Phillip Island's main draw is the nightly parade of Little Penguins, also called Fairy Penguins, waddling from the sea to their burrows in nearby dunes. The parade of miniature penguins attracts onlookers year-round and crowds on summer weekends and holidays. There are several ways to view the Penguin Parade: general admission, with viewing from concrete bleachers; the Penguin Plus experience, which puts you on a smaller viewing platform that is closer to the action; the Guided Ranger Tour, which provides a spot on the sand with a ranger; and the VIP Tour, held in an elevated tower where up to 10 adults join the ranger who is narrating the action.
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| The Penguin Attraction |
The Ultimate Adventure Tour, for private groups, includes headphones and night-vision equipment and a secluded spot on a separate beach. The spectacle begins at around sunset each night; booking ahead is essential in summer and during public holidays. Wear closed shoes and warm clothing-even in summer-and rain protection gear. Make sure to arrive an hour before the tour begins. A good deal for visitors staying for a day is the 3 Park Pass, giving admission to the Penguin Parade, the Koala Conservation Centre, and Churchill Island.
How do I get there?
By car: Phillip Island is located 90 minutes drive from Melbourne. Allow a further 20 minutes from the bridge to get to the Penguin Parade. Free car parking on site.
By bus: Public transport is limited on Phillip Island. V-line operates a bus to Phillip Island’s main town, Cowes, from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne city. The V-line bus does not go to the Penguin Parade and there are no return buses to Melbourne at the conclusion of the Penguin Parade.
By transfer: Contact Phillip Island Taxis on 03 5952 2200 or Phillip Island Designated Driver to arrange transfers on Phillip Island.
Take a tour: Drop by a Visitor Information Centre in Melbourne to find out more about one of the many tours to Phillip Island.Labels: Place of Interest
