Phillip Island is a kids’ paradise with loads of family attractions and educational experiences to keep both kids and adults entertained. The island is famous for the world-famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach, where kids and adults can watch the little penguins come home from the sea. But island has more than the Penguin Parade. From Australian wildlife at Phillip Island Wildlife Park to hands-on activities at Churchill Island, there are heaps of ways to get kids involved in educational kids activities and interactive fun.
Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach
The Penguin Parade is a must do when visiting Phillip Island. Families can gather at Summerland Beach just before sunset to watch the penguins come home. The ranger talks before the event are an educational experience that teaches kids about penguin behaviour, their natural habitat and ongoing wildlife conservation.
To make the most of your visit download the Phillip Island Nature Parks app where kids can do quizzes and interactive activities to learn more about penguins and other wildlife. Penguin arrival times vary depending on the season so get there an hour before penguin arrival for a good spot.
Phillip Island Wildlife Park: Get up close with Australian animals
If your kids love animals they will love the Phillip Island Wildlife Park. This park is home to many species of Australian animals such as kangaroos, emus, wombats and koalas. Kids can feed the friendly wildlife and learn about their behaviour, diet and habitat through animal displays and interactive activities. A great way for kids to get up close to Australian wildlife in a safe environment while learning about wildlife conservation.
Educational fun at Koala Conservation Reserve
The Koala Conservation Reserve is another must see on Phillip Island where you can see koalas in their natural habitat. Kids can walk along elevated boardwalks to get up close to koalas and learn about their environment. The reserve offers guided ranger Phillip Island tours and educational talks about the life cycle, habitat and conservation of these amazing Australian animals.
Family fun at Puzzle Island
For some family fun head to Puzzle Island where kids can do a range of mind boggling mazes and puzzles to test their problem solving skills. A great place for an interactive experience that is fun and educational. Puzzle Island is full of optical illusions and challenges that will keep the whole family entertained for hours. The perfect mix of education and excitement for kids of all ages.
Churchill Island Heritage Farm: Cow Milking and Sheep Shearing
Go back in time at Churchill Island where kids can try cow milking, sheep shearing and wagon rides. The heritage farm is a hands on experience where kids can learn about farming from back in the day, interact with baby farm animals and watch demonstrations of how farming was done in early Australia. A great way for families to experience Australian culture in a beautiful setting.
Cape Woolamai
No trip to Phillip Island is complete without a visit to Cape Woolamai, famous for its stunning coastal views and wild surf beaches. Take the family for a walk along the trails and explore the rock pools teeming with marine life. Kids will love spotting the Silver Gulls and other native birds that live here. Cape Woolamai Beach is also perfect for a game of beach cricket or just relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
Secluded Beaches for Kids
Phillip Island has both bay beaches and wild surf beaches, something for every family. The sheltered beaches like Cowes Beach and Smiths Beach are great for younger kids, with calm water and lots of space to play. If you’re after a more adventurous day out, head to the wild surf beaches at YCW Beach or Cape Woolamai, where older kids can surf or boogie board.
Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
A visit to the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is a must for kids and adults. This interactive factory Phillip Island tour shows you how chocolate is made and has fun hands on activities such as making your own chocolate creations. There’s even a miniature replica of Pyramid Rock made entirely out of chocolate! A decadent treat and a great way to combine learning with fun.
Wildlife Coast Cruises to Seal Rocks
Take the family on a 90-minute boat trip with Wildlife Coast Cruises to Seal Rocks, home to Australia’s largest fur seal colony. Watch the seals play and interact with each other in their natural habitat. Along the way, you’ll see Pyramid Rock, Cape Woolamai and other stunning coastal scenery. A great experience for kids and adults alike, with plenty of educational opportunities to learn about marine life and ecosystems.
Phillip Island Helicopter Flights
Get a bird’s eye view of Phillip Island with a Phillip Island Helicopter flight. See Seal Rocks, Summerland Bay and Pyramid Rock from the air. Kids will love the thrill of flying in a helicopter and learning about the island’s geography and features from above – a must-do experience.
Phillip Island Winery: A Family-Friendly Experience
While the kids are at the farm or wildlife park, Mum and Dad can chill out at the Phillip Island Winery. The winery has open spaces for kids to play while mum and dad enjoy local wines and food. It’s a great place to stop after a day of exploring the island’s many attractions.
Day Trips to French Island and Beyond
If you want even more adventure, consider a Phillip Island day trip to French Island, just a short ferry ride from Phillip Island. The island has lots of Australian wildlife and guided tours where kids can learn about wildlife conservation and the island’s unique environments. French Island is a great addition to your Phillip Island itinerary if you want to see more of the Bass Coast.
Phillip Island has educational experiences, hands on activities and natural beauty, it’s the ultimate family destination. Whether you’re watching the Penguin Parade, having a fun day at Puzzle Island or walking the coastal trails of Cape Woolamai, there’s something for everyone on this amazing island.
FAQ
What should my kids wear to the Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach?
Phillip Island can get cold, especially in the evening when the Penguin Parade is on. Dress your kids in warm layers and bring jackets to stay warm. If you’re going to be walking on the beaches or trails, comfortable shoes are a must.
Are there age restrictions for the interactive experiences at Puzzle Island?
Puzzle Island is suitable for all ages. There are no age restrictions but younger children may need help with some of the harder puzzles. It’s a great way for the whole family to bond over fun educational challenges.
Can we visit multiple attractions in one day, like Phillip Island Wildlife Park and Churchill Island?
Yes, Phillip Island is small enough that you can visit multiple attractions in one day. Phillip Island Wildlife Park, Churchill Island and the Koala Conservation Reserve are all within a short drive from each other so it’s perfect for a family day trip of learning and fun.
How do we book tickets for the Penguin Parade and other activities?
You can book tickets online for the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve and Wildlife Coast Cruises through the Phillip Island Nature Parks website or with operators like Wayoutback Tours or Wildlife Tours. It’s best to book in advance, especially during School Holidays and special events.
What’s the best time of year to visit Phillip Island with kids?
Phillip Island is great to visit all year round but School Holidays and the warmer months from November to March are the best time for outdoor activities. Keep in mind some attractions may be busier during these times so plan ahead to make sure you have enough time to fit it all in.
