Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade

San Remo, AU

Included

  • inclusion
    In-vehicle air conditioning
  • inclusion
    Barista-Made Coffee at your Melbourne departure point
  • inclusion
    Nobbies Golden Hour & Scenic Wildlife Boardwalk
  • inclusion
    Penguin Parade Entry - General Viewing
  • inclusion
    All Day Access to Island Explorer Hop on Hop off Bus
  • inclusion
    Authentic Small Group travel with an engaging Local Guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Additional entries at your choosing
  • exclusion
    Penguin parade upgraded experiences
  • exclusion
    Entry to amaze n things
  • exclusion
    Entry to chocolate factory
  • exclusion
    Entry to koala reserve

Meeting Point

Meet us at the Melbourne Arts Centre - located at 100R St Kilda Road Melbourne. Look for your guide outside the Protagonist Cafe, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings whilst you wait. We are able to drop you off at the end of tour if your hotel is in the Melbourne CBD

Meeting point

100R St Kilda Rd, Southbank VIC 3006 , Australia

End point

End Point

Meet us at the Melbourne Arts Centre - located at 100R St Kilda Road Melbourne. Look for your guide outside the Protagonist Cafe, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings whilst you wait. We are able to drop you off at the end of tour if your hotel is in the Melbourne CBD

Meeting point

100R St Kilda Rd, Southbank VIC 3006 , Australia

End point

What to expect

1
San Remo Jetty

Welcome to the charming coastal town of San Remo, where the iconic bridge to Phillip Island begins. Watch for the famous pelicans that frequent the foreshore, stroll along the beach, or simply take in the stunning seaside views. This is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze before continuing our journey.

Duration 30 minutes
2

Phillip Island Nature Parks - Koala Conservation Reserve

This is an optional extra in place of your time at Cowes. Our guide will drop you off here, and you'll be able to wander among the beautiful native Australian bushland, where you are guaranteed to spot Koalas in their natural habitat, as well as plenty more native Australian Wildlife. Please be aware, it is now illegal to touch or hold a Koala.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
3

Cowes

Cowes is Phillip Island's main commercial hub, and is a bustling location of restaurants, cafes, breweries, and boutique shops. Here you will have time to explore in your own time. Our guide will point out the notable spots, and then allow you some freedom to wander. Visit the ever popular brewery, take a seat at the pub overlooking the waterfront, take part in some retail therapy, take a stroll along the jetty, or even go for a dip in the sparkling blue waters. The time is yours!

Duration 30 minutes
4
Phillip Island

Indulge your sweet side at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory — a delightfully interactive experience where chocolate lovers of all ages can watch delicious creations being made, try hands-on activities, and enjoy plenty of tastings along the way. From larger-than-life sculptures to melt-in-your-mouth samples, it's a playful and tasty stop you won’t forget.

Duration 30 minutes
5

Churchill Island

Step back in time at Churchill Island, a heritage farm and peaceful coastal haven just off Phillip Island. Wander through historic homesteads, watch daily farming demonstrations like sheep shearing and whip cracking, and stroll the scenic walking trails with sweeping views of Western Port Bay. It’s a perfect blend of nature, history, and hands-on fun for all ages.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
6
A Maze'N Things

Enter a world of optical illusions, puzzles, mazes, and mind-bending fun at A Maze’N Things — a must-visit indoor attraction on Phillip Island. From gravity-defying rooms to the giant vertical drop slide and an outdoor maze to get lost in, it’s a playful and interactive experience that’s perfect for curious minds and families alike.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
7

Pyramid Rock

Pyramid Rock is one of Phillip Island’s most iconic coastal lookouts, offering dramatic cliffside views over the Bass Strait. Named for its distinct pyramid-shaped offshore rock formation, this scenic spot is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and walkers — especially stunning at sunset or during southern swells.

Duration 30 minutes
8
The Nobbies Centre

This is already one of Phillip Island's main attractions, simply for the sheer beauty it possess - however, we visit this stunning spot right on Golden Hour, allowing us a perfect sight over the glistening waters and rocky cliffs. Enjoy this moment with a Glass of Sparking Wine as you enjoy the views and take a walk along the boardwalk, taking in spectacular sights, and glimpses of native wildlife. We depart from here along the back roads, providing us unparalleled views over Westernport Bay and Bass Strait, with even more wildlife to spot.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
9
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade

A "must do" whilst in Melbourne/Victoria, the Penguin Parade has long been the star attraction of Phillip Island. We arrive here early enough so as you can take some time in this world-class visitor centre, and grab a bite to eat from the cafe should you wish. You will then make your way out to the Penguin Viewing Platform, awaiting the arrival of the stars of the shows - the Little Penguins. As the sun begins to set, your ranger-guide will provide you information on these cute little creatures, and then you will see literally thousands of them make their way onto the beach and up the hill side. Walk along the boardwalk as you get within inches of these native Australian Penguins, admiring their uniqueness and cuteness alike. Once we have had our cuteness overload, we board back on the bus - making our way back to Melbourne...with plenty of good memories to accompany us for the journey back

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What our experts say

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    Try local seafood at Cowes' eateries.
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    Visit the Chocolate Factory for sweet treats.
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    Arrive early for the best Penguin viewing.
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    Explore the Nobbies at sunset for great photos.
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    Check out local wildlife at San Remo Jetty.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Phillip Island from Melbourne with the captivating Penguin Parade tour. This small-group day tour offers a perfect blend of flexibility, comfort, and iconic experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and wildlife of this stunning destination.

What to expect?

Indulge in an authentic small-group travel experience led by a knowledgeable local guide. Explore the Nobbies during the Golden Hour, wander along the scenic wildlife boardwalk, and witness the enchanting Penguin Parade in all its glory. Enjoy barista-made coffee at your Melbourne departure point and have the freedom to hop on and off the Island Explorer bus throughout the day.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers who want to explore Phillip Island in a relaxed and immersive way. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, this small-group tour offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Phillip Island with the convenience of a guided tour that takes care of all the details. From transportation and comfort to key experiences like the Penguin Parade and Nobbies exploration, this tour allows you to make the most of your time on the island without any hassle. With the flexibility of the Island Explorer bus, you can customize your day to suit your interests and preferences, making it a truly personalized experience.

Good to know

For those seeking additional adventures, optional upgrades are available for experiences like the Koala Reserve, Chocolate Factory, and Amaze n Thing. The tour concludes back at the Melbourne Arts Centre, where you can easily access your accommodation in the CBD or continue exploring the vibrant city on your own.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Penguin Parade tour rave about the unique and mesmerizing moments spent observing the penguins in their natural habitat. The small-group setting and engaging local guide add a personal touch to the journey, making it a memorable and enriching experience for all who embark on this adventure.

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