Teeming with wildlife and home to the west’s largest colony of Eudyptula minor (little penguins), Penguin Island is just a short ferry boat ride or kayak paddle from the Australian mainland.
There are no native mammals on the island, but the odd sea lion visits the island. This nature preserve is home to over 600 breeding pairs of penguins. They share the island with 30 other species of birds.
The island gives the birds a unique place to breed and raise their young protected from predators.
Getting to Penguin Island
You can take a ferry from the mainland or kayak to the island. You can also take advantage of the many charter boat trips to the island.
One of the most popular is the glass bottom boat that takes you to the island and gives you a 45-minute tour of the wildlife sanctuary zone to view sea lions and penguin feedings.
You can also take a 90-minute cruise and see more of the marine park and wildlife.
Feed the Penguins at Discovery Centre
Once you get to the island, you can go to the Discovery Centre at 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm to feed the penguins that call the centre home.
Be sure to look out for the leader of the pack, Piggy (named for his huge appetite), and his lifelong partner and only female of the 10 resident little penguins, Gerry. They have two chicks, Nemo and Sassy.
The rest of the group Includes six other penguins that have been rescued or been badly injured. The feedings usually last about 20 minutes; afterwards, rangers are available to answer visitors’ questions.
Built in 1987, The Discovery Centre was constructed by the Department of Environment and Conservation. It serves as an educational facility and a sanctuary for injured wild penguins.
It was designed to resemble the penguin’s natural habitat, with a sandy scrub environment and a saltwater pond. The pond has viewing panels to watch the little penguins play and swim.
Sandy Beaches
If you love the water, Penguin Island is the perfect getaway. You can swim, snorkel, and kayak the crystal clear waters to get the adrenaline rush you need. Snorkeling equipment is available for rental on the island or you can bring your gear over on the ferry.
You can also fish the island’s waters or enjoy stand-up paddling along the chain of limestone reefs.
The calm, shallow rock pools also make Penguin Island the perfect playground for families with young children.
Explore Penguin Island’s Nature Trails
Penguin Island is a must-see destination for nature lovers. The island is home to many sea birds during nesting season, which sees its highlight from September to December. The Bridal Terns return from Borneo each year in late October and early November.
Like the pelicans, the King Skinks call the island home all year. From September to December, you can also spot humpback whales on the island’s west side.
Penguin Island is truly a unique nature reserve in Western Australia. With some of the most popular trails in the country and the little penguin colony the island offers many chances to experience wild Australia and explore its natural wonder.
Conservation in Action: New Strategies and Hope
The crisis on Penguin Island has galvanized a broad coalition of scientists, conservationists, and government agencies.
In December 2025, the Cook Labor Government established an independent Little Penguin Advisory Group, bringing together marine scientists, park coordinators, and local representatives to guide conservation actions.
The group’s mandate includes:
- Reviewing the latest research and identifying knowledge gaps
- Prioritizing urgent conservation measures
- Collaborating with universities, NGOs, and community groups
- Advising on management strategies to support the penguins’ recovery
Recent initiatives include:
- Extending the island’s winter closure period to protect breeding penguins
- Shelving plans for a discovery centre to minimize disturbance
- Closing the island to visitors on days when temperatures exceed 35°C
- Installing insulated nest boxes and misting systems to reduce heat stress
- Providing water bowls, managing weeds, and rehabilitating native vegetation
- Enforcing speed restrictions for boats near the island
A Sanctuary for More Than Penguins
While the little penguins are the island’s star attraction, Penguin Island is a haven for a diverse array of wildlife:
- Pelicans: A colony of around 500 pelicans nests here year-round.
- Sea Lions and Dolphins: Regular sightings of Australian sea lions and playful dolphins are a highlight for visitors.
- Seabirds: The island is a critical breeding site for migratory birds such as bridal terns and is home to over 50 species of seabirds.
- King Skinks: These large, friendly lizards are often spotted basking in the sun.
- Marine Life: The surrounding waters teem with stingrays, seals, and a rich diversity of fish, making it a hotspot for snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours.
See Also:
Iconic Film Locations in India Where Famous Bollywood Movies Are Made