Visiting the Penguin Parade with Phillip Island tours is a must do for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Every evening hundreds of little penguins waddle up the beach after a day of fishing and it’s a real spectacle to see. But do you need to book in advance? The short answer is: Yes, we highly recommend it!
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Book Now
1. Limited Tickets
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is one of Australia’s most popular wildlife attractions and tickets sell out quickly, especially during school holidays and public holidays.
2. Better Seating and Viewing
Booking early allows you to choose from various ticket options:
- General Viewing: Standard seating along the boardwalk trails.
- Penguins Plus: Premium seating with a closer view of the penguin colony.
- Underground Viewing Platform: A unique experience to see the penguins up close at eye level.
- Ranger-Guided Tour: A small-group guided experience with experienced guides providing an informative tour.
3. Don’t Miss Out
If you turn up without a ticket there’s a high chance tickets will be sold out and you’ll miss out on this once in a lifetime beachfront experience.
4. Convenience and Planning
Booking in advance allows you to plan your visit efficiently, including extra travel time, accommodation and other family attractions like the Koala Conservation Reserve, Churchill Island Heritage Farm, and Seal Rocks where you can see resident fur seals. Many Phillip Island tour offer packages that include multiple attractions in one trip.
How to Book Your Penguin Parade Tickets?
You can book tickets online through the official Phillip Island Nature Parks website or reputable travel agencies offering full-day guided adventure packages. Booking through a tour operator often includes transportation from Southern Cross Station, making it a stress free experience. If you’re looking for a hassle free visit consider a Phillip Island day tour, which often includes stops at other highlights such as Summerland Beach and the Koala Conservation Reserve.
Best Time to Visit
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade takes place at sunset, which varies throughout the year. The best time to visit is during summer (December to February) when the weather is beautiful and it’s a wildlife wonderland. However winter visits can be great too, with fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
Penguin Arrival Times & Viewing Experience
- Arrive at least an hour before penguin arrival to get a good spot at the viewing platforms.
- Enjoy the penguin highway, where the tiny penguins make their way back to their burrows.
- Watch the hundreds of penguins coming home from the ocean at dusk.
Additional Tips for Your Visit
- Get here early to visit the visitor centre and learn about the life cycle of these cute penguins.
- Dress warm as it can get cold in the evening, especially near the coast at sunset.
- No photography to protect the fairy penguins’ sensitive eyes.
- Check for special events or conservation projects to enhance your interactive koala encounters and exclusive viewing experience.
- Consider booking a Parks Pass if you plan to visit other Nature Parks like Moonlit Sanctuary, Wilsons Promontory National Park, or the Koala Conservation Center.
Other Things to Do on Phillip Island
- Visit Cape Woolamai for stunning ocean views and rock formations.
- Explore Churchill Island for hands on farm experiences and agricultural activities.
- See the largest fur seal colony at Seal Rocks.
- Walk the treetop boardwalks and wildlife encounters. Beach it or take in the views at Summerland Beach.
- Full day tour of the Phillip Island coast.
- Brighton Beach bathing boxes for some australiana photography.
- Tours Phillip Island do the planning for you.
Conclusion
If you’re going to see the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, book tickets in advance to get in and get up close! Whether you’re a family, a couple or a solo traveller, this must see is one not to miss!
FAQ
Do I need to book tickets in advance for the Penguin Parade?
Yes, book tickets in advance as the Penguin Parade is a very popular attraction and will sell out, especially during peak season and school holidays.
What time do the penguins arrive at Phillip Island?
They arrive at sunset, which varies throughout the year. Get there at least an hour before sunset to get the best spot.
Can I take photos of the penguins?
No, no photography is allowed during the Penguin Parade to protect the fairy penguins’ sensitive eyes from camera flashes.
Are there any other things to do near the Penguin Parade?
Yes! Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve, Churchill Island Heritage Farm, Seal Rocks, and Summerland Beach for stunning coastal views.
How do I get to Phillip Island from Melbourne?
You can drive from Melbourne to Phillip Island which takes about 2 hours, or book a Phillip Island day tour which includes transport and guided activities.
