Full-Day Phillip Island Tour with Kangaroo, Koala and Penguin Parade

Melbourne , Australia

Full-Day Phillip Island Tour with Kangaroo, Koala and Penguin Parade

Active

(596 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Every night at sunset, the truly incredible spectacle of the Penguin Parade occurs on the beaches of Phillip Island. The local colony of little penguins emerges from the water to make their way to the burrows in the sand dunes - and this tour is your chance to witness this unforgettable phenomenon in real life!

We’ll spend the day exploring top attractions including Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park and the Nobbies, before settling in on the sand, ready for the main show at the Penguin Parade. Including all entrance fees, this great value tour is the best way to discover the wild coastal scenery and delightful animals of Phillip Island.

Available options

Full-Day Phillip Island Tour with Kangaroo, Koala and Penguin Parade

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance to the Moonlit Sanctuary

General admission to the Penguin Parade

Wildlife Viewing

Air-conditioned vehicle

Free Audio Guide App

Melbourne CBD Pick up and Drop off

Detailed itinerary

Moonlit Sanctuary is home to stacks of well-known Aussie animals including kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils, plus many lesser-known species such as the spot-tailed quoll, yellow-bellied glider and long-nosed potoroo.

Located at the base of Cape Woolamai, Woolamia Beach is one of Victoria's most beautiful and rugged beaches. With huge surf and a soft golden sand, any trip to Phillip Island must include a stop here.

Cowes is located at the Northerly tip of Phillip Island is and is the Islands most populated town. It offers a village feel full of restaurants and bars. Cowes Beach and Jetty offer magnificent views over the gentle waters of Western Port Bay back to the Mornington Peninsula.

Stop 4

Stroll the Nobbies board walk for views of the awesome volcanic rock formations. Check out seal rock which is home to the largest colony of Australian Fur seals. Keep you eyes peeled for more Aussie Wildlife including Swamp Wallabies and even Penguins.

Stop 5

As the sun begins to lower, we’ll make our way to Summerland Beach ready for the main event. Once the sun has set, the little penguins will feel safe enough to emerge from the water in small groups and make their way across the beach. Take a stroll along the boardwalks to walk alongside these adorable birds as they waddle their way back to their nests with their bellies full from a day out at sea fishing.

What's not included

Lunch

You can purchase dinner at the town of Cowes

Please bring you own water bottles, we discourage the use of single use plastic bottles

Available languages

Audio guide

AR HI DE VI KO PT JA EN ZH-CN IT FR NL ES

Written guide

AR HI DE VI KO PT JA EN ZH-CN IT FR NL ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

315 reviews

5★

204

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

281 reviews

5★

227

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Unfortunately we cannot take infants under the age of 3 years old

Please note: Evenings on Phillip Island can be cold and windy during the Penguin Parade. We recommend wearing warm clothing, such as a good jacket, to stay comfortable.

Most travellers can participate

Meeting point

Corner of Flinders Street and Market Street at 1:35pm

Important notes

Additional pickup details
Pick up times
Nomads St Kilda - April: 10:30am / May: 10:00am
The Savoy Hotel - April: 10:50am / May: 10:20am
Radisson on Flagstaff - April: 11:00am / May: 10:30am
Immigration Museum - April: 11:20am / May: 10:50am

About Melbourne

Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.

Top Attractions

Federation Square

Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

Cultural 1-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.

Sports 1-3 hours (longer for events) Free to enter (tours and events have fees)

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.

Scenic Drive Full day or overnight trip Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.

Market 1-3 hours Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.

Art 1-3 hours Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.

Dinner Contains meat

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Dessert Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.

Drink Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley Kayaking on the Yarra River Spa and wellness retreats Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach Visiting museums and galleries Attending live performances and events

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
• Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center

By train

Southern Cross Station

By bus

Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fitzroy St Kilda Carlton Southbank Brunswick

Day trips

Yarra Valley

60 km from Melbourne • Full day

The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.

Mornington Peninsula

80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.

Phillip Island

140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.

Festivals

Australian Open • Mid-January Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August

Pro tips

Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes