Phillip Island: Penguin Parade, Kangaroos & Koalas Day Trip

Summary

Penguin Parade magic, wild kangaroos and windswept coastlines

You’ll feed kangaroos at Moonlit Sanctuary, walk windswept beaches on Phillip Island, and watch wild penguins waddle ashore at sunset with a local guide. Includes all entry fees and Melbourne pickup—bring a warm jacket for those chilly evenings by the sea.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t blink or you’ll miss the quoll,” our guide joked as we shuffled past a patch of eucalyptus at Moonlit Sanctuary. I’d never even heard of a quoll before, but there it was—spotted fur, kind of twitchy. The air smelled like damp leaves and something sweet (maybe the glider’s food?). We fed kangaroos—well, I tried, but one just stared at me until I laughed. It’s quieter than I expected out here, except for the odd magpie screeching overhead. The drive from Melbourne was easy; pickup right outside our hotel, which helped since we’re not exactly morning people.

Woolamai Beach came next—wind blasting my hat sideways and sand everywhere. The surf looked massive. There were a couple of local surfers out, barely dots in all that blue-grey water. Lunch was casual in Cowes; nothing fancy but good chips, and someone’s dog kept begging under the table (I caved). Our guide Liam had stories about growing up nearby—said he used to skip school for the Penguin Parade (his mum caught him every time). The Nobbies boardwalk felt wild and open—saw seals flopping around on the rocks way out there. And honestly? I didn’t expect to spot so many wallabies just hanging around.

By sunset at Summerland Beach, everyone got a bit quieter—the wind colder too, so yeah, bring a jacket even if you think you won’t need it. There was this hush right before the first little penguins popped up from the waves. They’re smaller than you think, almost comical waddling across the sand in groups. Kids giggled; even adults couldn’t help grinning. Walking along the boardwalk beside them felt surreal—I kept thinking how far they’d swum just to get home for the night. Still think about that moment sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Phillip Island and Penguin Parade

• Visit Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Park
• Stop at Woolamia Beach
• Explore Cowes town and beach
• Walk Nobbies boardwalk and see seals
• Watch penguins at Summerland Beach

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Phillip Island from Melbourne?

The full-day tour lasts approximately 10-12 hours including travel time from Melbourne CBD.

Is pickup included for this Phillip Island penguin parade tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from central Melbourne hotels is included.

What animals can I see at Moonlit Sanctuary?

You can see kangaroos, koalas, wombats, Tasmanian devils, spot-tailed quolls, yellow-bellied gliders and more.

Do I need to bring warm clothing for the Penguin Parade?

Yes, evenings on Phillip Island can be cold and windy; a good jacket is recommended.

Are entry fees included in this day trip?

All entrance fees to Moonlit Sanctuary and Penguin Parade are included in your booking.

Can young children join this tour?

This tour is suitable for most fitness levels but infants under 3 years old cannot be accommodated.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options near some stops on Phillip Island.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable air-conditioned transport with pickup and drop-off in Melbourne CBD, entry tickets to Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park and general admission to the famous Penguin Parade—all arranged so you can focus on watching wildlife instead of logistics.