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Top Tips for Visiting the Phillip Island Penguin Parade with Kids
Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is world-renowned for its Penguin Parade, a nightly wildlife event where thousands of Little Penguins waddle ashore at sunset. Home to one of the largest colonies of Little Penguins in the world, the island offers families a chance to witness this remarkable natural spectacle up close.
We recently took the kids along to experience it for the first time—and it’s safe to say, they loved it!. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
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Penguin Parade Visitor Centre
Before the penguins arrive, there’s plenty to explore at the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre. The centre features a café, gift shop, and engaging displays about penguin biology and conservation. Our kids especially loved the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Rangers play zone.
Best Spots to Watch the Penguins
As dusk approaches, visitors make their way down a series of boardwalks to the beachside viewing platforms. Two main staircases frame the central path used by the penguins to reach their burrows in the dunes. For the most intimate experience, aim to sit closer to the middle section near the penguin pathway.
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Up Close with the Little Penguins
Each night, these 40cm-tall Little Blue Penguins (previously called Fairy Penguins) emerge from the ocean in groups, huddling together before making a quick dash across the sand to the safety of their burrows. Known for their social nature, the penguins vocalise, preen, and even interact with observers. One curious penguin even walked alongside our daughter—stopping when she did, and walking again as she moved. It was a magical encounter she will never forget.
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We also learned that these Little Blue Penguins are incredible swimmers. Some have been tracked travelling as far as Adelaide from Phillip Island, and diving up to 66 metres in search of food like anchovies, squid, and krill.
Tips for Visiting the Penguin Parade with Kids
- Arrive Early: Arrive at least an hour before penguin arrival time to explore the Visitor Centre and find a good viewing spot.
- Check the Penguin Calendar: Penguin arrival times vary by season—download the Penguin Arrival Calendar for up-to-date estimates.
- Dress for Cold Weather: Coastal evenings can be cold year-round, so bring warm layers, blankets, and beanies.
- Upgrade Your View: Consider premium viewing options like Penguins Plus or Underground Viewing for a closer, more sheltered experience—especially useful with young kids.
- Respect the Penguins: No flash photography or video is permitted after sunset, as it can harm the penguins’ sensitive eyes.
- Stay a Little Longer: Most visitors leave once the penguins arrive, but sticking around offers a quieter and more rewarding experience.
- Teach Respectful Wildlife Watching: Prepare your kids ahead of time to stay quiet and still to help protect the penguins and enhance the experience.
Important information about the Penguin Parade
Open: Visitor Centre opens at 4.45 pm daily
Location: 1019 Ventnor Road, Summerlands, Phillip Island
More Info: Visit Phillip Island Nature Parks
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We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.
