Phillip Island, located just off Australia’s southern coast, is famous for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and, most importantly, its adorable little penguins.If you’re planning a trip to Phillip Island, watching these tiny creatures waddle ashore at sunset is a truly magical experience and one you won’t want to miss. From the best time to see penguins on Phillip Island to choosing the perfect Phillip Island tour, here’s everything you need to know to experience the magic of the Penguin Parade.
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The Penguin Parade is undoubtedly the highlight of any Phillip Island tour. Every evening, these Little Penguins return home from a day of fishing, waddling up the beach to their burrows. The sight is simply unforgettable!
So, what can you expect at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade? Depending on your preference, you’ve got several ticket options to choose from:
- General Viewing: Ideal for families and budget-conscious visitors, this area offers excellent views, though slightly removed from where most penguins emerge.
- Penguins Plus: For a closer and quieter experience, this platform is right on the beach where most penguins come ashore. It’s highly recommended that you book in advance!
- Underground Viewing: Want to be eye-to-eye with these adorable creatures? Underground Viewing lets you watch the penguins through a glass window at their level, making for a completely immersive experience.
- Ultimate Penguin Tour: Looking for something even more exclusive? The Ultimate Penguin Tour is a guided tour for penguin watching on Phillip Island, led by a park ranger. You’ll get access to restricted areas, night-vision goggles, and a smaller, personalised group.
Making the Most of Your Phillip Island Day Tour
While the Penguin Parade is the main attraction, why not make a full day of it? Many visitors opt for a Phillip Island day tour, which includes other local highlights like the Koala Conservation Reserve and the Nobbies Centre.
If you’re travelling from Melbourne, you can even join a Phillip Island tour from Melbourne, which takes care of the transport so you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
Were you feeling adventurous? Try combining your penguin-watching adventure with other activities.
You can visit A Maze’N Things for family fun or spend some time at Churchill Island, where you can learn about local history and farm life or even see the babies of Australian animals at the heritage farm.
Best Time to See Penguins on Phillip Island
Wondering when to plan your visit? The Penguin Parade happens every evening, but penguin numbers vary by season:
- Summer (December to February): This is peak penguin season, with more penguins returning to shore.
- Winter (June to August): The island is quieter, but penguins are still waddling home every night. Plus, winter is also the prime time for migrating humpback and southern right whale watching!
The Magic Doesn’t Stop After the Parade
The excitement isn’t over once the penguins have made their way ashore! One of the best parts of the evening is the walk back to the visitor centre.
Along the boardwalk, you’ll have the chance to see penguins up close as they feed their chicks, socialise, and settle into their burrows.
If you’ve chosen one of the guided tours for penguin watching in Phillip Island, your guide will point out interesting penguin behaviours and answer any questions.
It’s the perfect time to slow down, soak in the experience, and capture amazing photos.
Insider Tips for Your Phillip Island Tour
- Book Early: Booking at least two months in advance is essential for the best experience, especially with options like Penguins Plus or the Ultimate Penguin Tour.
- Dress Warmly: It can get chilly on the island, especially in winter, so bring a jacket!
- Arrive On Time: The parade starts right after sunset, so plan to arrive just in time to avoid long waits.
With so many options to choose from, a Phillip Island tour with Culture Quest Tours offers something for everyone, whether you’re visiting for a day or combining it with other local attractions.
So, what are you waiting for? Phillip Island’s magical penguins are waiting for you!