What time do the penguins come in at Phillip Island?

Phillip Island is a nature lover’s paradise!

With sandy beaches, stunning coastal walks and some of Australia’s most adorable wildlife, there is little wonder as to why visitors flock to this island en masse.

One of Phillip Island’s main attractions is the Little Penguin colony – the largest in the world! Every day at sunset, these happy little chappies come in from a day’s fishing to nest, providing visitors a spectacular viewing opportunity from boardwalks and state of the art facilities.

Penguin Parade times

The Penguin Parade begins at around sunset every night, when the penguins waddle ashore and up into their burrows after a hard day’s fishing. Given that sunset arrives at different times during the summer and winter months, it is a good idea to plan your visit accordingly.

In summer, the penguins typically start coming in around eight o’clock or even as late as nine. This might be a long time to wait around if you have kids, but remember the weather is more pleasant at this time of the year, with warm evenings providing a beautifully peaceful environment to check out these special little creatures.

In winter, the parade begins at around six o’clock, with visitors allowed access from around five o’clock onwards. Winters can be pretty frightful on the island, so if you and your little ones aren’t too keen on watching penguins in the biting wind and howling rain, a summer venture may be the best option. This being said, there are special underground viewing spaces that provide top views and shelter from some of the island’s wilder weather.

Whilst you’re there…

The Penguin Parade may be the biggest attraction on Phillip Island, but the rest of the island is full of wonderful adventures and awesome experiences that make it such a special place to visit. Try your hand at surfing at one of the island’s immaculate sandy beaches before chucking on the snorkels to get up close and personal with some of the island’s other marine life.

Later on, and before the big parade, head on down to Seal Rocks, where you can catch awesome views of one of Australia’s largest seal fur colonies. After a day’s adventuring, you’re going to want something good and wholesome to eat, and Phillip Island isn’t short of great restaurants serving up fantastic local produce.

Try Saltwater Phillip Island, The Cape Kitchen or Citrus & Vine for some of the island’s best gastronomical offerings.

Related article: What is the best time of the year to see the penguins?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.