Koala Reserve (Koala Conservation Centre)
The Basics
Visit the Koala Reserve’s interpretation center to learn about the animals; take a woodland walk through the native bush; or join a ranger-led tour. Koalas aren’t the only ones at the reserve, either—look for wallabies, possums, echidnas, and snakes.
Go on your own, or as part of a group or private excursion around Phillip Island. Guided tours typically also stop by the Penguin Parade conservation park. The Koala Reserve is part of the Phillip Island Nature Parks group—to save money on admission, purchase a combo ticket that includes several of the group’s attractions.
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Things to Know Before You Go
Parts of the Koala Reserve are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Family passes are available. Also, seniors and kids get a discount, and those under age 4 are free.
Both the treetop and woodland walks are categorized as easy, so kids and travelers with limited mobility should be able to enjoy the experience.
How to Get There
The Koala Reserve is located on Phillip Island, about a 90-minute drive south of Melbourne. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, and the reserve is about a 15-minute drive from the bridge. Public transit on the island is limited.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The Koala Reserve is usually open every day, with reduced hours on some holidays, and extended hours in the summer. Last access to the koala-viewing boardwalks is 15 minutes before closing time.
Visit Penguin Parade
Penguin Parade is another of Phillip Island’s natural attractions. Take a guided or self-directed tour of the center, which allows close-up views of little penguins in their natural habitats. Evening is the best time to visit, as the penguins return to their burrows along the beach around sunset.