Bookable
Your visit, considered
Make room for
a little wonder.
A practical guide to Maru Koala and Animal Park,
from planning your ticket to finding your way.

Before you go
The details for a good day
Plan your visit to Maru
Opening times, useful amenities and a few things to know before you arrive.
Opening times
All times are local to Grantville.
- Maru Koala and Animal Park
- 09:30–17:30 · Every dayLast entry 16:30; closed Christmas Day
Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.
Finding the park
Maru is on the Bass Highway at Grantville, near the shore of Western Port, about 15 minutes from Phillip Island.
1650 Bass HighwayGrantville VIC 3984, Australia
- By car: about an hour and a half from Melbourne: take the M1 towards Pakenham, turn off on the C422 through Koo Wee Rup, then follow the Bass Highway towards Phillip Island to Grantville.
- By bus: there is no train to the park, but the Queensferry bus stop is directly outside the entrance; plan your trip with the PTV Journey Planner.
- Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.
Useful stops along the way
Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:
- The Homestead Bistro, open every day, overlooking the animal park.
- Wheelchairs on request, with ramps and rest areas throughout.
- Rest areas around the animal park.
- An ice-cream bar for ice-cream, milkshakes and iced drinks.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a layer for the coastal weather. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.
A visit that works for you
The animal park is wheelchair accessible throughout, with ramps, wide paths and rest areas. Wheelchairs are available on request, assistance animals are welcome, and carer and Companion Cards are accepted.
- Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
- If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
- Ask park staff for assistance or directions during your visit.
Enjoy the park thoughtfully
- Keep to the visitor paths and supervise children.
- Feed or touch animals only where the keepers invite you to.
- Leave the animals undisturbed; some are in the park’s care while they recover.
- Assistance animals are welcome.
- Follow the signs and the keepers’ guidance at talks and presentations.
A little care keeps the animals calm and healthy, and the park pleasant for everyone.
Make time for a pause
The Homestead Bistro, open every day and overlooking the animal park, serves breakfast, lunch and light snacks made with local produce, with cakes and Devonshire tea; the Ice Bar has ice-cream and milkshakes.
- Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
- Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
- Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.
Many day tours from Melbourne visit Maru on the way to the Phillip Island penguins.
A few details worth planning
- Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
- Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
- Start in the right place: go to the entrance building and follow your ticket’s instructions.
- Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, a layer for the coastal weather and a charged phone make the day easier.
- Leave space to linger: plan around the keeper talks, from the 11:00 koala talk to the 15:00 Tasmanian devil talk, and leave time for mini-golf.
Visitor information checked 10 November 2026. Opening times and facilities can change; follow the date, time and instructions on your issued ticket.

Bring the essentials
Check the current visitor guidance before you travel.
- Comfortable shoes
- Charged phone
- A warm layer
- Your booking details