Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
the United States
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Fiji
Nature · Cowes, Victoria
Penguin Parade
At sunset, the little penguins come ashore and cross Summerland Beach to their burrows, viewed from grandstands and boardwalks.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Penguin Parade
The Penguin Parade takes place every night on Summerland Beach, on Phillip Island’s south coast. At sunset, the little penguins, the world’s smallest penguin species at just over 30 cm, return from the sea in small groups after a day of fishing and cross the sand to their burrows in the dunes.
The colony is one of the largest of the species and is protected by Phillip Island Nature Parks, which manages visitor access. Visitors watch from grandstands facing the beach and then follow the penguins along boardwalks that cut through the dunes, where the birds pass a few metres away, calling to one another.
There are options with closer beach seating, underground viewing rooms and small guided groups. The visitor centre has an exhibition about the penguins and the island’s conservation work.
To protect the animals, photographing or filming during the parade is prohibited, including with mobile phones. The penguins’ arrival time varies throughout the year according to sunset.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 to 3 hours, including arrival before sunset and the boardwalks.
Best time
All year. In summer sunset is later and the island is busier; in winter it is cold and windy but less crowded. Arrive at least one hour before sunset.
How to get there
By car from Melbourne, about two hours, plus around 20 minutes from Cowes to the visitor centre. There is no regular bus service to the site.
Tip
Bring a warm layer and a raincoat even in summer: the beach is exposed to the southerly wind. Drive slowly on the return when animals cross the road.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Penguin Parade
Can you photograph the penguins?
No. Photographing or filming during the parade is prohibited, including with mobile phones, so as not to disturb the animals.
What time do the penguins arrive?
At sunset, which changes throughout the year. The official website publishes the arrival calendar; arrive at least one hour beforehand.
Is the Penguin Parade good for children?
Yes, children usually enjoy it a lot. Bring warm clothing, as the wait on the viewing stands can be cold.