You can’t take photos at the Penguin Parade…but here’s where you can access them!

One of Australia’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences is watching the tiny penguins as they come to the shores of Summerland Beach in the evening. Witnessing the iconic Penguin Parade is a moment that you might want to photograph!

Why can’t I take photos at the penguin parade?

You can’t take photos of little penguins at the penguin parade for several reasons.

However, there are a few rules around the penguin photography that you should be aware of before you go. However tempting it is to get your camera out and take a photo of this incredible natural phenomenon, taking photos at the penguin parade is banned.  

Once the penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle across the beach, visitors are prohibited from taking any photos because the bright flashes and screens can disorient the penguins, harm their eyes and disturb them as they navigate from the water and into their burrows.

The rangers at the penguin parade will tell you to put your camera away if you are caught taking photos of the penguin parade – so don’t be shocked if they tell you to put your camera or phone away!

Where can I take photos?

You can take photos before the sun sets. On a sunny evening, Summerland Beach is very picturesque, and there are some great photo opportunities!

Images of the beaches, boardwalks, dunes and surrounding landscapes are all possible here – and certainly set the scene for the little penguins who are about to take the stage.

You can also take photos of the little penguins in the daylight

Access the official photo gallery

Go to the Phillip Island Nature Parks website, and you will find a whole array of photos and videos that you can use!

Phillip Island Nature Parks has used special, non-intrusive cameras to photograph the little penguins on their nightly journey.

Download the free images from their website! Rangers around the penguin parade will give you scannable QR codes for this accessible content that you’ll be able to use instead!

But ultimately, the best cameras are your very own eyes! You’ll be able to spot the penguins coming from the ocean as they waddle across the beach and up the hill.