Melbourne Combo: Great Ocean Road Day Trip and Phillip Island Day Trip from Melbourne

Planning to see the best of Victoria in just a couple of days? This Melbourne combo tour offers an efficient way to tick off two of the most iconic experiences: the breathtaking Great Ocean Road and the famous Phillip Island penguin parade. With reviews consistently praising the guides, scenery, and value, it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking authentic, well-organized adventures close to Melbourne.

Our review covers what makes this tour stand out, potential considerations, and detailed insights to help you decide if this experience matches your travel style. From stunning coastal vistas to native wildlife encounters, this two-day package aims to maximize your time and give you a genuine taste of Victoria’s natural beauty.

While the tour offers excellent value, keep in mind that it involves lengthy travel days and a group size capped at 11 travelers, which may not suit everyone. It’s perfect if you want a guided, small-group experience with lots of scenic stops and wildlife spotting—ideal for those who prefer comfort, expert narration, and an itinerary that covers a lot in a short time.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Expert guides, like Sebastian and Fred, are frequently highlighted for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Stunning scenery at the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Nobbies Centre offers fantastic photo opportunities.
• Wildlife encounters—including koalas, kangaroos, and penguins—are well-integrated into the itinerary.
• Good value for money given the inclusion of major park fees, wildlife parks, and the penguin parade.
• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off make logistics stress-free.

Exploring the Great Ocean Road: An Up-Close Look

The first day of the tour focuses on the world-famous Great Ocean Road, known for its rugged coastline and dramatic rock formations. Starting from Melbourne, the journey begins by picking you up from your hotel, setting the tone for a relaxed yet adventurous day.

The Journey and Stops

The drive covers significant ground, but it’s the stops that make the experience memorable. The schedule includes:

• Lorne: A quick 20-minute stop at this charming seaside town allows for a stretch and a glimpse of local life. The review mentions many stops along the route, making it easy to dip into various scenic spots without feeling rushed.
• Kennett River: Here, you get a chance to spot koalas in the wild, an experience that many travelers find magical. The review from Ron_K highlights the interest in wildlife during this part, with lots of opportunities to see koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat—just look for the “hiding spots” the guide points out.
• Apollo Bay: About an hour here means you can grab lunch from numerous local eateries, though food isn’t included. This flexibility lets you choose exactly what suits your taste and budget.
• Melba Gully National Park: A 30-minute walk through this ancient rainforest offers a cooler, lush environment and a chance to connect with nature.
• Twelve Apostles: The star attraction—this iconic formation is best viewed from the lookouts, with ample time (around 30 minutes) for photos and awe. The view of these limestone stacks is often described as breathtaking, and the stop is praised for its accessibility and scenery.
• Loch Ard Gorge: Concluding the day’s sightseeing, this spot offers stories of shipwrecks and dramatic cliffs. The review mentions the educational aspect here, making the stop both scenic and insightful.

What We Love

The variety of stops keeps the day engaging, from wildlife sightings to scenic overlooks. The guides’ local knowledge enriches the experience, turning quick stops into memorable moments. The 30-minute lookouts at the Twelve Apostles are perfect for capturing photos without feeling rushed, and the walk in Melba Gully adds a peaceful touch.

Practical Tips

Warm weather and unpredictable weather mean bringing waterproof clothes is wise, especially for the coastal and rainforest stops. The tour covers a lot of ground, so comfortable shoes and layers are recommended.

Phillip Island: Wildlife and Penguins

The second day shifts gears to wildlife and the famous Penguin Parade. The tour picks you up from your Melbourne hotel (included in the package) and involves a full day of encounters, capped off by the adorable penguins waddling back to their burrows at dusk.

