
Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 161 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne worth booking?
Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne is a 12-hour experience in Melbourne, Australia, from $121 per person. It scores 80 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 161 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 80 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (161)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $121 per person
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!
What you get
About this experience
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!
What's included
Included
- Multilingual audio commentary via the Explore Australia app-based (code provided by your guide)
- All National Park fees
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- General entry to Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Friendly and knowledgeable local guide
- Selected Melbourne pick-up and drop-off
- Entry into Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
- Small-group Phillip Island experience
Not included
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Snacks
What you'll see and do
Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
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).
120 minutes here · Admission included
Cape Woolamai
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)
30 minutes here
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)
45 minutes here
The Nobbies Centre
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.
45 minutes here
Penguin Parade
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.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait outside the main entrance to Regent Theatre at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait at the corner of Exhibition & Little Bourke Streets at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. We will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time and look out for the purple Explore Australia Tours vehicle.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Ends at
Please wait outside the main entrance to Regent Theatre at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Ends at
Please wait at the corner of Exhibition & Little Bourke Streets at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. We will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Ends at
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Ends at
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time and look out for the purple Explore Australia Tours vehicle.
Options you can book
Tour Plus Penguins Pus
Penguin Plus Upgrade: Superb up-close viewing from the tiered seating in Penguins Plus.
General Viewing
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- ar, hi, de, vi, ko, pt, cmn, ja, en, it, fr, nl, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Explore Australia Tours
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 161 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Pace and timing
4 mentionsSeveral reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
161 verified traveler reviews for Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing trip, would go for more
Tour was well-planned, gave us a lot of time in each attraction. Tour guide is very friendly and informative, helped us get the best experience throughout. Worth the price overall.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! 🌟🐧 We’re thrilled you enjoyed the Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour and had plenty of time to explore each attraction. It’s fantastic to hear your guide helped make the experience even more enjoyable. Thank you for your recommendation, and we’d love to welcome you back for another adventure! 💜
via Tripadvisor
Great Time With a Knowledgeable Guide
We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Explore Australia, and a huge part of that was our guide, Stuart. From the moment the tour began, Stuart was friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely passionate about sharing Australia with his guests. He took us to Moonlit Sanctuary, the Nobbies, the Penguin Parade, and several other beautiful locations throughout the day. At every stop, he made sure everyone was comfortable and never rushed us. He was always there when we returned, ready with more fascinating information and stories. What really set Stuart apart was his ability to bring Australia to life. He taught us about Australian culture, wildlife, history, and local customs, while also pointing out countless things we would have completely missed on our own. His enthusiasm was contagious, and he was consistently kind, gracious, and engaging throughout the entire tour. We have taken many guided tours over the years, and Stuart ranks among the very best guides we have ever had. The tour itself was fantastic, but Stuart's professionalism, warmth, and knowledge made it truly memorable. We loved every part of the experience and would happily do this tour again. Highly recommended!
Response from the operator: Thanks Mike - what a great review. Stuart is an awesome guide, so happy to hear you got to experience his knowlefge and hospitality. I will definately be passing this review onto Stuart. Glad you enjoyed Moonlit Sanctuary and the Penguins as well. Really appreciate you recommending Explore Australia Tours. Thanks Explore Australia Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
Must Visit Experience. Do...
Must Visit Experience. Do try it out. Mark was great at his work. An All-In-one person who handled everything well.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback 🌟🐧 We are thrilled to hear you enjoyed the Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour 😊 Mark will be so happy to hear your kind words and that he helped make the day run smoothly. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you again soon 💜
via Viator
Had an amazing trip. Will book with anytime again.
This was my second daytrip booking with them. Highly recommended tour agent. Absolutely amazing penguins and wildlife tour. Antony was our tour guide for Moonlit sanctuary experience. He is very professional , polite and cheerful.Very small group and comfortable bus. He explained to us clearly and gave us tips along the way. Me and my kids thoroughly enjoyed feeding the wallabies and ducks and Kengaroos. Very close encounters. Loved it. Saw cute koals. After half day we were combined with another group for Penguin island. Gina was our guide. She is very professional, explained about the wildlife , when to spot. Dos and donts. Stopped at places to get stunning philip island coastal views. Only small vehicles can reach these places. Always ask the guide what is the best place to sit for penguin viewing. Try not to miss the penguins coming out of the ocean. Amazing amazing experience. The little blue penguins are adorable. Prepare for cold winds as you will be seeing penguins after sunset. Walk around after a while to see penguins returning to their homes and interaction with each other. Absolutely loved the trip
Response from the operator: Thanks for the awesome review. Looks like you got 2 of our great guides on this tour. I will pass on your comments to them for sure. We also love the helpful tips you shared. Thanks again for taking the time to leave such thoughtful feedback, and we hope to see you again on another adventure soon! The Explore Australia Tour Team
via Tripadvisor
Great Tour
Had a great time on this tour. Stuart was very knowledgeable. Plenty of time at Moonlit Sanctuary and Penguin Parade station never felt rushed. Thoroughly recommend.
Response from the operator: Hi Robin, Thanks for the 5 star review. I will pass this onto Stuart. So glad you enjoyed Moonlit and the Penguin Parade without feeling rushed. Great to hear you will be recommending our Penguins and Puffing Billy Tour!! Thanks Explore Australia Tours Team.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $121 to $245
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 56
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Explore Australia Tours, who run 10 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.2.
See everything Explore Australia Tours runsWhy this scores 80
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife 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 & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne 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 Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne take?
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Plan for about 12 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 & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 80 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 161 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 Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?
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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 Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?
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Around 56 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 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne 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 Yarra Valley Wine Tour w Exclusive Gin, Cider & Chocolate Tasting, Yarra Valley Wine Tour from Melbourne - Choc, Gin & Good Times, Melbourne: Epic Yarra Valley Wine Tour & Lunch - Gin/Beer Upgrade. 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.
What is included in Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?
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Included: Multilingual audio commentary via the Explore Australia app-based (code provided by your g; All National Park fees; In-vehicle air conditioning; General entry to Phillip Island Penguin Parade; and Friendly and knowledgeable local guide. Not included: Lunch; Dinner; and Snacks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?
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Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne offered in?
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It is offered in Arabic, Hindi, German, Vietnamese, Korean, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, English, Italian, French, Dutch and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?
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Across 161 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
What booking options are available for Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Wildlife Tour from Melbourne?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Tour Plus Penguins Pus, General Viewing. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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