Every evening at sunset, witness one of nature's most enchanting spectacles as hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle across the beach to their sand dune burrows. This natural phenomenon occurs year-round at Phillip Island, making it a must-see Australian wildlife experience.
Little penguins stand just 33cm tall and weigh around 1kg, making them the smallest penguin species on Earth. Also known as fairy penguins, they're absolutely adorable!
These incredible birds swim up to 25km per day hunting for fish, squid, and krill. They can dive to depths of 60 meters and stay underwater for over 2 minutes!
Over 32,000 little penguins call Phillip Island home—the largest colony of little penguins in the world. They return to the same burrow each night!
Little penguins are devoted parents, taking turns to care for eggs and chicks. They often mate for life and return to the same partner year after year.
Every single night at sunset, penguins return from the sea in groups called "rafts." This predictable behavior makes viewing reliable year-round!
Despite facing predators like seals, sharks, and sea eagles, these resilient birds have thrived for thousands of years along Australia's southern coast.
Your Phillip Island adventure is carefully crafted to provide the best wildlife viewing experience while respecting these incredible creatures and their habitat.
Depart from Melbourne in premium air-conditioned coaches with experienced drivers. Enjoy scenic coastal views during the 90-minute journey to Phillip Island.
Arrive perfectly timed for sunset when the penguins begin their journey ashore. Watch from purpose-built viewing platforms and boardwalks for the best vantage points.
Our intimate group sizes ensure everyone gets excellent views and personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide throughout the experience.
Learn fascinating facts about penguin behavior, conservation efforts, and marine ecosystems from passionate wildlife guides with years of experience.
Skip the queues with pre-arranged tickets and enjoy the best viewing areas. Upgrade options available for exclusive underground viewing experiences.
Many tours include dinner at local restaurants featuring fresh Victorian produce, or stop at charming cafes showcasing the region's culinary delights.
Select the perfect tour package for your group, budget, and desired experience level. All tours include return transport from Melbourne and penguin parade viewing.
The Phillip Island Nature Parks is a world leader in penguin research and conservation. Your visit directly supports vital programs protecting little penguins and their marine environment.
Through habitat restoration, predator control, and ongoing research, the penguin population has stabilized and grown. Scientists monitor individual penguins using microchip technology, tracking their health, breeding success, and foraging patterns.
Revenue from penguin parade tickets funds:
By visiting, you're contributing to the long-term survival of this incredible species!
Little penguins typically come ashore at sunset, which varies throughout the year. Generally, they arrive between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM depending on the season. Summer months see later arrivals (around 8:30-9:00 PM), while winter arrivals are earlier (around 5:00-5:30 PM). The exact timing depends on when the penguins finish feeding at sea. Tours are scheduled to ensure you arrive well before the penguins, and viewing continues until all penguins have safely returned to their burrows.
Unfortunately, flash photography and cameras are not permitted during the penguin parade to protect the penguins' sensitive night vision. The bright lights can disorient and stress the penguins, potentially causing them to return to the ocean instead of their burrows. However, you can take photos at the Visitor Centre, and there are plenty of other photo opportunities throughout the day at other locations on Phillip Island. The experience of watching these adorable creatures with your own eyes is far more memorable than any photo!
Numbers vary nightly depending on weather, ocean conditions, and breeding season, but you'll typically see between 500-2,000 penguins during the parade. During peak breeding season (September to March), numbers are highest as adult penguins return to feed their chicks. Even on quieter nights, you're guaranteed to see penguins—this is a year-round natural phenomenon that happens every single evening without fail!
Phillip Island can be quite cool and windy, especially in the evening by the ocean. We strongly recommend bringing warm layers including a windproof jacket, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset. Bring a hat and sunglasses for daytime portions of the tour. A small backpack is useful for carrying extra layers. Remember: no cameras or phones are allowed during the parade viewing, so leave those secured in your bag.