The Highlights

• Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park: A one-hour visit here allows for close encounters with Australia’s unique animals, from kangaroos and koalas to wallabies. The review from Brian Lynch emphasizes the quality of guides and their friendly, informative approach, which adds a lot to wildlife encounters.
• The Nobbies Centre: Offering spectacular views, this spot provides a chance to see the rugged coastline and look out for seabirds. It’s a quick stop (about 25 minutes), but the scenery is impressive enough to warrant a pause.
• Penguin Parade: The main event, where you’ll see the arrival of the little penguins at dusk. The 1.5-hour window for watching the penguins return to their burrows is well-paced, with multiple viewing options available. The review notes that the parade is “regularly included,” meaning you get a classic wildlife experience that’s both charming and photogenic.

What We Like

This day combines wildlife conservation (Moonlit Sanctuary) with stunning scenery and the penguin spectacle, offering a well-rounded experience. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge shine again, turning what could be a simple penguin sighting into a memorable highlight. Even during busy times, the tour’s structure minimizes waiting and maximizes your viewing time.

Practical Tips

Since the penguin parade occurs at dusk, bring layers and maybe a small flashlight for walking back through the dark. The timing is flexible enough to match sunset, but check the schedule to coordinate with your sunset viewing expectations.

What Does the Tour Include and Exclude?

This combo tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of major park fees, the Moonlit Sanctuary, and the Penguin Parade tickets. The professional guides are a highlight, delivering engaging commentary and local insights.

Included:

• National park fees for both days
• Guide service (notably praised for their friendliness and knowledge)
• Pickup and drop-off at selected Melbourne hotels
• Penguin Parade tickets (regular viewing)

Not included:

• Food and drinks—so planning your own meals during the day is essential. Lunch isn’t included, but the stops at Apollo Bay and other towns offer plenty of options.
• Accommodation—this is a day trip package, so you’ll need to arrange your own overnight stays if extending your visit.

Transport and Logistics

The tour makes travel easier by handling transportation, with a small group setting capped at 11 travelers. This small group size ensures a more relaxed, personable experience. The pickups are from centrally located Melbourne hotels, which is convenient and saves you the hassle of navigating public transport.

Given the lengthy days involved—around 2 days of approximately 12-14 hours total—the comfort of the coach and the expertise of guides become even more valuable. The drivers are experienced, and the itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing with minimal downtime.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This all-in-one package suits travelers looking for convenience and depth. It’s especially ideal if you want a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides who can tell stories and answer questions along the way. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to see iconic Australian scenery will find this tour rewarding.

However, be prepared for long travel days, and consider your stamina if you’re not used to extended coach trips. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or are traveling with very young children, some adjustments might be needed.

The Sum Up

This two-day Melbourne combo tour offers a solid, value-packed way to experience Victoria’s highlights. The combination of scenic coastal views, wildlife encounters, and the adorable penguins makes it a well-rounded adventure. The small group size, expert guides, and inclusive tickets mean you’ll enjoy a more personal, hassle-free experience.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress of planning or driving themselves. The itinerary balances natural beauty with educational stops, ensuring you come away with meaningful memories rather than just snapshots.

While it is a busy schedule, the effort pays off with authentic encounters and stunning scenery. If you’re in Melbourne and eager to explore beyond the city, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at selected Melbourne hotels are included for both days, making logistics easier.

Are park fees included?
All national park fees are covered, including entry to Moonlit Sanctuary and the Penguin Parade tickets.

How long are the days?
Expect approximately 12-14 hours across the two days, with long travel times but plenty of scenic and wildlife stops en route.

Can I do both tours within a week?
Yes, but you must take the Phillip Island tour within 7 days of the Great Ocean Road trip, and you’ll need to contact the tour operator directly to book the second day.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof and warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and your camera. Lunch is not included, so plan for your own meal at stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. It’s ideal for families with an interest in wildlife and scenic landscapes.

What makes the guides stand out?
Reviewers praise guides like Sebastian and Fred for their friendliness, professionalism, and wealth of local knowledge, which significantly enhances the experience.

This Melbourne combo tour presents a fantastic opportunity to experience Victoria’s natural splendor, wildlife, and iconic landmarks—all in a well-organized, enjoyable package.