Phillip Island tours

Things to do in Phillip Island

The salty breeze of Phillip Island plays with your hair as the sun sets, painting the sky orange and pink. Known for its rugged coastlines and wildlife, this island has its own rhythm. With your guide, tours on Phillip Island become more than sightseeing—they’re an experience. Walk along hidden paths, possibly spotting little penguins heading home. A food and wine tour offers local delicacies and award-winning wines. Private tours on Phillip Island let you discover the island’s essence, feeling more like a visiting friend than a traveller. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Phillip Island. Explore Phillip Island your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Phillip Island tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Phillip Island for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Watch the Penguin Parade from reserved seating with ranger commentary, stroll the elevated boardwalks at the Koala Conservation Reserve, and join a Seal Rocks cruise from Cowes to see Australia’s largest fur-seal colony. Your guide can also time a short Cape Woolamai walk for shearwater sightings and add birding at Rhyll Inlet. Day trip tours: Make it a Melbourne day trip with a stop in San Remo to catch the midday pelican feeding, visit Maru Koala & Animal Park, wander the Nobbies Centre boardwalks, then settle in at sunset for the penguins. If you like a sweet break, your guide can weave in Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate before the evening show. Phillip Island’s sights are spread out and local buses are limited, so walking between major attractions isn’t practical; you can book chauffeured tours or ask your local guide about private transportation for a smooth day. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Phillip Island inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Consider taking a private walking tour to dive into the essence of Sydney and explore some vibrant neighbourhoods that would be perfect for your itinerary with a local guide. There's truly no better way to understand the heartbeat of a community than having someone who knows it inside and out by your side. The Rocks: Discover Sydney's oldest neighbourhood, filled with cobbled streets and historic buildings. Perfect for history buffs and cultural tourists eager to learn about Sydney's past. Surry Hills: Known for its trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutique shopping. Ideal for those who love artsy vibes and enjoy exploring urban culture. Darling Harbour: A lively waterfront area with plenty of familyfriendly activities and dining options. Great for families and groups looking for entertainment and relaxation by the water. Newtown: Experience a bohemian atmosphere with street art and diverse eateries. Perfect for those seeking meaningful connections through food and culture. Bondi Beach: Famous for its stunning beach and laidback lifestyle. Ideal for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities and wants to experience Sydney's iconic beach culture. Day trip ideas from Phillip Island Use your time on Phillip Island to branch out to nearby coasts, parks, and wine country so you see more of Victoria on easy day trips and flexible tours. Wilsons Promontory National Park: Hike to lookouts like Mount Oberon, stroll Squeaky Beach, and watch for wombats at dusk. If you like big views and quiet trails, this huge park delivers a full day outside with short walks or longer hikes that match your pace. Mornington Peninsula: Mix clifftop walks at Cape Schanck with cellar doors, farm gates, and sea air in Sorrento and Portsea. If food, cool-climate wine, and coastal scenery are your thing, your tour can balance tastings with time on the water’s edge. French Island National Park: Ride the ferry to an off‑grid island known for wild koalas, saltmarsh, and birdlife. It’s a good pick for 4WD tracks and easy nature walks, and the slower pace suits photographers and anyone who likes space to explore. Inverloch and the Bunurong Coast: Follow a scenic shoreline to rock pools, fossil sites, and calm beaches. Families and geology fans like the short walks and tide zones, while surfers and snorkellers find simple spots to get in the water. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Phillip Island most travellers miss.