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Phillip Island Penguin Tours

Embark on our captivating Phillip Island Penguins Tour, where the highlights of Phillip Island await your discovery. Nestled along the southern coast of Victoria, this island is the proud habitat of approximately 32,000 Little Penguins.

Witness a remarkable spectacle nightly as hundreds, and at times thousands, of these penguins emerge from the ocean, making their way across the sandy shores during the renowned Penguin Parade.

Our comprehensive day trip encompasses scenic nature strolls along the island’s breathtaking beaches and pathways, encounters with local wildlife, and the unforgettable Penguin Parade. Your guide will offer insights on the optimal spots in each Penguin Viewing Area, ensuring an enhanced experience of this unique event. 

DAY1
DEPARTS13:45 /SUMMER,
11:45 /WINTER
RETURNS23:45 /SUMMER,
21:45/ WINTER
Price$115
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Essential Experiences

  • Marvel at the enchanting Phillip Island Penguin Parade, a unique wildlife event.
  • Embark on a ranger-led exploration of the Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve.
  • Uncover the stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and cultural importance of Phillip Island.
  • Venture off the usual paths, traversing dirt roads along Phillip Island’s coastal cliffs to observe wallabies and birds of prey.
  • Enjoy a leisurely walk around the Nobbies and Seal Rocks, with their picturesque coastal boardwalks.
  • Delve into the Phillip Island Penguin Visitor Centre for an immersive learning experience. 

Why Visit Phillip Island?

Our Phillip Island Penguin Tours is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts! Set off on a journey south of Melbourne to the enchanting Phillip Island. Spend a day filled with guided explorations in the Phillip Island Koala Reserve, wander along its untamed surf beaches, spot wild kangaroos and wallabies, and culminate your adventure with a visit to the globally acclaimed Penguin Parade.

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Tour descriptions

Situated 140 km southeast of Melbourne, the journey to the splendid Phillip Island, a habitat for over 7,000 inhabitants and a diverse range of over a hundred animal species, promises a blend of natural beauty and historical significance despite its small size.

Just a 1hr 45min drive from Melbourne takes you directly to Phillip Island. Upon arrival, a Phillip Island Nature Parks Ranger will lead you on a guided tour through the Koala Reserve. You’ll receive an informative presentation about koalas, the significance of the Reserve, and its role in preserving the island’s last natural woodlands.

Phillip Island, historically a vital hunting, fishing, and gathering site for the Yalloc Bulluck, a prominent clan of the Bunurong people, carries a rich cultural legacy. The island was frequented during the summer and ‘egging season’ due to its abundant wildlife, a trait that continues today. Discover middens from the Yalloc Bulluk at the Penguin Parade and within Summerlands National Park. The Nature Parks actively promote awareness and conservation of these culturally significant sites.
Entering Summerlands, you’ll notice it’s entirely a National Park, accessible to housing. Stroll along ‘The Nobbies’ boardwalks to possibly see Little Penguins in their burrows. At ‘The Blowhole’, witness waves crashing against volcanic rock, creating striking photo opportunities against Seal Rocks. Alternatively, visit the Nobbies Information Centre for the ‘Antarctic Journey Experience’, a WWF-supported attraction offering deep insights into Southern Hemisphere marine life, available for an additional $18 per person.
Leaving Nobby, you’ll embark on an off-road adventure with scenic views and chances to see wallabies. Learn about the unique characteristics of the lesser penguins.

As dusk settles, head to the Penguin Parade. Little Penguins emerge from the sea after sunset to avoid predators. Photography is prohibited to protect their sensitive eyes and ensure their comfort. Our tour fully supports this to immerse you in this extraordinary natural event. If planning a Great Ocean Road trip, consider our 2 Day Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island Tour.

Trip Details

Departure

  • Winter | Summer
  • 11:05 | 13:05 – Pegasus Apartments Hotel, 206 A’Beckett St, Melbourne
  • 11:10 | 13:10 – Melbourne Marriott Hotel - Cnr Exhibition St Lonsdale St, Melbourne
  • 11:15 | 13:15 – Space Hotel, 380 Russell St, Melbourne

What do you need to bring?

  • Water bottle
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Warm and cool clothing
  • Rain jacket
  • Camera
  • A sense of adventure

What's Included?

  • Penguin Parade entry
  • Inner city pick-up and drop-off
  • Experienced driver/guide and tour commentary
  • Koala Reserve Entry Fees

FAQs

The Penguin Parade begins at sunset, which varies throughout the year. However, arriving a bit early to secure a good spot is always a good idea.

Apart from penguins, Phillip Island teems with other wildlife like koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and fur seals. It’s like stepping into a live nature documentary!

Dress in warm clothes as the evening can get cold, even during summer. Also, wearing comfortable shoes will make your tour more enjoyable.

Penguins can be seen all year round, but the breeding season from August to February sees more significant numbers of penguins returning to shore. It’s a sight you wouldn’t want to miss!

Feeding the penguins or any wildlife on Phillip Island is strictly prohibited from maintaining their natural diet and behavior.

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