Phillip Island Penguins & Wildlife Day Tour from Melbourne

Melbourne , Australia

Phillip Island Penguins & Wildlife Day Tour from Melbourne

Active

(822 reviews)

12h - 14h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Here’s the very best of Victoria’s wildlife experiences. The Penguin Parade is an absolute ‘must’ on every visitor’s itinerary, but this tour gives you so much more.

First stop is Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where you can get up close to wallabies on the wallaby walk (you may see little joeys peeking out of their mothers’ pouches). Enjoy a ranger providing unique insights and information during the daily koala presentation.

Then we travel on to the spectacular Cape Woolamai Surf Beach. Located on the southern coast of Phillip Island, this beach is exposed to the ocean swells and the surf here is truly impressive. It's also not uncommon to see dolphins or seals swimming in the waters just off the beach.

We also visit the Nobbies and Australia’s largest Fur Seal colony at Seal Rocks. Finally, the ultimate attraction: hundreds of Little Penguins emerging from the ocean and waddling across the beach to their sand dune burrows.

Available options

Penguin Standard

Phillip Island tour includes general admission at the penguin parade<br/>Pickup included

What's included

WiFi on board

Pickup from selected hotels

Entry to Moonlit Sanctuary & guided tour of the exhibits

Friendly & informative tour guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

General admission at the Penguin Parade

Detailed itinerary

Begin your Phillip Island adventure with this exciting full-day wildlife tour!

Stop 2

Encounter famous Australian Wildlife including Kangaroos, Wallabies, bird life, reptiles, Tasmanian Devils and of course Koalas! You may have the opportunity to get up close to a Koala or even cute wallabies*

*Additional fees apply, paid directly to Moonlit Sanctuary

Stop 3

Spend some time getting sand between your toes at this spectacular beach on the southern coast of Phillip Island. We visit this spot during summer season only.

Explore the boardwalks to enjoy panoramic coastal views. Search for Australia's largest fur seal colony! These playful creatures can often be found lazing on the rocks or hunting for food.

Stop 5

Word-famous Penguin Parade. Our guides give you plenty of time to enjoy the brand new visitors centre, packed full of interesting displays on the adorable Little Penguins. Take some time to wander the paths and boardwalks for a chance to see penguins in their burrows. And of course, enjoy the spectacle of the 'parade' at dusk!

What's not included

Meals other than as stated

Gratuities

Available languages

Audio guide

HI DE RU PT KO CMN MS YUE EN IT FR ES AR VI TH JA

Written guide

HI DE RU PT KO CMN MS YUE EN IT FR ES AR VI TH JA

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

428 reviews

5★

364

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

394 reviews

5★

344

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photography and video are NOT PERMITTED at the Penguin Parade.

Large bags, strollers, prams, baby capsules, luggage & walkers cannot be brought on board.

If travelling with an infant, please contact Tour Operator at info@bunyiptours.com directly and request infant seat.

Important notes

• You must contact Bunyip Tours directly at least 24 hours prior to departure to confirm your booking and pick up details as these will not be provided on your voucher

• Pick up is between 11.00am - 12.00pm (one hour earlier in May-July) depending on which hotel you select to be collected from

• Our guides are unable to wait for extended periods of time for missing guests and we ask that you arrive at the designated departure point at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pick up time

• Large bags, strollers, prams, baby capsules, luggage & walkers cannot be brought on board

• If you require language translation for this tour please visit the App Store and search ‘Bunyip Tours’ and download our free App prior to departure

• Bunyip’s opening hours are:
07:00 - 18:00 Monday to Friday
07:00 - 12:00 Saturday to Sunday

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