about 50 minutes.
- Photographs and video recordings are not allowed when penguins are coming home.
- Only small carry-on bags are allowed inside.
- Facilities: Parking, Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility, Restroom.
Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower
- 2nd Oct, 2023 to 7th April, 2024:
- Daily: 12pm to 9pm (including Public Holidays)
- New Year's Eve:
- 12pm to 5pm (last entry at 04:30pm)
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade
- Daily: 5pm
- Note: If you are planning a visit from mid-December to late January, or during a long weekend or the school holiday period, please allow extra travel time as the traffic can get busy.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 29 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Get picked on an AC vehicle from Melbourne for a full-day adventure that includes a scenic train ride and a visit to Philip Island to catch a sight of little penguins.
- Chugg-chugg-choo choo! All aboard the legendary Puffing Billy Steam Train for a scenic ride from Emerald to Belgravea and witness the glorious Dandenong Ranges.
- Next on the agenda: Emerald Lake. Think crystal-clear water, fresh mountain air, and a chance to stretch your legs on a leisurely stroll.
- Get your cameras ready for Nobbies Lookout for insane views of the coastline. Don't miss Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
- The star attraction: the Phillip Island Penguin Parade! Just after dark, hundreds of the world's smallest penguins waddle ashore after a day of fishing at sea.
- Get picked on an AC vehicle from Melbourne for a full-day adventure that includes a scenic train ride and a visit to Philip Island to catch a sight of little penguins.
- Chugg-chugg-choo choo! All aboard the legendary Puffing Billy Steam Train for a scenic ride from Emerald to Belgravea and witness the glorious Dandenong Ranges.
- Next on the agenda: Emerald Lake. Think crystal-clear water, fresh mountain air, and a chance to stretch your legs on a leisurely stroll.
- Get your cameras ready for Nobbies Lookout for insane views of the coastline. Don't miss Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
- The star attraction: the Phillip Island Penguin Parade! Just after dark, hundreds of the world's smallest penguins waddle ashore after a day of fishing at sea.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour
- Transfers from Melbourne
- Ride on Puffing Billy steam train
- Access to Emerald Lake
- Entry to Nobbies Blowhole and Seal Rocks Lookout
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- 10am: Pick-up from Melbourne
- Emerald Lake
- Dandenong Ranges
- Puffing Billy steam train ride
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- 9-9:15pm: Drop-off to Melbourne
- 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.
From Melbourne: Brighton Beach, Moonlit Sanctuary & Phillip Island Tour with Penguin Parade
- Craving a taste of Aussie wildlife? This full-day guided adventure whisks you away from Melbourne to the colorful Brighton Beach and then the stunning Philip Island.
- Take a walk at the Moonlit Sanctuary and hand-feed a delightful cast of native Australian animals such as Kangaroos, koalas, emus, quolls, owls, and more!
- Make way to Phillip Island and witness the cutest parade of Little Penguins as they waddle the way back to their burrows.
- Upgrade to Penguin Plus or Underground Viewing tickets for an up-close viewing experience - perfect for kids to learn about wildlife while watching the pint-sized penguins scurry about.
- Visit Point Grant and The Nobbies offering breathtaking views of Westernport Bay, including Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
- Craving a taste of Aussie wildlife? This full-day guided adventure whisks you away from Melbourne to the colorful Brighton Beach and then the stunning Philip Island.
- Take a walk at the Moonlit Sanctuary and hand-feed a delightful cast of native Australian animals such as Kangaroos, koalas, emus, quolls, owls, and more!
- Make way to Phillip Island and witness the cutest parade of Little Penguins as they waddle the way back to their burrows.
- Upgrade to Penguin Plus or Underground Viewing tickets for an up-close viewing experience - perfect for kids to learn about wildlife while watching the pint-sized penguins scurry about.
