The Top 9 Phillip Island Tours

Phillip Island is a natural wonderland packed with wildlife encounters, dramatic coastlines, and unique Australian experiences. It’s the kind of place where you can watch thousands of seals at Seal Rocks, marvel at whale migrations, and see little penguins waddle ashore at sunset. These tours offer a variety of ways to explore, whether you’re after a scenic cruise, a wildlife selfie, or a day combining food, wine, and fauna. We especially love the whale watching cruises that put you right on the water with a good chance of spotting humpbacks, and the Penguin Parade — a true highlight that makes everyone smile.

For traveling with kids, the Churchill Island Farm tour combines heritage charm with animal interactions, while the self-guided driving tours let you set your own pace. No matter your interest or pace, there’s an experience here that will deepen your appreciation of this rugged, wildlife-rich island.

Quick Overview

Phillip Island offers a broad spectrum of tours, from marine wildlife cruises like the Phillip Island Whale Watching Tour to land-based adventures such as the Penguin Parade and Churchill Island Farm Bus Tour. There are luxury wine and wildlife combos, self-guided driving options with apps, and full-day escapes combining Melbourne and Phillip Island. Below, we break down each to help you choose the perfect experience.

1. Phillip Island Whale Watching Tour

At number 1, the Phillip Island Whale Watching Tour ranks highest for its consistently outstanding reviews and the chance to see humpback whales during their migration. This 4-hour trip takes you on a sleek vessel around Seal Rocks and Cape Woolamai, with the captain providing lively commentary about marine and bird life. You’ll also see playful dolphins and thousands of seals basking at Seal Rocks. The boat is modern, and reviews praise the crew’s friendly, attentive service — “The crew were very friendly and up for a chat,” says one.

This tour is perfect for those seeking close-up marine wildlife without the hassle of organizing logistics. The highlights include seals, dolphins, seabirds, and the awe-inspiring sight of whales breaching during migration season. The moderate price of $125.52 per person offers excellent value, considering the quality of the experience and the chance to witness such majestic creatures.

Bottom Line: If your goal is to see whales and seals up close while enjoying a smooth cruise, this tour is hard to beat. Be sure to check seasonal whale migration peaks for the best chance of sightings.

2. From Phillip Island: Wine and Wildlife Tour with Penguin Parade

At number 2, the Wine and Wildlife Tour with Penguin Parade combines gourmet food, award-winning wines, and wildlife encounters in a single 6-hour trip. It begins at Phillip Island Winery, where guided tastings of six premium regional wines are paired with a grazing platter. Then, explore the dramatic Nobbies coastline on scenic boardwalks, searching for wallabies, seabirds, and Australian fur seals.

A highlight is the Gourmet pizza dinner served before heading to the iconic Penguin Parade. The tour’s reviews sing praises, with visitors saying, “The winery was the best we’ve been to,” and “The sightseeing was fantastic.” This tour’s great value at around $122 per person includes wine tastings, a meal, and prime penguin viewing.

Who it’s for: Perfect if you love food and wine along with wildlife; a relaxed, all-in-one experience. The moderate 6-hour timeframe suits those wanting a full but manageable day.

Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers wanting a luxury food and wildlife combo that includes the world-famous penguin parade in a laid-back, well-organized package.

3. Phillip Island: Whale Watching Boat Tour

This Phillip Island Whale Watching Boat Tour offers a scenic 4-hour cruise around the island’s waters, focusing on marine life like whales, seals, and seabirds. It’s similar to the top-ranked cruise but with a slightly different route and emphasis on morning tea and seal colonies. The boat’s comfortable, and the reviews highlight how guests often see whales, seals, and dolphins in one trip, making it a comprehensive marine experience.

The tour’s value lies in its intimate boat setting and the chance to see large colonies of seals at Seal Rocks. It’s well-suited for marine wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a relaxing, scenic cruise. The 4-hour duration gives enough time for good sightings without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a marine wildlife cruise that emphasizes seal colonies, with the possibility of whale sightings during migration season.

4. Phillip Island: Golden Hour Penguin Express Tour w/ Island Pickup

Number 4 on our list, the Golden Hour Penguin Express Tour is designed for easy, hassle-free penguin viewing with included pickup and drop-off. This 5-hour tour at $93.24 per person takes you to The Nobbies for scenic coastal views and into the Penguin Parade just in time for sunset, when the little penguins emerge.

The tour’s strength is the organized logistics — no need to plan or worry about tickets. It’s perfect for travelers who want to relax and focus on the experience, especially if they have limited time. Guests mention the guide’s knowledge and the comfort of early entry seats. The tour also offers opportunities to see wallabies, echidnas, and more wildlife along the way.