Absolutely! The penguin parade is a magical experience for children and one they'll remember forever. Kids love watching the waddle and hearing the penguins' distinctive calls. However, please note that children must be able to sit quietly during viewing (loud noises can frighten the penguins). The tour involves some walking and can be a long day for very young children. We recommend the experience for children aged 4 and up. Family discounts are available for groups with children.
Yes! The penguin parade viewing platforms are wheelchair accessible, with designated accessible viewing areas providing excellent sightlines. Accessible parking is available, and wheelchair-accessible toilets are located at the Visitor Centre. Our coaches can accommodate folding wheelchairs (please advise when booking). Staff are always available to assist visitors with mobility requirements. The boardwalks are smooth and well-lit for safe navigation.
Phillip Island offers incredible wildlife diversity! Many tours include visits to the Koala Reserve where you can see wild koalas in the treetops, the Nobbies Centre with spectacular coastal views and seal colonies, and Churchill Island Heritage Farm. You might also spot wallabies, echidnas, and a variety of seabirds. The island is also famous for its surf beaches, including Woolamai Beach, and the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit for motorsport enthusiasts.
We offer flexible cancellation terms. Free cancellations are available up to 48 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund. For cancellations within 48 hours, a 50% fee applies. If the tour is cancelled due to extreme weather or safety concerns (extremely rare), you'll receive a full refund or can reschedule for another date. We recommend booking with travel insurance for maximum flexibility. The penguins come ashore rain or shine, so tours run in virtually all weather conditions!
The drive from Melbourne CBD to Phillip Island takes approximately 90 minutes (140km) via the scenic coastal route. We depart Melbourne in the early afternoon, allowing time to explore other attractions on the island before sunset. The return journey to Melbourne typically has you back in the city by 10:30-11:30 PM depending on the season and tour package. Comfortable rest stops are included on both journeys.
Yes! We offer private tours for families, groups, and special occasions. Private tours provide a more personalized experience with flexible itineraries, dedicated guides, and the ability to customize your day. This is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, corporate events, or travelers who prefer a more intimate experience. Contact our team directly to discuss your requirements and receive a custom quote. Private tours require minimum 4 people and should be booked at least 7 days in advance.
Hear from travelers who've experienced the magic of the Phillip Island Penguin Parade
"Absolutely magical experience! Watching hundreds of tiny penguins waddle up the beach was the highlight of our Australian trip. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and the whole day was perfectly organized. Don't miss this!"
"Our kids (ages 6 and 9) were mesmerized by the penguins. They haven't stopped talking about it! The underground viewing was incredible—we were so close to the penguins. Well worth the upgrade. Thank you Cooee Tours!"
"As a solo traveler, I was nervous about joining a tour, but everyone was lovely and the guide made sure I felt included. The penguins were adorable and seeing them in their natural habitat was incredible. Highly recommend!"
"We've been to Phillip Island three times now and it never gets old! Each visit is unique. This time we saw over 1,000 penguins come ashore. The conservation work they do here is amazing. A must-do Melbourne experience."
"Booked the VIP tour for my wife's birthday and it exceeded all expectations. The dinner was superb, the underground viewing was intimate and special, and watching the sunset with the penguins was unforgettable. Worth every penny!"
"The perfect day trip from Melbourne! Saw koalas, seals, amazing coastal scenery, and of course the star attraction—the little penguins. Our guide was passionate and informative. Can't recommend highly enough!"
While penguins return year-round, September to March (breeding season) offers the highest numbers. Summer months have later sunsets, meaning a longer day trip. Winter offers earlier viewing times and fewer crowds, plus you might see fluffy penguin chicks!
Phillip Island weather can change quickly. Dress in layers with wind and waterproof outer layers. Even summer evenings can be cool by the ocean. Check the forecast but be prepared for all conditions. Viewing areas are partially sheltered but open to the elements.
Tours often sell out, especially during school holidays and peak summer months. Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for your preferred date. VIP and premium experiences have limited capacity and require early booking. Midweek tours often have better availability than weekends.
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness one of Australia's most beloved wildlife spectacles. Book your Phillip Island penguin adventure today and create memories that will last forever!