Amazing Day Out on Phillip Island: Penguin Parade, Winery Feast, and Scenic Views
If you’re planning a trip to Phillip Island, this tour promises a well-rounded experience that combines nature, good food, and iconic wildlife. It’s a full-day adventure that takes you from vineyards and beaches to the world-famous Penguin Parade—perfect for those who want a taste of everything in one smooth package.
What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the local guide’s knowledge makes all the difference, providing insights and stories that bring each stop alive. The quality of the winery experience is beyond just tasting wine; it’s about sitting down to a delicious shared platter amidst beautiful vineyard views. And then there’s the Penguin Parade itself, which is truly a highlight, with the chance to get close to the tiny, charming penguins as they waddle ashore at sunset.
However, a potential consideration is the duration—at around six hours, it’s a fairly packed schedule that might feel a bit rushed if you prefer more leisurely days. Still, for many travelers, the value packed into this single day makes it a worthwhile choice.
This tour is ideal for those who want a diverse, well-organized experience that balances scenic views, wildlife, and local delights, all with the convenience of pickup from their accommodation.
Key Points
- All-Inclusive Feel: The tour covers multiple highlights—wine tasting, beaches, wildlife, and the Penguin Parade—making it a comprehensive day out.
- Expert Guide: The knowledgeable local guide adds value, sharing interesting facts and tips, which our reviews rave about.
- Convenience: Pickup and return from your accommodation on Phillip Island make organizing your day easy.
- Value for Money: With a full itinerary, including wine tasting, meals, and entry tickets, the price of around $112 is quite reasonable.
- Authentic Experiences: Smaller group sizes and personalized attention are noted benefits, creating a more intimate experience.
- Time Management: The tour’s schedule is tightly planned, so punctuality helps maximize each stop.
Looking for more options in Phillip Island? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
Start at Phillip Island Winery
The day kicks off at the Phillip Island Winery, a favorite among visitors for its rustic charm and impressive wine selection. We loved the way the guide explained regional differences in wine, making tastings more engaging. You’ll sample a variety of wines sourced from Gippsland, an area celebrated for its quality vintages.
The tasting experience is complemented by a shared grazing platter featuring wood-fired pizzas, antipasto, salads, and hot chips—a hearty and satisfying lunch. Reviewers mention this as a highlight, especially noting the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to buy more wine or local beers afterward. This stop offers about an hour and a half to enjoy the wines and the scenery, making it a relaxed yet flavorful start to the day.
Free Time in Cowes
Next is Cowes, the bustling hub of Phillip Island. Here, you’re given about 30 minutes to wander independently. Whether you want to pop into a local bakery, browse boutique shops, or just take in the waterfront views from the jetty, this free time is your chance to soak up the local vibe.
Reviewers consistently mention the guide’s tips on notable spots, which helps you make the most of this brief stop. A few have enjoyed a quick drink at a waterfront pub, while others have taken a stroll along the beach—an excellent way to stretch your legs after the winery.
Flynns Beach for a Beachside Break
A quick ten-minute stop at Flynns Beach offers a taste of Phillip Island’s renowned coastline. With soft sands and clear waters, it’s perfect for a short walk or a photo stop. Fans of the area, including a well-known actor’s fondness for the beach, appreciate this peaceful spot. It’s a good chance to breathe in the sea air and enjoy some downtime before heading to the penguins.
The Penguin Parade Experience
The heart of the tour is the Phillip Island Penguin Parade, a true spectacle. Arriving early allows time to explore the visitor center—grab a snack or just browse before heading out to the viewing platform. The guided commentary provides fascinating facts about the little penguins, enhancing the experience.
As the sun sets, thousands of tiny penguins emerge from the water and march up the beach to their burrows. Reviewers highlight how close and intimate this experience feels, often mentioning that they were just inches away from the penguins along the boardwalk. It’s a crowd favorite, with many calling it “the best part of the tour” and describing it as “absolutely magical.”
The Nobbies Centre and Scenic Wildlife Walk
Just as the penguins settle in, the tour takes you to The Nobbies Centre at golden hour. Here, the views of rugged rocks and churning waters are breathtaking, especially with a glass of sparkling wine in hand—perfect for photo ops. The walk along the boardwalk offers glimpses of native wildlife and dramatic coastal scenery.
Later, the journey continues along back roads with wide views over Westernport Bay and Bass Strait. This stretch is appreciated for its peaceful ambiance and chances to spot more wildlife, according to reviews. The hour at Nobbies is just enough to soak in the views without feeling rushed.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
The $111.79 per person price might seem modest considering all it includes. You get:
- Entry to the Penguin Parade with window seats and WiFi, ensuring comfort and a great view.
- Wine tasting and a grazing platter at the Phillip Island Winery, offering local flavors and a relaxed environment.
- A gourmet winery lunch with options like wood-fired pizza and antipasto.
- Visit to scenic spots such as Flynns Beach and Nobbies Centre, with stunning vistas and wildlife encounters.
- Pickup and return from your accommodation, saving you planning hassle.
The reviews affirm the value, with many praising the guide for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer highlighted that the experience was “so much cheaper and more value than booking with the cruise line,” emphasizing how well-organized and comprehensive it is.
Small Group Experience
With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. Guests report that guides like Ray keep things engaging with stories and local insights, enhancing the overall experience. The small group size also means less waiting and a more personal touch, which many find makes the day more memorable.
Flexibility and Pacing
While the schedule is packed, it’s designed to give enough time at each stop to appreciate the scenery and take photos. Reviewers mention being able to enjoy the moments without feeling rushed, especially at the winery and Nobbies.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, food and wine enthusiasts, and travelers looking to see the best of Phillip Island in a single day without the hassle of multiple bookings. If you prefer a guided, all-in-one day with scenic stops, this tour ticks the boxes.
It’s also great for those who value small group interactions and want to avoid large, impersonal tour buses. If you’re after a balanced mix of relaxation, discovery, and iconic sights, this tour offers a good package.
Final Thoughts
This Phillip Island tour balances nature, wildlife, and local cuisine beautifully, making it an excellent choice for a first-time visitor or someone wanting a condensed, efficient experience. The inclusion of wine tasting, scenic beaches, and the world-famous Penguin Parade ensures a diverse day out that captures the essence of Phillip Island.
The guides, particularly Ray, get high praise for their friendliness and knowledge, adding to the personalized feel. With the ease of pickup and return, you can relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.
While the schedule is busy, many reviewers find it’s all about quality over quantity—each stop is meaningful, and the overall experience offers fantastic value for the price. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a well-rounded day packed with memorable moments.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and return from your accommodation on Phillip Island are included, making it very convenient.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately six hours, from pickup to drop-off.
Can I visit the Penguin Parade alone?
While you can buy tickets directly, this tour offers a guided experience with prime seating, providing more context and comfort.
What does the winery experience involve?
You’ll enjoy a wine tasting of Gippsland region wines, followed by a shared grazing platter with wood-fired pizza, antipasto, salads, and hot chips.
Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, each stop offers a window for exploration—like the 30 minutes in Cowes and 10 minutes at Flynns Beach—giving you some flexibility.
Are children allowed on this tour?
The minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s designed for adults, but families with older children might find it suitable if they’re interested in wildlife and scenery.
In essence, this tour offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and tasty local fare—all wrapped in a well-organized day that caters to diverse interests. It’s a fantastic way to experience the best of Phillip Island without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.