Penguin Island Penguin Island

Located 45 minutes south of Perth and a 5-minute ferry ride across Shoalwater Bay, Penguin Island is one of Australia’s premier nature-based tourism destinations. Venture to Penguin Island and you’ll come face to feathered face with the largest colony of little penguins on the west coast, more than 1200 of them share their island home with over 50 species of seabirds and rare Australian sea lions. This is your best opportunity to see these creatures as they’re shy and spend most daylight hours feeding at sea or hidden in their burrows. Penguin Island lies in the heart of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park which abounds with wildlife including dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, pelicans and seabirds. Underwater there are reefs and sea-grass meadows for snorkelers to enjoy. On the island, nature lovers can explore boardwalks and lookouts. Enjoy a picnic overlooking a beach – perfect for children to have a swim while parents relax. Penguin Island closes from early June to mid September each year for the little penguin nesting season. Perth Wild Encounters operates an hourly ferry service to Penguin Island from 15 September to early June (costs apply). They also offer a range of cruises to explore more of the marine park.