Prime viewing opportunities of these adorable birds are now possible thanks to a new elevated viewing platform.

We’d argue the best (and cutest) thing to do in Melbourne is go penguin spotting. No matter the weather, you can spot adorable little penguins every night on the shores of this coastal suburb, and now, you can view their playful selves for free from the newly upgraded Penguin Viewing Experience. 

Standing at just 30 centimetres tall, these sweet birds have lived on the St Kilda breakwater since the 1970s as the rocks created perfect nesting sites for them. The adorable penguin parade occurs each evening at sunset when a colony of around 1400 little penguins emerge from the ocean after a busy day of hunting and waddle up the rocks to feed their chicks the catch of the day. 

The natural phenomenon draws in kids, animal lovers and tourists alike, with the renovated 150-metre elevated boardwalk providing accessible, close-up views of the penguin colony as well as views across Port Phillip Bay. 

Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor shared her delight at the opening. “We are thrilled to welcome back family and friends to visit our penguin colony right in the heart of St Kilda. It provides a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else in Melbourne."

The opening marks a major milestone in the Victorian Government’s $53 million St Kilda Pier upgrade, which includes the curved walkway, warm lighting that is penguin-friendly, tiered seating, revamped community spaces and upgraded amenities near the kiosk.

Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos highlighted that the new experience is set to boost visitation to the city. “The free penguin experience at St Kilda will bring families up close to these iconic animals and draw in thousands of visitors to our city each year."

We can confirm that the birds are well looked after, being protected by Earthcare St Kilda, a volunteer group working with Parks Victoria, and Penguin Rangers patrol. The colony was allowed time to adjust to the changes and get comfortable with the new experience before it was opened to the public.

Earthcare St Kilda president Lana Austin shared their dedication to the well-being of the penguins. “Earthcare St Kilda has been watching over this special colony of little penguins for almost 40 years, and we’re thrilled to be able to carry on that legacy and share the joy they bring to people from around the world." 

There are two different one-hour viewing sessions for visitors: a dusk viewing to see the penguins return from the sea, and a nighttime viewing when the penguins are active and settling into their burrows. 

Each session is run by knowledgeable guides who know everything there is to know about little penguins and who can answer any questions you have. Visitors are encouraged to respect the penguins by avoiding flash photography and loud noises and to keep to designated viewing areas. Bookings are essential and can be made up to six months in advance.

Make an evening out of it by booking a table at one of St Kildas best restaurants.