Phillip Island is a coastal paradise that attracts a diverse mix of visitors. Whether you're after beaches, wildlife or motorsport, there's something for everyone here.
See the world-famous Little Penguins waddle in on sunset, hand-feed kangaroos, stroll tree-top boardwalks to spot koalas and watch majestic whales migrating past during winter.
1. Penguin Parade
As the sun sets each evening, thousands of tiny penguins emerge from the sea and parade to their waiting burrows. It’s one of the most unique and spectacular wildlife displays in Southern Australia!
The Penguin Parade has become a significant tourist attraction on Phillip Island. Visitors come from all over the world to see this amazing event.
As well as being a stunning natural phenomenon, the penguin parade also serves as a significant fundraiser for Phillip Island Nature Parks vital research, education and conservation projects that help protect the little blue birds from extinction.
2. The Pinnacles
The Pinnacles are the remnants of an ancient volcano that sprang up on Phillip Island’s rocky coastline. A perfect natural sunset spot, they make for stunning photos.
About 360 million years ago moltern rock forced its way up from the earth’s core. It cooled very slowly, eventually forming the pink granite that makes up Cape Woolamai and its surrounding area.
The Pinnacles are a must see when visiting Phillip Island! The jagged rock formations are truly a marvellous sight and there is plenty of history to discover here too.
3. Koala Reserve
Take in the beautiful native bushland and iconic Australian wildlife with a visit to the Koala Reserve on Phillip Island. This conservation centre features tree-top boardwalks and an interactive visitor centre to bring you face-to-face with koalas.
Koalas live in eucalyptus woodlands across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Eucalyptus trees are important food sources for koalas, possums and gliders.
They are able to break down the toxic oils in eucalyptus leaves using a special bacteria. This process requires a lot of energy.
Koalas are one of Australia’s most iconic creatures. They are now listed as endangered, which means they are more protected than ever before.
4. Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre
Located at the western end of Phillip Island, Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre is an ecotourism destination that overlooks Seal Rocks - Australia's largest colony of fur seals. It is managed by Phillip Island Nature Parks and features educational displays, a cafe, a children's play area and a gift shop.
The centre is a must-see for anyone visiting Phillip Island. Not only is it a great place to learn about the marine life around the island, but it also offers stunning views over the Bass Strait. Plus, you can watch a range of whales as they travel to the coast from May to October!
5. Nobbies Beach
The Nobbies Beach is a dramatic outcrop and headland located at Phillip Island’s western tip. Its spectacular boardwalks (500m in length) offer scenic views over Bass Strait.
The headland is home to the largest fur seal colony in Australia, and is a crucial site for wildlife conservation. You can also spot silver gulls nesting in spring and Little Penguins waddling along the shore.
If you’re a wildlife lover, then Nobbies is one of the best places to go. You can learn about Australia’s flora and fauna, see how seals and kangaroos live, and even interact with some of the creatures in a fun interactive way.
