Things To Do in Phillip Island
Our Must-Do Phillip Island Tours
We are proud to be offering two Phillip Island tours departing daily out of Melbourne, as well as being the only operator to offer in-region pickups from Phillip Island hotels and accommodations – allowing people to stay in-region and spend more time enjoying all that Phillip Island has to offer.
What to know about Phillip Island
We want to ensure you make the most out of your visit to Phillip Island – whether you are with us on one of our scheduled day tours, or guiding yourself around – the wonders of Phillip Island will leave a lasting impact on our visit to Melbourne and Australia.
Phillip Island (Millowl) – Nature, Wildlife & Coastal Charm Just Two Hours from Melbourne
Just two hours from Melbourne, Phillip Island (Millowl) is Victoria’s ultimate coastal escape—where rugged cliffs meet sweeping bays, and the world’s smallest penguins steal the show each evening. Known for its dramatic landscapes and iconic wildlife experiences, the island offers something for everyone: from the famous Penguin Parade and treetop boardwalks of the Koala Conservation Reserve, to seal-spotting at The Nobbies and beachcombing along remote coastal trails. Beyond nature, a thriving food, wine, and wellness scene is emerging—with boutique wineries, farm-to-table dining, and the rejuvenating Phillip Island Hot Springs offering visitors a taste of indulgence and relaxation amid the scenery.
When to Visit
Phillip Island is a year-round destination. Expect cooler winds during winter—pack a jacket! Autumn and spring bring ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and coastal walks. Summer offers sunny beach days, but popular spots can be busy.
Insider Tip
Don’t miss golden hour at The Nobbies—sea spray, wild waves, and glowing skies make it one of the most underrated moments on the island.
Top things to Do on Phillip Island
- Watch little penguins waddle ashore at sunset at the Penguin Parade
- Spot fur seals from the clifftops at The Nobbies and Seal Rocks
- Wander among sleepy marsupials at the Koala Conservation Reserve
- Visit the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit for motorsports thrills
- Unwind in Cowes, the island’s main township, with cafés and beach access
- Sample regional wines, chocolates, and local produce at boutique outlets – such as at the Phillip Island Winery
- Explore Churchill Island Heritage Farm for a step back in time
- Join a Golden Hour Tour to experience the island’s natural beauty with a friendly local guide
- Embark on a memorable Cruise with the team at Wildlife Coast Cruises; everything from sunset cruises to seal discovery cruises.
- Hop aboard the Phillip Island Explorer, the island’s own hop-on, hop-off bus to reach top attractions at your own pace
Getting to Phillip Island
From Melbourne: Approximately 2 hours by car
By Public Transport: V/Line coach options exist but are limited and indirect
Local Way Tours offers premium daily departures and return transport, making it easy to visit without a car.
Cultural & Environmental Notes
Traditional Owners: Phillip Island (Millowl) is the ancestral land of the Bunurong people, part of the Kulin Nation.
Landscape: A striking mix of surf beaches, sheltered bays, windswept headlands, and open farmland.
Climate: Temperate maritime climate influenced by Bass Strait—cool summers and mild winters.
Further Information
As a trusted partner of Destination Phillip Island, you can learn more about the region here.
Our Tours
Wine & Penguins Tour
Departs: Daily from Melbourne and Phillip Island
Experience Phillip Island like a local as you enjoy delicious food & wine, wildlife encounters, and spectacular sightseeing opportunities; all led by your engaging, local guide, and with the comfort of your Premium Seating ticket on board.
Visit a working farm cafe, with animal feeding. Explore the idyllic coastal township of Cowes with its golden sand beaches, or wander through the eucalypt trees of the Koala Conservation Reserve. Enjoy a sumptuous guided wine tasting and grazing platter at the Phillip Island Winey, before relaxing over a delicious gourmet grazing feast. At golden hour we will visit pristine beaches and wildlife boardwalks where Australian wildlife abounds, before entering the Penguin Parade where you’ll witness 1,000s of Penguins waddle up the beach at Sunset.
Tours starting from:
Tour Departing Melbourne:
$220pp
Wildlife Cruise & Penguins Tour
Departs: Daily from Melbourne and Phillip Island
Experience Phillip Island like a local as you enjoy a Wildlife Cruise around Phillip Island, time in the idyllic village of San Remo, and the chance to see Koalas in their natural habitat; finishing with the scenic Nobbies Boardwalk and famed Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
Start your day with a stop in San Remo, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the bridge and beaches and even have the chance to see some enormous Australian Pelicans, before embarking on an exciting Seal Cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises where you are guaranteed to see thousands of seals as they frolic in the tranquil waters. An optional visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve is available, or take your time exploring the seaside charm of Cowes, where you can enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the many eateries. In the afternoon, stroll along the Nobbies boardwalk, famous for its rugged beauty and abundance of wildlife. As evening falls, head to the iconic Penguin Parade, where you’ll witness the Little Penguins making their nightly return from the ocean. Travel in comfort with premium seating aboard our luxury midi-coach, with a small-group guarantee ensuring a more personal experience.
Tours starting from:
Tour Departing Melbourne:
$235pp
Our Phillip Island Tour from Phillip Island
With the ease of a pickup from your Accommodation on the Island, or from your Cruise Ship Departure Location – it’s never bee easier to enjoy yourself on Phillip Island, with a local guide at the helm!
Choose from TWO fantastic Phillip Island Tours –
For our Afternoon Tour, you will enjoy a sumptuous guided wine tasting and grazing platter at the Phillip Island Winey, before relaxing over a delicious gourmet grazing feast.
And at golden hour, which is included in both our afternoon and evening tours, we will visit pristine beaches and wildlife boardwalks where Australian wildlife abounds, before entering the Penguin Parade where you’ll witness 1,000s of Penguins waddle up the beach at Sunset.
Tours starting from:
Tour Departing Phillip Island:
$115pp