The Phillip Island Wine and Penguins Tour is a cracking day trip from Melbourne that blends regional wine tastings, delicious local cuisine, breathtaking coastal scenery, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. The highlight of the day is the magical moment when Little Penguins waddle ashore at sunset during the world-famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
This boutique Phillip Island day tour combines the very best of coastal beauty, gourmet experiences, and one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife spectacles.
Your adventure begins Melbourne-style with a complimentary barista-made coffee at the Melbourne Arts Centre. From there, you’ll travel to Phillip Island, stopping at charming seaside locations along the way. Enjoy a wine tasting and grazing platter at the Phillip Island Winery, followed by a delightful countryside lunch.
Later, explore the coastal town of Cowes or upgrade your experience with a visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve, where elevated boardwalks allow you to observe koalas in their natural habitat. As the day unfolds, you’ll visit The Nobbies, renowned for its dramatic coastal views and native wildlife.
The grand finale is the unforgettable Phillip Island Penguin Parade, where hundreds of Little Penguins emerge from the sea at sunset and waddle back to their burrows. With small group sizes, premium comfort, and a friendly social atmosphere, this tour delivers an exceptional Phillip Island experience.
Right, Let’s Get Started – Melbourne
Your adventure begins at the Melbourne Arts Centre, where you’ll enjoy a complimentary barista-made coffee before boarding a comfortable midi-coach. Meet your friendly guide and fellow travellers as you set off towards Phillip Island.
Passing Through San Remo
Your first stop is the charming seaside town of San Remo. Stretch your legs, soak in the ocean views, and keep an eye out for pelicans along the foreshore.
On occasion, this stop may be replaced with a visit to Caldermeade Farm Homestead and Animal Farm.
Phillip Island Winery – Time to Wine and Dine
Arrive at the Phillip Island Winery and indulge in a delightful culinary experience featuring:
If the winery kitchen is closed, lunch will be arranged at a scenic seaside restaurant in Cowes. Additional drinks are available for purchase.
Optional – Koala Conservation Reserve
Enhance your experience with an optional visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve. Wander along elevated boardwalks and observe koalas and other native wildlife in their natural bushland habitat.
Guests who do not select this upgrade will enjoy additional free time in Cowes.
Time to Explore Cowes
Discover the laid-back charm of Cowes, Phillip Island’s main township. Stroll along the waterfront, browse boutique shops, or relax at a café while soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
Stop at one of Phillip Island’s beautiful golden sand beaches. Take a leisurely walk along the shore and breathe in the refreshing sea air.
Nobbies Golden Hour
Next, visit The Nobbies, one of the island’s most picturesque coastal reserves. Wander along the boardwalk and admire the dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views.
During golden hour, enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine while spotting wildlife and taking in the spectacular scenery of Bass Strait.
Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Arrive at the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre with time to explore the exhibits or grab a snack before the main event.
As sunset approaches, watch in awe as hundreds of Little Penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle across the sand to their burrows. Rangers provide fascinating commentary throughout this unforgettable wildlife experience.
After the parade, stroll along the boardwalk for the chance to see penguins up close as they return home.
Return to Melbourne
Relax on the comfortable journey back to Melbourne. You’ll be dropped off at the Melbourne Arts Centre, with optional hotel drop-offs available at selected CBD locations.
We cater to a variety of dietary needs. Our gourmet lunch and grazing platters can accommodate most preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Please advise your requirements at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements.
General Viewing access to witness the famous sunset arrival of the Little Penguins.
A local winery experience including a cellar door wine tasting.
A high-quality meal plus a selection of snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day.
A magical coastal visit at sunset accompanied by a glass of bubbly.
Leisurely exploration of the charming seaside village.
Travel with guaranteed window seating, onboard WiFi, USB charging, and extra legroom.
A fresh coffee to get your day started right.
Get a front-row seat to the main event with a more exclusive viewing platform.
Access elevated boardwalks for a bird’s-eye view of koalas in their natural habitat.
Money for additional drinks, souvenirs, or snacks.
Strongly recommended for all participants.
The tour takes up around 10 – 12 hours of your day, but don’t worry, that’s going to fly by with the sunset times and seasonal conditions we’ve got to factor in.
The Penguin Parade is just a natural spectacle. Little Penguins coming back to their burrows at sunset on Phillip Island after a long day out in the ocean.
Yes, you will. Guests get the option to upgrade and check out the Koala Conservation Reserve, where it’s pretty much guaranteed you’ll spot some koalas living in their natural habitat.
You bet. We sort out a guided wine tasting and a platter to graze on at Phillip Island Winery, all part of the tour deal.
Definitely. We keep our groups nice and small, and the vibe is pretty relaxed, so if you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or even just a small group of friends, then this tour is perfect for you.
