Experience the Magic of the Penguin Parade
Discover the enchanting world of little penguins at the Penguin Parade in Victoria, Australia—where wildlife conservation meets breathtaking natural beauty.
A brief summary to Penguin Parade
- 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, Victoria, 3922, AU
- +61359512800
- Visit website
- Monday 4 pm-8 pm
- Tuesday 4 pm-8 pm
- Wednesday 4 pm-8 pm
- Thursday 4 pm-8 pm
- Friday 4 pm-8 pm
- Saturday 4 pm-8 pm
- Sunday 4 pm-8 pm
The Penguin Parade is a renowned wildlife park located in Victoria, Australia, famous for its breathtaking spectacle of little penguins waddling ashore at sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors gather on the viewing platforms to witness these charming creatures return to their burrows after a long day of fishing at sea. This unique experience is not just a visual delight but also an opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these adorable birds and their natural habitat. Beyond the penguins, the park is nestled within a nature preserve, offering lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. Guests can explore a variety of walking trails that meander through stunning coastal scenery, where you may encounter other indigenous species, including kangaroos and wallabies. The visitor center provides informative displays about the local ecosystem and the important work being done to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife. For families, this location is particularly appealing with its engaging educational programs and kid-friendly activities. Before or after the parade, guests can enjoy the onsite café featuring local cuisine and a gift shop for souvenirs. With a focus on sustainability and education, the Penguin Parade serves as a remarkable reminder of the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the parade is popular and can get crowded.
- Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly during the evening parade.
- Consider booking tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Bring binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience as the penguins come closer to the shore.
- Respect the wildlife by keeping noise levels down and avoiding flash photography.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from anywhere within the Mornington Peninsula, head towards the town of Cowes. From Cowes, take the Phillip Island Road (B420) and follow the signs towards Phillip Island. Continue on B420 for approximately 20 kilometers until you reach the intersection with Ventnor Road. Turn right onto Ventnor Road, and after about 4 kilometers, you'll arrive at the Penguin Parade located at 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922. There is ample parking available at the venue, but be mindful that parking fees may apply.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Penguin Parade using public transport, first take a bus from Mornington Peninsula to Cowes. You can catch the 'Route 789' bus from Mornington to Cowes. Once in Cowes, switch to the 'Penguin Parade Shuttle Bus' (check local schedules for availability, especially in off-peak seasons). The shuttle bus will take you directly to the Penguin Parade. Ensure to check the bus schedules ahead of time, as they can vary. The total cost for the bus ride may be around AUD 10-$15, depending on your starting point.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more direct and convenient option, consider using a taxi or rideshare service like Uber. Simply input 'Penguin Parade, 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922' as your destination. This option is great if you are traveling in a group or want to avoid the hassle of public transport. The fare from Cowes should be approximately AUD 20-$30, but be sure to confirm the price with your driver.
Attractions Nearby to Penguin Parade
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Penguin Parade Visitor Centre
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Penguin Watchout
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Penguin Plus
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Flynns Beach
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Kitty Miller Bay
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Southpoint Lookout
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Nobbies Centre
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The Nobbies
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Phillip Island Winery
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Seal Rocks
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Ventnor Beach
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Pyramid Rock- Berry's Beach walking track
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Pyramid Rock Lookout
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Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
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Wombats Part of Phillip Island Wildlife Park
Landmarks nearby to Penguin Parade
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Summerlands Lookout
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Phillip Island
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Red Rocks Beach
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The Big Koala Statue
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The Big Tap
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Wildlife Coast Cruises - Cowes
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West Head Lookout
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Cape Woolamai Circuit Walk
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Quealy Winemakers
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Pinnacles Lookout
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French Island National Park
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San Remo Bridge
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Rare Hare Wine & Food Store
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Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula
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Old Granite Quarry