Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¼´Ê±¿ª½±

Penguin parade, Phillip Island, Melbourne. - stock photo
Australia

Boy_Anupong/Getty


One of Victoria's major tourist draws, this evening parade of little penguins (Eudyptula minor) showcases the world’s smallest, and probably cutest, penguins. The newly built multi-million-dollar complex includes interactive displays and amphitheatres that hold up to 3800 spectators who come to see the little fellas just after sunset as they waddle from the sea to their land-based nests. An underground viewing section, premium seats and VIP platforms are available for those wanting prime views; book well in advance.

Penguin numbers swell after breeding in summer, with as many as 32,000 arriving on a given night, but they’re in residence year-round. After the parade, hang around the boardwalks for a closer view as the stragglers search for their burrows and mates. Bring warm clothing, and take note there's strictly no photography or videoing. Be sure to arrive an hour beforehand – check the website for their ETA.

There are a variety of specialised tours where you can be accompanied by rangers to explain the behaviour of penguins; check the website for details. If you plan to see other attractions on the island, consider purchasing a Parks Pass.


Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¼´Ê±¿ª½±'s must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Antarctic Journey

1.74 MILES

Developed with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), this cutting-edge multimedia exhibition has a spectacular location on the southwest tip overlooking…

2. The Nobbies Boardwalk

1.75 MILES

On the island's southwestern tip you'll pass by memorable landscapes of windswept grassy plateaus and rugged coastal scenery, leading to the Nobbies…

3. History of Motorsport Museum

4.63 MILES

Located at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, this small museum is dedicated to the history of motorsport on the island. There's a history of the…

4. A Maze'N Things

6.35 MILES

With a maze, crazy illusion rooms, mini golf, puzzle island, magic shows and rope course, this wacky fun park is popular with kids and endured by their…

5. Koala Conservation Centre

6.39 MILES

There are only 20 to 30 of these furry marsupials left in the wild on the island, but if you take to the treetop boardwalks or the easily accessible…

6. Purple Hen Winery

7.8 MILES

Head to the cellar door of this scenic winery to try its signature pinot noir and perhaps purchase a bottle or two of the big-bodied The Rooster for…

7. Pt. Leo Estate

8.51 MILES

One of the largest vineyards on the peninsula, Pt. Leo Estate has a magnificent setting overlooking Western Port Bay. Its winery complex is state of the…

8. Stonier

9 MILES

One of the original vineyards planted on the Peninsula, Stonier is widely known for its chardonnay but also produces a pinot noir and a sparkling. Kids…