What is the best time of the year to see the penguins?
When should you visit Phillip Island is one of the most frequented questions on travellers’ lips?
While the island is open for business year-round, there is one specific season that stands out as THE best time to visit Phillip Island.
About the Little Penguins
The smallest, and in our opinion, cutest penguins in existence. These little creatures stand up at around 30 centimetres tall, only weighing around one kilogram. Majority of their feathers are dark blue, with their underbelly being a pale white colour. They spend the majority of their time in the deep sea, hunting for food throughout the day. However, they do sleep on dry land, waddling up to shore after sunset to avoid large predators in the day.
About Penguin Parade
As they do spend 80 per cent of their time in the sea, it makes it quite difficult to see these penguins in real life. However, Penguin Parade is where visitors can easily catch sight of these famous creatures. Setting up a state-of-the-art viewing facility along the beach coast, letting visitors spot the little penguins as they waddle up to shore to their nests. The facility welcomes over 3.5 million people each year, showcasing these beautiful creatures in their natural environment at a safe distance. Penguin Parade offers multiple viewing sections, from the standard viewing, underground viewing, to the deluxe selection.
When to Travel there
No time is restricted for Phillip Island, for these penguins hang about all year round, regardless of the weather or season. However, due to Penguin Parade being outside, working out the best time to travel may help you avoid those freezing cold winds or thundering rain. Phillip Island has a temperate climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Cool ocean breezes whip through the air throughout the year, so even if it is summer it’s always best to bring a jacket to fight the biting wind. If you enjoy sunny days full perfect for outdoor activities, summer can work perfectly, with stunning beach days and beautiful bush walks. If you don’t mind the cold and enjoy crisp morning walks and cosy nights by the fire, winter can be a perfect romantic getaway. However, if you are travelling in winter time, making sure to check the forecast before booking your penguin parade ticket, or simply bring a raincoat and umbrella can help.
Related article: The Little Penguin – Phillip Island