Who it’s for: Those seeking a convenient, guided penguin experience without fuss, ideal if you prefer small groups and expert logistics.

Bottom Line: A reliable, well-reviewed option for those wanting to see penguins at sunset with minimal planning.

5. Phillip Island Driving Tour with an APP

For travelers who prefer self-guided exploration, the Phillip Island Driving Tour with an APP provides a flexible way to visit key sights like Cape Woolamai, Koala Reserve, and Pyramid Rock. It’s a full 8-hour adventure, with a guide app that highlights local landmarks and hidden spots.

This tour is best suited for independent travelers comfortable with driving and navigation. It includes stops at Forrest Caves and Erehwon Beach, giving you control over your pace. While some reviews note the lack of a guide on-site, the app’s detailed info compensates well. Prices are very reasonable at $14.99 per group, making it a budget-friendly way to see the island.

Key advantages: Flexibility, affordability, and ability to customize your day. The main downside is the lack of guided commentary—you’ll be your own guide.

Bottom Line: Perfect for confident explorers who want to craft their own itinerary and visit multiple sites without a guided tour’s cost.

6. Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Churchill Island Farm Bus Tour

Number 6, the Penguin Parade and Churchill Island Farm Bus Tour is a full 11-hour experience with farming, wildlife, and penguins. It starts with a visit to Churchill Island, an active heritage farm where you can try milking a cow or shoo sheep. Afterward, you’ll explore the Nobbies, then settle in for the sunset penguin parade.

While it’s the longest tour on our list, reviews indicate it’s well-organized, with informative guides and a range of experiences. The sealed environment of Churchill Island appeals to families and history buffs, while the wildlife viewing at Nobbies adds a coastal adventure element.

Bottom line: Ideal if you want a comprehensive day that combines heritage, wildlife, and penguins in one package, perfect for curious travelers with extra time.

7. Phillip Island Self Guided Driving Tour with an APP

This Self-Guided Driving Tour with an APP offers flexibility to explore Cape Woolamai, Forrest Caves, and Koala Conservation at your own pace. For just $14.99, it’s a cost-effective way to see major highlights without a guide.

Ideal for confident drivers who want independence, the tour covers scenic spots and wildlife. It’s a good option if you prefer spontaneous stops or are traveling with kids or a group. Some reviews mention the app’s helpful narration, while others note the lack of on-site guidance.

Bottom line: Great for budget-conscious travelers who want to structure their own day with the flexibility of an app.

8. Melbourne Puffing Billy Train and Penguin Parade Day Tour Escape

Number 8, the Puffing Billy and Penguin Parade Tour blends Melbourne’s historic steam train with Phillip Island’s wildlife. This full-day trip, priced at around $121, includes a scenic ride through rainforests and hills and time at the Penguin Parade.

Guests praise the variety of scenery and the relaxed pace. The train ride offers a nostalgic journey, and the tour includes stops at beaches and wildlife parks. It’s perfect for travelers who want a bit of urban charm combined with natural beauty.

Bottom line: A compelling option for those who want a full day of diverse experiences — from historic railway to penguins — especially if you enjoy train rides and scenic travel.

9. Phillip Island: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Finally, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour allows you to visit up to 4 locations at your own pace, with 1.5-3 hour sessions. It’s an easy way to cover coastal sites, wildlife spots, and cultural attractions without stress.

This flexible option is perfect if you prefer independent sightseeing with local guidance. It’s less about guided commentary and more about DIY exploration. The main consideration is whether you want a structured tour or total autonomy.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want to customize their day and visit multiple locations without the commitment of a full guided tour.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting the best tour for your trip, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. If wildlife viewing is your top priority, the whale watching cruises or the Penguin Parade are top choices. For a more relaxed, gourmet experience, the Wine and Wildlife Tour offers a mix of food, wine, and wildlife. Budget travelers or those seeking flexibility might prefer the self-guided driving tours with an app.

Booking early is advisable, especially for whale watching and penguin viewing, as these are popular and can fill quickly. Consider the season — whale sightings are seasonal, and the Penguin Parade occurs year-round but is especially magical at sunset.

Final thoughts

Phillip Island offers a range of experiences — from maritime wildlife cruises to interactive farms and historic train journeys. If you’re into marine mammals, the whale watching cruise will impress you. For a family-friendly day, the Churchill Island Farm plus Penguin Parade combines education and fun. Budget-conscious travelers will find options like the self-guided driving tours, while those seeking a curated, luxurious experience should opt for the wine and wildlife adventure.

Whatever your style, the key to a memorable Phillip Island trip is planning ahead. Many tours sell out, especially during peak seasons. Take your pick, and enjoy every moment of this wildlife-rich Australian island.