Is Penguin Plus worth it?

The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is the best place in the world to see cute little penguins.

Phillip Island holds one of the most exciting (and cutest) attractions in Victoria. The Penguin Parade is the best way to see the largest fairy penguin colony in the world. Once the sun sinks behind the horizon, the little penguins emerge from the ocean and make their way to their burrows in the dunes. And you can witness this incredible phenomenon from your spot on Summerland Beach!

If you want an extra special experience at the Penguin Parade, you can upgrade to the Penguin Plus from the standard ticket. With Penguin Plus, you get a different view from the general seating. You will be on a platform that blends in with the natural elements. This platform is also closer to the penguin’s path as they waddle up the beach towards their burrows. We certainly think Penguin Plus is worth it as you get a closer look at the little penguins! It’s also restricted to 300 people per night, so it’s much less crowded than the general viewing option.

Locals and travellers love to make a trip to Phillip Island for a day or the evening to see the little penguins. The penguins usually arrive at Summerland Beach around sunset. It’s highly recommended to arrive about an hour before sunset. This will ensure you will get a great spot to spot the fairy penguins approaching the beach. If you visit Penguin Parade during peak times during holidays, we recommend arriving earlier. Your tickets will show you recommended times to arrive.

How do I get to Penguin Parade?

The best way to get to Penguin Parade is by booking a tour. There is limited public transport to Phillip Island, and you will still need to find your way to Penguin Parade. When you book a tour, you get to visit other places at Phillip Island before going to the Penguin Parade! There is also no public transport when the Penguin Parade has finished. You can book a taxi or rideshare, but this might get pricey.

What else is there to do at Penguin Parade?

Penguin Parade also has a Visitor Centre to explore. At the Visitor Centre, you can learn more about the little penguins. There is a cafe and restaurant available to eat and drink at. The Little Penguin Cafe and the Shearwater Restaurant are open from 5 PM. There is a great variety of food available to buy from starters to main meals and even desserts!

What can I do before the Penguin Parade?

If you’re unsure how to spend the rest of the day in Phillip Island, we have some great ideas. The Nobbies is another popular attraction in Phillip Island. You can do The Nobbies walk which takes you to see the Blowhole and Seal Rocks. At Seal Rocks, you can spot some fur seals having some fun on the rocks or in the waters. The Nobbies Centre is educational and is home to the Antarctic Journey. You can also book a tour and go to these places without worrying about getting everywhere!

We hope you have a great time at the Penguin Parade with your upgraded Penguin Plus tickets! Keep watch for the penguins in the waters right before they reach the beach.

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.