Phillip Island Penguin and Koala Highlights Day-Trip from Melbourne
Overview
Available languages
9 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Take in the spectacular Phillip Island Penguin Parade as you watch the colony of Little Penguins crosses the shoreline from the ocean. Heading out to Penguin Parade, we begin our day at a Koala Reserve to meet some furry Australian favourites. Take a tour and get up close and personal with our native Australian wildlife. Travel to Phillip Island Nature Parks, known for its natural beauty, sandy beaches, rugged cliffs and unique wildlife experiences. The island is home to a colony of around 32,000 little penguins. Phillip Island Tour is one of the popular and must-watch tourist attractions in Victoria.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No photography or filming is permitted at the Penguin Parade. Penguins have sensitive eyes and a bright, sudden flash or unusual light can frighten or disorientate a penguin.
Child and infant fare prices apply from 0 to 12 years old. Child protective seats are free of charge, subject to availability and must be requested at time of booking.
Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 5-7kg day bag per person. Our vehicles are not wheelchair, prams or child stroller accessible please refrain from bring on tour.
Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Experienced local driver guide to assist you throughout the day
Air-conditioned premium coach travel and comfort
Comprehensive live commentary in a fun and social atmosphere
Admission to Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve
Admission to Phillip Island Nature Park with Penguin Parade (general viewing)
Meals not included, guests will have an opportunity to support locals and buy lunch along the way.
Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
Travel insurance is highly recommended
Personal expenses
What To Expect
Melbourne
Our coach will depart from Melbourne City and head southeast for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with our first stop being the Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island.
Phillip Island Nature Parks - Koala Conservation Reserve
At the Koala Conservation Centre on Phillip Island, guests will have 45 minutes to explore the lush surroundings and stroll along the elevated boardwalks that wind through the treetops. Here, you’ll have the chance to get up close to koalas in their natural habitat, spotting these iconic creatures as they rest in the eucalyptus trees. The knowledgeable staff will provide fascinating insights into the conservation efforts that protect these beloved animals. It's a peaceful and educational experience, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of Australia's wildlife.
Options
General Viewing Admission
Australian wildlife experience
Mid-range seat in coach travel
Duration: 9 hours: This tour operates on a seasonal departure schedule, pick up times change when daylight savings clocks are adjusted.
Roundtrip to & from Melbourne
24-seater Mitsubishi Rosa Bus: This vehicle makes for a safe & comfortable journey (air-conditioned), with large passenger windows for unobstructed views.
Reviews
645 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Well…
Eric M,
Sep 30, 2025
- Viator
3.00This is the first time Viator lets me down. I use this platform to book all of my experiences in every country I visit, and unfortunately, this experience is one of the bottom three out of approximately 60 I’ve booked. To be clear, our guide was lovely and there was no issue with her driving, charm, or knowledge; it was the tour itself that fell short. In particular, the Penguin parade at the end was so underwhelming and not worth freezing for. The whole ordeal was chaotic with the amount of people in attendance and frankly, just a big cluster! The price isn’t justified and the adventure was more of a bad dream, so this tour gets three starts (and I’m being generous because our guide was good).
Beyond Penguins!
Linda B,
Sep 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00The coastal scenery and koalas enhanced the penguin parade experience, which we loved. Our driver Craig was a knowledgeable and fun guide!
A must do!
Julie D,
Sep 20, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great day! Up close viewing with koalas at the reserve. Beautiful rock out croppings along the shores of WestPort Bay, and the Adorable penguin parade! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you upgrade to penguin premium if you want to see these fantastic little birds come out of the sea and make their way to their nesting grounds. Honestly general seating is far away.
Lovely day!
Wendy G,
Sep 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00Paul was our guide and he was fantastic - patient, efficient and incredibly knowledgable having spent much time on the island growing up and as an adult. The sights were spectacular. We did regret not upgrading to Penguins Plus at the viewing - much less activity in the general seating area - but Paul told us where to go to make the most of it. The penguin experience was quite fun but the entire day was just lovely - highly recommend!
The tour was phenomenal!!...
Margo G,
Sep 11, 2025
- Viator
5.00The tour was phenomenal!! The driver was adorable. The sights we saw were incredible. The highlight of course were the penguin parade. Never seen anything like it. I highly recommend this tour.
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