Headout logo. Link to home.
Help
Top things to do in Melbourne

Koala Conservation Reserve

Stroll along elevated boardwalks among the treetops for an up-close encounter with koalas in their native environment. Explore the woodlands on foot and delight in the diverse birdlife, as well as the presence of wallabies and echidnas.

4.3/5

4.1K+ travellers love this

See what they have to say

Koala Conservation Reserve
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.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
  • 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
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.
Free cancellation
Flexible duration
  • 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 AU$135
AU$128.25

5% off

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.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
  • 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.

  • Upgrade to Penguins Plus for prime views from a limited-capacity beachfront platform right next to the penguins’ path.

  • Choose Underground Viewing for sheltered, eye-level encounters from a glass-fronted, weatherproof observation space.

  • Tailor your visit with flexible upgrade options and get even closer to Phillip Island’s most adorable locals.

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.

  • Upgrade to Penguins Plus for prime views from a limited-capacity beachfront platform right next to the penguins’ path.

  • Choose Underground Viewing for sheltered, eye-level encounters from a glass-fronted, weatherproof observation space.

  • Tailor your visit with flexible upgrade options and get even closer to Phillip Island’s most adorable locals.

from
AU$58
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.
Penguins walking on the shore at Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.
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.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
  • 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.

  • Opt for the general viewing ticket to get close to the little waddlers or choose penguin plus – a ticket for tiered seating.

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

  • Enhance your experience with an exclusive ranger-led tour through the penguin colony with an underground viewing upgrade for an exclusive up-close interaction.

  • You can also choose the Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass, offering koala encounters at the Conservation Centre and farm experiences on Churchill Island.

  • 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.

  • Opt for the general viewing ticket to get close to the little waddlers or choose penguin plus – a ticket for tiered seating.

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

  • Enhance your experience with an exclusive ranger-led tour through the penguin colony with an underground viewing upgrade for an exclusive up-close interaction.

  • You can also choose the Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass, offering koala encounters at the Conservation Centre and farm experiences on Churchill Island.

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

from
AU$33
Penguins walking along Summerland Beach during the Penguin Parade.
Visitors entering Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island.
Koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve.
Visitors observing a koala at a conservation reserve.
Boardwalk overlooking the ocean at Phillip Island, Australia.
Visitors watching penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Phillip Island penguins walking on sandy path surrounded by grass.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
10 hr
1 more
  • Explore Phillip Island on a full-day or half-day guided tour from Melbourne, with round-trip 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.

  • Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve, where you can stroll treetop boardwalks for close encounters with koalas in their natural habitat.

  • 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 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.

  • Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve, where you can stroll treetop boardwalks for close encounters with koalas in their natural habitat.

  • 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
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.
Free cancellation
Flexible duration
  • 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$78
Melbourne cityscape from Eureka Tower and penguins at Phillip Island beach.
Melbourne cityscape with Eureka Tower and surrounding skyscrapers.
Person taking a photo at Melbourne Skydeck, Eureka Tower.
Visitors watching penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Penguins walking on the beach at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Australia.
Visitors enjoying the view from Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.
Family enjoying view from Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.
Child using a telescope at Melbourne Skydeck, Eureka Tower.
Child and adult exploring Melbourne Skydeck model at Eureka Tower.
Person enjoying VR experience at Voyager Theatre.
Penguins walking on the shore at Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade.
Child observing penguins at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Visitors seated at Phillip Island Nature Parks viewing area for Penguin Parade.
Penguins walking on sand at night, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Free cancellation
Flexible duration
  • Enjoy entry to Melbourne Skydeck and Phillip Island Penguin Parade with this convenient combo ticket—two top Melbourne experiences in one.

  • Take in 360° views of Melbourne from 300 meters up, with access to Bar 88.

  • Weekday bonus: Visit between 21 July and 29 August to get a free upgrade to the Ultimate Skydeck experience—this includes The Edge, Voyager Theatre, and AUD10 worth of vouchers at no extra cost.

