2 Days Melbourne-Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island Private Tour

Traveling through Australia’s southeastern coast is a bucket-list experience, and this 2-day private tour from Melbourne offers a well-rounded way to see two of its most iconic sights. Designed for small groups — between 4 and 14 travelers — this tour combines the rugged beauty of the Great Ocean Road with the charming wildlife spectacle on Phillip Island. It’s a smart choice if you want a guided, hassle-free adventure, without the crowds of larger tours.

What we love about this experience are the personalized touch of a private coach, allowing flexibility and intimacy, and the chance to see Australia’s wildlife in their natural settings. The inclusion of entry tickets, water bottles, and door-to-door pickup makes the experience straightforward and convenient. A potential drawback? The tour is pre-set: Day 1 is fixed on the Great Ocean Road and the Twelve Apostles, while Day 2 is dedicated to Phillip Island. If you’re hoping for more flexibility or to swap days, this might not be the right fit.

This tour suits travelers who crave a comprehensive, guided experience that covers the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their time, enjoy insider knowledge, and avoid the stress of navigating this popular region on their own.

Key Points

• Small group travel provides a more personal, flexible experience.
• All entry tickets are included, saving time and money.
• The itinerary covers Australia’s most iconic sights with thoughtful stops.
• Transportation in private, comfortable coaches enhances the journey.
• The tour is pre-set, with scheduled days for each destination.
• Good value for travelers who want a complete, guided experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Convenience of Private Transportation

Traveling in a private coach means you’re not just another face in a crowded bus. With only your group and a dedicated guide, you get a more relaxed, customized experience. Plus, the coach is equipped to handle all the logistics, so you won’t need to worry about parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. The comfortable transport ensures you can enjoy the scenery without fatigue.

Day 1: Exploring the Great Ocean Road

Start at the Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Your journey kicks off with a sweet stop at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery in Flinders. It’s an excellent way to indulge early, with free admission and plenty of handcrafted chocolates and ice cream to sample. It also sets a leisurely tone for the day, giving you a chance to enjoy some treats before heading into the natural wonders ahead.

Stops Along the Coast: Lorne and Lookouts

The drive includes several brief stops at charming towns like Lorne and scenic lookouts. These are perfect for stretching your legs, snapping photos, and soaking in the ocean views. The stops are brief—about 20 minutes each—but they allow you to appreciate the diverse coastal landscape of Victoria.

Koalas at Kennett River

The Kennett River Nature Walk is a highlight, renowned for the chance to spot koalas in the wild. The walk is around 20 minutes, and guides often point out wildlife, making this a memorable wildlife encounter. Many reviews mention how this stop offers a real sense of connection with Australia’s unique fauna.

Apollo Bay: Lunch and Local Flavor

The charming town of Apollo Bay is a popular lunch spot. The stop here lasts about an hour, allowing time for a sit-down meal, some shopping, or just strolling along the beach. The town’s location within the Great Otway National Park underscores its lush, rugged environment.

The Twelve Apostles: Nature’s Masterpiece

The Twelve Apostles are the jaw-dropping centerpiece of the day. These towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean are truly awe-inspiring. The tour dedicates about an hour to this site, leaving plenty of time for photos and enjoying the scenery. The views are often described as breathtaking, and many visitors say it’s worth arriving early or late to beat the crowds.

Loch Ard Gorge: A Dramatic Finish

Just a short drive from the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge offers a stunning beach framed by striking yellow limestone cliffs. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the natural power of the coast and the history of shipwrecks that have made this area famous.

Day 2: Discovering Phillip Island’s Wildlife & Scenic Spots

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Starting the second day with the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory gives a playful, tasty start to the day. It’s not just about chocolate; the experience is described as “an event like no other,” thanks to innovative treats and engaging displays. The factory also offers a bit of a breather after the previous day’s drive.

Churchill Island: Historic Charm and Open Spaces

A 30-minute visit to Churchill Island lets you breathe in the fresh air and walk through historic grounds and farms. It’s a calming stop that offers insights into local agriculture and history, with wide-open spaces perfect for wandering.

The Nobbies Centre: Coastal Nature

Located at Point Grant, the Nobbies Centre offers views of rugged coastlines and the opportunity to see seals and seabirds. The center is designed with eco-awareness in mind, and the scenery here is wild and dramatic—ideal for photos and wildlife spotting.

Phillip Island Penguin Parade

The main attraction here is the famous penguin parade, where you can watch little penguins waddle ashore at sunset. Many reviews highlight this as a magical, must-see event, with the penguins returning to their burrows after a day at sea. The tour allocates around 90 minutes, giving plenty of time for viewing and photos.

Overall Value and Practicalities

At $1,195.64 per person, this tour offers substantial value considering it includes private transportation, all entry tickets, and water bottles. The small group size and guided approach mean you gain insights and flexibility that large bus tours often lack.

The tour’s structure—fixed on specific days—means you get a carefully curated experience, ideal for travelers who prefer arrangements rather than planning every detail themselves. It’s also worth noting that this experience is not suitable for those wishing to customize their schedule or swap destinations.

Timing-wise, the entire experience fits comfortably into two days, with enough stops to appreciate each site without feeling rushed. For travelers with moderate physical fitness, the walks and sightseeing will be manageable, though some sites involve uneven terrain or stairs.

What Reviewers Say

While this specific tour hasn’t accumulated reviews yet, feedback from similar experiences underscores the guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery as standouts. The inclusion of all entry tickets is a plus, removing the need for extra planning or spending. Travelers appreciate the comfortable transport and the ability to see multiple sights without the stress of driving or organizing logistics.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour from Melbourne is a well-organized way to see the best of Australia’s southeastern coast. With a focus on natural beauty, wildlife, and iconic landmarks, it offers a engaging and hassle-free experience. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, while the carefully curated stops highlight what makes this region so special.

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and stunning coastlines, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a guided experience that covers a lot of ground with minimal fuss.

For those on a time crunch or seeking a rundown, this package packs in a lot—balancing natural wonders with charming towns and iconic sites—making it a worthwhile addition to your Melbourne adventure.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, all entry tickets, and a water bottle.

Can I choose my own days for the tour?
No, the tour has set days: Day 1 is for the Great Ocean Road, and Day 2 is for Phillip Island. You can’t swap the days.

How long is each day?
Each day lasts approximately a full day, with enough stops and sightseeing to fill your schedule comfortably.

Are lunch and dinner included?
No, you’ll need to organize your own meals during the stops, such as Apollo Bay or Phillip Island.

What about parking or public transport?
The tour offers door-to-door pickup and drop-off in Melbourne, so you don’t need to worry about parking or public transit.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as some sites involve walking or uneven terrain.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a balanced, accessible way for travelers to experience Australia’s stunning coast, wildlife, and scenery—all in a comfortable, guided setting. It’s perfect for those wanting a detailed, hassle-free adventure with a small group, and a good dose of natural beauty.