Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguins and Wildlife Sanctuary

Tucked away off the southern coast of Melbourne lies Phillip Island, a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors to this remarkable sanctuary can expect an unforgettable encounter with Australia’s iconic wildlife, culminating in the mesmerizing little penguin parade at dusk. From up-close interactions with native animals to a guided exploration of a family-run open-range reserve, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the island’s diverse ecosystems. And for those seeking a taste of local cuisine, a delectable lunch in the seaside town of San Remo provides the perfect complement to this immersive wildlife experience. What secrets does Phillip Island hold in store?

Key Points

• Immersive tour exploring Phillip Island’s natural wonders, culminating in the captivating little penguin parade at dusk.
• Guided experience including exploring the rugged Nobbies cliffs and accessing the standard viewing platform at the Penguin Parade.
• Fully-guided walk through a family-run open-range wildlife sanctuary with opportunities to observe native Australian wildlife.
• Locally-sourced lunch offered during April to October, featuring fresh regional ingredients and a chance to immerse in local culture.
• Comprehensive and educational experience providing detailed information about the behaviors and adaptations of the iconic little penguins.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers an immersive experience exploring Phillip Island’s natural wonders, culminating in the captivating little penguin parade at dusk.

Over 11 hours, guests will enjoy up-close encounters with native Australian wildlife at a family-run open-range sanctuary.

They’ll marvel at the world’s smallest penguins as they make their way up from the beach, all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned Mercedes Benz.

The comprehensive guided experience includes exploring the rugged Nobbies cliffs, accessing the standard viewing platform at the Penguin Parade, and enjoying snacks throughout the day.

Whether it’s the wildlife, the scenery, or the famous penguins, this tour provides an immersive, memorable look at Phillip Island’s natural beauty.

Inclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive package of amenities and access to ensure a seamless and immersive experience. Guests enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees including a guided walk through the wildlife sanctuary, and comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes Benz vehicle. Plus, the tour provides access to the standard viewing platform at the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade and includes snacks throughout the day.

Inclusions	Details
Transportation	Hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned Mercedes Benz vehicle
Experiences	Guided walk through wildlife sanctuary, access to Penguin Parade
Extras	All entrance fees, snacks

Highlights

Throughout the day, guests can marvel at the world’s smallest penguins as they make their way up from the beach at dusk, culminating the tour’s highlights.

The fully-guided walk through an open-range wildlife sanctuary allows visitors to get up-close with native Australian wildlife.

Comprehensive and informative guided experiences provide guests with an immersive overview of the region’s rugged cliff faces, Western Port Bay, and areas where the little penguin burrows lie.

Visitors can explore the Nobbies, which offer stunning vistas overlooking the Bass Strait, and learn about the ecology and behaviors of the iconic little penguins during the famous nightly parade.

Itinerary

A typical tour day begins with a stop for a locally-sourced lunch at the seaside town of San Remo, offered during the April to October period.

After lunch, the tour visits a family-run open-range wildlife sanctuary where guests can fully enjoy an up-close nature experience with native Australian wildlife.

Next, the tour explores the rugged cliff faces of the Nobbies, overlooking Western Port Bay and the Bass Strait.

The final stop is a tour through the areas where the little penguin burrows lie, culminating in witnessing the world-famous little penguin parade in the early evening as they make their way up from the beach.

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Locally-Sourced Lunch

The tour begins with a stop for a locally-sourced lunch at the seaside town of San Remo, offered during the April to October period.

Guests can enjoy a delightful meal made with fresh, regional ingredients as they take in the coastal charm of San Remo.

The lunch break provides a chance to relax, refuel, and soak up the scenic seaside atmosphere before continuing the wildlife adventure.

With its picturesque setting and tasty locally-inspired cuisine, the San Remo lunch stop is a highlight that allows participants to enjoy the local culture and cuisine of the Phillip Island region.

Open-Range Sanctuary

After the lunch stop, guests visit a family-run open-range wildlife sanctuary, where they can fully enjoy a guided walk through the natural habitats of native Australian animals. The sanctuary is home to a variety of species, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a range of bird life. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural environments, learning about their behaviors and adaptations. The tour guide provides detailed information about the sanctuary and its inhabitants, ensuring a comprehensive and educational experience.

Animal	Habitat	Behaviors
Kangaroo	Open grasslands	Hopping, grazing
Wallaby	Shrublands, forests	Feeding, resting
Kookaburra	Woodland, open forests	Perching, hunting

Rugged Cliff Faces

Next, the tour explores the rugged cliff faces of the Nobbies, which overlook the scenic Western Port Bay and the Bass Strait.

Towering above the churning waves, these dramatic rocky outcroppings provide breathtaking views and an opportunity to learn about the area’s unique geological features and local wildlife.

The Nobbies boast some of the most spectacular coastal landscapes in the region, with sheer rock walls, sea caves, and eroded formations carved by the relentless wind and waves.

Visitors can gaze out at the crashing surf and spot seabirds soaring overhead, gaining a deeper appreciation for the raw power of nature in this untamed corner of Victoria.

Important Information

Visitors to the Phillip Island Penguins and Wildlife Sanctuary tour must check in with a QR code and provide proof of double vaccination at the Penguin Parade.

Passport or ID and snacks are also recommended for the day-long excursion.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, a guided walk through the wildlife sanctuary, and access to the standard viewing platform at the Penguin Parade.

While the tour is comprehensive and informative, guests should come prepared with the necessary documentation and supplies to make the most of their experience.

Following these simple requirements ensures a seamless and enjoyable visit to this iconic Australian wildlife attraction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos of the Penguins During the Parade?

Yes, visitors can take photos of the penguins during the parade, but flash photography is not allowed as it can disturb the birds. Visitors should be respectful and follow any instructions from tour guides.

Is There an Age Limit or Restriction for This Tour?

There is no age limit or restriction for this tour, though the Penguin Parade may not be suitable for very young children. The tour is open to all ages, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Penguins?

The best time to see the penguins is during the evening in the warmer months from September to April when the little penguins emerge from the ocean to return to their burrows on the beach.

Can I Extend My Stay on Phillip Island After the Tour?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay on Phillip Island after the tour. Many accommodations and activities are available, allowing travelers to further explore the island’s natural attractions and wildlife at their own pace.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for Those With Disabilities?

The tour offers accessibility options for those with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible transport and viewing platforms. Visitors should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any special needs or accommodations required.

Recap

The Phillip Island Penguins and Wildlife Sanctuary tour offers a captivating exploration of the island’s natural wonders.

Visitors can expect up-close encounters with native Australian wildlife, a guided walk through an open-range sanctuary, and the iconic little penguin parade at dusk.

With a locally-sourced lunch and access to the viewing platform, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience on Phillip Island.

You can check if your dates are available here: