PHILLIP ISLAND
PENGUIN PARADE TOURs
Join us on our Phillip Island Penguins Tour! Located on the south coast of Victoria, Phillip Island is home to a large population of approximately 32,000 penguins. Every evening, penguins, reaching hundreds or even thousands of species, march across the sands, creating the well-known Penguin Parade.
Escape the city on a Phillip Island tours
Welcome to Phillip Island Natural Parks! Just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, this island in Victoria offers spectacular coastal views and plenty of Australian wildlife. Attend the Penguin Parade, spot koalas at the Koala Conservation Reserve or let time fly at Churchill Island.
- 145 AUD
- 129 AUD
- 1 day
- 11:45-21:45
- 140-160 AUD
- 95-110 AUD
- 1 day
- 7:35-20:30
- 735-1290 AUD
- 695-1210 AUD
- 3 days
- 7:35-19:30
- 475-715 AUD
- 2 Day
- 07:35-17:30
- 130-145 AUD
- $110-115 AUD
- 1 Day
- 11:30-23:00
- 475-715 AUD
- 2 Day
- 07:35-19:30
What our customers are saying about Phillip Island Tour
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Incredible Tour - sights, stories, beaches, and relaxing We did the Great Ocean Road tour and it was incredible!!!! Signing up and the email communication was seamless and easy. The pick up location (for which you were given a good healthy amount of options and times) was easy to get to and Joe, our fabulous guide, picked us up at 7:30 and we only had 1 other pick up spot before we hit the open road. Joe was a perfect guide making sure we were all safe and comfortable in the spacious, clean, and well cooled/heated van (which had in chair charging outlets and a bin for belongings). As we drove through the cute and adorable beach towns, our guide Joe would tell us history, stories, and cheeky jokes. It was the perfect combo of edu-tainment (education and entertainment). Memorable spots included the Memorial Arch, a farm that had kangaroos, rainforest that had more kangaroos and even a spot to see koalas in the trees (we saw 5 or 6!). Lunch time was in Apollo Bay which was again another cute adorable town - Joe gave us ample time and pointed out spots for food, dessert, bathrooms, and water refill. Our last two stops were on the Shipwreck Cost - Loch Ard Gord and 12 Apostles. These were picturesque, easy to walk trails to see breathtaking landscape of the Australian coast. Would highly recommend - 10 out of 10 for the tour, the itinerary, the time, the bus, and most importantly Joe!!read moreread less
James D2/13/2026
Great way to experience day-trip to 12 apostles and great ocean road Better conducted than most such tours. The in-coach wifi and charging points were a thoughtful touch. Joe’s driving and commentary hit the spot! Having water bottles on board would be welcome plus!read moreread less
TapanC0012/13/2026
Fabulous choice of trip to see Koalas, Wallabies, Galahs, and those gorgeous little PENGUINS From the moment we got on the bus until we left it around midnight we had a great time and loved our cheeky Chappie driver who had fun facts and a very amusing sense of humour. Though we've seen koalas before, it was delightful to meet them at the Sanctuary and to hear and see a variety of birds too. We didn't feel hurried or feel we were spending too long anywhere. He gauged everything perfectly and kept everyone counted at each stop to ensure no stragglers were missed. Of course our highlight was going to view the Penguins as they came to shore for bedtime. I'm glad we booked for the Penguin plus which gave us the chance to be comfortable on the platform. My only disappointment was in my fellow travellers not from our specific group, who very pointedly ignored every single polite request NOT TO USE THEIR CAMERAS! It's infuriating when there are sections of society who decide their wishes override the health & wellbeing of the little creatures they've come to see. I feel for all the wonderful staff there who are trying to ensure the enjoyment of visitors coupled with the welfare of the various animals. I believe a zero tolerance is necessary to shake these selfish individuals out of their disrespect of those creatures they've supposedly come to enjoy. Make one single announcement at the entry to the penguins Parade (they do make one in several languages) stating no cameras or mobiles or any other device, & that anyone spoken to after this announcement, has one chance. If spotted again they should be escorted out of the Parade to their transport home NO EXCEPTIONS❗️Going by our experience that would halve spectators and send a clear message but unfortunately these lovely people who have a wealth of knowledge to impart, are mainly very kind volunteers and staffing isn't sufficient to police these selfish individuals deliberately ignoring pleas which are founded on real concern for the Penguins welfare! Despite this, I'd go back ina heartbeat and in reality once you make your way back, quite a lot of the penguins are hanging back as it's their time to gather together and mingle after they could have been out for a week or so and this is their homecoming so like us, they'd be catching up with their matesread moreread less
