The world-famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island is one of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions. Every evening at Summerland Beach, thousands of people gather to watch the little blue penguins (or tiniest penguins) waddle up the beach and burrow in the sand dunes. These little penguins follow what’s called the penguin highway as they make their way back to their nesting sites. But seeing the Phillip Island Penguin Parade up close usually requires a ticket. So, if you’re wondering if you can catch a glimpse of these cuties without paying, we’ll look at some free and low-cost viewing options and alternative activities so you can enjoy the whole Phillip Island experience.
The Purpose of the Parade Ticket Fee
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is part of Phillip Island Nature Parks, a not-for-profit organisation that protects and preserves the island’s fragile environment and wildlife. The entry fee goes towards the cost of the visitor centre, staff, interactive displays and viewing infrastructure to support the penguin’s natural habitat. Nature Parks uses these funds to support conservation projects and research into the penguin colonies, including the largest colony on Phillip Island. The ticket price also goes towards the conservation of other Australian animals, like the Australian fur seals at Seal Rocks and koalas at Koala Park. You can be sure your money is going directly towards protecting these iconic animals and the Phillip Island environment.
Are There Free Ways to See the Penguins?
While you can’t see the penguin parade up close without paying, here are a few creative ways to experience penguin viewing and Phillip Island’s wildlife:
The Nobbies Boardwalk
The Nobbies Boardwalk near Summerland Beach is a free attraction on Phillip Island. It’s not part of the official Penguin Parade, but it has great views of the coastline, treetop boardwalks and sometimes penguins in the distance. The Nobbies Centre has interactive displays about the island’s marine ecosystem, and you can often see Australian fur seals on the rocks at Seal Rocks. You may see penguins in the distance, but Nobbies offers more distant penguin encounters than the up-close viewing at the Penguin Parade.
Book During Off-Peak for Cheaper Tickets
If you’re visiting during school holidays, weekends or public holidays, the Penguin Parade can get very busy, and tickets sell out fast. However, you can sometimes find cheaper tickets during off-peak hours. Buying your Penguin Parade View Ticket in advance or visiting during the cooler months can also get you more affordable ticket options, including Penguins General Viewing and Penguins Premium tickets, so you can get up close and personal with the penguins.
Other Phillip Island Nature Park attractions
The Parks Pass – Penguin Parade ticket includes entry to the Penguin Parade and other Phillip Island Nature Parks attractions, like Churchill Island Heritage Farm. At Churchill Island, you can experience heritage farming and explore the historic buildings. Koala Park is also included with a Parks Pass where you can get up close and personal with koalas, wallabies and other native animals.
Melbourne Tours
Book a Phillip Island tours from Melbourne and get a hassle free and cost effective way to see the Penguin Parade and other nearby attractions like Summerlands Beach. These tours often include transport, entry fees and audio guides so you get the ultimate island experience and reduce the per attraction cost. Some even stop at Brighton Beach to see the bathing boxes or Thompson Avenue for some shopping before heading to Phillip Island.
Parade Viewing Options: Worth the Ticket Price
If seeing the actual parade is your main event, a ticketed Penguin Parade is the way to go. A Penguins Plus ticket gets you into a viewing platform near the Penguin highway for up close and personal, and Underground Viewing gets you eye level with the penguins in a specially designed underground viewing platform. These premium viewing options give you an in-depth look into the lives of these little penguins.
Special Viewing Options
- Penguins Plus: Like a penguin highway, this is the best views of the penguins as they waddle by.
- Underground: Get up close and personal with the penguins at eye level, without the crowds.
- Penguins Premium: The most exclusive up-close viewing experience with fewer people in the area.
Tips
- Dress Warm: Even in summer, the natural elements at Summerland Beach can be cool as the sun sets. Bring warm clothes and a blanket to stay cozy.
- Book in Advance: The Penguin Parade is a popular event. Book your tickets in advance to get the best views.
- Respect the Wildlife: Flash photography is not allowed as it can disturb the penguin colonies. Follow Nature Parks guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful visit for all.
- Special Needs: Assistance dogs with a medical certificate are allowed, and the facilities are designed to accommodate companion animals for visitors who need them.
So here’s the low down on the viewing options at Phillip Island, paid and free. Now, you can plan your trip and enjoy the penguins.
FAQ
Can I see the Penguin Parade from outside the ticketed area?
No, the Penguin Parade is in a restricted, ticketed area at Summerland Beach, where you can access the viewing platforms through the Phillip Island Visitor Information Centre. Free viewing is limited but you can see penguins from a distance at the Nobbies Boardwalk.
When do the penguins come?
They arrive at sunset every evening. Times vary with the season, so check the visitor centre or Nature Parks website before you visit. Visitors usually get there an hour before sunset for the best experience.
What’s included with the Penguin Parade ticket?
A Penguin Parade View Ticket includes access to the viewing platform at Summerland Beach, the Phillip Island Visitor Information Centre with interactive displays and information about the life cycle and conservation of the penguins. Premium options like Penguins Plus and Underground Viewing offer more.
Are there other wildlife on Phillip Island?
Yes! Phillip Island Nature Parks has other attractions like the Koala Park where you can get up close to koalas and Seal Rocks where you can see Australian fur seals. The Parks Pass – Penguin Parade also includes entry to Churchill Island Heritage Farm where you can do more activities and wildlife experiences.
What to bring?
Warm clothing is a must, especially for evening visits. Bring non-essential items as the area is exposed to the elements. Comfortable shoes, a red light torch and an audio guide are good to bring too.
