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
704 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Koalas and Little Blue Penguins Up Close
Flyer10188731953,
Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Joe was great. He was very informative as he drove us from Melbourne to Phillips island. We were able to see the Koalas up close while they were sleeping and eating in their eucalyptus trees. At the Nobbies we saw the Little Blue Penguins chicks close up in their wooden houses and burrows. Then at the Penguin Parade Joe told us exactly where to sit to see the parade. Joe made this experience very enjoyable with his sense of humor and approachable style.
Fabulous
Wazzy2,
Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a trip this was. We loved getting up close to the Koala’s but the highlight was definitely the penguin parade which was well beyond our expectations. So pleased we paid for the Plus experience. Our guide Joe was excellent, providing some very interesting facts along the way. Don’t hesitate to book this trip. It’s worth every penny
Fantastic
rileye228,
Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing day out at Philip Island! Everything about it was great the organization and communication leading up to the trip was fantastic. Our tour guide Joe was amazing he was so fun and Linda and had lots to share! 100% would recommend!
I like Joe he do good
E3112WH ,
Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Yay Joe 😀😀😀😀 I think he did a really good job of driving and educating us about our journey on Phillips Island w. W wwww
Great day with kolas and penguins 😊
PhoenixW60,
Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience and we have an excellent tour guide - Joel who provides lots of information whenever we pass through the places and what you will see … it’s fun that we see the kolas, kangaroo, and the little penguins, also have a nice dinner at a wonderful place! Happy day at all!
Great day out
IsleofManGillf,
Dec 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Brilliant day out , Nial the driver was very informative and helpful would definately recommend this day out to other travelers
Highly recommended day.
Richard H,
Nov 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00What a fabulous day out. Lauren our driver was excellent with her commentary. The penguins have to be seen to be believed. Nature at its very best. Another 30 mins would have been even better.
Little Penguin Cuteness Overload
Scott F,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00What an amazing trip. Our driver Joel was brilliant. His attitude, knowledge and patience is brilliant. We had a short stop to see Koalas, then dinner in Cowes (the corner burgers are amazing) then off to The Nobbies for a quick look where you might see seals and penguins. Then off to the highlight... the penguin parade. These little guys are so cute but wary so be patient. You are not allowed to take pictures as this scares them but the staff have QR codes where you can download loads of pics for free. It can get cold so wrap up but enjoy it. Just a wee footnote. Some people are rude, try to take sneaky pics and videos so the staff have to constantly patrol the seating area. Also many stand up and block your view so a seat near the edge is best.
Lovely and comfortable day trip
GoPlaces55974235790,
Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Such a lovely day, huge shout-out to Joe, he was very friendly and entertaining while still allowing us to snooze throughout much of the transport time. Just a great balance!
Super fun penguin day
phoeben783,
Nov 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Saw soo many penguins!!! Joe the bus driver was great and very knowledgeable. Didn’t feel rushed and a really fun day out
From A$175.00
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Operated by Autopia Tours