- Visit Point Grant and The Nobbies offering breathtaking views of Westernport Bay, including Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Philip Island
- Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Live commentary
- Entry to Brighton Beach
- Entry to Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park
- Entry to Point Grant & The Nobbies
- Access to Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Penguin Parade from the general viewing platform
- Access to up-close viewing with penguin plus (optional)
- Access to the underground viewing platform (optional)
- Pick-up from Melbourne
- Brighton Beach's bathing boxes
- Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
- Phillip Island
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Drop-off to Melbourne
- Tip: Do not miss out on the “Conservation in Action” wildlife show, which showcases several lesser-known Australian species in a series of interactive and engaging ranger presentations.
- No photography is allowed during the Penguin Parade.
- This experience is not wheelchair 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, traveling down the coast in an AC coach. Meet native Australian animals at Healesville Sanctuary before heading to Phillip Island.
- Make your first stop at Healesville Sanctuary, where you'll meet cuddly koalas, lively kangaroos, elusive platypuses, and many more fascinating species.
- Next stop: Point Grant and The Nobbies, offering stunning views of Westernport Bay. Don't miss Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
- Witness the unique sight of petite penguins on Phillip Island, parading to their burrows at sunset after a day of fishing at sea.
- Take a day tour from Melbourne, traveling down the coast in an AC coach. Meet native Australian animals at Healesville Sanctuary before heading to Phillip Island.
- Make your first stop at Healesville Sanctuary, where you'll meet cuddly koalas, lively kangaroos, elusive platypuses, and many more fascinating species.
- Next stop: Point Grant and The Nobbies, offering stunning views of Westernport Bay. Don't miss Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
- Witness the unique sight of petite penguins on Phillip Island, parading to their burrows at sunset after a day of fishing at sea.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Philip Island
- Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Live commentary
- Entry to Healesville Sanctuary
- Entry to Point Grant & The Nobbies
- Access to Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- 11-11:30am (summer) or 9-9:30am (winter): Pick-up from Melbourne
- Healesville Sanctuary
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- 10:30-11:30pm (summer) or 9:30-10:30pm (winter): Drop-off to Melbourne
- Tip: While at the Healesville Sanctuary, you can attend Keeper Talks that are free and get to know more about some of your favorite animals like kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, and more.
- The Healesville Sanctuary is pram/stroller and wheelchair accessible.
- Assistance animals are allowed except at the kangaroo walk-through, Koala Forest, all walk-through aviaries, flight arena shows, and close-up encounters.
- Witness the unique sight of petite penguins on Phillip Island, parading to their burrows at sunset after a day of fishing at sea.
- 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
- 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.
- 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, and blacksmithing.
- Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and pose for a picture at a historic homestead, a symbol of early colonial architecture in Australia.
- Catch sight of little penguins returning home at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade with a ticket upgrade.
- Admire stellar views of Western Port Bay and the coast and see migratory birds and waterfowl that inhabit the island's wetlands.
- 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, and blacksmithing.
- Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and pose for a picture at a historic homestead, a symbol of early colonial architecture in Australia.
- Catch sight of little penguins returning home at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade with a ticket upgrade.
- 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
- Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass (optional)
- Penguin plus viewing (optional)
- Underground viewing (optional)
- 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.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessibility.
- 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 29 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Phillip Island Nature Parks TicketsPhillip Island Nature Parks
Top things to do in Melbourne
All your Phillip Island Nature Park ticket options
Attraction Tickets
These tickets give you entry to one of Phillip Island's top attractions: Koala Conservation Reserve or Churchill Island. Best for folks who want to explore at their own pace, or are short on time.
Recommended experiences:
- Koala Conservation Reserve Tickets
- Churchill Island Tickets
Penguin Parade
Get the best seats for Phillip Island's most popular attraction, attracting over 2 million people from all over the world each year! If there's one thing you cannot miss on the island, it would be watching Little Penguins waddle up from the sea to their burrows.
Recommended experience:
- Penguin Parade Tickets
3 Park Passes
Get the most value for money with the 3 Park Pass, which will give you entry to Penguin Parade, Koala Reserve & Churchill Island. These tickets are great if you're looking to explore Phillip Island on a budget.
