View from the Boardwalk, Nobbies Centre
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The Nobbies Melbourne

4.4
·9k reviews·Summerlands, Australia

Dramatic coastal boardwalks with opportunities to spot seals and little penguins, offering breathtaking ocean views and stunning sunset vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon to sunset

Golden hour views

CrowdMedium
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View from the Boardwalk, Nobbies Centre

The Nobbies Melbourne

Best Time

Late afternoon to sunset

Golden hour views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dramatic coastal boardwalks with opportunities to spot seals and little penguins, offering breathtaking ocean views and stunning sunset vistas.

4.4
(9k reviews)

"The boardwalk is absolutely stunning—a must-visit! If you're lucky, you'll catch a glimpse of penguins."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Windproof Jacket Essential

The wind can be strong and cold, so pack a windproof jacket for comfort.

🐧 Penguin Spotting Tips

Look for penguins under the boardwalks, especially at dusk. Patience is key!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.4 · 8,689 reviews

Type

Tourist Attraction

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Nobbies Boardwalk

The Nobbies Boardwalk

The Nobbies Centre

Stroll along well-maintained boardwalks offering breathtaking ocean views and rugged rock formations.

Seal Rock Views

Seal Rock Views

Overlooking Seal Rock

Spot Australian fur seals basking on the rocks from designated viewing platforms.

Penguin Sightings

Penguin Sightings

Under the boardwalks

With luck, catch a glimpse of little penguins returning to their burrows at dusk.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

The Nobbies is known for its dramatic coastal scenery and wildlife. Be prepared for strong winds and cooler temperatures, even on sunny days. A windproof jacket is a must, as many visitors note the chill. Planning your visit around sunset can offer stunning views, but be aware that access roads may close after dark for penguin viewing.

Wildlife Wonders & Parking

While the Nobbies boardwalk offers chances to spot seals and potentially penguins, parking can be tight during peak times. Consider arriving early or late, or exploring alternative transport like cycling if you're comfortable with steep roads. The nearby Penguin Parade is a major draw, so factor in potential crowds and road closures if visiting in the evening.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon to sunset
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

some of my favourite melbourne bits that i've found as a carlton + fitzroy girl the last few years! what did i miss? 🤔💝 AD @Visit Melbourne #melbourne #everybitdifferent
@ebonymaii
26.7K likes • 1.8M views

🧥 Windproof Jacket Essential

The wind can be strong and cold, so pack a windproof jacket for comfort. Reddit

🐧 Penguin Spotting Tips

Look for penguins under the boardwalks, especially at dusk. Patience is key! Reddit

Replying to @🥺 How to spend a weekend in Melbourne if you’re visiting for the first time ✨ #melbourne #thingstodo #melbournethingstodo #australia #firsttime
@biancainmelbourne
23.7K likes • 664.4K views
Craving fresh ocean air and breathtaking coastal views? 🌊☀️ Take a day trip from Melbourne to The Nobbies at Phillip Island! Stroll along the boardwalks, spot some seals, and if you stick around till sunset, catch the famous Penguin Parade 🐧 . . . . . #melbournedaytrips #seevictoria #philipisland #nobbies #seeaustralia #travelaustralia #travel2025 #daytrips #mustvisitplaces #hiddengemsau...
mysuitcase_tales
20 likes • 1.5K views

🚗 Parking Pointers

Parking can be limited; arrive early or late, or consider cycling. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

The coastal views and rock formations are stunning, perfect for photography. TikTok

It's home to penguins, seals and seabirds 🐧🦭🦢 📍The Nobbies in Phillip Island. The boardwalk is 500m long, and with the rolling green hills providing a dramatic contrast to the wild waves of Bass Strait, it reminded us of the Irish coastline 🌊🇮🇪 It's about 2 hours from Melbourne and is a great spot to view the rugged coastline of this part of Victoria. This was filmed this last year 📸 @phillip...
nickandlaura_
683 likes • 35.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Windproof Jacket Essential

The wind can be strong and cold, so pack a windproof jacket for comfort. Reddit

🐧 Penguin Spotting Tips

Look for penguins under the boardwalks, especially at dusk. Patience is key! Reddit

🚗 Parking Pointers

Parking can be limited; arrive early or late, or consider cycling. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

The coastal views and rock formations are stunning, perfect for photography. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walks

Enjoy the comfortable walking paths and get some great exercise. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Nobbies for its breathtaking coastal scenery, well-maintained boardwalks, and opportunities to see wildlife like seals and penguins. The sunset views are particularly highlighted as stunning and magical. Some visitors note the strong winds and the need for warm clothing, and parking can be challenging during peak times.

"One of my favorite places to come and walk about. We got to see penguins and their little homes in the hillsides. We walked the whole path and took a lot of photos. We had an amazing time. Would recommend checking this place out if you're in the area. It is very much worth the time."

