St Kilda’s Little Penguins: A magical experience
Think little penguins, think Phillip Island. Right?
Well, we have news for you. You can also see iconic penguins waddling ashore and into their rocky homes just a short tram ride from the city.
Welcome to St Kilda Pier penguin viewing — home to a new, up-close, and very special experience.
See Penguins at St Kilda Pier
The area has been home to little penguins (formerly nicknamed ‘fairy penguins’) since the St Kilda Breakwater was built in 1956 for the Olympic Games sailing. While not built with penguins in mind, the birds decided the volcanic rocks made ideal burrows, allowing them to keep relatively warm in winter and cool in summer. The gaps between the rocks also meant penguins, their eggs and chicks are well hidden from seagulls and other predators.
Scientists believe the first penguins to arrive at St Kilda came from the large colony at Phillip Island. Over the following decades, visitors began gathering to watch the penguins every night, and community concern was instrumental in the formation of the Earthcare organisation.
Earthcare St Kilda began researching the little penguin colony in 1986 with just a few dedicated researchers. As the colony grew, so did the team and its responsibilities. Researchers began leading weekend tours and monitoring penguin safety, while the colony continued to gain popularity with tourists.
The pandemic-era closure of the breakwater gave the colony a welcome reprieve — and it thrived. Today, about 1400 penguins calling St Kilda home.
An upgraded pier
Last year, alongside the upgrade of the historic St Kilda Pier, a new dedicated penguin viewing platform was opened. Every day and night, visitors and locals stroll along the pier, enjoying the views across the marina to the gleaming city skyline. It is a magical part of Melbourne.
Come dusk, it is even more special. At twilight, and then again later in the evening, ticket holders (bookings are essential) can visit the accessible entry platform, complete with seating, for prime views over the penguin colony. Sessions are limited to 150 people. Phillip Island Nature Parks and Earthcare St Kilda lead groups twice nightly, at sunset and after dark.
What to expect at the Penguin Viewing Experience
The penguins spend their days swimming and foraging for food in the waters of Port Phillip Bay before returning to shore each evening.
At our 9 pm session (during daylight saving), we spot about eight little penguins on the sand — some chirping to each other — and watch in delight as they waddle towards the rocks and leap from one to another.
Our guide explains it happens to be a quiet night: the colony is in its ‘catastrophic molt’ period, when penguins shed all their old feathers at once. During this time, they lose their waterproofing and cannot swim or hunt, forcing them to live off stored fat reserves on land. On a typical night, many more penguins can be seen coming ashore.
Our guides were terrific – chatting with locals and overseas visitors, answering questions, and addressing the whole group with insights into the penguins’ daily routines.
You’re welcome to take photos and video, but no flash photography or torches are permitted.
Plan your visit
The experience is free. Tickets must be booked in advance. For session times and bookings, visit penguins.org.au
How to get to St Kilda Pier
Getting there is refreshingly easy — no car required.
From Melbourne CBD, jump on a tram towards St Kilda (Route 16, 96 or 12 are all handy options). It’s about a 20–30 minute tram ride, depending on where you hop on. Get off near The Esplanade and enjoy a gentle, flat walk to the pier.
If you prefer to drive, there is limited parking around St Kilda foreshore and near Pier Road, though it can fill quickly — especially on warm evenings and weekends. Allow extra time so you’re not rushing before your session. Paid parking at St Kilda Seabaths is another option.
Accessibility at St Kilda Penguin Viewing
The new pier has been thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind.
There is a disability-compliant walkway along the pier, making it suitable for wheelchairs, mobility aids and those who prefer a smooth, even surface. The viewing platform itself includes seating, so you’re not required to stand for long periods.
Accessible public toilets are available in the pavilion at the entry to the viewing platform.
Visitors with guide dogs, hearing dogs or registered assistance animals are welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes — tickets are limited, and bookings are essential. It’s best to secure your spot online before you go.
What time should I arrive?
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your session time. Sessions begin roughly 30 minutes after sunset, and your ticket will list the exact time.
How long does the experience go for?
Each session runs for around one hour.
What should I bring?
It can get surprisingly chilly on the pier, even after a warm day. Bring a jacket, and consider a rug for extra comfort on the seating. Binoculars are also handy if you have them.
What happens if it rains?
The experience runs in all weather conditions. Bring a raincoat or poncho if needed — umbrellas aren’t recommended.
Can I bring food or drinks?
Food and drink aren’t permitted on the viewing platform, and there are no rubbish bins on the pier — so plan accordingly.
Are there toilets nearby?
Yes — including a fully accessible option at the pavilion near the platform entrance.
Can I take photos?
Yes, but flash photography and torches are strictly not allowed, as they can distress the penguins.
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