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.
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.
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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
863 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Excellent experience!
Kathie C,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Joel the driver was able to explain a lot of what we were going to see, with excellent information. Joel also has a great playlist
Fiona’s tour is good
718zhiyuanz,May 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It’s good, Fiona’s explanation was completely and she is nice.
Philip Island One Day Tour
611khairula,May 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fiona was such an amazing guide. Wouldn’t have ask for a better guide. The one day trip to Philip Island was lovely and enriching!
Fantastic tour
206madsn,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great animal and nature oriented tour, with a great guide. Thank you Joel for a great experience.
Perfect day!
Happiness691145,May 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Perfect day! Had a lovely day with Fiona, very informative, lots of great tips as to where to have lunch or sit for the Penguin parade, plus great information about the area. Definitely a highlight of our trip.
Thumbs up for a great tour
JessicaN3384,May 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fiona was a great guide. Had a great day out with her.
Koalas and penguins
I830XV ,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thanks Fiona for a nice and informative trip about penguins and koalas
Highly recommend!
ArjaaS,May 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This guide was a larger one then expected however Fiona was great - super high energy as a solo traveller she made me feel as if I had a friend on the tour. I can only recommend doing this tour - and trying to get Fi as your guide. She had all the answers!
Awesome!
Trek33948608068,May 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved the whole experience! It's usually not just what the sights have to offer for a great tourism experience. It's also the enablers who make this whole experience enjoyable. So I must thank Marlin-J for being a warm and companiable host, for playing an amazing road trip playlist and making this trip memorable. Thanks Autopia!
Highly recommended
Seaside49728339210,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Watching the koalas and penguines was an amazing exlerjence- Fiona's cheerful helpful character and her knowledgeable experience made first time tourists like us feel very comfortable and at ease. Great job, Fiona! And a big thank you!
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Operated by Autopia Tours