Such adorable sites are found on Phillip Island which encompasses some of the best attractions in Australia though among them the Phillip Island Penguin Parade unique remains a favorite for the families visiting the island. In here, family members to the event can take part in one of the loveliest experiences that is the little penguins coming out of the ocean after fishing and hurriedly waddling up the shore to their sand dune burrows. This event is filled with fun for young and old and is definitely an attraction that should not be missed. Alongside the cute penguins at Summerland Beach, or whichever activity, family fun and enjoyment comes automatically on Phillip Island.
The Magic of Phillip Island
A holiday on Phillip island evokes the greatest memories for those who have experienced it especially the kind of wildlife experiences you have while on the island as a result of their rugged coastlines and natural scenery. It was observed that the native animals are also found on the island such as populations of koalas, fur seals and Little Penguins among other animals. More so, families are allowed to engage in various activities hopping around the island from the peaceful stretch of Cowes Beach to the stunning high cliffs of Cape Woolamai. Also, the island has other wildlife attractions like the koala park and Churchill Island heritage farm where children can participate and witness various events like milking cows and cutting sheep’s wool.
Visiting the Phillip Island Penguin Parade
The inhabitants of the Penguin Parade at Phillip Island are guarantee of the viewing of the parade that commences once the penguins are back from the ocean each night. Families are, however, able to appreciate the unprecedented viewing experience from both the general viewing deck as well as the underwater viewing dome because of the limited numbers held within it. These include enabling particular families’ requests such as having them watching the stirring progression of the penguins going to their homes, along their highway, preceded by the ancient sailors paralleling that yet active route.
Getting to Phillip Island
Traveling to Phillip Island from Melbourne is pretty much straightforward, and moreover, the trip itself guarantees families an educative trip around the beautiful sights of Victoria. Phillip island lies approximately 140 kilometers east of Melbourne and there also facilities such as a Parks Pass that can be used to take with you among other sites, the Koala Conservation Reserve and Phillip Island Wildlife Park, and Churchill Island Heritage Farm. In addition, whether in the comfort of your car or in a guided group with listening devices, this route has and pass several fantastic coastal views including Ventnor Road and Pyramid Rock.
| Travel Mode | Estimated Travel Time | Family-Friendly Features |
|---|---|---|
| Car | 2 hours | Flexibility to stop along scenic spots like Ventnor Rd and Cape Woolamai beach |
| Public Bus | 2.5-3 hours | Affordable and comfortable, with stops at popular attractions like Phillip Island Nature Parks |
| Guided Phillip Island Penguin Parade tour | 2 hours | Includes personal headsetfor an informative tour, making it easy for kids to follow along |
Family-Friendly Viewing Options
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade has several family viewing options. For families who wish to ‘get up close and personal’ with the penguins, there is a 25-metre window within the underground viewing area from where families can see the Little Penguins on their ‘penguin highway’. The standard general viewing deck allows nearly Border Collies the sight of watching honed penguins rush from the sea’s expanse to their nests behind the pebbles´ unimpeded space of one’s horizontals. There’s even a sea view, where One can sit on Summerland Beach, the edges in jeopardy of over-wash by the sable sea and when the sun sets, weary penguins are sighted hurrying home..
Educational Programs for Kids
Phillip Island Nature Parks has additional activities and exhibits oriented to kids. At the visitor centre of the Penguin parade children can learn about penguins through various activities that include the penguin’s life cycle, issues about their environment and how to conserve it. Similarly, every parent can take kids on a day trip to Churchill Island where children will participate in activities like feeding cows and shaving sheep contributing to farming education.
Dining and Relaxation for Families
After a long day of activities, families can always settle down in the shepherds hut cafeteria of the lovely Phillip Island Penguin Parade or in picnic restaurants nearby. When it comes to family friendly meal solutions, there you will find a few other restaurants in the area – astounding Pannys Phillip Island Chocolate Factory offers its clients the largest chocolate fountain in the world and mouths watering desserts as well as Phillip Island Winery for the parents, while kids can have delicious desserts. Or families may go to Smiths Beach where they may play beach cricket, Cowes Main Beach is a sandy beach with calm water suitable for swimming which can be used for socializing at night at the beach.
Ranger Guided Tours
Enhance your stay by participating in a ranger-led Phillip Island tour. The Phillip Island Nature Parks rangers explain different aspects of the penguin’s life, ranging from feeding to the penguin highway which is used to return home. These include a close-up viewing of the penguin’s habitat and the members of the educated colony and the head of the colony where people are allowed to ask questions. With such tours, it is possible to go even further to other island activities like Seal Rocks which is regarded as the largest fur seal colony in Australia by families or other tourist and Pyramid Rock featuring exceptionally sculptured rocks with magnificent ocean view surrounding it.
Conclusion
Taking a Phillip Island day trip, especially attending the Penguin Parade is an ideal adventure for the family that is very hard to compare with any other. There is a wide range of characteristics the island possesses, education programs, relaxation opportunities with beautiful scenery and focus on one of the wildest creatures of Australia -and these are a complete set for the entertainment of all age groups. Kids of all ages will come back with wonderful memories, watching penguins, discovering the interiors of the island, or spending time on the picturesque beaches.
FAQ
When do the penguins get to Penguin Parade?
The penguins are usually there to greet the guests at sunset. The exact time of the penguins is somewhat seasonal, so please do refer to the standby schedule on the day of the event.
Are there any other animals available apart from Penguins at Phillip Island?
Certainly, apart from penguins, there are many other Australian wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, emus, that can be seen in the Koala Conservation Reserve and Phillip Island Wildlife Park.
Are there suitable beaches for children close to the Penguin Parade?
Sure! Smiths beach and Cowes beach are both good places even for kids. They are quite protected and safe for the children as they offer safe swimming and the kids can also play there.
What are the best family viewing options at the Penguin Parade?
Both the underground viewing area and the viewing platform are very good options for families who want a comfortable yet good view of the penguins. If you would like to get a bit more of a personal experience try the up close viewing area at the very edge of Summerland beach.
What other family fun activities can be done at Phillip island?
Phillip Island offers all sorts of activities such as going to the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, Seal Rock, or even going on a flight Phillip Island tours with for stunning views of the island.