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Phillip Island Penguin Parade in Victoria

The world-famous Penguin Parade on the Phillip Island is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Australia

Best time: all year round

Phillip Island Penguin Parade

The world's smallest penguins—fairy penguins—are among most amazing Australia's phenomena. For hundreds and possibly thousands of years, every evening, after sunset, in any weather, 365 days a year, these little penguins walk to their burrows at the Summerland Beach.

They gather in groups of 10 to 50 individuals in the surf at the water's edge, and then, as if at a command, start marching through the beach to the sand dunes where their homes are located. This unique spectacle is well worth seeing!

You can choose between the self-guided tour (a cheaper option, but you might be further away from the penguins marching route) and the organised tours.

Practical info

When is the best time to see the Penguin Parade in Phillip Island?

The best time to watch the Penguin Parade is during sunset when hundreds of penguins return to their burrows along the beach. Visitors can also watch the penguins during winter months when chicks are hatching, typically between July and September. It's crucial to visit after checking for seasonal variations in bird numbers. Show more

Where is the best location to watch the penguins marching on the beach?

A specially designed viewing platform on either side of the Penguin Parade visitor center is recommended to watch the penguins. The viewer platform allows 300 people at a time and has space for seated, standing, and wheelchair viewing. Penguins should not be disrupted, and photography is strictly prohibited. Show more

How long does the Penguin Parade last each evening?

The exact duration of the Penguin Parade typically lasts around 90 minutes with some variation based on penguin numbers or time of year. Visitors should arrive an hour early to avoid queues, especially during the busiest times. Show more

What other wildlife can be seen in Phillip Island besides the fairy penguins?

Phillip Island is home to numerous Australian species like Australian fur seal colonies, wallabies, koalas, and birds like Cape Barren Geese, Little Penguins, and Pacific Gulls. Visitors can also explore the rugged coastline of the island or experience dolphin and whale watching tours. Show more

Are there any restrictions or guidelines for visitors during the Penguin Parade?

Strict guidelines should be followed by visitors to protect the penguins' habitat while watching the Parade. Flash photography, smoking, eating, and drinking are not allowed. Lights should be turned off, and visitors must remain quiet to avoid disturbing the penguins. Visitors are also recommended to wear proper clothing and footwear because of steep stairs and uneven terrain. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin