Phillip Island Penguine Parade

Overview The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is a wildlife viewing experience where visitors can watch Little Penguins return ashore at sunset after a day of fishing. Located at Summerlands Beach, it is home to one of the world's largest Little Penguin colonies. The event occurs nightly, with the penguins emerging from the ocean and waddling across the beach to their burrows in the sand dunes. The attraction is managed by Phillip Island Nature Parks, a conservation organisation that uses ticket revenue to fund research and protect the local wildlife and habitat.

The visitor centre opens in the afternoon and contains educational displays, a theatre, a cafe, and a restaurant. Visitors proceed from the centre to various viewing areas, including tiered beachfront grandstands and elevated boardwalks that wind through the penguin colony. A range of ticket options is available, from general viewing to more exclusive, ranger-guided tours and underground viewing platforms for eye-level perspectives. Photography and video are strictly prohibited after sunset to protect the penguins' sensitive eyes.

Highlights

• Watch Little Penguins emerge from the ocean at sunset and waddle across the beach to their burrows.
• Walk along elevated boardwalks to view the penguins up close as they move through the colony.
• A range of viewing options are available, including general admission stands, the closer Penguins Plus platform, and an eye-level Underground Viewing area.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: The unique and memorable experience of seeing penguins in their natural habitat. The educational displays in the visitor centre are also noted as a positive feature. Many find the views from the boardwalks after the main parade to be a highlight, offering close-up encounters.

What to watch out for: The event is very popular and can be crowded, especially during school holidays and peak season, making pre-booking essential. It can get very cold and windy on the viewing platforms, even in summer, so warm clothing is recommended. Seating in the general viewing area is limited and not guaranteed, particularly during busy periods.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: All ages. Children under 4 are free but still require a ticket. Some specific guided tours have age restrictions (e.g., 12+ or 16+).

Facilities: Cafe, restaurant, toilets, accessible toilets, a Changing Places facility, gift shop, and free on-site parking. The venue is pram and wheelchair accessible, with ramps, accessible viewing areas, and a complimentary buggy service for those with mobility needs.

Note: Bookings are essential and should be made in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak periods. The use of cameras and video recorders is not permitted after sunset. It is recommended to arrive about one hour before the estimated penguin arrival time.