Today was a bit of a strategic transit day. I made the trek from Torquay over to Phillip Island, but instead of battling the Melbourne traffic, I took the shortcut: the ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento. It’s a scenic 45-minute crossing that saves so much stress—highly recommended if you’re following a similar route!
The big draw here is the Summerland Peninsula, home to an staggering 40,000 Little Penguins—the largest colony in Australia. These guys are special; they are the smallest penguin species in the world (standing just 33 cm tall and weighing a tiny 1 kg) and they’re the only ones sporting unique blue and white feathers.
I headed down to the famous Penguin Parade to see them for myself. Just a heads-up for anyone visiting: photography isn’t allowed after sunset to protect the penguins’ sensitive eyes (so while the first shot is mine, the others are courtesy of the park!).
The vibe at the viewing area was cozy but chilly. We were all huddled together, wrapped up in warm blankets to block out the freezing coastal wind, waiting for the magic to happen. It was absolutely wonderful to see them finally emerge from the surf. They don’t have a “leader” or a queen; instead, the bravest little guy in the group just decides to go for it, leading the charge across the sand and into the safety of the scrub.
On the walk back to the visitor center, it got even better—the penguins were waddling along right next to the path! It was such an intimate way to end the night. I had to take the drive to my accommodation pretty slowly in the pitch black afterward, but luckily, I didn’t encounter any wildlife on the road.
Next stop: Staying local on the island or heading further east? Stay tuned!
