Phillip Island Private Day Tour with Penguin Parade
11-12 hours, moderate pace
1 to 24+ people
From $1449
Experience Victoria’s most famous wildlife destination in comfort and style.
A stress-free, immersive experience, with door-to-door transport, expert guidance, and plenty of time to explore. Whether you're a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing escape, this tour delivers an unforgettable day.
The ultimate way to experience Victoria’s most famous wildlife destination.
See Victoria’s No. 1 attraction up close and personal – the adorable Little Penguins of Philip Island.
Be amazed as you watch these gorgeous creatures in their nightly journey home to their burrows in their hundreds if not thousands. See them waddling up the beach and stroll among them on elevated boardwalks. You will not believe how close you will get to them, you could almost touch them.
Our full-day tour to the world-famous Philip Island Penguin Parade includes a leisurely drive through picturesque scenery on our way to the world's biggest Little Penguin colony. Enjoy a visit to The Nobbies and Seal Rocks for breathtaking photo opportunities. Take a stroll down along the boardwalk, keeping an eye out for penguins that might be under your feet or hiding in nesting boxes. Then it’s a leisurely but spectacular drive along the cliffs where you may spot soaring birds of prey, wandering Cape Barren geese or grazing wallabies.
Finally, we arrive at our destination – the world-renowned Penguin Parade. Take a moment to explore the Visitors Information Centre. Wander through the Penguin Experience exhibit to discover more about these fascinating Little (Fairy) Penguins prior to their arrival. Then it’s down to the beach to watch these cuties waddle up the beach, clamber over rocks. Stopping to preen themselves or gawk at these odd humans that come to see them every night. It’s a magical, memorable experience that will stay with you, your whole life.
On our Private Phillip Island tour you will see hundreds of little penguins dashing home at dusk and a possibility of other resident wildlife such as Swamp Wallabies, Echidnas, Eastern Barred Bandicoots, Cape Barren Geese and Short-tailed Shearwaters. This world class event which happens every night on dusk allows you to see and hear these penguins in the colony, greeting neighbours, partners and their chicks. It's a must see for all nature lovers. Our Philip Island Private full-day tour gives you time to sit back, relax and take in the magnificent coastal views and animal activities/interactions coming your way.

We also take in a visit to a wildlife park, allowing you the chance to interact up close and personal with iconic Australian Native wild animals. Hand feed kangaroos and wallabies. See adorable Koalas and pose for photos with them (extra cost). Wombats, reptiles, birds of prey, it's all there for you to see. Our full-day trip to Phillip Island also includes a trip to historic Churchill Island where you will see and experience traditional farming activities including milking of cows, shearing sheep and the famous whip-cracking show. (Will you be chosen to learn to crack a whip?). If weather permits we will also enjoy a stunning beach walk along one of Phillip Island's most famous surf beaches.
Ready for a world-class private tour experience?
Book OnlineWe contacted John to arrange a family trip to Phillip Island, 2 adults & 2 kids (5 & 7).
John listened to our requirements, added some suggestions. Picked up at the hotel door, right on time (inc. booster seat). John was extremely personable throughout the trip, engaged with adults and children alike. He was also very knowledgeable about the area, giving us pointers to maximise the experience. We all thoroughly enjoyed the trip and would recommend John & Melbourne Touring Co to anyone!Ned & Kylie
Tour Highlights
Churchill Island Heritage Farm
Travel back in time at the site of the first European farm in Victoria, in operation since the 1850s. Tour the historic homestead, gardens and ranch buildings at this working heritage farm, and watch live demonstrations like sheep shearing and Australian sheep dog herding. You can purchase lunch at the island café or enjoy a glass of wine while enjoying the views of Western Port and cattle grazing in the pasture.
