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Melbourne · Victoria · Australia
2 Day Tour of Melbourne To Phillip Island With Penguins
Starting From
From $397.85 per person
Current Project Expedition rate
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Project Expedition
The Experience
What your day looks like
Take your time discovering the magic of Phillip Island on this relaxed, two-day escape from Melbourne, meticulously designed for travelers who want to skip the rushed day trips. Combining Local Way Tours’ premium small-group style with a gentler, more immersive pace, this getaway balances curated experiences with ample free time. You'll enjoy a sophisticated wine tasting and a leisurely grazing lunch at a local winery, explore the charming township of Cowes, and settle into comfortable overnight accommodations right on the island. This coastal journey is packed with unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery at golden hour. Wander through natural bushland habitats to spot koalas up close, and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine at The Nobbies as the sun begins to set. The true highlight comes at dusk, where you'll secure front-row seats to watch the world-famous Penguin Parade as hundreds of Little Penguins make their way across the beach, before returning to Melbourne refreshed the following day.
At a Glance
The experience, in brief
- Enjoy wine tasting and grazing lunch at Phillip Island Winery
- Explore Cowes with free time and overnight accommodation
- Visit koalas in their natural bushland habitat
- Discover The Nobbies with sparkling wine at golden hour
- Watch the worldfamous Penguin Parade before returning Melbourne
Your Itinerary
Your day, step by step
Day 1
Melbourne
Sightseeing at Phillip Island. Welcome to Australia! Depart Melbourne from the Arts Centre Melbourne, with optional hotel pickup available for an additional cost. Travel southeast from the city toward Western Port Bay, passing coastal towns and countryside as you make your way to San Remo, the gateway to Phillip Island. Your first stop is San Remo, where you can enjoy time by the water and take in views across to Phillip Island. From here, cross the bridge onto the island and continue to Phillip Island Winery, one of the island’s favourite local venues.
Continued
Melbourne
Wine Tasting at Phillip Island. At the winery, enjoy an included wine tasting, followed by a grazing-style lunch showcasing local produce in a relaxed vineyard setting. It is the perfect introduction to the island’s slower pace, with time to unwind, enjoy the food and wine, and settle into holiday mode.
Continued
Melbourne
Leisure at Phillip Island. After lunch, continue to Cowes, Phillip Island’s main seaside township. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Wander the foreshore, browse local shops, grab a coffee, visit the beach, or simply relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Continued
Melbourne
Overnight accommodation is included on Phillip Island based on twin share.
Day 2
Melbourne
Eco Tour at Phillip Island. Free Morning & Koalas Enjoy a relaxed morning at your own pace. Sleep in, take a walk along the beach, explore Cowes, or enjoy breakfast locally before the touring continues later in the day. In the afternoon, visit the Koala Conservation Reserve, where you can walk elevated boardwalks through native bushland and look for koalas in their natural habitat. The reserve also offers the chance to spot wallabies, echidnas, native birds and other local wildlife.
Continued
Melbourne
Sightseeing at Nobbies Centre. From here, continue to The Nobbies, one of Phillip Island’s most spectacular coastal locations. Take in sweeping views over Bass Strait, rugged cliffs, seabirds and, in season, possible wildlife sightings along the boardwalks. As the afternoon light softens, enjoy a golden hour sparkling experience while taking in the dramatic coastal scenery.
Continued
Melbourne
Penguins at Phillip Island. The day finishes with entry to the world-famous Penguin Parade. Watch as the little penguins return from the ocean and make their way across the beach to their burrows after a day at sea. This unforgettable wildlife experience is one of Australia’s most loved natural attractions.
Continued
Melbourne
Thank you for visiting! After the Penguin Parade, return to Melbourne in the evening, with hotel drop-off included.
Before You Go
What to know before booking
Included
Entry to Phillip Island Penguin Parade - General Viewing Nobbies Golden Hour & Scenic Wildlife Boardwalk Koala Conservation Reserve Entry Explore the idyllic coastal village of Cowes Premium Seating Ticket Window Seat Guarantee WiFi Charging Ports Engaging Local Guide All Taxes and Fees
Not Included
Food & Drink other than what is stated Tips & gratuities
What to Bring
Cash for personal use
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point: MELBOURNE ARTS CENTRE - 100R St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000. This Melbourne Landmark is centrally located, easy to access, and provides plenty of entertainment and amenities for your convenience prior to our tour. At Tours end we drop back at the same location, with optional City and Southbank Hotel Returns.
Languages Offered
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Before Booking
Country Special Requirements Rooming Type Twin Share (2 Beds) Double Share (1 Bed) Single (1 Bed)
Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: No Confirmation: Automatic
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