Do You Have to Pay to See the Nobbies? (Phillip Island)

The Nobbies is one of Phillip Island’s most famous attractions with breathtaking views of its rugged coast, rocky islands and the Bass Strait. With its scenic boardwalk you can enjoy stunning ocean views and experience the natural beauty of the Summerland Peninsula. But the question travelers ask is: Do you have to pay to visit the Nobbies? The answer is no—you can walk the clifftop boardwalk and enjoy the views of the rock lined coastline for free. However some attractions like the Antarctic Journey do have an entry fee. Let’s get into everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Is It Free to Visit the Nobbies?

You can visit the Nobbies Walk – Phillip Island and:

• See magnificent views of the coastal cliffs and rock formations.
• Watch the blowhole in action where a jet of water shoots through the blowhole.
• See a colony of fur seals at Seal Rocks, home to Australia’s largest fur seal colony.
• Indigenous wildlife including migratory birds, mutton birds and fairy penguins near their penguin burrows.
• A combination of wildlife from seabirds to Australian animals.

The boardwalks have ramped access so it’s accessible for visitors with sufficient mobility.

Costs Money

The Nobbies Rock and external boardwalks are free but some experiences are ticketed:

Antarctic Journey (Indoor Attraction)

Located inside the Nobbies Centre

Entry Fee: Approx. $20 AUD per adult (families and kids discounted).

What’s Inside?

• Interactive displays of marine life and climate.
• Virtual reality experiences of icy waters.
• Wildlife exhibits featuring indigenous animals.

Phillip Island Nature Parks 4-Park Pass

Includes:

Penguin Parade – Check the penguin arrival times for best viewing.

Koala Conservation Reserve – See native animals.

Churchill Island – A glimpse of Western Port Bay history.

Antarctic Journey – Learn about seal colonies and the annual migration of marine animals.

If you’re visiting multiple attractions this pass is the best bang for your buck.

Explore Phillip Island

For a stress free experience consider joining a Phillip Island day tour which includes stops at the Nobbies, Penguin Parade and Summerland Beach—the best spot to see fairy penguins returning to their burrows at dusk.

Many Phillip Island tours offer guided itineraries so you don’t miss out on the coastal views and native wildlife. If you want a more personalized experience Tours Phillip Island offer customizable options to fit your schedule.

Whether you’re self driving or part of a Phillip Island tour the Nobbies are a must see.

Facilities at the Nobbies

Parking – Cafe – Toilets – Shop at 1320 Ventnor Road, Phillip Island

Parking: Free.

Nobbies Café: Enjoy great coffee, ice cream, and light meals with views of the ocean.

Accessibility: The cafe levels and boardwalks are ramped so are wheelchair accessible.

Gift Shop: Lots of plushie penguins, books and souvenirs.

Pro Tip: See Sightseeing Tours Australia or Parks Victoria for guided ecotourism experiences.

Best Time to Visit

• Daytime: See the coastline and native wildlife in daylight.
• Sunset: The island at sunset is stunning over the rocky coastline.
• Evening: Combine with the Penguin Parade and watch penguins returning from their day of hiding from predators during the day.

Bring binoculars to see Fur Seals, the seal colony and the rock formations along the southern coast.

Getting to the Nobbies

By Car: Drive along Ventnor Road, through Gippsland Region Victoria and Bass Coast.

By Public Transport: Contact Phillip Island Taxis for transport options.

By Tour: Several Phillip Island tours include a stop at the Nobbies Blowhole as part of their itinerary.

Final Verdict

Absolutely! The Nobbies Walk – Phillip Island is beautiful and amazing—and free! Whether you’re looking at the rock formations, the mist spray of the blowhole or the boardwalks, it’s a must see.

FAQ

How much to visit the Nobbies?

Visiting the Nobbies Boardwalk and Lookout is free. The Antarctic Journey inside the Nobbies Centre is $20 AUD per adult.

When to visit the Nobbies?

Best to visit during the day for the best views or at sunset for a coastal experience. If you’re going to the Penguin Parade, visit late afternoon and then head to Summerland Beach.

How do I get to the Nobbies without a car?

If you don’t have a car, use Phillip Island Taxis, public transport or join a Phillip Island tour which often includes Nobbies, Seal Rocks and Summerland Beach.

Can I see penguins at the Nobbies?

While the Nobbies isn’t the main viewing area for the Penguin Parade, you might see fairy penguins in their burrows along the cliffs. Best place to see them is Summerland Beach.

Is there food at the Nobbies?

Yes! The Nobbies Café has great coffee, ice cream and light meals with views of the Bass Strait.