Phillip Island: Penguin Parade Day Trip & Koala Reserve

Summary

Little penguins at dusk koalas up close and wild coastlines

You’ll watch tiny penguins return from sea at sunset on Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade day trip from Melbourne, walk through eucalyptus groves with a local ranger at the Koala Reserve, and have time to wander Cowes township by Westernport Bay. Includes entry fees and comfortable coach transport—you’ll come back feeling like you saw something quietly special.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the eucalyptus smell—sort of sharp and sweet—when we stepped onto the boardwalk at Phillip Island’s Koala Reserve. Our ranger, Sarah, had this way of pausing mid-sentence to point out a sleepy koala wedged impossibly high in the fork of a tree. I tried to spot them on my own but honestly, they blend in better than you’d think. It was quieter than I expected too, just the wind and some distant bird calls. Sarah shared stories about how this patch of woodland is one of the last on the island, which made me look up more often—like I should memorize it.

After that we drove past rolling fields (sheep everywhere) and ended up in Cowes for a bit. The main street felt relaxed—locals chatting outside bakeries, kids with ice creams even though it wasn’t that warm. I grabbed a pie from a little shop whose name I already forgot (sorry), and ate it watching seagulls try their luck by the bay. Not really what I thought “beach town” meant, but there was something comforting about how normal it all felt.

The Nobbies boardwalk came next—windier than you’d expect, hair everywhere—and our guide pointed out penguin burrows tucked into grassy clumps along the cliffs. You could hear the ocean crashing below, but mostly people just whispered or didn’t talk at all. Then came the main thing: waiting for sunset at the Penguin Plus viewing platform. Everyone got quiet when the first little penguins shuffled out of the surf—honestly, they’re smaller than my shoe—and there was this weird hush as we watched them waddle home in their groups. Some kids giggled; an older couple next to me just smiled at each other without saying anything. I still think about that moment sometimes—how ordinary and strange it was at once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Phillip Island wildlife and penguin parade

• Drive 1hr 45min from Melbourne
• Guided walk at Koala Reserve
• Learn about koalas and reserve history
• Drive through Phillip Island settlements
• Wander coastal township of Cowes
• Optional walk at Nobbies Rocks boardwalk
• Spot penguins nesting in burrows
• Travel along backroads to Penguin Habitat
• Enjoy sunset at Visitor Information Centre
• Watch the Little Penguins parade

Top questions

How long is the drive from Melbourne to Phillip Island?

It’s about 1 hour and 45 minutes by coach from Melbourne to Phillip Island.

Is entry to the Koala Reserve included?

Yes, admission to Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve is included in your day trip.

Do you get to see penguins up close?

You’ll watch little penguins from the Penguin Plus viewing platform as they return from sea at sunset.

Is there time to explore Cowes during this tour?

Yes, there’s usually free time to wander through Cowes township along Westernport Bay.

Are meals included on this tour?

No meals are included, but there are restaurants and shops in Cowes where you can buy food.

Is transportation provided for this day trip?

Yes, travel is by air-conditioned large coach with pickup included.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels but not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.

Will there be a guide during the tour?

An expert driver guide provides live commentary throughout your day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable coach transport from Melbourne with pickup, guided walks led by local rangers through Phillip Island’s Koala Conservation Reserve (entry covered), access to the exclusive Penguin Plus viewing area for sunset penguin watching, plus free time in Cowes before heading back in the evening.