Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne
Pick your date
Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.
September 2026
Loading live availability
Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 900 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne worth booking?
Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne is a 9.5-hour experience in Melbourne, Australia, from $131 per person. It scores 88 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 900 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 88 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (900)
- Duration
- 9.5 hours
- From
- $131 per person
Take in the spectacular Phillip Island Penguin Parade as you watch the colony of Little Penguins crosses the shoreline from the ocean. Heading out to Penguin Parade, we begin our day at a Koala Reserve to meet some furry
What you get
About this experience
Take in the spectacular Phillip Island Penguin Parade as you watch the colony of Little Penguins crosses the shoreline from the ocean. Heading out to Penguin Parade, we begin our day at a Koala Reserve to meet some furry Australian favourites. Take a tour and get up close and personal with our native Australian wildlife. Travel to Phillip Island Nature Parks, known for its natural beauty, sandy beaches, rugged cliffs and unique wildlife experiences. The island is home to a colony of around 32,000 little penguins. Phillip Island Tour is one of the popular and must-watch tourist attractions in Victoria.
What's included
Included
- Experienced local driver guide to assist you throughout the day
- Air-conditioned premium coach travel and comfort
- Comprehensive live commentary in a fun and social atmosphere
- Admission to Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve
- Admission to Phillip Island Nature Park with Penguin Parade (general viewing)
Not included
- Meals not included, guests will have an opportunity to support locals and buy lunch along the way.
- Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
- Travel insurance is highly recommended
- Personal expenses
What you'll see and do
Melbourne
Our coach will depart from Melbourne City and head southeast for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with our first stop being the Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island.
120 minutes here
Koala Conservation Reserve
At the Koala Conservation Centre on Phillip Island, guests will have 45 minutes to explore the lush surroundings and stroll along the elevated boardwalks that wind through the treetops. Here, you’ll have the chance to get up close to koalas in their natural habitat, spotting these iconic creatures as they rest in the eucalyptus trees. The knowledgeable staff will provide fascinating insights into the conservation efforts that protect these beloved animals. It's a peaceful and educational experience, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of Australia's wildlife.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Cape Woolamai
Phillip Island boasts a population of approximately 15,000 which is boosted during the busy tourist seasons. There are three main settlements being Cape Woolamai, New Haven & Cowes. Our stop at Cape Woolamai beach is seasonal subject to weather permitting and mostly visited during summer season.
Pass by without stopping
Cowes
During summer time we often make time to wander through the coastal township of Cowes. Sheltered alongside the calm Westernport Bay this township was named after Cowes on the Isle of White. Beautiful seaside scenery, unique stores to peak into and many nice restaurants to purchase food. This stop is only due to timing restrictions in winter as there are less hours of day light.
45 minutes here
The Nobbies Centre
Next, we arrive at the Nobbies Rocks where you can take a walk down the boardwalks to see the rocky coast and spot Penguins nesting in their burrows. Then we travel along the Phillip Island backroads through Phillip Island Penguin Habitat. Enjoy incredible views of the coastal cliffs on your way to the Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
45 minutes here
Penguin Parade
The main attraction of Phillip Island tour has always been the Little Penguins doing their daily ritual of penguin parade. These little friends are the smallest of its kind in the world. Enjoy sunset at the Visitor Information Centre and choose the right seat to have a great view of the main spectacles of the day — the Penguin Parade!
120 minutes here · Admission included
Melbourne
After the Penguin Parade, we will begin our journey back to Melbourne, with the return time varying depending on the penguins' arrival time. As the penguins make their way back to their burrows, we’ll allow time to fully enjoy the experience before heading home. Please note, the timings for the day trip may vary to maximise the sunset experience, particularly in line with the time of year and daylight savings.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Melbourne
Our main meeting point for this tour is Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St corner of Market St, Melbourne @ 11:45am (winter) and 13:45pm (summer).
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Our main meeting point for this tour is Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St corner of Market St, Melbourne @ 11:45am (winter) and 13:45pm (summer).
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, pt, ko, cmn, ja, yue, en, it, fr, nl, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Autopia Tours
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- No photography or filming is permitted at the Penguin Parade. Penguins have sensitive eyes and a bright, sudden flash or unusual light can frighten or disorientate a penguin.
- Child and infant fare prices apply from 0 to 12 years old. Child protective seats are free of charge, subject to availability and must be requested at time of booking.
- Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 5-7kg day bag per person. Our vehicles are not wheelchair, prams or child stroller accessible please refrain from bring on tour.
- Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 900 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
10 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
900 verified traveler reviews for Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Very special magical day
Such a privilege to see these amazing creatures up close. Added bonus was visiting the koala sanctuary. Our driver on the day was just the best. She was concious of our special circumstances and she looked after us so well. She went well and truly above and beyond and we will never forget her kindness. Sadly I can't remember her name but I want her and her employer to know that she was a true highlight of, not just our day but our whole holiday
via Viator
Can’t control nature
We traveled via comfortable bus learning some History about Melbourne and surrounding areas which was great! The beachside town of Cowes was very nice and we had time to explore and eat. The Koala Sanctuary was amazing! We got to see so many of them but the best part was seeing the newborn Joey and Mom!!! The penguin parade was the only disappointing part. Unfortunately we cannot control nature and we only saw maybe 4 penguins. But that definitely made it less than 5 star experience since that was the main reason we purchased tour. However, our driver/tour guide Lauren was wonderful and we were blessed with the koala experience and beautiful weather and temps.
via Viator
Great tour
Great tour and Vicky was a great guide. Highly recommended
via Tripadvisor
Day trip to see the penguins and koalas
Had a great trip from the booking until the end of the trip Joe our guide was absolutely superb and made our day memorable 😎
via Tripadvisor
Koalas & Penguins Aplenty
The excursion experiences were great and Vicky, our tour guide, did a nice job narrating the trip; would definitely recommend this one.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 9.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $131 to $270
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 315
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 88
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Melbourne.
How much does Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne cost?
+
Prices start at $131 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 Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne take?
+
Plan for about 9.5 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 Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 88 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 900 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Melbourne, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne?
+
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 Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne?
+
Around 315 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?
+
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 9.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne start and how do I get there?
+
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?
+
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?
+
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?
+
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?
+
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.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourne.
Pick your date
