Melbourne Combo: Great Ocean Road Day Trip and Phillip Island Day Trip from Melbourne

Discover Victoria’s Iconic Nature in Comfort and Style with this well-rounded 2-day combo from Melbourne. For just under $300 per person, you’ll travel in a small group—limited to 11—covering Australia’s breathtaking coastal scenery and fascinating wildlife. The tour covers two of Melbourne’s most sought-after day trips: the famous Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island, home to the adorable penguins and unique ecosystems. Both days include hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics smooth and hassle-free—perfect if you prefer to leave the driving to someone else.

What we love about this tour? First, the small group setting keeps things intimate and flexible, so you get plenty of one-on-one time with guides and more authentic experiences. Second, the carefully curated itinerary hits all the highlights, from the Twelve Apostles to the Penguin Parade, with enough time at each stop to truly enjoy and absorb the scenery.

A key consideration? Since these are two separate day trips, you’ll need to plan your schedule carefully—especially if you’re flying in or have limited time. Also, note that accommodation isn’t included, so you’ll want to arrange your hotel stay nearby. This tour suits travelers who love wildlife, stunning coastlines, and expert guiding—especially those eager to maximize their Melbourne visit with authentic experiences and impressive visuals.

Key Points

• Small-group travel enhances intimacy and flexibility.
• Two iconic day trips in one package, offering great value.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and local knowledge.
• Stunning scenery from coastlines to wildlife parks.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• No accommodation included, ideal for those arranging their own stay.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

What to Expect from the Overall Tour

This combo experience is designed to give you the most out of your time in Melbourne, breaking down into two distinct days packed with sights, wildlife, and coastlines. The price of $298.80 is a fair investment considering the multiple stops, expert guiding, and included park fees. It’s a well-organized way to see more than you could on your own, especially if you prefer to relax while someone else handles the driving and logistics.

Day 1: The Great Ocean Road

Starting from Melbourne’s Southbank, the tour kicks off with a pick-up at your hotel, setting the tone for a day filled with natural wonders. The first stop, Lorne, is a charming seaside town where we appreciated the brief 20-minute visit for stretching legs and snapping photos of the coast.

Next, the highlight for many is Kennett River, where spotting wild koalas in the trees is a sure crowd-pleaser. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way our guide, Sebastian, pointed out the koalas in the wild, making it a special and authentic experience.” The 20-minute stop here is just enough to catch a glimpse of these sleepy creatures.

A leisurely lunch break at Apollo Bay offers a chance to refuel; though lunch isn’t included, the town boasts many eateries to suit all tastes. Afterward, a walk through Melba Gully National Park reveals an ancient rainforest with towering trees and lush foliage—perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

The afternoon peaks at the Twelve Apostles, one of Australia’s most iconic sights. The well-maintained lookouts provide sweeping views of these limestone stacks, creating perfect photo moments. The final stop, Loch Ard Gorge, offers a dramatic glimpse into shipwreck stories, with enough time to soak in the rugged coastline and learn about Victorian maritime history.

Day 2: Phillip Island Wildlife and Penguin Parade

The second day opens at Moonlit Sanctuary, one of the best wildlife parks we’ve visited. With an hour here, you’ll meet iconic Australian animals—koalas, kangaroos, and perhaps even wombats—guided by friendly staff and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer loved how Fred, their guide, was described as “friendly and informative,” making the wildlife encounters memorable.

Next, the Nobbies Centre offers stunning views of the rugged coast and is a great spot for photographs. The 25-minute stop allows enough time to appreciate the natural formations and seabird colonies.

The main event? The Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, where you witness the little penguins‘ arrival at dusk. The 1-hour 30-minute penguin viewing is included in the tour, giving you a chance to see these charming creatures waddle into their burrows after a day out at sea. One guest remarked, “Watching the penguins come ashore was magical, and it was so well-organized.”

Additional stops may include Woolamai Surf Beach if time allows, offering another perspective of Phillip Island’s diverse environment.

Practical Details and What This Means for You

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a small group (up to 11 people) means you’ll experience less chatter and more tailored attention from guides. The comfortable minibus ensures a smooth ride over the many kilometers covered—an essential factor given the lengthy days.

Duration and Pacing

Both days are approximately a full day, with early starts and some long stretches of bus travel. As one reviewer pointed out, “It’s a long day, but the scenery and variety make it worth it.” If you’re someone who enjoys a lot of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transport, this setup suits you well.

Price and Value

While not inexpensive, the $298.80 fee packages together two major attractions with guided commentary, park fees, and hotel pickup—delivering good value for travelers seeking an all-in-one experience without the stress of self-driving or planning multiple bookings.

Booking and Flexibility

The tours are booked 62 days in advance on average, indicating they are popular. The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, especially given the unpredictable weather. Remember, you must book the Phillips Island tour within 7 days of the Great Ocean Road trip, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo is perfect for travelers eager to make the most of their Melbourne stay without the hassle of logistics. Wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those with limited time will find it offers a comprehensive taste of Victoria’s highlights. If you appreciate expert guides, stunning visuals, and authentic wildlife encounters, this experience will not disappoint.

Final Thoughts

For those who want to see the best of Victoria’s coast and wildlife in a manageable, well-organized package, this 2-day combo from Melbourne offers a fantastic opportunity. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach bring the scenery to life, making the long days feel engaging rather than exhausting.

While it’s not a luxury experience—no included accommodation or meals—it’s a well-rounded, value-packed way to explore iconic sights with expert commentary and a small group for comfort. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Victoria, the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island are must-sees, and this tour makes them accessible without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

FAQ

Is accommodation included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include accommodation. You’ll need to book your own hotel in Melbourne and arrange your stay accordingly.

How early do I need to book?
Most travelers book around 62 days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. It’s wise to reserve early to secure your preferred dates.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts. This flexibility is helpful if your plans are uncertain.

What should I bring for the trip?
Warm and waterproof clothes are recommended, especially for the Great Ocean Road day, where weather can change quickly. Also, bring snacks, water, and a camera.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour caters to most travelers, but check with the operator if you have very young kids.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While most stops are accessible, some walking is involved, especially in national parks and wildlife parks. Check with the operator if you have specific mobility concerns.

This tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and comfort, making it a fantastic way to explore some of Victoria’s best natural attractions without the guesswork. If you’re after a memorable, smoothly run experience with genuine wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery, this combo tour from Melbourne is well worth considering.