Phillip Island is a nature and animal lovers paradise and the Penguin Parade is the main attraction and not to be missed. At Summerland Beach the Penguin Parade is a once in a life time experience to see the largest colony of little penguins in the world. As the sun goes down these little penguins waddle up the beach, it’s a magic moment against the stunning backdrop of Phillip Island.
What is the Penguin Parade?
The Penguin Parade is at Summerland Beach where you can see the largest colony of little penguins (also known as fairy penguins or blue penguins) as they come in from the ocean after a day of feeding. These little guys are 33cm tall, the smallest species of penguin, and their nightly march up the beach is a one of a kind sight.
Managed by Phillip Island Nature Parks the Penguin Parade is more than just a tourist attraction, it’s a vital part of the island’s conservation efforts. The area is carefully managed to protect the penguin colony and their natural habitat. This conservation with visitor education makes the Penguin Parade a great experience for animal lovers who care about wildlife too.
Best Time to Visit
The Penguin Parade is every evening after sunset so it’s an all weather event that can be done any time of the year. However to make the most of your visit timing is everything. The best time to visit is during the warmer months October to March when the penguins are most active and the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Get to the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre at least an hour before sunset. Here, you can learn about penguin conservation, browse the gift shop with some unique items and grab a bite to eat at the Shearwater Restaurant before heading to the viewing platform. The visitor centre has lots of information about the penguin’s life cycle, habitat and the conservation projects that help protect these unique penguins.
During school holidays and peak season it’s best to book tickets in advance to get a spot. Especially if you’re coming from Melbourne as the Penguin Parade is a popular attraction and tickets sell out fast. Check the penguin arrival time calendar on the Phillip Island Nature Parks website to plan your visit around the penguin arrival time.
Ticket Options and Viewing Experiences
When it comes to the Penguin Parade, you have a range of ticket options to choose from. Whether you want a standard viewing experience or something more unique, we have a ticket for you.
- General Viewing: The most popular option, great view from the main viewing platform. Get there an hour before the penguins arrive and you’ll get a good spot.
- Penguin Plus: For a closer view, this option gets you into a more secluded area with limited numbers of people, so you can have a more intimate experience with the penguins.
- Underground Viewing: Underground ticket holders get a unique view from beneath the boardwalk, closer to the penguins as they walk along the penguin highway. Perfect for those who want a VIP experience with fewer crowds.
- Ranger Guided Tour: Led by an expert guide, this tour gives you an in-depth look at the penguins and their habitat and the conservation work being done on Phillip Island.
- Ultimate Adventure Tour: This premium option includes a guided tour, access to the best viewing spots and extra perks for an experience of a lifetime.
Book in advance, especially during peak season or if you want to upgrade to a VIP experience. Child tickets are available at a discounted rate, so the Penguin Parade is a great family activity that everyone can enjoy.
What to Expect
As the evening progresses, the excitement builds as visitors gather on the coastal boardwalks and sand dunes of Summerlands Beach. You can hear the penguin chicks calling as the penguins start to emerge from the ocean. The parade starts about 20-30 minutes after sunset, but get there at least an hour before the penguins arrive to make the most of the facilities and get a good spot on the viewing platform.
The parade itself is fantastic. As the penguins come ashore, they form small groups called “rafts” and waddle across the beach to burrow in the sand dunes. Seeing these little penguins waddle is something you’ll never forget.
For a more private viewing experience, the Underground Viewing option lets you get up close and personal with the penguins without the crowds. This is especially popular during school holidays, so book it in advance.
The parade runs for about an hour and during that time you’ll see hundreds of penguins make their way home. The beach is dimly lit to not disturb the penguins so while you might be tempted to take photos, remember photography is not allowed during the parade to protect the penguins’ eyes.
Tips for a Great Time
- Dress for the Weather: Phillip Island can get cold, especially after sunset. Bring an extra layer of warm clothes even in summer. Southerly winds can make it feel colder than it is, so be prepared.
- Get Here Early: Extra time is needed especially during peak season. Get here at least an hour before sunset so you can visit the visitor centre and find a park.
- Respect the Penguins: The penguins are nervous creatures, so keep the noise down and follow all the rules to keep them safe. No photography during the Penguin Parade so put away your camera and enjoy.
- See More of Phillip Island: Make the most of your visit to Phillip Island and see more of what’s on offer. The Koala Conservation Centre lets you get up close to Australian animals. Seal Rock has stunning views of the coast and a colony of fur seals. If you want to learn more about local wildlife, visit the Phillip Island Wildlife Park or Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park.
- Plan Your Day: If you’re from Melbourne, consider making the Penguin Parade part of a full day Phillip Island tour from Melbourne. Start at Brighton Beach to see the famous bathing boxes, then head to Phillip Island for the main event. Along the way, stop at scenic spots, have some foodie experiences and explore the natural environment of this beautiful part of Victoria.
Food and Facilities
The Penguin Parade Visitor Centre has all the facilities you need. The Shearwater Restaurant has several dining options, including local seafood and family-friendly meals. After the parade, you can warm up with a hot drink or have a meal to reflect on the penguin experience.
If you want to take home a souvenir, the gift shop at the visitor centre has everything from plush toys to educational books about penguins and other native animals. The shop also supports conservation projects, with proceeds going towards the protection of Phillip Island’s wildlife.
Getting Here and Staying
Phillip Island is just a short drive from Melbourne day trip. The drive takes about 90 minutes and has great views of the Victorian countryside. If you’re staying overnight there are plenty of options on the island from luxury hotels to beachside holiday rentals.
If you’re using public transport several tour operators offer day trips to the Penguin Parade and often include other tourist attractions like the Koala Conservation Centre and Seal Rock. Coach parking is available at the visitor centre so it’s easy for groups.
Conservation and Education
Phillip Island Nature Parks is committed to the conservation of the island and its wildlife. The Penguin Parade is part of this effort, with ticket sales going towards conservation projects and education programs that benefit the penguins and other wildlife on the island.
Learn more at the visitor centre where interactive displays and education programs will give you the inside story on the penguins and what we’re doing to save them. The Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies Centre is another chance to learn about the wildlife of the Southern Ocean and its conservation.
FAQ
What time does the Parade start?
The Parade starts 20-30 minutes after sunset. Times vary throughout the year, so check the sunset times and penguin arrival time calendar on the Phillip Island Nature Parks website before you visit.
Can I take photos during the Parade?
No photography is allowed during the parade to protect the penguins’ sensitive eyes from camera flashes and lights.
Is the Parade suitable for kids?
Yes the Parade is a family friendly event. Child tickets are available at a discounted rate and there are plenty of activities at the visitor centre to keep kids of all ages entertained.
What to wear?
Bring warm clothing, as the coastal area can be cool even in warmer months. An extra layer or jacket will keep you warm as you watch the penguins arrive.
Are there food options?
Open for food and drink. Snacks to full meals.