What time should I get to the Penguin Parade?

The Penguin Parade is one of Australia’s favourite natural phenomena, that wonderful part of the day when Phillip Island’s little penguin population come waddling up the beachfront with the day’s fishing ready to be fed to their families.

Phillip Island Penguin Parade

The Penguin Parade is a joyous occasion for individuals and families alike, with visitors experiencing a wondrous natural event that transpires every day of the year!

The question of what time you should get to the Penguin Parade depends on what time of the year you are going to enjoy the experience! Given that the penguins come in at sundown, and sundown differs in the winter and summer months, the best way to find out when you should arrive at the Penguin Parade is to check the official website’s penguin arrival calendar.

It is advised, of course, that you get there some time before the penguin’s arrival, but this gives you plenty of time to have a meal and set yourself up at a great vantage point!

Now that we’ve Penguin Parade arrival times out of the way, let’s take a look at some of the other amazing activities you can fill your day with on Phillip Island before the event itself…

More natural fun at Seal Rocks

Phillip Island may be most famous for its penguin population, but its seal congregation is every bit as special a natural occurrence. Located on a series of rock outposts just around the corner from the Penguin Parade itself, Seal Rocks sets the stage for a whopping 20,000 fur seals! This is the perfect activity to take in just before heading over to the Nobbies for the legendary parade.

See adorable koalas in their element!

The Koala Conservation Reserve is home to what is possibly Australia’s most adorable animal – the koala bear! These loveable little creatures are pretty lazy, given they only eat eucalyptus leaves (not too nutritional!) but they are still a joy to see at the conservation centre. The centre is great because it not only provides a refuge for these cuddly creatures, but also houses them in what is essentially their natural element.

Churchill Island

Churchill Island is a great family day out, with whip cracking, blacksmithing, cow milking, sheep shearing and dog demonstrations all making part of a fun adventure to a very charming island!

Related article: What is the Penguin Parade Plus on Phillip Island?