Priscilla G2/12/2026 -
Mikki and Autopia did great - Uluru We had an unforgettable outback experience with Autopia Tours, made truly special by our incredible guide, Mikki. From walking right up close to Uluru and exploring Kata Tjuta to hiking Kings Canyon and discovering the West MacDonnell Ranges, every day was packed with amazing landscapes, great stories, and a real sense of adventure.Mikki’s energy, knowledge, and passion brought the places to life — sharing history of the indeginous people, wildlife insights, and countless stories along the way. The small group atmosphere, bush camping under the stars, shared meals around the campfire, and early sunrise hikes made the trip feel authentic and personal.Expect early mornings, warm desert nights, and a few physical challenges — but also unforgettable views, unique experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime. Highly recommend Authopia Tours — and if you’re lucky enough to get Mikki as your guide, you’re in for something special!read moreread less
Jens Funder B2/10/2026
Fabulous guide and wonderful trip We had an amazing day admiring Australia’s wildlife with our tour guide Fiona. She was great from start to finish, providing us with plenty of information and recommendations. We had plenty of time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone!read moreread less
Kate O2/10/2026 -
Amazing experience Amazing experience seeing the Koala’s and penguins! Our guide Fiona was really friendly and knowledgeable, would definitely recommend.read moreread less
danielle s2/10/2026
The good, the bad and the ugly While the destination is worthwhile, seeing koalas, lovely scenery and the highlight, watching the penguins returning from the ocean to their burrows in the cliffs, communication of the trip details, the physical transportation and the narration were inadequate. First, the website suggested we’d return around 10pm, but after boarding the bus we were told we wouldn’t get back until after midnight. I understand that this is because the penguins exit from the ocean depends on the time of sunset, but this should be clearly communicated in the online trip description. Next, the bus had just 1 phone charging port. With a busload of 39 persons and a trip that is 11 hours long with 2 hours travel time EACH WAY, keeping one’s phone charged was a challenge. This wouldn’t be so bad if there was interesting narration during the drive, but there wasn’t. Rather the driver talked to 2 women seated in the front of the bus THE ENTIRE TRIP. It seems other reviewers were pleased with the narrative so I suspect they had a different group leader. Our leader was a very nice man, seemed to care deeply about the animals we saw and was good with one on one communication but seemed unskilled in leading a tour group. With coaching I think he will be quite capable. I recommend visiting the penguin parade (be sure to pay the extra for the Penguin Plus viewing ticket) and the koala sanctuary, but I’d go with a different tour provider….one that explains that return times depend o. the time of sunset. If Autopia works to fine tune their tour with better buses, better training for their guides and more accurate details about the trip on their website I could then recommend their services.read moreread less
Kathleen H2/10/2026
Koalas and penguins The tour operator (Autopia) was great, clear pick up arrangements, conformable coach, engaging and knowledgeable driver guideThe koala sanctuary was also great and Nobbir's Point also goodIt was a treat to see the penguons in the Penguin Parade but it has been overcommercialisd leading to the rules on photography being openly floated and the second phase of pensions going up the hill through a narrow and strongly lit channel really uncomfortable to seeread moreread less
Mark J2/10/2026 -
Peninsula Hot Springs and tour. Joe is an excellent guide and the hot springs do what they say on the tin. Tuesday a good day to visit, not too crowded. Recommended.read moreread less
LimeysAbroad2/09/2026
Relaxing Hot Springs We had a great day exploring the pools. Lunch in the cafe was delicious. Joe was entertaining and informative.read moreread less
Nancy K2/09/2026
Great day Very fun day overall. Got to see large portions of the great ocean road including 12 apostles, loch ard gorge, and great otway. Perfect option if you only have 1 day to visit. Our guide Anthony was also great. Very informative and friendly. Also helped us to see some wild koalas and kangaroos.read moreread less
