8D7N Melbourne Coastal Escape (Self-Drive)

Arrive at Melbourne Airport (no meet & greet). Pick up your rental car and explore Melbourne at your own pace. Visit Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and stroll along Southbank. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk at St Kilda Pier. Overnight in Melbourne.

Check-out and drive about 1 hour to Belgrave to board the historic Puffing Billy Steam Train (Belgrave–Lakeside return). Enjoy a relaxing scenic ride through the lush Dandenong Ranges, passing fern gullies and towering eucalyptus trees. Afterward, continue your drive (approx. 3.5 hours) to Apollo Bay along the famous Great Ocean Road. Stop along the way at Bells Beach (a surfer’s paradise) and Lorne (a charming seaside town). Enjoy ocean views, cliffside roads, and rolling hills along one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. Arrive in Apollo Bay before sunset, a laid-back seaside village, ideal for relaxing by the beach or enjoying local seafood. Overnight in Apollo Bay.

Check-out and continue your journey along the Great Ocean Road, heading toward Port Campbell. Make a short stop at Otway National Park for a refreshing rainforest walk. Then visit the iconic natural landmarks: the majestic Twelve Apostles, the dramatic Loch Ard Gorge and the striking rock formation of London Arch. Arrive in Port Campbell by late
afternoon. This quiet coastal town is surrounded by cliffs and perfect for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a stroll along the bay, unwind with the ocean views, or dine at a cozy local bistro. Overnight in Port Campbell.

Check out and begin your early morning with a scenic drive from Port Campbell to Phillip Island (approx. 6 hours). Take short breaks along the way in towns like Colac or Geelong to rest and refresh. Then, continue your journey to Phillip Island, home to the world’s largest colony of little penguins and boasts spectacular coastal scenery and rich Australian wildlife. Arrive by late afternoon and head straight to the Penguin Parade, where you’ll witness the adorable little penguins
returning from the sea at sunset. Overnight in Phillip Island.

Enjoy a full day exploring the beauty and attractions of Phillip Island. Visit the Koala Conservation Centre and the Nobbies Centre for dramatic ocean views and seal-watching opportunities. Explore the historic Churchill Island, relax at Cowes Beach, and take in the island’s scenic coastal walks. Optionally, stop by the Phillip Island Wildlife Park for even more wildlife encounters. Overnight in Phillip Island.

Check-out from accommodation, depart Phillip Island in the morning and head toward the scenic Mornington Peninsula (approx. 2 hours), known for its coastal charm, relaxing hot springs, and boutique experiences. Heading to Arthurs Seat
Eagle, enjoy a scenic gondola ride up Arthurs Seat and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Mornington Peninsula and Port Phillip Bay. If time permits before sunset, make your way to Portsea to visit the London Bridge Lookout. End the day at this scenic coastal lookout, perfect for watching the sunset. Overnight in Mornington Peninsula – Portsea.

Optional: Visit to the Peninsula Hot Springs (Fingal) — an award-winning natural geothermal spa nestled in a tranquil bushland setting. Start your day here with a relaxing spa and bathing session. (Advance booking recommended).

Check-out and head to Moonlit Sanctuary to discover the beauty and wonder of Australia’s wildlife. Hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, cuddle koalas, and encounter colorful birds, reptiles, dingoes, and more. Before returning to Melbourne, enjoy a visit to a local winery. Arrive in Melbourne, you might opt for a visit to the Eureka Skydeck or the historic Royal Arcade. Overnight in Melbourne.

Check out of your accommodation and enjoy some free time at your leisure before heading to the airport. If time permits, you may visit Chadstone Shopping Centre or take a walk through Royal Botanic Gardens. Return your rental car and proceed to the airport for your departure.