Melbourne: Phillip Island Tour & Penguin Parade

If you’re visiting Melbourne and craving a taste of Australia’s remarkable wildlife and coastal beauty, the Phillip Island Tour & Penguin Parade offers a balanced mix of nature, wildlife encounters, and a touch of adorable penguin magic. For around $106 per person, this 9-hour guided trip takes you through some of Victoria’s most iconic sights — from the Moonlit Sanctuary to the Nobbies and, of course, the world-famous Penguin Parade.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the personalized guided commentary that makes even the most remote spots come alive and the opportunity to see the tiny, charming penguins waddle home at sunset—a true natural spectacle. On the downside, the long ride (about 2 hours each way from Melbourne) might test your comfort, especially if you’re prone to travel fatigue. But if you’re an animal lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply want to see genuine Australian wildlife away from the city crowds, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is ideal for travelers who value authentic encounters—like feeding kangaroos or seeing koalas—and don’t mind a full day on the road. Families with older children, wildlife admirers, and those looking for a well-rounded Aussie adventure will find this trip especially worth considering.

Key Points

• Wildlife Close-Ups: Get up close with kangaroos, wombats, and echidnas at the Moonlit Sanctuary.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Marvel at the rugged beauty of Woolamai Surf Beach and the dramatic Nobbies.
• Penguin Parade: Enjoy the adorable spectacle of hundreds of tiny penguins returning home at dusk.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Travis or Terry are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Value for Money: Entrance fees, guide service, and hotel pickup are included, making it a straightforward, affordable option.
• Considerations: Long bus ride and variable weather can affect the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day of Australian Wildlife and Coastal Marvels

If you’re dreaming of wandering through Australian wildlife parks, spotting koalas snoozing in trees, and watching playful kangaroos hop freely, this tour offers a wonderful introduction. We loved the way the Moonlit Sanctuary presents Australia’s native animals in a natural setting, giving you the chance for close encounters without the crowds. One traveler noted, “The wildlife sanctuary was a little smaller than I thought, but all but one koala was awake, which was brilliant.” That kind of personal, up-close experience really enhances the trip.

On the way to Phillip Island, you’ll pass through some of Victoria’s most picturesque scenery. Expect to stop at Woolamai Surf Beach, where the waves attract surfers from around the world. The Nobbies and Seal Rock are other highlights, offering dramatic coastal views and the chance to learn about the local sea life from your guide.

The actual Penguin Parade is the grand finale—and it’s as charming as it sounds. Sitting on a beachside platform, you’ll watch hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore after sunset. Several reviews highlight the charm of this moment: “Watching the penguins come in was a real treat,” one traveler recalls, adding that the experience feels “like a scene from a storybook.” Be aware that photography is not allowed during the parade, so if you’re hoping to capture shots of the penguins, prepare to just enjoy the moment.

Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Unique

Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park

We start the day with pickup from your Melbourne accommodation — a perk that saves you the hassle of organizing transport. Your guide, often praised for their knowledge and personable approach, will escort you to the sanctuary. Here, you can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, and see wombats and echidnas in a setting that mimics their natural environment. The experience offers a hands-on connection with Australia’s iconic animals, which many reviews find to be the highlight of the trip. One visitor shared, “Thanks to our guide Josh, our trip was wonderful,” highlighting how guides can elevate the experience.

Winding Down the Coast

Next, you’ll head towards Phillip Island, stopping at Woolamai Surf Beach. While famous for its waves and surfers, the beach also provides stunning vistas. It’s an ideal spot for a quick stroll or even a picnic (bring your own or purchase snacks nearby). You might find that the view of the rugged coastline is worth the stop alone. Some visitors mention the hot summer weather affecting their comfort during the sanctuary visit, so packing a hat and water is advisable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Nobbies and Seal Rock

Progressing along the coast, the Nobbies offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and sea stacks. Here, you learn about seabird colonies and the Australian Fur Seals at Seal Rock. Guides often comment on the power of the sea and the dramatic scenery, which make excellent photo opportunities. One review states, “The scenery was magnificent and the commentary very informative,” underscoring the value of an experienced guide.

The Penguin Parade

Finally, the much-anticipated Penguin Parade takes place at a protected beach. You’ll sit on a specially designed platform, where you’ll see hundreds of tiny penguins emerge from the water and waddle to their burrows. The experience is described as “adorable” and “magical” by many travelers. People mention the muted, natural lighting that makes for a gentle, atmospheric view, although weather conditions (like rain) can sometimes impact visibility.

Transportation, Group Size & Comfort

The tour typically uses a 12-passenger van, which allows for a more intimate experience but might feel a bit cramped on a full day. Group sizes are generally around 24 people, providing a nice balance between social opportunity and personal space. Pickup times vary depending on your hotel, usually early in the morning, so be prepared for an active day. Some reviews mention that the ride is rougher than expected or the bus can be uncomfortable after several hours, but guides often attempt to make the journey enjoyable with playlists and commentary.

Price and Value

At $106, the tour includes all entrance fees, guide service, and hotel pickup, making it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free day out. While you’ll need to budget for food and drinks, the included fees save you from additional costs at each attraction. Reviewers often mention that the value for money is good, especially considering the expert guidance and access to exclusive spots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits animal lovers, families with older children, and travelers eager to experience real Australian wildlife in a natural setting. If you’re looking for a manageable, well-organized day with plenty of highlights, this trip is a safe bet. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate guides who are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, as many reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise.

However, if you are sensitive to long bus rides or have limited mobility, you may want to consider how the rough ride or weather conditions might affect your enjoyment. Also, those hoping for a photography-rich experience should be aware that photo restrictions during the penguin parade limit capturing the moment.

The Sum Up

The Melbourne: Phillip Island Tour & Penguin Parade offers a well-rounded dose of wildlife, coastal scenery, and the irresistible charm of Australia’s tiny penguins. With a professional guide making the journey personal and engaging, you’ll come away with memorable stories and plenty of stunning photos—except during the parade, where you simply need to soak in the adorable spectacle with your eyes.

This tour provides excellent value, especially given that all entrance fees and hotel pickups are included. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, families with older children, and travelers wanting an authentic taste of Australia’s natural wonders. While the bus ride can be a bit tiring and weather may influence some parts of the day, the overall experience delivers a genuine connection to Australia’s unique animals and coastline.

If you’re in Melbourne and want a meaningful, fun-filled day that combines education with adorable animal moments, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup from several central Melbourne hotels is included, with specific times confirmed after booking.

How long is the bus ride? The round-trip bus ride from Melbourne is approximately 2 hours each way, so be prepared for a long day on the road.

What is the group size? The tour typically accommodates up to 24 people, providing a balance of intimacy and social interaction.

Are children under 3 allowed? No, children under 3 cannot join this tour.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, sun protection, water, and perhaps a hat. Be prepared for outdoor conditions, especially at the Penguin Parade.

Can I take photos of the penguins? No, photography is not allowed during the Penguin Parade to protect the animals.

What is the cost? The tour costs approximately $106 per person, including entrance fees, guide, and hotel pickup.

Do guides speak other languages? This tour is offered in English; no mention of other language options.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour goes ahead rain or shine, but weather like rain can affect visibility during the Penguin Parade.

Is food included? No, meals and drinks are not included. You can purchase food at various stops along the way.

If you’re looking for a genuine, memorable encounter with Australia’s wildlife and stunning coastal scenery, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s a solid choice for those eager to see the iconic penguins and learn about local animals from friendly guides. Pack your curiosity and a camera (except during the parade), and get ready for a day full of natural beauty and adorable animals!

You can check availability for your dates here: