Looking for an easy, screen-free family adventure these winter school holidays? Phillip Island offers one of Victoria’s best family day trips, combining wildlife, history and breathtaking natural experiences into one unforgettable day.
The Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass makes planning simple by including entry to Churchill Island Heritage Farm, the Koala Conservation Reserve and the world-famous Penguin Parade in one convenient ticket. Instead of organising multiple attractions, everything is taken care of, allowing you to simply enjoy your day.
Churchill Island Heritage Farm
We began our adventure at Churchill Island, one of the most peaceful and picturesque places on Phillip Island.
The kids loved meeting the friendly farm animals before exploring the heritage buildings and beautiful gardens. Throughout the day, visitors can watch traditional farming demonstrations including sheep shearing, working dogs and cow milking, giving children a glimpse into Australia’s farming history.
The coastal walking tracks surrounding the island are equally impressive, with stunning views across Western Port Bay and plenty of birdlife to spot. It feels like stepping back in time while still offering plenty to keep young children entertained.
Koala Conservation Reserve
Our next stop was the Koala Conservation Reserve.
The elevated treetop boardwalks provide one of the best opportunities in Victoria to see koalas in their natural habitat without disturbing them. We spotted multiple koalas sleeping peacefully high in the eucalyptus trees, while the kids also enjoyed searching for wallabies and native birds along the walking trails.
The reserve does an incredible job educating visitors about koala conservation while providing a relaxing bushland experience suitable for all ages.
Penguin Parade
As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Penguin Parade for the perfect finish to the day.
Watching hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle across the beach to their burrows is truly one of Australia’s most remarkable wildlife experiences.
One of the biggest advantages of visiting during winter is the earlier sunset, meaning younger children don’t need to stay awake as late to experience the parade.
Photography isn’t permitted once the penguins arrive, helping protect these incredible little animals and allowing everyone to simply enjoy the moment.
Why Families Love the 3 Parks Pass
The Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass is perfect for families because it combines three very different experiences into one easy booking:
- Meet friendly farm animals and explore a working heritage farm.
- See koalas in their natural habitat from elevated boardwalks.
- Watch the world-famous Penguin Parade at sunset.
- Great value compared with purchasing separate tickets.
- Less planning and more family time.
We booked everything through Experience Oz, making it quick and easy to plan our day.
Even better, every ticket helps support wildlife conservation, habitat protection and research across Phillip Island Nature Parks.
If you’re looking for a memorable family day trip from Melbourne these winter school holidays, this is one experience we’d highly recommend.
Our Tip: Start your morning at Churchill Island, visit the Koala Conservation Reserve during the afternoon, then arrive early for the Penguin Parade to explore the visitor centre before the penguins make their way home at sunset. We recommend booking via Experience Oz, making it quick and easy to plan our entire day with one simple booking.
Bonus tip: If you’re driving to or from Phillip Island, stop at San Remo Pier for the free daily pelican feeding, held at 12 pm. It’s a great extra activity for families and only takes around 15–20 minutes.
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