Phillip Island is a must-visit destination for stunning coastal views, fascinating wildlife, and plenty of things to do. Committed to accessibility, the island offers numerous disability-friendly options, including wheelchair-accessible paths and sensory-inclusive attractions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its natural beauty. Here are ten accessible activities to plan your perfect getaway.
1. Penguin Parade
The Penguin Parade is one of Phillip Island's most famous attractions, where you can watch little penguins return from the sea each evening at sunset. The viewing platforms and boardwalks are fully accessible, with wheelchair access points available throughout and special viewing areas in Penguins Plus and Underground Viewing that ensure everyone gets a great view.
It's an unforgettable experience watching the world's smallest penguins waddle up the beach to their burrows. The facilities include ramped access, accessible toilets, and designated viewing spaces that make it comfortable for everyone. Make sure to book ahead, as this one sells out fast!
2. Koala Conservation Reserve
Get up close to koalas in their natural habitat at this reserve, where ramped treetop boardwalks and wide, smooth paths make it easy for wheelchair users to move around comfortably. You'll watch these iconic Australian animals in a peaceful bushland setting while also spotting wallabies, echidnas, and native birds along the way.
The entire boardwalk system features gentle slopes and rest areas throughout, so you can take your time. The visitor centre offers accessible parking close to the entrance, accessible toilets, and helpful staff ready to assist if you need anything.
Explore the Koala Conservation Reserve
3. Rhyll Mangrove Boardwalk
The Rhyll Mangrove Boardwalk winds through the Rhyll Inlet, a world-renowned habitat for migratory birds and lush mangroves. The purpose-built boardwalk suits most mobility aids, though manual wheelchair users might find some sections with gentle inclines a bit challenging.
The wetland views are stunning and perfect for birdwatching, with information panels along the way that explain the unique ecosystem. The boardwalk is about 600 metres long and takes around 30–45 minutes at a leisurely pace.
Learn more about Rhyll Mangrove Boardwalk
4. Churchill Island
Churchill Island offers wide-open spaces, historic farm buildings from the 1860s and 70s, daily farming activities, and peaceful coastal trails with paths that accommodate wheelchair users. The mostly flat terrain with compacted gravel paths suits wheelchairs and mobility scooters, making it one of the more disability-friendly spots on Phillip Island.
If you're keen to explore the heritage buildings, it's worth calling ahead to check which areas are accessible. After you've had a look around, grab a hot drink at the café while overlooking the bay. It's a lovely spot to relax!
5. Smiths Beach
Smiths Beach is one of the best beaches on Phillip Island for accessibility, featuring a purpose-built wheelchair-friendly ramp that leads from the car park directly to the sand. This makes it easy for people with mobility challenges to enjoy the beach experience, whether you want to feel the sand, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the ocean views.
The beach has accessible parking bays close to the entrance, accessible public toilets, and plenty of shaded picnic areas. During summer, lifeguards patrol the beach for added safety, so it's great for families.
6. Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
Sweet tooths will love the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, where you can tour the facility and sample delicious handmade chocolates. The entire complex is fully wheelchair accessible with smooth floors, wide corridors, and automatic doors throughout, making it easy for everyone to explore and indulge.
The facility offers easy access parking with designated disability bays and modern accessible toilets. It's a fun experience for the whole family with interactive displays, a chocolate museum, and Pannys Amazing World of Chocolate. You can watch chocolatiers at work, create your own chocolate creations in workshops, and browse the extensive retail store for sweet souvenirs to take home.
Visit Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
7. Wildlife Coast Cruises
For a different perspective of the island, take a cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises and enjoy the spectacular coastline while spotting seals, dolphins, and seasonal whales. It's a fantastic way to see the island from a unique vantage point.
The crew is experienced in assisting passengers with mobility needs. However, not all vessels are equipped with wheelchair access, and some boarding locations may require navigating steps. It's best to call ahead when booking to ensure the right arrangements are made for your needs. Tours typically run for 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the route you choose.
Book a Cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises
8. A Maze'N Things
A Maze'N Things is a fun-filled theme park with puzzles, optical illusions, and interactive attractions. While some activities can be enjoyed by all abilities, it's worth noting that some areas have limited wheelchair access due to the nature of the illusions and mazes. The games room and certain indoor attractions, such as the rotating room and mirror maze, can be mostly navigated by wheelchair users.
The park features accessible toilets and designated parking. If you have specific accessibility needs, it's a good idea to call ahead so the staff can let you know which attractions will work best for you.
9. National Vietnam Veterans Museum
The National Vietnam Veterans Museum provides a moving and educational look at Australia's role in the Vietnam War, with full wheelchair accessibility throughout all exhibits, including the aircraft hangar, display galleries, and memorial areas. The museum offers wheelchair hire if you need it, along with accessible parking right in front of the entrance and well-maintained accessible toilet facilities.
The extensive collection features military vehicles, aircraft, and personal stories from veterans, with audio guides and seating areas throughout that let you take your time exploring at your own pace. It's a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about this important part of Australia's military history.
Visit the National Vietnam Veterans Museum
10. Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
For motorsport fans, the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is a must-visit destination that's unique to the island. This world-renowned circuit is home to the world's leading motorsport series, including MotoGP, the Superbike World Championship, and the Australian Touring Car Championship. The Visitor Centre features a history of motorsport display, a 750m scale model of the circuit, and Australia's largest slot car track, where you can test your skills.
The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accessible facilities and a designated parking area.
Visit Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
Planning Your Accessible Phillip Island Visit
Phillip Island is full of activities suitable for all visitors, regardless of mobility needs. Whether you're interested in wildlife encounters, history, chocolate tasting, or simply soaking in the island's natural beauty, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Keep in mind: When you're planning your trip, it's always a good idea to contact attractions in advance to discuss your specific requirements and make sure all facilities will meet your needs.
Relax at Ripples n Tonic: Your Accessible Accommodation Base
After a day exploring Phillip Island, unwind at Ripples n Tonic. Our inclusive farm stay provides a peaceful, relaxing environment welcoming everyone, with accessible accommodation to enjoy fresh air and comfort.
Book your stay at Ripples n Tonic and start your adventure today!
