Penguin Island is a small 12.5-hectare island off the coast of Western Australia that is home to the largest colony of little penguins in the region. It has diverse wildlife, coastal scenery, and is an ecologically sustainable tourism destination. Visitors can view seabirds and penguin feedings at the Discovery Center several times a day from September to June.

1. Penguin Island is a truly unique place. Only 42
kilometres from the centre of Perth, it is home to a
diverse array of wildlife and boasts breathtaking marine
and coastal scenery. It is home to the largest colony of
little penguins on the west coast and probably Western
Australia. The small, 12.5-hectare island is less than
700 metres off shore from the growing regional centre of
Rockingham.
Penguin Island, is one of the State's premier
ecologically sustainable nature-based tourism
destinations. The island has something special for
visitors of all ages, whether from the local or
metropolitan area, interstate or overseas. The waters
surrounding the island form the Shoalwater Islands
Marine Park.

2. Penguin Island abounds with seabirds, many of which are seldom
seen on the mainland. They are important seabird breeding sites.
Sixteen species use the Shoalwater Islands for courtship, nesting,
feeding and roosting. Little penguins breed in hollows under the
dense vegetation and in the limestone caves on Penguin Island.
There are also breeding colonies of silver gulls and bridled terns.
Other species commonly seen, but not usually breeding on the
islands, include crested, fairy and Caspian terns.

3. Commentaries and feeding of the little penguins in
the Discovery Center occurs at 10.30am,
12.30pm and 2.30pm.
Best season: The best time to visit is from Mid-
September to early June. The island is closed for
the rest of the year to protect the breeding
penguins from disturbance.
It cost $72 for a private adult tour or $82
for a family of 4.

4. Things you need to know
Where is it? 50 kilometres south of Perth.
Travelling time: Mersey Point is less than 45 minutes drive from Perth.
Access: The island is only open during the day. Ferry tours operate from Mersey Point from mid-September
to early June and leave for Penguin Island on the hour throughout the day. You can take a cruise around
the waters and islands of Shoalwater Bay, with an opportunity to view the sea lions lazing on Seal Island,
and the stroll around Penguin Island.
Visitors should note that access on Penguin Island is limited to walk trails and demarcated beaches only.
The rest of the island is a bird sanctuary area and access is strictly prohibited.
Facilities: There is a Penguin Experience Island Discovery Centre, as well as picnic tables and toilets on
the island.
Commentaries and feeding of the little penguins in the Discovery Center occurs at 10.30am, 12.30pm and
2.30pm.
Best season: The best time to visit is from Mid-September to early June. The island is closed for the rest of
the year to protect the breeding penguins from disturbance.
What to see and do: Exploring the island, snorkelling, surfing, swimming, picnicking and windsurfing are
also popular activities at Penguin Island. Spear guns and gidgees are not permitted on the island or in the
waters

5. What to bring
Swimmers, towel and sunscreen in summer
Warm clothing in winter for the cool nights

7. Phone: + 61 3 5951 2800
Fax: + 61 3 5956 8394
Email: info@penguins.org.au
Phillip Island Nature Parks'
P.O. Box 97
Cowes Victoria 3922