Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade

10 hours Free cancellation

Phillip Island Bridge — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience the best of Phillip Island with the flexibility of the Island Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and the iconic Penguin Parade—all in a single, relaxed, small-group day tour from Melbourne.

Whether you're craving coastal strolls, wildlife adventures, or adrenaline-filled activities, this tour allows you to tailor the middle part of your day while we take care of the transport, comfort, and key experiences.

Day Trips Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Audio Guides Seasonal Carnival Involves Animals

At a glance

Duration: 10 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 24 people
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: German, English, Italian, French, Spanish
Written guide: German, English, Italian, French, Spanish
Guide: English
Operated by: Phillip Island Explorer

Ages: Children (3–17 years) · Adults (18–99 years)

What is included

Included

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

Not included

Not included: Additional Entries at your Choosing
Not included: Penguin Parade Upgraded Experiences
Not included: Entry to Koala Reserve
Not included: Entry to Chocolate Factory
Not included: Entry to Amaze n Things

Itinerary

San Remo Jetty

30 min

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.
Koala Conservation Reserve

30 min Admission not included

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.
Cowes

30 min

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!
Phillip Island

30 min

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.
Churchill Island

30 min Admission not included

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.
A Maze'N Things

30 min Admission not included

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.
Pyramid Rock

30 min

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.
The Nobbies Centre

30 min Admission included

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.
Penguin Parade

2 hours Admission included

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

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

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

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