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

Exploring the Melbourne Combo: Great Ocean Road & Phillip Island in Two Days

Planning to see some of Victoria’s most spectacular sights without the hassle of organising multiple trips? This Melbourne combo tour offers a streamlined way to experience the famous Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island’s wildlife magic over two days. Designed for those who want a mix of stunning landscapes and unique Aussie animals, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a well-organized adventure with small-group intimacy.

What really caught our attention are the small group sizes—up to 11 people—which can make the journey more comfortable and less rushed, plus the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Also, the package includes visits to the most picturesque spots on the coast and the iconic Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, giving you a solid taste of Victoria’s highlights.

However, a possible consideration is that accommodation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your stay if you’re coming from afar. Also, this is a two-day experience—meaning if you’re on a tight schedule, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

This tour’s best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and small-group tours. It’s particularly good for those who want to cover a lot of ground without the stress of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• Two iconic day trips combined for convenience and value
• Small group size enhances comfort and interaction
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for ease of travel
• Highlights include wildlife spotting, breathtaking scenery, and the Penguin Parade
• Not including accommodation means you should book your stay separately
• Great for travelers wanting a comprehensive Victoria experience

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This two-day package is crafted to maximize your time while keeping the experience relaxed and enjoyable. The first day focuses on the Great Ocean Road, a stretch renowned for its dramatic coastlines, towering cliffs, and rugged beauty. The second day is dedicated to Phillip Island, where you’ll meet native animals and witness the famous penguin parade.

Let’s break down each day to see what’s involved and what makes each stop worth your time.

Day 1: The Great Ocean Road Adventure

Starting from Melbourne

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup, making the early start less stressful. The drive takes you along the spectacular coastline, with frequent stops for photo ops and exploration.

Stops Along the Way

• Lorne: This charming town offers a quick peek into coastal life. Here you can stretch your legs and take in the fresh sea air. The many little lookouts provide great photo opportunities, and the stop is typically about 20 minutes, so it’s enough to get a sense of the town without losing momentum.

• Kennett River: If you’re a wildlife fan, this is a highlight. As you stroll through the bush, you might spot koalas in the wild, casually dozing in the trees—an experience many travelers find special. The stop here lasts around 20 minutes, so don’t expect a wildlife safari, but it’s a nice chance to see these iconic animals up close.

• Apollo Bay: This coastal town is perfect for a lunch break (lunch is on your own). With several cafes and eateries, you’ll have options to fuel up before heading back to the coast. Expect about an hour here—enough time for a quick bite or a stroll along the beach.

• Melba Gully National Park: A walk through this ancient rainforest is often described as calming and enchanting. The 30-minute walk offers a chance to see lush plant life and hear the sounds of nature—an underrated part of the day.

• The Twelve Apostles: No trip along the Great Ocean Road is complete without seeing these famous limestone stacks. From the lookouts, you’ll get a panoramic view that’s perfect for photos. Allocate around 30 minutes to appreciate the view without feeling rushed.

• Loch Ard Gorge: The stories of shipwrecks here add a layer of history to the natural beauty. A quick 30-minute stop lets you walk along the gorge and learn about its fascinating past.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer mentions, “Long day but interesting and quite varied in scenery and experiences,” highlighting the diversity of stops. The journey is about covering lots of ground, but that’s part of the charm if you’re eager to see many highlights in a limited time.

Day 2: Wildlife & Penguins on Phillip Island

Wildlife at Moonlit Sanctuary

Your second day begins with a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park. Spending around an hour with Australia’s native animals—like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats—is often a highlight. Reviewers praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, making the experience even more rewarding. The park’s admission is included, so you get to enjoy the wildlife without extra costs.

The Nobbies Centre

Next, enjoy breathtaking views at the Nobbies, where you can see cliffs, seal colonies, and expansive ocean vistas. It’s a quick 25-minute stop, but the scenery is impressive enough to make it feel worth the visit.

