Respecting the penguins at the Penguin Parade

One of the best ways to see little penguins is at the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island.

Every evening at sunset, it’s remarkable to see hundreds of penguins appear at the Penguin Parade on Summerland Beach. To ensure these cute little penguins continue to come back to this part of Phillip Island, it’s important to follow these actions to respect them.

No flash photograph (including the phone flash)

We understand it can be rather dark as the penguins get closer, but please don’t use any flashes as it can scare them and damage their eyes. If you’d like photos of the penguins, you can go on the official Penguin Parade website or social media.

Keep your distance

The Penguin Parade platforms and other viewing areas allow you to keep a safe distance. However, avoid trying to reach out to touch the penguins as it can scare them. The little penguins are wild animals and there needs to be as little human interaction with them as possible.

Avoid sudden movement

The little penguins have really good vision and can spot you if you suddenly move. If there are any sudden movements, the penguins can become quite frightened. It’s best to keep still or move very slowly so you don’t disturb them.

Remain quiet

Any loud noises can be rather stressful and scary for the penguins, so being quiet is best for them as they waddle up the beach. If there are loud noises, they could stay out at sea for longer, which can interfere with breeding or reaching their burrows to their nestlings.

Listen to the staff

The staff may ask you to follow other actions to keep the little penguins safe as you’re waiting to see them. If you have any questions or are unsure about anything, ensure you ask a staff member!

Getting to the Penguin Parade

The Penguin Parade is on Phillip Island, which is about a 90 minute drive from Melbourne City. There are very limited public transport options so the best way to get there is by car or a tour. You can book a Phillip Island tour which includes seeing the penguins at the Penguin Parade and many other exciting attractions.

Remember to respect the little penguins at the Penguin Parade to keep their habitat feeling safe. Avoid using flash photography, loud noises, and sudden movement, and keep your distance.

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.