Penguin Parade, Phillip Island

The penguin parade at Phillip Island is a once in a lifetime experience. By far the most popular Phillip Island attraction, the famous Penguin Parade attracts visitors from all over the world who come to see the penguins rush to the shores every evening after sunset. Visit Phillip Island for a day trip, or weekend getaway, there is plenty to do there, especially for families with kids.

Penguin Parade Phillip Island

Phillip Island is home to one of the largest little penguin colonies in the world, about 32,00. Every sunset, the penguins emerge from the sea and waddle up to the shores. Visitors can watch from boardwalks and viewing stands as they head towards their burrows.

Things to know before you go

Find below some tips for your trip to Phillip Island and Penguin Parade

Tickets should be booked in advance
Especially in Summer time as they book out fast. Make sure to book as far ahead as you can so you don’t miss out on your preferred dates.

Save with a 4 Parks Pass
Includes admission to the Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island and Nobbies Centre. If you are planning on touring Phillip Island it is well worth it.

Arrive early
To get the best viewing spot, make sure you arrive early, about an hour before sunset at least.

Pram and Wheelchair friendly
The paths are wide enough to bring prams and wheelchairs, and there is ramp access through the visitor centre.

Guided tours are available
These are at an extra cost, but you can also download the free penguin app.

Photography is not allowed
For the safety of the penguins you can’t take photos. The flash from the camera can scare them. There are plenty of images online though.

Don’t leave as soon as the first penguins arrive
Although tempting to see the first penguins waddle up to the boardwalk, just hang out for a little longer. Most people will follow them, and then you can see the rest of them come and have most of the boardwalk to yourself.

Onsite Café
There is usually an onsite café, however for 2020/21 check beforehand

Details:

Where:
1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, Phillip Island, Victoria 3922
When:
365 days a year, just after sunset (times vary depending on season)
Tickets:
General viewing, Penguin Plus, or Underground Viewing.
See all ticket prices here

Things to do in Phillip Island

The penguin parade really is a once in a lifetime experience and cannot be missed if you are visiting Phillip Island, especially with kids. If you are looking for more ideas, check out the main post: Things to do in Phillip Island.

Looking for more family friendly activities around Melbourne? Check out our main page, Melbourne for Kids. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community Group – Melbourne for Kids What’s On!