Cameron E2/09/2026 -
Ocean road tour Anthony was a very informative person. Many interesting sights with easy hiking. Cloudy weather could not hide the beauty.read moreread less
Patrick C2/09/2026
BEST DAY EVERRRR such a good day!! lunch in apollo bay was stunning 🤩 saw wild koalas 🐨 & kangaroos! 🦘 12 apostles were v cool, walked through the rainforest, great tour & our guide ant man was the best!! very informative along the way & great vibes all day 🤟🏼 highly recommend!!read moreread less
Charlotte L2/09/2026
Don't miss! This is one of the highlights of our days in Melbourne. We saw 175+ penguins come out of the water. We saw 2 enchidnas. We saw 250+ wallabies. Great scenery on the ocean. Wonderful visit. The guided penguin tour is well worth it if you can get a spot. The front row seating in the special platform was great. The ranger guide was well informed and added to the experience.read moreread less
StephenHMD952/09/2026 -
Great tour for our last day in Australia. This was a great full day tour. Although long in hours and miles time flew by, Our guide Joe knew just where to go and when to avoid too many crowds. His knowledge of the area was excellent and very informative.. Joe was very attentive to his passengers needs and stops were frequent . Amazingly he knew just where to find wild koalas and kangaroos to show us but was always mindful of our safety. All in all a great day we would fully recommend.read moreread less
Tricia C2/08/2026 -
Great tour! I had a great day going to the hot springs and enjoyed the extra stops on the way home. Our tour leader, Joe was also friendly and informative. The day felt stress free and fun!read moreread less
Merrilee W2/05/2026
What a relaxing trip! Safe and efficient transfer. Joe was very nice and informative. It was such a relaxing trip!read moreread less
Marissa G2/05/2026
Perfect day to do the afternoon Penguin Parade tour from Melbourne. Everything went smoothly and time was managed efficiently to get all of us through the stages of the tour. Vicky drove and shared interesting information about the places we were going throughout to keep us well prepared and informed.read moreread less
Martin Ngu2/04/2026 -
Penguins were definitely the main act today Trip to Phillip Island with Vicky as guide felt relaxed, well organised and personal. Wildlife as predicted. Penguins the highlight. Thank youread moreread less
Phil H2/04/2026 
Why go on a Phillip Island tour?
Aussie wildlife
Experience Australia’s adorable wildlife like never before on Phillip Island! Watch the famous little penguins waddle off into the sunset, get up close with thousands of Australian fur seals and hand-feed kangaroos, and watch the beautiful whales migrate in winter!
Reconnect with nature
Be amazed by Phillip Island’s natural beauty! Explore pristine beaches, coastal scenery, and remnants of natural bushland. Walk, bike, or drive and discover Phillip Island’s nature all year round.
Adventures
Experience a variety of activities and family-friendly attractions on Phillip Island for an unforgettable experience! Travellers can explore a maze, participate in go-kart racing, enjoy the panoramic views of Cape Wulamai cliffs, take surfing lessons, and see a chocolatier in action.
Culinary
Feel the diverse culinary offerings of Phillip Island, including local producers, cafes, restaurants, wineries, and breweries.
Top things to do in Phillip Island
Many activities for nature enthusiasts and thrill seekers are available in this coastal heaven. The island offers an amazing encounter with Australian animals set against a backdrop of magnificent landscapes. The penguin parade tour that is famous worldwide is just the beginning, you brace yourself for a trip full of mother nature, local delicacies, wine and fresh air from the sea.
Plan your visit to Phillip Island

Each tour has its departure time and operating days.
Phillip Island Tour: 1 Day, departs 11:45 Winter / 13:45 Summer, returns 21:45 Winter / 23:45 Summer
1 Day Great Ocean Road Tour: 1 Day, departs 7:35, returns 20:30
Melbourne to Adelaide Tour: 3 Days, departs 7:35, returns 19:30
Snow Trips Victoria: 1 Day, departs 8:00, returns 18:00
Yarra Valley Wine Tours: 1 Day, departs 8:45, returns 17:15
3-Day Great Ocean Road Tour: 3 Days, departs 7:35, returns 17:30
Otway Discovery Tour: 2 Days, departs 7:35, returns 18:30
2-Day Great Ocean Road Tour: 2 Days, departs 7:35, returns 22:30 Winter / 12:00 Summer
Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour: 1 Day, departs 7:30, returns 20:30
Grampian Tour: 1 Day, departs 7:35, returns 20:30

The most convenient way of reaching Phillip Island is by car. A bridge links the island to the mainland, so it can be ideal road trip from Melbourne. Renting a vehicle on Melbourne’s airports will not be an issue.
