Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tours & Tickets
Discover guided tours to witness the enchanting Little Penguins return to shore on Phillip Island, Victoria.
Phillip Island, a jewel off the coast of Victoria, Australia, is world-renowned for its nightly spectacle: the Penguin Parade. As dusk settles, hundreds, sometimes thousands, of Little Penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle ashore to their burrows. This natural phenomenon draws visitors from across the globe, seeking to witness this endearing sight. Phillip Island Penguin Parade tours offer a seamless and enriching way to experience this iconic event, taking the planning out of your hands and focusing on the magic of the moment. These tours are designed for ease and enjoyment, often departing from Melbourne and providing transport directly to the island. Beyond the main event, many tours incorporate visits to other significant Phillip Island attractions, such as the Nobbies Centre, Seal Rocks, and charming local towns. Whether you're an individual traveler, a couple, or a family, there's a tour option to suit your pace and interests. You can choose from a variety of tour styles, from comprehensive day trips that cover multiple sights to focused evening excursions dedicated solely to the penguin experience. Booking a guided tour ensures you benefit from local knowledge, comfortable travel, and often, prime viewing locations for the parade, making your visit to Phillip Island truly memorable.
Featured Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tours Tours
Discover our top picks for phillip island penguin parade tours in Phillip Island
Two Icons in One Day – Puffing Billy steam train + Penguin Parade. Flexible Itinerary – Adjusted to train & penguin schedules. Close-Up Wildlife – Kangaroos, koalas & more at a local sanctuary. Scenic Variety – Beaches, rainforest, coastlines, and Phillip Island. Stress-Free Package – All highlights in one full-day trip.
Experience the best of Phillip Island in one unforgettable afternoon, combining award-winning wine, gourmet food, dramatic coastal scenery, and the world-famous Penguin Parade. Begin at Phillip Island Winery with guided tastings of six premium wines paired with a regional grazing platter, followed by a gourmet feast of woodfired pizzas, salads, and fries. Explore The Nobbies' dramatic coastline on scenic boardwalks during golden hour, spotting wild wallabies, seabirds, and Australian fur seals. Toast the spectacular sunset with sparkling wine before heading to the evening's highlight. Witness the magical Penguin Parade where thousands of Little Penguins—the world's smallest penguin species—emerge from Bass Strait and waddle to their burrows each evening. Travel in premium comfort with WiFi, charging ports and a local guide in our small-group coach. With convenient pickup and return from Phillip Island accomodation, this tour perfectly blends wine, wildlife, and coastal beauty.
Come and experience the best of Phillip Island. Visit a working heritage farm on Churchill Island, see the spectacular view from the Nobbies Lookout, then watch the famous Penguin Parade at sunset. What a delight! You will be picked up in air conditioned comfort by an English speaking guide for this small group tour. Visit Churchill Island Farm, an historic homestead and a working heritage farm that dates back to 1872. Try your hand a milking a cow or cracking a stockwhip, watch a sheep get shorn, and enjoy seeing the incredibly preserved historic buildings displaying how life was lived back in 1872. Take in the spectacular view from The Nobbies Lookout, you may even spot Australia's largest colony of Fur Seals at Seal Rock. Then just before dusk we make our way to the home to the largest Little Penguin colony in the world, where you will see the penguins roll in from the surf at sunset and make their way waddling across the sand into their burrows for the night.
Why Choose Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tours in Phillip Island?
Witness Natural Wonder
Experience the unique and heartwarming sight of Little Penguins returning to their burrows after a day at sea.
Convenient Transport
Many tours include round-trip transportation from Melbourne, eliminating the need for self-driving.
Guided Experience
Benefit from knowledgeable guides who share insights into penguin behavior and local conservation efforts.
All-Inclusive Packages
Opt for tours that combine the Penguin Parade with visits to other Phillip Island highlights like the Nobbies Centre.
Various Viewing Options
Select tours offering different viewing platforms, including general viewing and premium seating for enhanced visibility.
Unforgettable Memories
Capture incredible wildlife moments and create lasting memories of Australia's coastal charm.
Types of Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tours in Phillip Island
Day Trip Tours
These tours typically depart from Melbourne in the afternoon and include transport to Phillip Island, often incorporating stops at other attractions before the Penguin Parade. They return to Melbourne in the late evening.
Evening & Overnight Tours
Focused on the Penguin Parade experience, these options might depart later or include an overnight stay on Phillip Island. Some may offer enhanced viewing experiences.
Self-Drive Packages
For those who prefer to drive themselves, these packages usually provide entrance tickets to the Penguin Parade and sometimes include access to the informative Nobbies Centre. Allows for flexibility in exploring the island.
Penguin Parade Plus Packages
These are often add-ons or specific ticket types that provide access to upgraded viewing areas, such as the Underground Viewing or the Penguin Plus seating, offering a more intimate and unobstructed view.
What to Expect on Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tours
Duration
Most day tours from Melbourne last between 5 to 10 hours, with the main Penguin Parade viewing lasting approximately 1-2 hours. Evening tours focused solely on the parade might be shorter.
