What is the Phillip Island Penguin Parade?
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is a nightly event where little penguins come ashore at Summerland Beach on Phillip Island, Victoria, about two hours from Melbourne.
At sunset, groups of little penguins return from fishing at sea and waddle up the beach to their burrows. Visitors watch from viewing stands and boardwalks.
The colony is one of the largest little penguin colonies in the world. Photography is not allowed during the parade to protect the birds.
More on Phillip Island
Phillip Island is also home to the Koala Conservation Reserve and a fur seal colony at Seal Rocks. It hosts the Australian MotoGP at its racing circuit.
The Nobbies boardwalk offers views of rugged coastline. The island is linked to the mainland by a bridge at San Remo.
Penguin numbers vary through the year, but hundreds and sometimes thousands of birds can come ashore on a single night. Rangers explain penguin behaviour before the parade begins. Premium tours with smaller groups and underground viewing areas are also available. Visitors are advised to dress warmly, as evenings can be cold and windy even in summer.
Did You Know?
Phillip Island Nature Parks bought back an entire housing estate to protect penguin habitat.