  • Watch the famous Penguin Parade at dusk, with access to boardwalks, a visitor center, and general viewing platforms.

  • Fun fact: Phillip Island is home to one of Australia’s largest penguin colonies—perfect for wildlife lovers and families.

More details

  • Enjoy entry to Melbourne Skydeck and Phillip Island Penguin Parade with this convenient combo ticket—two top Melbourne experiences in one.

  • Take in 360° views of Melbourne from 300 meters up, with access to Bar 88.

  • Weekday bonus: Visit between 21 July and 29 August to get a free upgrade to the Ultimate Skydeck experience—this includes The Edge, Voyager Theatre, and AUD10 worth of vouchers at no extra cost.

  • Watch the famous Penguin Parade at dusk, with access to boardwalks, a visitor center, and general viewing platforms.

  • Fun fact: Phillip Island is home to one of Australia’s largest penguin colonies—perfect for wildlife lovers and families.

from
AU$69

Millions love heading out with us

Catriona Graham
NZ

Catriona

New Zealand
Jun 2025
4/5
review-image
Ticketing was easy to follow and information and maps for the three activities were good. The staff at all three were really helpful, pleasant and made the experiences fun. It was fun getting close to the animals at Churchill Island and the highlight was milking the cow. Walking around the koala reserve and again getting to see them up close was special. The highlight of the afternoon was the penguin parade, particularly getting to see them as they went to their burrows, from the boardwalk. We all agreed that we had a great day. We self drove.
Stuart Leskie
AU

Stuart

Australia
Jun 2025
5/5
review-image
review-image
The staff were so friendly and knowledgeable, making our experience a great one. And the penguins were so cute and adorable when they came into the beach.
Deborah Deece
AU

Deborah

Australia
Feb 2025
5/5
review-image
review-image
review-image

+1 more

I loved everything about the experience. So much so that I went back the 3 nights I was there. The staff were so helpful friendly and knowledgeable. I did a guided tour the first night and learnt so much, second night I did the underground viewing which was also great and the third night i upgraded my seating to penguin plus which was fantastic. The restaurant was also great I had the best fish n chips I've had in a long time. The only thing that needs better monitoring is the use of phone photography and video as I saw soooo many people taking photos and videos after sunset when it's not allowed.
Barbara Van der Horst
AU

Barbara

Australia
Apr 2025
5/5
review-image
review-image
There was a staff member who told us about the park, very knowledgeable and friendly . The tickets were very easy obtainable
Shauna C Peart
CA

Shauna

Canada
Feb 2025
5/5
review-image
The Koala Conservation Reserve was a beautiful experience: it is so well configured, accessible and allowed us to observe the koalas and other wildlife easily. Staff were super friendly and provided interesting information. I would strongly recommend this experience!
gillian singh
GB

Gillian

United Kingdom
Feb 2024
4/5
Penguin island was fabulous- really enjoyed it . The farm was okay but had a good cafe and the walk was interesting. The Antarctic was shut so I'm very disappointed I bought for tickets and only got to see three . That said it was still good value for money
Daniel Robert van der Heijden
NL

Daniel

Netherlands
Dec 2023
5/5
Lovely Parks and easy access with all the passes. Just a tip, take people's phone away or something at the penguin parade, unbelievable how many people still took pictures at the beach or on the boardwalk back to the visitor centre. Really sad to see. Other than that great experience!!
Vikas Saroha
AU

Vikas

Australia
Jan 2025
4/5
We had a great experience. There was a bit of chaos at the pickup. But after that it was smooth overall. Our guide/driver Jordan was great too.
Download app section background

We've served 41 million+ guests and we are here for you

41 million+

Happy customers across 10,000+ experiences

In the media

Featured and recommended by the best brands

24 x 7 help center

Have a question? Live chat with local experts anywhere, anytime