Phillip Island, or Millowl as it’s been called for over 40,000 years, is one of those places that is a must-visit whilst in Melbourne. The ability to witness the Island’s natural beauty, to enjoy the flavours of the food and the wine, and to experience first hand the Island vibe that comes with this wildlife paradise is something that all travellers to Australia must do…and not just for the famed Phillip Island Penguin Parade either.
Tour Local is proud to be offering regular day tours down to Phillip Island, departing four days a week from Melbourne, and providing an immersive and in-depth experience to this humble corner of Australia. We pride ourselves on taking you “where the locals” go on our tours, enriching your experience through our local knowledge of the areas we visit, as well as providing that local touch – that only a true local can give.
So take a journey with us, and discover why Phillip Island with a Local is a must visit…

“This was the most amazing tour I’ve ever been on!! … best tour to see amazing wild life in Australia. This was the highlight of my trip in Australia!! Thank you again.” ~ Nat, April 2023

Our stop at Caldermeade Farm provides us our first taste (not literally) of animals on this tour.
Primarily a bit of a comfort stop, Caldermeade Farm is set up for visitors and the venue and the staff in it are very welcoming and warming.
Stretch your legs, grab a coffee, say hi to the little farm animals (baby goats, cows, deer, rabbits etc) – your time is yours here.
After about 30 minutes here, we are back on our bus and onwards to Phillip Island. 

Arriving at the Phillip Island Winery, we are instantly met by the beautiful vineyards, the historical heritage restaurant, and the rustic elegance of the cellar door – a true local hangout, and one that we feel we had to take our travellers to. 
It is here where we take part in a private wine tasting at “The Yards”, where we are taken on an epicurean journey through 6 amazing vintages, accompanied by a delicious hand-made grazing platter full of local cheeses, meats and chutneys.
After our tasting, you are encouraged to take you glass and take your seat at our table – where lunch will soon be served, looking out over the magnificent vista out to the bay.
Lunch consists of an array of wood-fired pizzas, delicious chips (fries), and gourmet salads – we guarantee you won’t leave here hungry.  

“Wonderful wine tasting and sumptuous lunch with our host Ray at Phillip Island winery. Such a beautiful setting, great service and impeccable food was served” ~ Lisa, Aug 2023

As you’d be getting the feel for by now – this tour is all about providing an in-depth, yet relaxed, experience of Phillip Island. With Cowes being the commercial hub of this idyllic coastal paradise, it would be a shame not to spend some time here, browsing through the boutique shops, enjoying a drink or two at the Cohiba Cocktail Bar or Ocean Reach Brewery, taking a stroll through the historic streetscape and long jetty, or even dusting off the old bathers and going for swim at the beautiful Cowes Beach. This is your time to relax, and spend an hour or two enjoying Cowes like a local would. 

“Our stop in Cowes was also charming as the walk by the water is stunning. We even came upon an echidna.” ~ Margaret, May 2023

We understand that shopping, drinking, strolling, and swimming may not be for everyone – which is why we have included the option to come with us to the Koala Reserve whilst the rest of the group is enjoying Cowes. 
At the Koala Reserve you are able to wander tree-top boardwalks to watch koalas up close in their natural habitat. Take a walk through the woodlands and enjoy the abundant birdlife, wallabies and echidnas. A true wildlife gem. 
The best thing about all of this, is that the Koala reserve is all about conservation and sustainability, meaning that when you are viewing the wildlife here, you are viewing them in their natural habitat. 

Arriving here, we suggest you take a stroll along the boardwalk, admiring the stunning coastline as you do so, and catching glimpses of Penguins in their burrow, seals out on their rocks, and a plethora of other bird and animal life. 
As you arrive back to the top lookout, your guide will greet you with your Golden Hour Sparkling Wine and Cheeses board; so that you can savour in the beautiful setting sun, whilst savouring the delicious taste of a local sparkling wine and other local delicacies. 

“The coastline views made for incredible pictures.” ~ Lisa, Jul 2023

The pièce de résistance, and the main reason many people come to visit Phillip Island. Although we believe there is so much more to the Island than just the Penguin Parade, not even we as locals could go past this nightly wonder that has captivated millions over the decades. As a local establishment itself, we love that all the money made here at the Penguin Parade goes back into conservation efforts, and ensuring the survival of the centre and the Penguin population. 
With over 30,000 Little (Fairy) Penguins calling the Island home, and with upwards of 1-2 thousand making their way onto Summerland beach each and every night – this is truly a spectacle to behold.
Enter through the world class visitor centre; take your seats at sunset and watch as raft after rafter of Little Penguins make their way onto the beach; and then meander back along the boardwalk as you walk along side the Penguins as they make their journey home.
Just wow!

“Penguins were adorable and did not disappoint.” ~ Lisa, Jul 2023