Recommended experience:
- Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass
Day Tours from Melbourne
Enjoy round trip transfers from the city while you explore Phillip Island. Choose to visit attractions like Brighton Beach, Healesville Sanctuary & Puffing Billy, for an added dose of adventure. Great for folks who want hassle free commutes & a guided tour of the island.
Recommended experiences:
- Half-Day or Full-Day Phillip Island Guided Tour
- Brighton Beach & Phillip Island Tour
What our guests have said about their Phillip Island experience
Top attractions to see at Phillip Island Nature Parks
The Penguin Parade
Read more
Plan your visit to Phillip Island
Timings
Getting there
Rules & safety
Tips
Accessibility
Stay
Dining
- Penguin Parade: Daily 4pm
- Koala Conservation Reserve: Daily 10am - 5pm [Last entry: 4:30pm]
- Churchill Island: Daily 10am - 4.30pm
- Nobbies Centre: Daily 10am - 4pm
- Best time to visit: For pleasant weather with fewer crowds, visit in spring (September to November). For the best penguin viewing conditions, visit in summer (December to February), but expect larger crowds.
- Note: If you plan on visiting between mid-December to late January, during long weekends, school holidays or other peak periods, set aside some extra time, as traffic can get very busy.
- Penguin Parade: 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, Victoria 3922
- Koala Conservation Reserve: 1810 Phillip Island Road, Phillip Island, Victoria 3923
- Churchill Island: 246 Samuel Amess Drive, Churchill Island, Newhaven 3925
Distance from Melbourne: 141.8 km
If you're skipping a guided day trip and planning on travelling to Phillip Island by yourself, these are your best options:
- Bus: V-line operates a bus to Phillip Island’s main town, Cowes, from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne city.
- Taxi/car: Approximately a 90-120 minute drive away from Melbourne, you’ll also get to enjoy free parking on site.
- Keep an eye on the weather with the Bureau of Meteorology app to stay informed about conditions and any warnings.
- Pay attention to safety signs on the beach to know what dangers to watch out for.
- Stick to swimming between the red and yellow flags whenever you can.
- Always keep an eye on kids when they're near the water.
- It's safer to swim with a friend than alone.
- Learn how to recognize and avoid rip currents. Get more info at beachsafe.org.au.
- Dress in layers as weather conditions on Phillip Island can change quickly.
- You’ll be doing quite a bit of walking in most places, so wear comfortable walking shoes during your trip.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun, especially during peak daylight hours.
- Carry insect repellent especially during warmer months, to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- Don’t forget to carry a camera or binoculars! They’ll come in handy when you go for the penguin parade.
- Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve, Churchill Island, and the Nobbies Centre are wheelchair accessible.
- There is a complimentary buggy service available for visitors with mobility issues.
- Venues have wide pathways so wheelchairs or strollers can move around comfortably.
- Handicapped parking spots are reserved on-site.
- Complimentary wheelchairs are available for visitors in need.
- Counters and interactive displays are set at accessible heights, especially for wheelchair users.
Some of the top-rated hotel and motel options at Phillip Island are:
Top restaurants at Phillip Island include:
The views at Phillip Island: Little penguins, koalas, hidden coves, and more!
See all photos
Frequently asked questions about Phillip Island Nature Parks tickets
Is Phillip Island worth visiting?
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!
Is it necessary to take a guided tour?
Taking a guided tour can enhance your experience, especially if you want to learn more about the island's history, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Book half and full-day tours, with optional upgrades to attractions like Puffing Billy, Healesville Sanctuary, Moonlit Sanctuary and more.
How can I get to the island from Melbourne?
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.
Is there a best time of year to visit?
If you want to see the famous Penguin Parade, the best time to visit 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.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
We’d recommend booking your 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.
Are dogs allowed inside?
Dogs are generally not allowed inside most attractions on Phillip Island due to conservation efforts and the protection of wildlife.
How does weather affect transportation options?
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. Check out our plan your visit page for more tips to keep in mind during your visit.
What are the available amenities and assistance available to people with disabilities?
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.
Is there a dress code or any clothing restrictions for entering?
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.