2 Days Melbourne-Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island Private Tour

Melbourne’s Highlights in Two Days: A Deep Dive into Australia’s Natural Wonders

Traveling from Melbourne, this 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded taste of some of Victoria’s most iconic sights — from the dramatic Great Ocean Road to the charming Phillip Island. For about $1,124.69 per person, you get the comfort of private transportation and small-group intimacy, making it ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience without the hassle of self-driving or large crowds.

What we love most? First, the small coach offers a relaxed atmosphere and the chance to really soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Second, the tour covers both the spectacular coastline and the famous penguin parade, providing a balance of awe-inspiring landscapes and adorable wildlife encounters.

A possible consideration? Since the itinerary is set — you can’t swap days — it’s important to be comfortable with a fixed schedule, especially if weather could influence some outdoor stops.

This tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate organized convenience combined with authentic natural sights. It’s perfect if you want to see the highlights without the stress of planning logistics yourself.

Key Points

• Small group size creates a more personal experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary includes major highlights like the Twelve Apostles and penguin parade.
• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility.
• All entry tickets are included, simplifying your day.
• Scheduled set days mean no swaps, so plan accordingly.
• Good value for those wanting a full, guided experience.

A Practical, In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Melbourne Tour

Starting Point: Ease of Pickup and Private Travel

The tour begins with pickup from your Melbourne accommodation, easing the start of your adventure. Traveling in a dedicated private coach with just 4 to 14 passengers means you’re not stuck in a crowded bus, and your guide can cater a bit more to your interests. Having all transportation taken care of allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about directions or navigation.

Day 1: The Spectacular Great Ocean Road and Twelve Apostles

The journey begins with a stop at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. Here, we loved the chance to indulge in handcrafted chocolates and cool off with ice cream. It’s a sweet start that sets the tone for a fun, relaxed day. You’ll have about 30 minutes here — plenty of time for a quick treat or souvenir shopping.

Next, the tour makes various stops at charming small towns and lookout points. The first real wildlife encounter happens at the Kennett River Koala Walk, which many reviews highlight as an ideal spot for spotting koalas. We appreciated the guide taking the time to point out the best spots for animal sightings; it makes a difference when you’re not just passing through a forest but actively looking for these iconic Australian creatures.

Apollo Bay provides a handy lunch stop. The town itself offers a picture-perfect setting along the coast, with options for grabbing a quick bite and enjoying the ocean views. Walking around here, you get a taste of local life amidst dramatic coastal scenery.

The highlight of the day? The Twelve Apostles — those towering limestone stacks rising from the turbulent Southern Ocean. The tour allocates about an hour here, giving ample opportunity for photos, admiring the scale of these natural formations, and soaking in the atmosphere. Adjacent to this, Loch Ard Gorge offers another stunning vista, with sheer cliffs and a sandy beach, perfect for a short walk and more landscape photography.

Day 2: Phillip Island and Wildlife Encounters

On the second day, the focus shifts to Phillip Island, renowned for its impressive wildlife and scenic spots. The first stop at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is a delightful surprise. We loved the playful atmosphere and the chance to sample and buy artisan chocolates, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just a sweet tooth.

Churchill Island provides a peaceful retreat. Wander the open spaces, explore historic farm buildings, and breathe in the fresh air — a calming contrast to the previous day’s coast.

The Nobbies Centre at Point Grant offers both educational insights and scenic views of the rugged coastline. Managed by Phillip Island Nature Parks, the center emphasizes eco-friendly tourism and wildlife preservation, making it a meaningful stop for nature lovers.

Finally, the Penguin Parade is the grand finale — the main reason many travelers flock here. Watching these tiny seabirds waddle home from the ocean to their burrows is an experience that lives up to the hype. We loved the authenticity of the experience, knowing you’re witnessing one of the world’s largest Little Penguin colonies in their natural environment.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers private transportation, all entry tickets, and a water bottle — simple but effective inclusions that streamline your experience. You’ll need to budget separately for lunch and dinner, and accommodation, which gives you flexibility based on your preferences.

The tour’s set schedule means you won’t be able to swap days, but the fixed itinerary ensures all key highlights are covered. With confirmation received at booking, the process is straightforward, and the tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given some walking and outdoor exposure.

What Our Reviewers Say

Feedback emphasizes knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insightful commentary and tailored animal sightings. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide was fantastic, pointing out koalas and sharing stories about the area.”

Many reviewers also note the stunning scenery and the value of having everything organized, especially the entry tickets and transportation. The small group size makes conversations easier and sightseeing less rushed.

On the flip side, some mention that the fixed schedule can be limiting if weather disrupts some outdoor activities. Therefore, good weather is a plus, and travelers should be prepared for variable conditions.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This 2-day private experience is ideal for travelers who want a curated, hassle-free way to see Victorian coastlines and wildlife. It suits those who appreciate guided insights and small-group intimacy, along with the convenience of all logistics taken care of. If you’re a traveler who prefers to focus on the scenery and wildlife rather than planning every detail, this tour offers genuine value.

However, if you’re looking for a highly flexible schedule to accommodate last-minute changes or want to explore other parts of Melbourne more deeply, you might need to consider alternative options. But for a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s most iconic sights, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love It?

If you’re eager to see Australia’s natural beauty with the comfort of private transport and a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a strong choice. It combines spectacular coastal vistas, adorable wildlife encounters, and scenic stops — all in a manageable two-day package.

It is especially suitable for first-time visitors who want a worry-free, organized experience, but it also benefits return travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of navigation or multiple bookings. The fixed schedule means it’s best suited for those who enjoy a structured itinerary but with enough small-group intimacy for personal touches.

In short, if you value stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and expert guidance, this tour offers a memorable way to experience the best of Melbourne’s surroundings while making the most of limited time.

FAQ

How many people are in the tour group?
The tour is in a small coach accommodating between 4 and 14 passengers, providing an intimate experience and more personalized attention from the guide.

Can I customize the itinerary?
No, the tour has a fixed schedule with Day 1 dedicated to the Great Ocean Road and Twelve Apostles, and Day 2 to Phillip Island and surrounding attractions.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the price, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat at Apollo Bay and other stops along the way.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and a water bottle (provided). Some stops involve outdoor walking, so be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness, children should be comfortable walking and sitting for extended periods. The wildlife and scenic stops are generally very engaging for families.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Since the tour relies heavily on outdoor sightseeing, poor weather could affect some activities. You might be offered a different date or a full refund if the experience is canceled due to bad weather.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide if this 2-day Melbourne tour matches your travel style. Whether you’re after iconic sights, wildlife encounters, or simply a worry-free way to explore, it’s an experience that packs in a lot of value and stunning scenery.