Experience the Enchantment of the Penguin Parade
Witness the magical return of Little Penguins at Victoria's iconic Penguin Parade, a perfect blend of wildlife experience and conservation.
The Penguin Parade is a captivating wildlife park located in Summerlands, Victoria, renowned for its enchanting spectacle of Little Penguins returning home at dusk. As the sun sets, these adorable creatures waddle up from the ocean, creating a magical experience for visitors of all ages. The site is not only a tourist attraction but also a dedicated nature preserve, ensuring the safety and conservation of these unique birds. Visitors can enjoy the stunning coastal scenery while learning about the penguins' behavior and habitat through informative displays and guided tours. The Penguin Parade operates daily, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the natural rhythm of the penguins. The park offers various viewing platforms that provide excellent vantage points to observe the penguins as they make their way ashore. In addition to the main event, guests can explore the surrounding wildlife rescue services, which highlights the important work being done to protect and rehabilitate injured or orphaned wildlife. This aspect of the park emphasizes its commitment to conservation and education. For those looking to enhance their experience, the Penguin Parade offers flexible ticketing options, including guided tours and premium viewing experiences. Families will find the park particularly engaging, as children can learn about wildlife conservation in an interactive environment. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a unique and memorable outing, the Penguin Parade promises an extraordinary adventure that connects visitors with nature in a truly special way.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the area can get crowded during peak seasons.
- Dress warmly, as evenings can be chilly, especially along the coast.
- Consider booking a guided tour for an in-depth understanding of the penguins and their habitat.
- Check the sunset times ahead of your visit to plan your arrival accordingly for the best viewing experience.
- Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance, as flash photography is not permitted during the parade.
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
Getting There
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Car
To reach Penguin Parade from Northern Victoria by car, head southeast on the M31 (Hume Highway) towards Melbourne. Continue on the M31 until you reach the exit for the M420 (Princes Freeway) towards Sale. Merge onto the M420 and follow it until you reach the exit for the A440 towards Phillip Island. Continue along the A440, which will take you directly to Phillip Island. Once on the island, follow the signs to the Penguin Parade, located at 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922. The total driving time is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. Parking is available on-site, with a fee of around AUD 10 for the day.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from major cities like Melbourne to Dandenong Station. From Dandenong, catch the V-Line bus service heading to Wonthaggi. Upon arriving at Wonthaggi, transfer to the local bus service that will take you to Phillip Island. Be sure to check the bus schedules ahead of time, as they may vary. Once you reach Phillip Island, you may need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the Penguin Parade at 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922. The total travel time can take approximately 4 to 5 hours, including transfers and waiting times.
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Shuttle Service
For a more convenient option, consider booking a shuttle service from Melbourne directly to Penguin Parade. Several tour companies offer this service, which typically includes round-trip transportation and may also offer guided tours. Be sure to book in advance, and check for pricing options as they can vary by provider. The journey lasts around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Penguin Parade
- Penguin Parade Visitor Centre
- Penguin Watchout
- Penguin Plus
- Flynns Beach
- Kitty Miller Bay
- Southpoint Lookout
- Nobbies Centre
- The Nobbies
- Phillip Island Winery
- Seal Rocks
- Ventnor Beach
- Pyramid Rock- Berry's Beach walking track
- Pyramid Rock Lookout
- Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
- Wombats Part of Phillip Island Wildlife Park
Landmarks nearby to Penguin Parade
- Summerlands Lookout
- Phillip Island
- Red Rocks Beach
- The Big Koala Statue
- The Big Tap
- Wildlife Coast Cruises - Cowes
- West Head Lookout
- San Remo Bridge
- Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula
- Old Granite Quarry
- Northway Downs Estate
- Tanglewood Estate
- Cape Schanck Lighthouse
- Enchanted Adventure
- The Funky Farm (Bookings Only)