Get ready to waddle your way over to St Kilda, because you’ll soon be able to see the adorable Little Penguins once again. The penguin viewing area, which was temporarily closed as part of the St Kilda Pier redevelopment, has been transformed into a delightful new penguin viewing boardwalk. This experience now includes a 150-metre elevated platform, providing accessible entry, seating and excellent views over the colony. As always, it’s completely free to see the penguins. The only difference is that you’ll need to make a booking now, in order to better manage visitor numbers for the protection of the birds. Bookings are now open, and you can see the adorable St Kilda penguins from Wednesday October 29.
Little Penguins in St Kilda
The St Kilda Pier Breakwater is home to a colony of nearly 1,400 Little Penguins. After sunset, these sweet penguins make their way home, appearing from the water and steadily waddling to their burrows.
The new viewing experience comes after a settling-in period for the colony. This has given the penguins time to adjust to the bustling activity of the new pier, after a long break from visitors. It will be run by Phillip Island Nature Parks, who will guide and educate visitors about the penguins, while looking after the wellbeing of the penguins.
“Penguin protection is at the core of what we do on Phillip Island, and we’re excited to extend our experience to the St Kilda Penguin colony,” said Philip Island Nature Parks CEO Catherine Basterfield.
Volunteer group Earthcare St Kilda, who have watched over the colony for over 35 years, will continue to look after the health and wellbeing of the Little Penguins.
“We’re thrilled to be able to carry on that legacy and share the joy they bring to people from around the world,” said Earthcare St Kilda president Lana Austin.
Viewing the penguins
There’s two different sessions for you to book. The first session takes place after sunset, when you can observe the penguins leave the water and return to their burrows. The second session takes place at night, when you can watch them chatter away as they settle in to their burrows. During your session, you can hear stories and insights from helpful guides.
Once the experience opens, you’ll be able to visit the penguins all year round. This is an all weather activity, so if rain is forecast for the night, it’s best to bring a raincoat or poncho. An extra layer like a jumper is also a good idea, because the pier can get quite cool and windy. You’re welcome to bring binoculars to help you spot the groups of penguins at sunset. Torches are not allowed, because the penguins have sensitive eyes. For this reason, you will also need to keep the flash on your camera or phone off throughout the experience.
đź“ŤPier Rd, St Kilda, VIC 3182
🎫Free!
To make your booking or learn more, click here.