Penguin Plus: A Captivating Encounter with Nature
Experience the magic of the Little Penguin Parade at Penguin Plus, a nature preserve offering unforgettable wildlife encounters on Phillip Island.
Nestled on Phillip Island, Penguin Plus offers tourists an extraordinary opportunity to witness the enchanting parade of Little Penguins as they return to shore at sunset. This nature preserve is not only a haven for wildlife enthusiasts but also a remarkable spot for families and eco-tourists alike. The experience is enhanced by informative guides and a stunning coastal setting, making it a must-visit destination on your Australian adventure.
A brief summary to Penguin Plus
- 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, Victoria, 3922, AU
- +61359512830
- Visit website
- Monday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Saturday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Sunday 5 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure the best viewing spots as the penguins can be unpredictable.
- Dress warmly, as evenings can get chilly, especially by the coast.
- Consider booking a guided tour for an enriched experience with expert insights.
- Avoid flash photography, as it can disturb the penguins during their return.
- Check the schedule for special events or feeding times for a more interactive visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, head towards Summerlands. From Melbourne, take the M1 Monash Freeway to Frankston, then follow the signs for the Mornington Peninsula. Once on the Peninsula Link, follow the signs towards Phillip Island. Take the exit towards Cowes and follow the Bass Highway (A420) to Ventnor Road. Turn onto Ventnor Road and continue until you reach 1019 Ventnor Rd, where Penguin Plus is located. Note that there is a parking fee of approximately AUD 10 for parking in the area.
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Public Transportation
To reach Penguin Plus using public transport, start by taking a train from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne to Frankston Station. From Frankston, catch the 789 bus towards Cowes. Get off at the stop closest to Ventnor Road (you may need to check with the bus driver for the best stop). From there, it is a short walk to Penguin Plus at 1019 Ventnor Rd. Be aware that the entire journey may take upwards of two hours, and you should check the latest bus schedules for times and any applicable fares.
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Rideshare
Another convenient option is to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply input '1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922' as your destination, and the app will direct your driver to the location. This method offers door-to-door service, making it easy if you have luggage or prefer not to navigate public transport. The cost will vary based on your pick-up location, but expect it to be around AUD 40-80 from central Mornington Peninsula locations.
Discover more about Penguin Plus
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Summerlands Lookout
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Phillip Island
5.3 km
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Red Rocks Beach
7.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant rock formations, and tranquil waters of Red Rocks Beach, a must-visit destination in Cowes, Victoria.
The Big Koala Statue
10.1 km
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The Big Tap
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Wildlife Coast Cruises - Cowes
10.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cowes with Wildlife Coast Cruises, where adventure meets nature on the stunning Victoria coastline.
West Head Lookout
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San Remo Bridge
18.5 km
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Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula
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Rain Hayne & Shine Farmyard
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Panorama Garden Estate
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Trofeo Estate
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Unmissable attractions to see
Penguin Watchout
0.1 km
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Penguin Parade Visitor Centre
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting Penguin Parade Visitor Centre on Phillip Island, where you can witness adorable penguins in their natural habitat at sunset.
Penguin Parade
0.5 km
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Flynns Beach
1.5 km
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Kitty Miller Bay
1.6 km
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Southpoint Lookout
2.0 km
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Nobbies Centre
2.8 km
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The Nobbies
3.4 km
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Phillip Island Winery
4.4 km
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Seal Rocks
4.6 km
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Ventnor Beach
5.7 km
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Pyramid Rock- Berry's Beach walking track
6.5 km
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Pyramid Rock Lookout
6.6 km
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Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
7.3 km
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Wombats Part of Phillip Island Wildlife Park
8.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Moke Dining
12.4 km
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Laura Restaurant
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Outback Chef's Wild Food Farm
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Le Bouchon French Cuisine
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Doot Doot Doot
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Barn & Co.
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The Dining Room
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Cape Restaurant
23.0 km
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Two Buoys
25.5 km
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Barmah Park Restaurant & Cellar Door
29.6 km
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Donato
30.0 km
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Veraison
30.1 km
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Steeples
31.2 km
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Loosie's Diner and Bar
33.4 km
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Ouest France Bistro
33.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
U-Neek Souvenirs
10.5 km
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Flinders Shed
12.2 km
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The Artisan Storeroom
12.2 km
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Nook At Flinders
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Flinders General Store
12.3 km
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Rosebud Vintage Bazaar
27.4 km
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The Vintage Shed
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Tyabb Packing House Antiques
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Udder & Hoe Gippsland
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Pomme
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Bentons Square Shopping Centre
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Obtainium Antiques & Vintage Wares
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Somerville Central
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Sudha The Boho Shop
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Little Shop of Horrors Costumery & Pop Culture Emporium
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Many Little Bar & Dining
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Allis Wine Bar & Bistro
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The Pig & Whistle Tavern Main Ridge
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TWOBAYS Brewing Co - Brewery Mornington Peninsula
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Bass & Flinders Distillery
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JimmyRum Distillery & Restaurant
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The Bodega
25.5 km
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Deadwood Dromana
25.6 km
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The Milbri
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Sound Bar
28.9 km
Sound Bar in Capel Sound offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music and delicious tapas, perfect for a memorable night out by the coast.
The Dava Hotel
31.4 km
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HABA
32.0 km
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Tar Barrel Brewery & Distillery Mornington
32.0 km
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Mr Paul's Beer and Wine
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