Penguin Parade

The piece de resistance is the Penguin Parade. As dusk falls, hundreds of tiny penguins emerge from the water and waddle into their burrows. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours here—enough to witness the parade and soak in the ambience. Since the tour includes a regular viewing ticket, it’s a fantastic way to see these adorable creatures without the need for additional booking.

Additional Spots (Time Permitting)

Depending on the day, there might be time to stop at Woolamai Surf Beach, which offers spectacular waves and an authentic beach experience. The tour description notes this as a possibility if time allows.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer notes that guides were especially friendly and informative, making the wildlife and natural scenery more engaging. The Penguin Parade at dusk is depicted as a magical experience, with many describing it as a highlight of the trip.

Understanding the Logistics

Transportation & Group Size

Travel is in a small group of no more than 11 travelers, which enhances comfort and gives a more personalized feel. You’ll be picked up and dropped off at your Melbourne hotel, saving you from the hassle of navigating public transport or arranging transfers.

Duration & Pacing

Each day is approximately a full day, with the first day covering around 8-10 hours on the road and at stops, and the second day about the same. The pace is steady but flexible, allowing you to take your time at each stop.

Pricing & Value

At around $316 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions—guide services, park fees, and the Penguin Parade tickets. Keep in mind, food and accommodation are not included, so plan for meals and overnight stays separately.

Practical Tips

• Weather: The tour recommends warm and waterproof clothes for the Great Ocean Road day, given the coastal conditions.
• Booking: You need to schedule the Phillip Island tour within 7 days of your Great Ocean Road trip, which requires a bit of planning.
• Children: While not specifically targeted at families, children are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

The tour has received an impressive 5-star overall rating from 31 reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One reviewer simply exclaimed, “Both guides over the 2 days were amazing and showed everyone a great time,” emphasizing the importance of good guides in making the experience memorable.

On the flip side, some mention organizational hiccups regarding scheduling, but these seem to be more about third-party confirmation issues rather than the tour itself. The operator appears responsive, and most find the overall experience to be worthwhile and enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo trip is ideal for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress of planning each detail themselves. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with long days on the road and want to experience Victoria’s natural beauty and wildlife in a relaxed, small-group setting.

It suits adventurous travelers, budding photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts, especially those keen on iconic sights like the Twelve Apostles and Penguin Parade. If you prefer a guided experience that covers a lot of ground but still feels intimate, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, your transport is included, with pick-up and drop-off at your Melbourne hotel, making the trip smooth and convenient.

Do I need to pay for park entrances?
All national park fees are included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs at the stops like the Twelve Apostles or Loch Ard Gorge.

Can I do this tour with children?
Children can participate if accompanied by an adult. The tour is practical for families, especially those interested in wildlife and scenic views.

How long is each tour day?
Each day runs roughly 8-10 hours, including stops, sightseeing, and travel time.

Do I need to book the Phillip Island tour separately?
Yes. You must book the Phillip Island tour within 7 days of your Great Ocean Road trip by contacting the operator directly; it’s a two-part experience.

What should I bring?
Warm and waterproof clothes are recommended for the Great Ocean Road day. Bring your camera, snacks, and perhaps a jacket for the Penguin Parade.

Is accommodation included?
No, accommodation is not part of the package, so you’ll need to book your stay separately.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne combo tour offers a practical, well-rounded way to explore some of Victoria’s best sights over two days with a small, friendly group. You’ll get spectacular views of the coastline, encounter native wildlife, and enjoy the unforgettable Penguin Parade.

While it’s not a luxury experience, it’s value-packed and thoughtfully organized, making it a good choice for travelers who want active, scenic days and don’t mind the long hours on the road. If you’re eager to tick off the iconic landmarks of Victoria, this tour is a solid, reliable option that balances adventure and comfort.

For those who want to see the highlights of the coast and wildlife without the hassle of arranging each detail, this two-day package hits the right notes—especially with guides who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.