Philip Island — Penguin Parade Private Tour

About this experience

The Philip Island Penguin Parade Private Tour is a full-day private guided tour from Melbourne to Philip Island, taking a small group to watch the nightly parade of little penguins returning from the sea to their burrows. The little penguin, the world's smallest penguin species, comes ashore at Summerlands Beach each evening at dusk in one of Australia's most well-documented wildlife spectacles. Private transport from Melbourne means no shared coaches or fixed group schedules, and the format suits families, couples, and small groups who want a more flexible pace on the roughly 140-kilometre drive from the city. The day typically includes stops at key points across Philip Island, which may cover the Nobbies coastal boardwalk, seal viewing at Seal Rocks, and the Churchill Island Heritage Farm, depending on the itinerary selected. The penguin viewing itself takes place at the Penguin Parade visitor centre, where tiered viewing areas and elevated boardwalks allow guests to watch the penguins come ashore after dark. Tickets cover private vehicle transport to and from Melbourne, a dedicated guide, and entry to the Penguin Parade. Check the booking details for inclusions such as meals, additional attraction entry fees, and exact departure times before confirming.

Highlights

• Hotel pickup and dropoff from Melbourne CBD, plus bus fare, parking fees, and Penguin Parade general viewing included.
• Watch hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore at sunset in the world-famous Penguin Parade.
• Visit Maru Koala & Animal Park for close encounters with native wildlife and snap photos with koalas and kangaroos.
• Stroll the scenic Nobbies boardwalk, taking in dramatic views of Bass Strait and Seal Rocks.
• Stop at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory for tastings and sweet souvenirs along the way.

What is included

• Hotel pickup (Melbourne CBD)
• Hotel dropoff
• Bus fare
• Parking fees
• Goods and Services Tax
• General viewing penguin parade
• Private, comfortable transport (option based)
• Private transport for 11 guests (option based)

Not included

• Food and drinks
• Entry or admission fee to Maru / Koala Conservation Park (AUD 10–20)

Cancellation terms

These tickets cannot be cancelled or rescheduled.