Phillip Island, a little island off the southern coast of Australia, is a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and thousands of visitors each year. Famous for the Phillip Island Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach, this small island has so much more to offer than just penguins: beautiful beaches, native wildlife and stunning ocean views make it one of the most popular day trip destinations from Melbourne. Whether you’re here to see the fairy penguins or to relax in the scenery, this guide will help you plan the best time to visit with a seasonal breakdown so you can make the most of your trip to Phillip Island.
Penguin Viewing Through the Seasons
Summer (December to February)
Summer on Phillip Island is busy and fun. It’s the peak season for tourists. With long, warm days, you can explore the island’s beautiful beaches, Surf Beach, Brighton Beach and Smiths Beach, where the water is crystal clear and the sand is soft. In the evening, the Penguin Parade begins as little penguins (or fairy penguins) waddle up the beach to their burrows at Summerland Beach. Because of the longer days in summer, the penguins arrive later in the evening, so it’s perfect for those who want to have a full day of outdoor activities before the parade.
Plus penguins, summer has plenty of time to explore Phillip Island Nature Parks and Seal Rocks, home to one of the largest fur seal colonies. You can also have wildlife encounters at the Koala Conservation Reserve, take in the views at Pyramid Rock or walk the rugged coastline of the George Bass Coastal Walk.
Pros: Warm weather, long days, many activities and tours
Cons: Late penguin arrivals, big crowds in peak season
Autumn (March to May)
Autumn on Phillip Island is cooler and less crowded, perfect for those who want a more peaceful and educational experience. The penguins arrive earlier in the evening, so you don’t have to stay out as late. Autumn is also a great time to visit the Koala Conservation Centre or take a day trip to Churchill Island Heritage Farm to experience Australia’s agricultural history and try cow milking.
The island’s towns, San Remo, included, have a chill vibe, and the George Bass Coastal Walk is for those who love the rugged coastline. Phillip Island looks its best in autumn, which is a season of relaxation and discovery.
Pros: Less crowded, earlier penguin arrival, peaceful for nature lovers
Cons: Cooler evenings and shorter days
Winter (June to August)
Winter is the quiet season at Phillip Island, so it’s the perfect time for wildlife enthusiasts and those who like to go to the beach themselves. The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is less busy, so it’s a more intimate experience with the wildlife. Since the sun sets earlier, the penguin parades start earlier, so you won’t have to wait as long for the nightly parade. In winter you can get up close to the action without the crowds so it’s a more special experience.
The southern coast of Phillip Island has spectacular views of Seal Rocks.
Pros: Early penguin arrival, fewer tourists, intimate viewing. Cons: Cold weather, fewer outdoor activities due to weather
Spring (September to November)
Spring is a great time for nature lovers to visit Phillip Island. The island’s native flora is in bloom and the island is looking colourful. With warmer weather and breeding season in full swing, you may even see penguin chicks at Summerlands Beach. Spring is a busy time to visit as the weather is perfect, and you have the added chance to see young penguins venturing out of their burrows for the first time. Phillip Island Nature Parks also run educational programs during this time, so it’s a great season for families and those interested in conservation.
In addition to the Penguin Parade you can also do Phillip Island Tours that visit various wildlife sanctuaries and offer views from different locations including Nobbies Centre and Pyramid Rock. The Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm are also a must visit in spring where you can learn about conservation and explore historic grounds.
Pros: Good weather, penguin chicks, moderate crowds
Cons: Unpredictable weather, variable crowds
Tips
- Get There Early: The best viewing experience is an hour before sunset. Get to Summerland Beach early to secure a spot on the viewing platform for the Penguin Parade.
- Please dress in Layers: Even in the warmer months, it can get cold after sunset. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket.
- Book Your Viewing Tickets in Advance: Tickets sell out during peak season, especially in summer. Booking in advance guarantees you get into popular day trips and special viewing options.
- Go Beyond the Penguins: Phillip Island has so much more to offer, from walking trails at Pyramid Rock to the peaceful Koala Conservation Centre. If you have time, add a Melbourne River Cruise to Phillip Island or stop by the Healesville Sanctuary.
More Than Penguins: Phillip Island
Beyond penguins, Phillip Island has heaps of other fun stuff to do. Stay at Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island or Kaloha Holiday Resort and check out the rock formations at Kitty Miller Bay. From the Koala Conservation experience to cruising around Seal Rocks with Wildlife Coast Cruises, there’s something for every kind of traveller. Don’t miss the Moonlit Sanctuary, a wildlife sanctuary where you can see other Aussie wildlife, and finish the day with a quiet walk along the bay beaches of Phillip Island.
Phillip Island is more than just a place to watch penguins – it’s an experience for anyone who wants to see Australian wildlife and scenery. Whether you’re here for the penguins, the rugged coastline, or to take in the views from Pyramid Rock, Phillip Island is a destination that delivers.
FAQ
When is the best time to see penguins at Phillip Island?
March to May and September to November are the best months, with moderate crowds and good weather to visit the penguin colony and other attractions like Churchill Island.
What time do the penguins come out?
Penguins come ashore at dusk. Earlier in winter and later in summer.
Can I see penguins during the day?
Penguins are at sea during the day. But you can visit the Nobbies Centre to learn about the penguins’ habitat and other Aussie wildlife.
Are there baby penguins?
Yes! Spring is a great time to visit as penguin chicks are hatching and you can see the start of the penguin life cycle.
Do I need to book tickets for the Penguin Parade?
Yes. Tickets sell out fast, especially in summer. Booking in advance gives you more options and a better spot.
