Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade is one of Australia’s great natural spectacles, that enriching hour when the island’s penguin population comes marching up the sandy beach, hopefully carrying a few fishies after a hard day’s work!
Not only this, but penguins who don’t go out into the water can be found nesting underneath the Nobbies’ boardwalks throughout the day, creating another fabulous opportunity to spot these adorable flightless birds in their element.
It should really go without saying, but you cannot go around touching the penguins. Penguins are tiny birds that are susceptible to human interference, and the last thing they want are some annoying touros getting down into their nests and trying to pick them up.
Not only is this bad for the penguins, but you could really expect to get a few dirty looks and even a telling off from other travellers who see you interfering with their nests.
So, the best thing to do is leave them to their own devices and watch them from a comfortable distance, such as in the awesome…
Penguin Parade
Okay, stern words aside, Phillip Island’s penguins are an adorable natural experience and one that can be truly enjoyed without having to grab ahold of them in their homes!
The Penguin Parade is such a joyous spectacle, one in which you can catch the perfect view of these cute little creatures waddling up the shore and back to their nests.
An awesome family activity, it should be noted that the Penguin Parade starts earlier in winter (when it can be very chilly) and later in summer (when the sun goes down later).
So, for you parents, it might be a good idea to plan your trip around when it’s best for your little ones to enjoy the spectacle without getting upset from the cold or falling asleep before the parade actually happens!
There are seals, too…
The area around the Nobbies is blessed with two of Australia’s most loveable seafaring creatures: the little penguin and the fur seal. The fur seals keep their own counsel, lazing about on the rocks a km or so off the mainland, providing ample viewing opportunity for those who want to experience a little more natural joy before heading round the bend to watch the parade!
Both are two wonderful attractions and pretty great reasons as to why Phillip Island is one of Australia’s top nature destinations.
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.