Melbourne Phillip Island Wildlife and Penguin Tour

The perfect Phillip Island day trip for nature lovers and ocean seekers, combining a scenic wildlife cruise, close-up koala encounters, and the world-famous Penguin Parade—all in one relaxed, small-group adventure.
Departing from Melbourne with your friendly local guide leading the way, our first stop is in San Remo where sweeping coastal views and pelican sightings await.

Then before boarding a 2-hour seal cruise around Phillip Island—where you’re guaranteed to spot hundreds of playful fur seals in their natural habitat.

Spend time in Cowes exploring boutique shops, beachside bars, or opt for a visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve—where koalas roam freely in the treetops.

As golden hour falls, discover Phillip Island’s wild southern edge—where rugged boardwalks and secluded beaches come alive with native wildlife and sweeping sea views.

Then, cap off your evening at the iconic Penguin Parade, watching thousands of Little Penguins waddle ashore at sunset.

Meeting Point

Arts Centre Melbourne

100 St Kilda Rd, Southbank VIC 3004, Australia

Meet us at the Melbourne Arts Centre (outside the Protagonist Cafe) and relax - easy to access by tram or train or foot, with free museums, public toilets, and a coffee on us at Protagonist Café (show your ticket).
End-of-tour drop-offs to select Melbourne city hotels are available too!

What's included:

• Authentic Small Group travel with an engaging Local Guide
• Wildlife Coast Cruise - Seal Watching Cruise, 2 Hours
• Entry to the famed Phillip Island Penguin Parade at Sunset
• Premium Seating Ticket - Free WiFi
• Explore and relax in the idyllic coastal village of Cowes
• Nobbies Golden Hour Experience & Scenic Wildlife Boardwalk
• Time in San Remo to explore and watch for wildlife

Not included:

• Food and Drink other than what is stated
• Optional Extra: Koala Conservation Reserve

What to expect:

Duration: 12 hours

San Remo

San Remo, Victoria

Take some time to explore the idyllic village of San Remo - from its golden beaches, to the larger-than-life Pelicans that frequent here, and of course the famed Phillip Island bridge

1 hour

Cowes

Cowes, Victoria

This is where you board your Wildlife Cruise for 2 Hours!
Enjoy seeing thousands of seals, dolphins, birdlife, and plenty of other beautiful sights!
Following your cruise, you will have some time to enjoy Cowes.
Cowes is Phillip Island's main commercial hub, and is a bustling location of restaurants, cafes, breweries, and boutique shops.

Here you will have time to explore in your own time. 
Our guide will point out the notable spots, and then allow you some freedom to wander. 

Visit the ever popular brewery, take a seat at the pub overlooking the waterfront, take part in some retail therapy, take a stroll along the jetty, or even go for a dip in the sparkling blue waters.
The time is yours!

3 hours

Koala Conservation Reserve

1810 Phillip Island Rd., Cowes, Victoria

This is an optional extra in place of your time at Cowes.
Our guide will drop you off here, and you'll be able to wander among the beautiful native Australian bushland, where you are guaranteed to spot Koalas in their natural habitat, as well as plenty more native Australian Wildlife.
Please be aware, it is now illegal to touch or hold a Koala.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included

Flynns Beach

1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, 3922, Victoria

One of the most beautiful beaches on Phillip Island, and iconic of golden sands and glistening waters found in these areas.
You will have a chance to walk in the soft sand, admire the beautiful horizon, and soak in the sea-air of this local beach - one that Chris Hemsworth himself has enjoyed since a young boy.

15 minutes

The Nobbies Centre

1320 Ventnor Road, Summerlands, 3922, Victoria

This is already one of Phillip Island's main attractions, simply for the sheer beauty it possess - however, we visit this stunning spot right on Golden Hour, allowing us a perfect sight over the glistening waters and rocky cliffs.
Enjoy this moment with a Glass of Sparking Wine as you enjoy the views and take  a walk along the boardwalk, taking in spectacular sights, and glimpses of native wildlife.

We depart from here along the back roads, providing us unparalleled views over Westernport Bay and Bass Strait, with even more wildlife to spot. 

45 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade

1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, 3922, Victoria

A "must do" whilst in Melbourne/Victoria, the Penguin Parade has long been the star attraction of Phillip Island. 
We arrive here early enough so as you can take some time in this world-class visitor centre, and grab a bite to eat from the cafe should you wish.

You will then make your way out to the Penguin Viewing Platform, awaiting the arrival of the stars of the shows - the Little Penguins.

As the sun begins to set, your ranger-guide will provide you information on these cute little creatures, and then you will see literally thousands of them make their way onto the beach and up the hill side.

Walk along the boardwalk as you get within inches of these native Australian Penguins, admiring their uniqueness and cuteness alike.

Once we have had our cuteness overload, we board back on the bus - making our way back to Melbourne...with plenty of good memories to accompany us for the journey back

2 hours • Admission Ticket Included

Melbourne

Melbourne, Victoria

It will take us 2 hours each way to get to and from Phillip Island from Melbourne.
At Local Way Tours, our Premium Ticket inclusions are designed to elevate your travel experience to the highest level.

Enjoy the comfort of guaranteed window seats and travel in style aboard our modern, well-appointed vehicles.

Our authentic small group tours ensure personalised attention from our engaging local guides, making every journey memorable.

Stay connected with onboard WiFi and take advantage of convenient charging ports, all while relaxing in a setting that prioritizes your comfort and enjoyment.

With our Premium Ticket, you receive more than just a tour; you gain a superior travel experience tailored to exceed your expectations.

4 hours