Wine, Dine & Penguins Boutique Phillip Island Tour from Melbourne
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12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Experience Phillip Island with locals, journeying from Melbourne for a full day of boutique wine, beachside charm, and native wildlife—ending with the iconic Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach.
After a friendly welcome and complimentary barista coffee at the Melbourne Arts Centre, we head to coastal San Remo, the gateway to Phillip Island. Our first indulgence: a cellar door wine tasting and grazing platter at the award-winning Phillip Island Winery, followed by a gourmet lunch.
Then, guests discover charming Cowes, with its pristine beaches and local boutiques—or upgrade to intimate koala viewing at the Koala Conservation Reserve.
Next, we continue to The Nobbies Phillip Island, where golden hour brings sweeping ocean views and wildlife encounters. A celebratory glass of sparkling wine sets the tone for the evening.
We end at the world-famous Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach, where a general viewing ticket provides full immersion in this world-class wildlife experience.
Available options
Wine Tasting, Grazing & Lunch
What's included
Gourmet wood-fired lunch with seasonal sides and premium Victorian ingredients
Penguin Parade tickets - witness Australia's Little Penguins return home at Summerland Beach sunset
Sparkling wine at sunset - toast the day with bubbles and Bass Strait ocean views at The Nobbies
Cowes township exploration - free time in Phillip Island's charming main town
Koala Conservation Reserve upgrade available (+$15pp) - see koalas up close in their native habitat
Melbourne barista coffee on departure - start your day with quality local coffee
Premium luxury coach transport - comfortable midi-coach with WiFi and charging ports
Phillip Island wine tasting with generous grazing platter at boutique local winery
Locally guided, genuine small-group - maximum 15 people with guaranteed window seat for each booking
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your Phillip Island adventure with a complimentary Melbourne barista coffee from the Arts Centre. Board your luxury midi-coach and join fellow travellers for a personalised small-group experience through Victoria's spectacular coastal region to Phillip Island.
2
Welcome to San Remo, where the iconic Phillip Island Bridge welcomes you to Bass Coast. Stretch your legs along the foreshore, watch resident Australian pelicans, and capture your first coastal photographs of this famous Victorian fishing village.
3
Welcome to Phillip Island, home to a small population of 15,000 which swells well beyond this number during busy holiday seasons.
4
Stop 4
Arrive at boutique Phillip Island Winery for premium cellar-door wine tasting featuring award-winning Gippsland wines. Enjoy guided tasting of six local wines, accompanied by generous grazing boards of Victorian meats, cheeses and artisan breads, followed by wood-fired pizza feast with sea-salt fries and gourmet salads.
Note: On select days, meals are served at our partner Phillip Island seaside restaurant with an identical high-quality menu.
5
Pass by one of Phillip Island's three main settlements as we make our way to Cowes.
6
Explore Phillip Island's main township with beaches, local shops, and relaxed coastal streetscape. Your guide highlights local Cowes favorites before free exploration time.
7
Stop 7
This is an optional extra (+$15 on the day) in place of your time at Cowes. Upgrade to walk elevated boardwalks for guaranteed koala spotting, and see wallabies and native Australian birds in their natural Phillip Island habitat.
8
Stop at this pristine Phillip Island beach for golden Bass Strait sands, crystal-clear waters, and fresh Victorian sea air.
9
Stop 9
Experience the world-famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade with general viewing tickets. Explore the interactive Visitor Centre, enjoy dinner from the onsite cafe if you wish, then take your place to witness thousands of Little Penguins return from Bass Strait at sunset, with guided commentary as they waddle through. Australia's most popular wildlife attraction. Penguin Plus viewing upgrades (+$55) available for an extra-special experience to see the penguins at eye level.
10
Stop 10
Arrive at The Nobbies' clifftop boardwalks during golden hour. Spot seabirds, wallabies, and Australian fur seals from spectacular Bass Strait views while enjoying a glass of celebratory sparkling wine as day turns to dusk over Phillip Island.
11
Return back to Melbourne after a fulfilling day of nature, wildlife observation, and wine. We Dropoff back at the Melbourne Arts Centre or city center hotels on request.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
73 reviews
5★
62
4★
6
3★
5
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
120 reviews
5★
115
4★
4
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
- Meet outside Protagonist Café at Arts Centre Melbourne (100R St Kilda Rd) - look for the giant spire.
- Easy access via trams in Free Tram Zone.
- Just 5 mins from Flinders St Station or 5–10 mins walk from most city centre hotels.
- Post-tour we can dropoff to city-center hotels upon request.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