Daily Farming Activities:
1:00-1:45pm wagon rides (weekends, school and public holidays only - weather permitting)
2:10pm cow milking
2:30pm sheep shearing
2:45pm whip cracking
3:05pm working dogs
3:20pm sheep shearing
Maru Koala and Animal Park
At Maru you will get the opportunity to really interact with the animals, including koalas, kangaroos and wallabies, emus, parrots, stock animals and more. Join the park keepers at regular talks and presentations, including the featured Wildlife Presentation on weekends and holidays. View the koalas from the raised boardwalk or go inside their enclosure with the keepers.
Penguin Parade
Bundle up and make your way to the viewing area at Summerland Beach just before sunset to watch the world-famous Penguin Parade. Be mesmerized as hundreds of little penguins (formerly known as fairy penguins as they are the world’s smallest) emerge from the ocean after a day of fishing and waddle across the beach to their burrows and chicks.
Suggested itinerary:
Pick up from hotel or nominated location in Melbourne CBD
Visit to Maru Koala and Wildlife Park
Walk on Cape Woolamia Surf Beach (weather permitting)
Visit to Churchill Island Heritage Farm
(Optional visit to Cowes township for brief shopping & early dinner)
Photo opportunity/boardwalk at The Nobbies with coastal cliff drive along Summerland Bay
Beach visit to see Penguin Parade
Return drive to Melbourne pick up point
Estimated tour time 11-12 hours
Tour itinerary can be customised to include other options such as:
Chocolate Factory Tour
Visit to Grand Prix circuit
A Maze'N Things (ideal for kids)
Antarctic Journey at Nobbies Centre
Visit to other iconic Phillip Island beaches
Phillip Island Vineyard and Winery
Note: total tour time cannot exceed 12 hours for driver and passenger safety so if wishing to add in an optional extra to tour, we recommend you swap out another tour stop to create adequate time. eg. Swap Maru Wildlife Park or Woolamai Beach Walk for Chocolate Factory etc
Prices in include admission to Maru Koala Park, Churchill Island & Penguin Parade (General admission).
Optional upgrades to animal encounters at Maru and Penguins Plus viewing available at additional cost.
Group Sizes | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Day of Week | 1 - 2 People | 3 - 4 People | 5 - 6 People | 7 - 8 People | 9 - 11 People | 12 - 24 People |
Monday - Friday | A$1449 | A$1649 | A$1849 | A$2049 | A$2299 | POA |
Saturday | A$1599 | A$1799 | A$1999 | A$2149 | A$2449 | POA |
Sunday | A$1749 | A$1949 | A$2149 | A$2349 | A$2599 | POA |
Book Online
Phillip Island Private Day Tour with Penguin Parade
More world-class private tours
-
Penguin Parade "Express" Private Tour
6-7 hours (approx)
1 to 20+ people
Discover the wonder of one of the world’s largest penguin colonies in a magical experience that you’ll talk about for years to come.
This express penguin parade tour is designed for travelers short on time who still want to experience the world-famous Penguin Parade in comfort and with an expert private guide.
From A$999
Explore -
Great Ocean Road Private Day Tour
10-11 hours (approx)
1 to 25+ people
An epic day of incredible destinations, fascinating stories and unforgettable moments.
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with the Melbourne Touring Company's Great Ocean Road Private Day Tour! This iconic journey offers breathtaking coastal views, lush rainforests, and encounters with Australia's unique wildlife. Marvel at the majestic Twelve Apostles, explore charming seaside towns, and uncover the rich history of this heritage-listed route.
From A$1099
Explore -
Two Day Great Ocean Road Private Tour
2 days, relaxed pace
1 to 11 people
This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the Great Ocean Road at a relaxed pace.
Our two day extended adventure lets you fully immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of one of the world's most iconic coastal drives. From the majestic 12 Apostles to the lush rainforests of the Otway Ranges, every moment is a feast for the senses. Explore charming seaside towns, walk along pristine beaches, and marvel at dramatic cliffs and hidden grottos. Your ultimate coastal escape awaits!
From A$2799
Explore
Online Enquiry
Phillip Island Private Day Tour with Penguin Parade
Please call 0422 257 446 or email info@melbournetouringcompany.com.au. Alternatively,please complete the below form and our team will response as soon as possible.
Javascript is required for form submission.