Discover one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife experiences on a full-day journey from Melbourne to Phillip Island with Explore Australia Tours.
Travel in comfort on our small group tour aboard our purple bus, guided by a passionate local expert.
Visit Moonlit Sanctuary to see koalas, kangaroos and more in a natural bushland setting. Take in coastal views at Cape Woolamai (summer only) and enjoy a relaxed stop in Cowes.
Stroll the Nobbies Boardwalk for sweeping ocean views and wildlife spotting before the highlight of the day.
At sunset, watch hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore at the world-famous Penguin Parade.
With all entry tickets included, multilingual audio via our free app, and an eco-accredited focus, this is a seamless and unforgettable way to experience Victoria’s wildlife and coastal beauty.
This is a truly unique opportunity to get up close and personal with nature and wildlife!
We offer 4 pickup locations from Melbourne CDB which are listed above. Your pickup depends on the time of year you have booked. Your exact meeting times are listed below and our team will confirm this with you after a booking is placed.
12:30 pm (Oct-Mar, Daylight savings)
Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour departs from our main pickup location Mail Exchange Hotel - 688 Bourke Street @ 12:30pm and below are the pickup times from our other locations:
* 11.45am Mercure Melbourne Southbank - 9 Riverside Quay, Southbank
* 12.05pm Regent Theatre - 191 Collins St
* 12.15pm Her Majesty’s Theatre - 219 Exhibition St
10:00 am (Apr -Sept, Non -daylight savings)
Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour departs from our main pickup location Mail Exchange Hotel - 688 Bourke Street @ 10am and below are the pickup times from our other locations:
* 9:20am Mercure Melbourne Southbank - 9 Riverside Quay, Southbank
* 9:35amRegent Theatre - 191 Collins St
* 9:45am Her Majesty’s Theatre - 219 Exhibition St
As the time that the penguins arrive on the beach changes significantly during the year, our return time to Melbourne also varies significantly from 21:00 to 0:00
Visit Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where you will encounter iconic Australian wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, reptiles and the elusive Tasmanian devil. Set within natural bushland, this immersive experience allows you to get closer to native animals while learning about vital conservation efforts. You may also have the opportunity to enjoy an up-close encounter with a koala or wallaby (additional cost applies).
Feel the sand beneath your feet with a scenic stroll along Cape Woolamai Beach, one of Phillip Island’s most spectacular coastal locations. Known as a world-class surf beach, watch skilled surfers ride powerful waves while taking in sweeping ocean views and dramatic coastal scenery. (Time permitting)
Soak up the relaxed seaside charm of Cowes, Phillip Island’s main township, with time to stroll along the picturesque foreshore, Cowes Pier and The Esplanade. This vibrant coastal hub is filled with cafés, restaurants, boutique shops and a local microbrewery, offering the perfect place to unwind and take in the holiday atmosphere. Food and drinks can be purchased at your own expense. (Time permitting)
Visit the iconic Nobbies on Phillip Island, where you can explore scenic clifftop boardwalks overlooking the rugged coastline of Bass Strait. Take in breathtaking panoramic views across to Seal Rocks, home to one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies, while spotting seabirds and native wildlife along the way. Wander the elevated boardwalks and, if conditions allow, witness the impressive blowhole in action. A must-see highlight showcasing the raw beauty of Phillip Island.
Witness the world-famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island, home to the largest colony of little penguins. From the general viewing platform and boardwalks, watch as hundreds of penguins emerge from the ocean at sunset and waddle across the beach to their burrows. As darkness falls, follow their journey along the illuminated boardwalks as they return home, offering incredible close-up viewing opportunities. This unforgettable wildlife experience is both heartwarming and unique, giving you a rare chance to observe these adorable seabirds in their natural habitat. A true must-do when visiting Victoria and one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife encounters.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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