Penguins in Melbourne

Penguins in Melbourne

We're very lucky here in Victoria to have several species of penguin that call Melbourne home.

It's home to several natural fairy penguin colonies at St Kilda, Phillip Island and Middle Island (Warrnambool*) plus Melbourne Zoo and Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium.

* Because the penguins are still under threat, humans are not permitted on Middle Island; however, you can visit their canine protectors during summer and donate to the conservation effort.

There are rules to go penguin spotting safely, so please please (please) take note:

Can I take a photo of the penguins?
Yes but not flash photography

These little guys are sensitive to white and blue light, so if you're going to take a photo, be sure to turn your flash off. The same goes for using your phone torch; if you must use it, make sure you put red cellophane over the bulb to minimise the brightness.

How close can I get to the penguins?
Penguins are shy, so be quiet, still and out of their way so you don't scare them - keep a minimum of three metres distance.

Where to find penguins near Melbourne


Melbourne Zoo | Open & Tickets
Melbourne Zoo | Open & Tickets
Open 9am - 5pm daily - 365 Days a year* Melbourne Zoo is open every day of the year (including Christmas Day and all public holidays) * On high wind days the Melbourne Zoo .. Show More..

Middle Island and The Warrnambool Penguins
Middle Island and The Warrnambool Penguins
Middle Island is situated to the south of Warrnambool and has long been home to a colony of Little Penguins. Because the penguins are still under threat, humans are not permitte.. Show More..

Penguin Parade & Entry - Phillip Island Nature Parks
Penguin Parade & Entry - Phillip Island Nature Parks
Watch Little Penguins dash across the sand at sunset with a visit to the Penguin Parade. The explore the boardwalks after dark to see, smell and hear Little Penguins in the col.. Show More..

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium | Open & Tickets
Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium | Open & Tickets
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is open daily - every day of the year. 9:30am - 5pm - Last entry at 4pm We recommend approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for your exciting journey throu.. Show More..

St Kilda Little Penguins - Closed
St Kilda Little Penguins - Closed
The St Kilda breakwater is home to a colony of Little Penguins which currently numbers around 1,400. The nightly viewing at St Kilda Breakwater is currently (2022-2025) closed w.. Show More..

MelbourneVictoria




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Penguins in Melbourne 


Disclaimer: Check with the venue (web links) before making plans, travelling or buying tickets.

Accessibility: Contact the venue for accessibility information.





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Penguins in Melbourne