Penguin Parade
The Penguin Parade is a viewing site on Phillip Island in Australia where a colony of little penguins returns to shore each evening after sunset. The location has tiered viewing platforms, underground glass viewing windows, and a visitor center with museum displays, a café, and retail shops.
Local residents began charging visitors to watch the penguins in the 1920s, starting a tourism tradition. A bridge built to the mainland in the 1940s brought more visitors but also caused damage to nests and habitats, leading to conservation measures in the 1960s.
The penguins have been part of Phillip Island for thousands of years and shaped how local people connect with the coast. Watching them return home each evening has become a shared ritual that links the community and visitors to the natural cycles of this place.
Arrive about one hour before sunset, as the penguins only come ashore when it gets dark. Viewing times change throughout the year, so check the schedule ahead of your visit. The site is accessible with free parking, ramps, and wide pathways for visitors with mobility needs.
Visitors are often surprised by how small and delicate these penguins are, sometimes no taller than 12 inches (30 cm). Their waddling gait and curious behavior create a charming sight that feels both comical and touching to watch.
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