Georgina Curry

"Visited during sunset and the view was absolutely stunning. The walkways are well-maintained and offer great vantage points to see the coastline and waves crashing below. The air was fresh, and the area felt peaceful despite a few tourists around. Seals could be seen from a distance, and the golden hour lighting made the whole place feel surreal. A great spot to take in nature and end the day."

Richard C

"This was my first time visiting “Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre".
I arrived there around 4:30 p.m. in April, so it was a bit chilly. But I was glad I visited because I could enjoy the ocean view along with the rugged rock formations. Walking along the pathway was really comfortable, and it was a great bit of exercise, too!
Next time, I’ll come back with my kids so we can explore the paid area together."

Yuki KOIZUMI

What People Like

Stunning coastal views
Wildlife spotting opportunities
Well-maintained boardwalks

What People Dislike

Strong winds
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Nobbies is located on Phillip Island, which is about a 2-hour drive from Melbourne. You can drive yourself, or consider public transport options like taking a train from Melbourne to Frankston and then a ferry to Phillip Island. Some visitors suggest cycling to The Nobbies once on the island, but be aware of steep roads. Reddit

While having a car offers the most flexibility, it is possible to explore Phillip Island without one. You can take a bike on the ferry or hire an e-bike on the island. Some roads are steep and narrow, so caution is advised. Reddit

The drive to The Nobbies on Phillip Island is generally scenic. Be mindful of wildlife, such as wallabies, crossing the roads, especially at dawn and dusk. Reddit

Yes, the drive to the Penguin Parade from The Nobbies car park is considered one of the best scenic drives in Victoria, offering stunning coastal views. Reddit

The most common way is to drive, taking approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train to Frankston and then a ferry to Stony Point, which then connects to Phillip Island. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to the boardwalks and viewing areas at The Nobbies is generally free. However, the Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre may have an entry fee. Reddit

The Nobbies boardwalks are typically accessible during daylight hours. The Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre has specific opening hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.

The main attraction at The Nobbies, the boardwalks and viewing platforms, are free to access. There might be charges for specific facilities like the Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre. Reddit

While you can visit the general area during daylight, access to the roads leading to the Penguin Parade may be restricted after 7 PM for the free penguin viewing. For the official Penguin Parade experience, separate tickets are required. Reddit

No specific booking is usually required for general access to The Nobbies boardwalks. However, if you plan to visit the Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre or attend the Penguin Parade, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At The Nobbies, you can walk along the scenic boardwalks, enjoy stunning ocean views, spot seals at Seal Rock, and potentially see little penguins returning to their burrows at dusk. The Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre offers educational exhibits. TikTokReddit

You can often see Australian fur seals at Seal Rock. If you're lucky and visit at the right time, you might also spot little penguins returning to their nests under the boardwalks. Reddit

Yes, The Nobbies is great for families. Kids will enjoy the wildlife spotting and the easy-to-navigate boardwalks. The Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre also offers engaging exhibits. Reddit

The Nobbies features well-maintained boardwalks that are comfortable for walking and offer excellent vantage points of the coastline and sea. Reddit

The Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre is an educational facility that provides insights into the marine life and environment of Phillip Island, including the local penguin population. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe at The Nobbies Centre that offers food and drinks. For more dining options, the nearby town of Cowes has various restaurants and cafes. Reddit

The cafe at The Nobbies typically offers light meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a convenient spot for a quick bite while enjoying the views. Reddit

The town of Cowes, a short drive away, offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants serving local produce. Ocean Reach Brewery in Cowes is recommended for its beer and burgers. Reddit

While there might not be designated picnic areas directly at The Nobbies boardwalks, you can often find suitable spots in the surrounding parklands or car park areas for a picnic. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.

Besides The Nobbies cafe, Cowes has many options like Grenache or The Trumpet Bar for drinks, and Shaka Bar in San Remo. Ocean Reach Brewery in Cowes is also a popular choice. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Nobbies offers fantastic photo opportunities with its dramatic coastline, rugged rock formations, crashing waves, and potential wildlife sightings like seals and penguins. Sunset provides particularly beautiful lighting. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. If you hope to photograph wildlife, a telephoto lens can be beneficial. A sturdy tripod is useful for sunset shots. TikTok

Photographing penguins can be challenging as they are often small and may be in burrows or moving quickly. Patience and a good zoom lens are helpful. Be mindful of not disturbing them. Reddit

Late afternoon and sunset are ideal for photography due to the golden hour light, which enhances the natural beauty of the landscape. Early mornings can also offer soft light and fewer crowds. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged at The Nobbies. However, always be respectful of wildlife and avoid using flash photography, especially near penguin burrows, as it can disturb them. Reddit

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