Penguin Parade

Overview

The Penguin Parade is a unique natural phenomenon where Little Penguins come ashore at dusk to return to their burrows in the sand dunes. This is the largest breeding colony of Little Penguins in the world.

The Penguin Parade is a significant ecological site and a major tourist attraction in Australia, offering a rare opportunity to observe the world's smallest penguin species in their natural habitat.

Nature Reserve Wildlife Viewing

Location

Address

1019 Ventnor Road, Summerland, Phillip Island, Victoria

Neighborhood: Summerland

Coordinates

-38.525600, 145.232200

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM (parade times vary by season)

tuesday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM (parade times vary by season)

wednesday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM (parade times vary by season)

thursday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM (parade times vary by season)

friday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM (parade times vary by season)

saturday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM (parade times vary by season)

sunday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM (parade times vary by season)

Admission

Adults

$30 AUD

Children

$15 AUD (5-15 years)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

September to December

Best Time of Day

Dusk

Penguin parade occurs at dusk

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

• Penguin chicks emerge
• Migratory birds return

summer

Warm

• Extended viewing hours
• Night tours

autumn

Cool

• Whale sightings
• Cooler weather

winter

Cold

• Penguin breeding season
• Fewer tourists

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Arrive early for best viewing
No flash photography allowed
Respect the penguins' habitat

What to Bring

essential

Tickets Warm clothing (especially in winter) Camera (no flash)

seasonal

Sunscreen and hat (summer) Umbrella (autumn/winter/spring)

not allowed

Drones Food and drink (in viewing areas) Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low (easy walking)

• Bring water, as there are limited facilities in the viewing areas
• Sun protection recommended in summer

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Typical Costs

entry $30 AUD (adult)

parking $10 AUD

food $15-$25 AUD

souvenirs $5-$50 AUD

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing, Layers (weather can change quickly), Comfortable walking shoes, Walking shoes or sneakers, High heels, Brightly colored clothing (can disturb penguins)

Booking Tips

• At least 1-2 weeks
• Official website
• 48 hours for refund
• Penguin Plus Experience, Early Entry

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

First aid

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Penguin Parade Official App

Size: 35 MB

Features: Live parade updates, Penguin camera, Tickets and booking, Park map and directions, Penguin facts and conservation information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Distance: 140 km

Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Car rental

$100-$150 AUD per day 2 hours 30 minutes

Public transport

$35-$50 AUD 3 hours 30 minutes

From City Center

Distance: 140 km

Car

$20-$30 AUD (tolls and parking) 2 hours 30 minutes

Public transport

$15-$25 AUD 3 hours 30 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique wildlife experience, educational, supports conservation efforts

Historical Significance: One of the first ecotourism sites in Australia, established in 1929

Insider Tips

Arrive at least 30 minutes early for the best viewing spots
Bring a warm jacket, as it can get chilly near the water at dusk
Check the Penguin Foundation's website for special events and behind-the-scenes experiences

Local Recommendations

• Try local fish and chips at the Summerland Beach Cafe
• Visit the nearby Nobbies Centre for more wildlife viewing
• Ask rangers for the latest penguin sightings and tips

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello G'day

thank_you Ta

where_is Where's

how_much How much?

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Viewing stands

Best Time: Dusk (penguin parade)

Tips: Low angle to capture penguins coming ashore

Result: Unique shots of penguins in their natural habitat

#PenguinParade #PhillipIsland #WildlifeAustralia

Photography Rules

allowed areas Designated viewing areas, Outside the park (landscapes, wildlife)

prohibited areas Behind viewing areas (disturbing penguins), Inside the penguin burrows

flash photography Not allowed (disturbs penguins)

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited (disturbs wildlife)

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas only

selfie sticks Allowed in designated areas only

Nearby Attractions

The Nobbies Centre

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 minutes

Type: Wildlife viewing, Seals, Seabirds

Koala Conservation Reserve

Distance: 10 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Koala viewing, Conservation

Churchill Island Heritage Farm

Distance: 15 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Historical farm, Animals, Gardens

Reviews

4.7

Based on 25,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Arrive early for the best viewing spots"
"Book the Penguin Plus Experience for an unforgettable up-close encounter"
"Visit the Nobbies Centre for more wildlife viewing"

Contact Information

+61 3 5952 2397

info@penguins.org.au

www.penguins.org.au

Social Media

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