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Melbourne, with kids, Things to Do
Australia/Things to Do in Melbourne, with kids

Penguin Parade (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Penguin Parade?

80%Kids-Friendly
View Map

Children learn conservation through centre exhibits and family tours; ramps, pram parking and sensory packs help, yet late-evening timing, no-flash rule and cold seaside wind test young patience.

Google
Reviews4.4/ 5
(from 10,818 reviews)

Positives:

  • Educational Experience: Kids learn about penguin biology through hands-on displays at the Visitor Centre.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Quiet viewing areas let children see penguin behavior up close without disturbance.

Challenges:

  • Early Start: Arrive 1 hour before sunset for best viewing, which may be late in summer.
  • No Flash: Flashes are banned to protect penguin eyes; plan to adjust camera settings or enjoy the view without photos.

What is so special about Penguin Parade for with kids?

  1. Interactive Visitor Centre exhibits teach kids about penguins
  2. Scenic Nobbies boardwalk lets families spot seals before the parade
  3. General Viewing area offers safe, close seats for children
  4. Late afternoon parade matches kids’ energy and nap schedules
  5. Pram-friendly paths, sensory aids and family tickets simplify logistics
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Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A visit lasting 2-3 hours lets kids enjoy the Visitor Centre exhibits, boardwalks and the evening penguin parade without feeling rushed.

(View Penguin Parade on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Penguin Parade

Explore the Visitor Centre:

Interactive displays explain penguin life and island ecology.

Tip: Let kids try touchscreen games before dusk to learn penguin habits.

Walk the Nobbies Boardwalk:

Scenic coastal path with seal-spotting platforms.

Tip: Go 2 hours before parade to tire small legs and spot seals on rocks.

Enjoy the Penguin Parade:

Watch little penguins waddle from sea to burrows at sunset.

Tip: Book general viewing family tickets online and arrive 1 hour early for front-row seats.

Content Notice: Some content on this page may be written with the assistance of AI tools. We regularly update to ensure accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
General Viewing Family Ticket (2 A + 2 C)AUD 82.5
On-site snack at Chicks CaféAUD 50
Total EstimatedAUD 132.5

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

When is the best time to visit Penguin Parade?

Visit between September and January when breeding activity makes penguins more active and chicks often wobble behind parents.

How to Maximize Your Visit to Penguin Parade

  1. Book Online: Reserve tickets and select seats in advance to secure a family spot.
  2. Dress Warmly: Bring layers, wind-proof jackets and blankets as temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
  3. Use Prams: Utilize pram-friendly paths and pram parking at viewing stands for toddler comfort.

Map of Penguin Parade

Address: 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922, Australia

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Scroll down to view the interactive map

Reviews of Penguin Parade

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RZ

RZ

Aug 2025

Wonderful experience witnessing the world's smallest penguins walk to their burrows and find their mate. I'd recommend getting the premium ticket for a worthwhile viewing and more up close encounter with the penguins. Winter is the perfect time to visit as their activities vary with the seasons. Taking photos and videos of the penguins are not allowed.

Fan

Fan

Aug 2025

When in Melbourne, don't miss the world famous Penguin Parade! You can either drive yourself, or take a day tour from Melbourne, which we did. It definitely makes sense to upgrade, the viewing platform is right where the penguins arrive. We sat too low and we unfortunately did not see them arriving at the beach behind the small hill. It was amazing to see hundreds of these little penguins arrive...

Sujinda Jarubhat (CuteCuteChannel)

Sujinda Jarubhat (CuteCuteChannel)

Jul 2025

We visited the Penguin Parade at Phillip Island as a group of five and had a wonderful experience. We arrived around 4:30pm, which is the perfect time in winter since you need to be seated before the penguins return from the sea—usually around 5pm. We highly recommend booking premium seats in advance, as we did, for the best experience. We were fortunate to have clear weather on the day of our vi...

Gaurav B

Gaurav B

Jun 2025

What an incredible experience it was—truly beyond what I had hoped for! I highly recommend reserving your tickets in advance and arriving at least an hour before sunset; it really made a difference. There are lovely cafes where you can enjoy some food while you wait for the sunset and the arrival of the adorable penguins, but be mindful of the seagulls—they can be quite cheeky! Before entering, t...

Collins Voo

Collins Voo

Jun 2025

During my visit, penguin back to the shore at 5.40pm and estimated about 1400 penguin back to their house, so we have waited between 20 - 40 mins for the penguin back to their house. Its really freezing during month of june so during winter its recomended to wear thicker clothing as the wind quite strong. ⁶ Recomended to come at 4pm as gate open only at 4.30pm. Do buy penguin plus ticket to get be...

← See other Things to Do in Melbourne (with kids)

About Penguin Parade

Opening Hours

Monday:12:00 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday:12:00 – 8:00 PM
Wednesday:12:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday:12:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday:12:00 – 8:00 PM
Saturday:12:00 – 8:00 PM
Sunday:12:00 – 8:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+61 3 5951 2800

Price starts from

US$ 20.87
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Price starts from

US$ 20.87
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Book on Trip.com
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