Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Quick answer
Is Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade worth booking?
Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade is a 10-hour experience in Melbourne, Australia, from $121 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 55 / 100
- Rating
- Not yet rated
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $121 per person
Experience the best of Phillip Island with the flexibility of the Island Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and the iconic Penguin Parade—all in a single, relaxed, small-group day tour from Melbourne. Whether you're craving co
What you get
About this experience
Experience the best of Phillip Island with the flexibility of the Island Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and the iconic Penguin Parade—all in a single, relaxed, small-group day tour from Melbourne. Whether you're craving coastal strolls, wildlife adventures, or adrenaline-filled activities, this tour allows you to tailor the middle part of your day while we take care of the transport, comfort, and key experiences.
What's included
Included
- Authentic Small Group travel with an engaging Local Guide
- Nobbies Golden Hour & Scenic Wildlife Boardwalk
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Barista-Made Coffee at your Melbourne departure point
- Penguin Parade Entry - General Viewing
- All Day Access to Island Explorer Hop on Hop off Bus
Not included
- Additional Entries at your Choosing
- Penguin Parade Upgraded Experiences
- Entry to Koala Reserve
- Entry to Chocolate Factory
- Entry to Amaze n Things
What you'll see and do
San Remo Jetty
Welcome to the charming coastal town of San Remo, where the iconic bridge to Phillip Island begins. Watch for the famous pelicans that frequent the foreshore, stroll along the beach, or simply take in the stunning seaside views. This is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze before continuing our journey.
30 minutes here
Koala Conservation Reserve
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.
30 minutes here · Admission not included
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!
30 minutes here
Phillip Island
Indulge your sweet side at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory — a delightfully interactive experience where chocolate lovers of all ages can watch delicious creations being made, try hands-on activities, and enjoy plenty of tastings along the way. From larger-than-life sculptures to melt-in-your-mouth samples, it's a playful and tasty stop you won’t forget.
30 minutes here
Churchill Island
Step back in time at Churchill Island, a heritage farm and peaceful coastal haven just off Phillip Island. Wander through historic homesteads, watch daily farming demonstrations like sheep shearing and whip cracking, and stroll the scenic walking trails with sweeping views of Western Port Bay. It’s a perfect blend of nature, history, and hands-on fun for all ages.
30 minutes here · Admission not included
A Maze'N Things
Enter a world of optical illusions, puzzles, mazes, and mind-bending fun at A Maze’N Things — a must-visit indoor attraction on Phillip Island. From gravity-defying rooms to the giant vertical drop slide and an outdoor maze to get lost in, it’s a playful and interactive experience that’s perfect for curious minds and families alike.
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Pyramid Rock
Pyramid Rock is one of Phillip Island’s most iconic coastal lookouts, offering dramatic cliffside views over the Bass Strait. Named for its distinct pyramid-shaped offshore rock formation, this scenic spot is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and walkers — especially stunning at sunset or during southern swells.
30 minutes here
The Nobbies Centre
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.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Penguin Parade
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
120 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Melbourne
Meet us at the Melbourne Arts Centre - located at 100R St Kilda Road Melbourne. Look for your guide outside the Protagonist Cafe, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings whilst you wait. We are able to drop you off at the end of tour if your hotel is in the Melbourne CBD
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Meet us at the Melbourne Arts Centre - located at 100R St Kilda Road Melbourne. Look for your guide outside the Protagonist Cafe, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings whilst you wait. We are able to drop you off at the end of tour if your hotel is in the Melbourne CBD
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Phillip Island Explorer
Know before you go
- 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
Photos
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $121 to $165
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 0
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 55
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Melbourne.
How much does Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade cost?
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Prices start at $121 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Melbourne usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade take?
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Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Melbourne is not rushed.
Is Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (0/5 across 0 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Melbourne, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade?
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Around 0 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Melbourne can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Melbourne and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Explore Phillip Island from Melbourne with Penguin Parade start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Melbourne within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Melbourne?
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On Outty we rank every Melbourne experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Whisky and Chocolate Tour, Yarra Valley Wine Tour w Exclusive Gin, Cider & Chocolate Tasting, Yarra Valley Wine Tour from Melbourne - Choc, Gin & Good Times. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Melbourne?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Melbourne?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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