Melbourne Airport (MEL), Tullamarine is nearest airport to Phillip Island.
Avalon Airport (AVV) is 192 km away from Phillip Island and operates both international and domestic flights.

Phillip Island is best visited during warm weather which usually begins in November until March. In mild weather conditions you can enjoy exploring hiking trails, beaches and encountering wild animals as well . It’s also great time when you can watch the penguin parade because they come up ashore after catching dinner from ocean.
Peak season: Summer (December – February)
Off-peak season: Winter (June – August)
Don’t miss seeing thousands seals during your coastal cruise! Young seals swim play and do hunting exercises throughout Autumn months (March-May).

Phillip Island offers excellent accessibility for individuals with physical disabilities, providing top-notch facilities.
Arrival: Melbourne Airport offers accessible services to ensure a smooth arrival. Disabled travellers can book a shuttle or wheelchair-accessible taxi to Phillip Island from here.
Getting there: You will find different resources that facilitate transport around including getting around maps, all-terrain wheelchair hire as well as Changing Places guide.
Accessibility highlights: Phillip Island Nature Parks is committed to giving everyone a chance of having wildlife experience. The well-known Penguin Parade and Koala Sanctuary are sensory integration certified venues with physical impairment or neurological disability facilities available there.

Most of the restaurants on Phillip Island are located in Cowes. Pino’s Trattoria offers a great selection of Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizzas, and salads, accompanied by signature cocktails.
Flametrees Restaurant, Cafe & Bar: Located in the heart of Phillip Island, this restaurant offers dishes from around the world and has a children’s menu.
Cafe Omaru: Located 3 minutes from Flynn Beach, this restaurant serves Indian cuisine, including rice and curries, as well as vegetarian options.
Budget hotels: BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island, The Island Accommodation, North Pier Hotel, Bar, Bistro & Accommodation.
Middle-class hotels: , Tropicana Motor Inn.
Luxury hotels: Glen Isla House, Mud Hollow Barn, Beach House Getaway 2.
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world. Join us on our Great Ocean Road Tour for a complete adventure along this coastline. Visit world-famous surfing beaches, listen to the unique stories of the Shipwreck Coast, splash around in the Loch Ard Gorge, and, of course, visit the world-famous 12 Apostles. Along with all these Great Ocean Road attractions, this exciting new adventure offers the chance to see koalas in their natural habitat.
Grampian
Discover the world’s oldest and most scenic mountain ranges on our day trip to the Grampians from Melbourne. The area is home to native wildlife, including kangaroos, emus and birds, so keep your eyes peeled! Travel to the charming town of Halls Gap. Discover fascinating Aboriginal culture at the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre. See the awe-inspiring Jaws of Death, the Balconies Lookout, and hike to the base of the magnificent Mackenzie Falls.
Yarra Valley Wine
Experience award-winning wines on one of our Yarra Valley wine-tasting tours. Choose from day tours of the Yarra Valley or private tours for groups.
Snow Trip
Pile the kids in the car and Victoria’s snowy fields for a day to remember! Play snowballs and build a snowman together. Many accommodation options are conveniently located next to car parks, allowing you to drive up to the snow within metres. Resorts such as Lake Mountain are so close to Melbourne that you can enjoy a full day in the snow and make it back for dinner!
Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tour Itinerary
Tour highlights
- Witness the enchanting Phillip Island Penguin Parade in its natural setting.
- Embark on a ranger-led tour through the Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve.
- Uncover the scenic beauty, rich history, and importance of Phillip Island.
- Venture along the lesser-known dirt paths of Phillip Island's coastal cliffs, keeping an eye out for wallabies and raptors.
- Amble along the coastal pathways of the Nobbies and Seal Rocks.
Why Visit Phillip Island?
Embarking on the Phillip Island Tour is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts! Journey with us southward from Melbourne to the scenic Phillip Island. During our day trip, you’ll be guided by a ranger through the Phillip Island Koala Reserve, traverse untamed surf beaches, sight wild Kangaroos and Wallabies, and culminate the experience with the globally renowned Penguin Parade.