Weather
Phillip Island's weather can be unpredictable. Expect cool to mild temperatures, with wind and potential rain year-round. Dress in layers and bring waterproof outerwear.
Group Size
Tour group sizes can vary significantly, from small, intimate groups of 10-20 people to larger coach tours with 40-50 passengers. Self-drive options offer complete privacy.
What's Included
Typically includes transport (for coach tours), entry to the Penguin Parade viewing area, and sometimes access to the Nobbies Centre. Food and drinks are usually not included unless specified.
Meeting Point
For coach tours departing from Melbourne, meeting points are usually in the CBD, such as Federation Square or designated hotel pick-up locations. Self-drive visitors will meet at the Phillip Island Nature Parks Visitor Centre.
Costs
Prices vary based on the tour operator, inclusions, and viewing options. Expect to pay from $35 for basic entry tickets to $150+ for comprehensive day tours with premium seating.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book your tickets or tour well in advance, especially during peak season and school holidays, as the Penguin Parade is a very popular attraction.
Dress warmly and in layers, even in summer. The coast can be breezy and temperatures drop significantly after sunset.
Bring insect repellent, particularly during warmer months, as sandflies can be present.
Photography is generally not permitted during the Penguin Parade to avoid disturbing the penguins. Check with your tour operator for specific rules.
Consider the 'Penguin Plus' or 'Underground Viewing' options for a more intimate and potentially better view of the penguins, though these come at an extra cost.
Allow plenty of time for your journey, especially if self-driving, to account for traffic and enjoy other sights on the island.
Explore the informative Visitor Centre and boardwalks before the parade begins to learn more about the penguins and their habitat.
If you're staying overnight, consider visiting during the week to potentially avoid larger crowds on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:When is the best time of year to see the penguins?
A: The Little Penguins are present on Phillip Island year-round, but the numbers are generally highest during the warmer months (September to March) when they are breeding and feeding their chicks. Winter months still offer a fantastic experience with fewer crowds.
Q:What time does the Penguin Parade start?
A: The start time of the Penguin Parade varies with the sunset throughout the year. It typically begins around dusk, so tours will schedule their arrival accordingly. Always check the exact timing for your specific date when booking.
Q:Can I take photos of the penguins?
A: No, flash photography and camera flashes are strictly prohibited during the Penguin Parade as they can distress and disorient the penguins. Some tours may allow photography from designated areas or before the main event.
Q:How close can I get to the penguins?
A: You'll view the penguins from elevated boardwalks and viewing platforms designed to minimize disturbance. You'll be close enough to observe their waddle, but the focus is on their natural behavior in their environment.
Q:What if it rains on the night of the parade?
A: The Penguin Parade continues regardless of the weather. Tours operate rain or shine, so it's essential to dress appropriately with waterproof gear to stay comfortable.
Q:Do tours include dinner?
A: Most standard day tours from Melbourne do not include dinner. It's advisable to eat before you depart, or you may have opportunities to purchase food on Phillip Island or during a stop on the way back. Some premium or overnight tours might include meals.
Q:Is Phillip Island accessible for people with mobility issues?
A: The Phillip Island Nature Parks has made efforts to improve accessibility. The main viewing platforms and boardwalks are generally accessible, but it's always best to check specific accessibility details with the tour operator or the Nature Parks directly.
Why Visit Phillip Island?
Witness the charming Penguin Parade, a world-renowned wildlife spectacle on Phillip Island.
Explore the rugged coastline and stunning ocean vistas unique to Phillip Island's shores.
Experience the thrill of watching Australian wildlife up close in their natural habitat.
Discover the island's maritime history at the nostalgic Nobbies Centre.
Enjoy fresh, local seafood and a relaxed island vibe you won't find elsewhere.
Connect with nature and create unforgettable family memories on this coastal gem.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Phillip Island experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Expect changeable weather year-round, often with sea breezes. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, though summer can bring occasional thunderstorms.
Best Months
The shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are ideal for visiting Phillip Island, offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant natural beauty.
Peak Season
Summer (December to February) is the peak season, bringing the warmest weather and busiest crowds, especially around holidays. Expect higher accommodation prices and a lively atmosphere across the island.
Off Season
Winter (June to August) is the off-season, characterized by cooler temperatures and potentially more rain. However, this is a great time for whale watching and enjoying a more tranquil island experience at lower prices.
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Plan Your Phillip Island Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Phillip Island is best done with your own vehicle, as public transport is limited. Renting a car in Melbourne and driving over offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, consider hopping on a tour bus from Melbourne if you prefer not to drive. Once on the island, most attractions are within a reasonable driving distance. Biking can be an option for shorter distances between Cowes and nearby attractions, but be prepared for some hilly terrain. Taxis are available but can be expensive for longer journeys.
Car Rental Deals in Phillip Island
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Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Phillip Island adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in Phillip Island
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