Phillip Island is just a short drive from Melbourne and is a nature lovers paradise. Famous for its beaches, coastal views and wildlife it’s one of Australia’s top wildlife destinations. The Phillip Island Wildlife Wander Trail is an immersive experience that takes you through the island’s diverse ecosystems from pristine beaches to coastal scrub and bushland so you can experience the natural environment.
A Nature Lovers Heaven
The Phillip Island Wildlife Wander Trail is a scenic and long walking trail that takes you along several kilometres of coastline and different natural habitats. From beautiful beaches with crystal clear water to tree top boardwalks with elevated platforms with 360 degree views, the trail lets you explore the island’s bushland, coastal scrub and wildlife parks. The Wildlife Wander Trail is designed to introduce you to the native animals and views that make Phillip Island one of Australia’s most loved wildlife destinations.
Along the trail you’ll find areas with native wildlife and stunning views. The Wildlife Wander Trail isn’t just a path to follow – it’s an exploration of nature’s magic where you can get up close to cuddly koalas, Aussie animals, birds and one of the largest fur seal colonies in the country. From coastal walks to tree top boardwalks with 360 degree views of the island this trail has something for everyone.

When to Visit
Phillip Island is open all year round but the best time to do the Wildlife Wander Trail is in spring and autumn. The weather is nice and the wildlife is more active so you’ll see more native animals. Summer is peak season so if you prefer a quieter time visit in the cooler months.
Trail Highlights
- Koala Conservation Centre: One of the top stops on the trail, the Koala Conservation Centre has some of the island’s koalas. Here you can get up close and personal with these Aussie icons as they hang out in the trees and see them in their natural habitat. The centre also has displays about the life cycle of koalas and their role in the environment.

- Phillip Island Nature Parks: A big chunk of the trail, Phillip Island Nature Parks is where you can see the island’s natural beauty, from bushland to coastal walks with views. Wildlife enthusiasts will love getting up close to native animals like wallabies, echidnas and various bird species. As one of the biggest wildlife parks in Australia, this is where you can see Australian wildlife in the wild.

- Cape Woolamai: At the southern end of the island, Cape Woolamai has great coastal views and cliff top views over the surrounding beaches. Wild and rugged, the reserve has many trails, including bay trails that lead to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. These beaches are not only beautiful but popular surfing beaches. For a quiet time, the calm waters are perfect to sit and take in the surroundings.

- Penguin Parade: One of the island’s biggest attractions, the Penguin Parade is a real treat. Every evening the little penguins return to their burrows after a day of fishing in the cool waters of the surrounding ocean. It’s a special experience to see one of the world’s most unique wildlife. The parade offers exclusive viewing of the penguins as they cross the sand, it’s incredible.

- Tree-Top Boardwalks: The tree-top boardwalks are a highlight of the Wildlife Wander Trail. These walkways take you above the forest floor and give you a whole new view of the island. From these walkways you’ll see native birds like the crimson rosella and other animals and see the coastal scrub and beach access.
- Largest Fur Seal Colony: Near the Nobbies you can see one of the largest fur seal colonies in Australia. From the viewing platforms you’ll see them on the rocks or in the water. A unique opportunity to get up close to these marine animals.
Nearby Attractions
Phillip Island has heaps to see but there’s also some awesome stuff nearby. Wilsons Prom is just a short drive away and has some of Victoria’s most beautiful beaches, trails and nature. The Yarra Valley is for those who love views and a day of winery hopping. For a chill out head to the Mornington Peninsula where you can cruise the calm waters and cool water beaches and have a day of fishing, farming, walking and beachcombing.
For a guided tour of the island and surrounding areas Autopia Tours offer full day tours to Phillip Island that visit a mix of popular attractions and secret spots.
What to Bring
When doing the Wildlife Wander Trail make sure to wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat and bring your camera to capture the views. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle and insect repellent as some areas of the trail can have mosquitoes in the warmer months. Binoculars are also a good idea if you want to bird watch, especially if you want to see the many birds along the boardwalk trails.
Tours and Tickets
For a more in-depth experience, there are several options. You can book combo tickets for multiple attractions on Phillip Island and get discounted entry to several of the island’s top attractions. For a more private experience book a full day Phillip Island tours with an expert guide who will tell you all about the island’s flora, fauna and history. Or for the hassle free option book round trip transfers and return transfers and book your tickets in advance and get around the island with ease.
FAQ
How long is the Phillip Island Wildlife Wander Trail?
The Wildlife Wander Trail is several kilometres long with different sections for different fitness levels.
What wildlife will I see along the trail?
The Wildlife Wander Trail has loads of Australian wildlife. Keep an eye out for koalas, wallabies, echidnas, kangaroos and over 200 species of native birds.
Is the trail suitable for families with kids?
Yes, the trail is great for families. Many sections of the trail are easy to walk and there are plenty of opportunities for kids to learn about nature. The Koala Conservation Centre and the Phillip Island Penguin Parade are super popular with families.
Are there guided tours on the trail?
Yes, guided tours are available. Expert guides will take you deeper into the island’s ecosystems, history and wildlife. The most popular is Phillip Island penguin parade tour from Melbourne.
Can I visit the Phillip Island Wildlife Wander Trail all year round?
Yes! The Wildlife Wander Trail is open all year round. Each season is different. The best weather and wildlife spotting is in spring and autumn.