The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous coastal drives, with views of the Southern Ocean, rainforests and wildlife. While it’s known for its cliffs and lookouts, it’s also home to one of Australia’s favourite animals – the Little Penguin. Also known as Fairy Penguins, you can spot them in several spots along the Great Ocean Road, it’s a must see for wildlife lovers. Whether you’re walking the trails of Port Campbell National Park or relaxing on the secluded beaches of Apollo Bay, the Great Ocean Road is a great place to see some of Australia’s favourite animals.
The Great Ocean Road: A Wildlife Lovers’ Paradise
The Great Ocean Road is more than just a beautiful drive; it’s a wildlife haven. From penguins to marine life of the Southern Ocean, the region’s natural environment is home to a wide range of animals. Visitors can see whales, penguins, Australian fur seals and native birds. Along with the wildlife the Great Ocean Road’s many national parks, including Port Campbell National Park and Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, have amazing views, walking tracks and even cultural heritage, including the stories of the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara peoples.
Where to See Penguins on the Great Ocean Road
If you want to see them in the wild, several spots along the Great Ocean Road are great for penguin watching.
Warrnambool and the Logans Beach Penguin Colony
Warrnambool is one of the best places to see Little Penguins, also known as Fairy Penguins. The Logans Beach Penguin Colony, just outside the town, has a growing population of these cuties. Visitors can head to the viewing platform which has great views of the penguins returning to their burrows after a day of fishing in the Southern Ocean. Logans Beach is one of the most popular penguin watching spots, especially minutes after sunset when the penguins start to waddle in. It’s a nature lover’s paradise and has great views of the surrounding coastline.
Apollo Bay: Less Busy, Still Beautiful
Apollo Bay is a lovely seaside town, a quieter alternative to the more popular penguin watching spots. The penguin colony here is smaller but still great to see these little guys in their natural habitat. The secluded beaches of Apollo Bay are perfect to watch penguins and with less people it feels more intimate and peaceful. If you want a place with a relaxed vibe and great parks nearby to base yourself to explore the Great Ocean Road without the crowds.
Best Time to See Penguins
Best time to see penguins on the Great Ocean Road is when they return to shore at night. Little penguins are nocturnal and they come ashore minutes after sunset to rest in their burrows or rookeries. Peak viewing time is at dusk and most active during breeding season which is October to March. But penguin sightings are possible all year round, just less frequent outside of breeding season.
Responsible Penguin Watching
Watching penguins in the wild is amazing but we need to be respectful of these shy creatures and their environment. Here are some tips for responsible penguin watching:
- Observe from a Distance: Penguins are shy and elusive animals so don’t disturb them. Stick to designated viewing areas and follow any entry requirements set by local conservationists.
- Don’t Flash Your Lights: Penguins are sensitive to bright lights so use natural light or fairy lights when watching them. No flash photography.
- Don’t Mess with the Environment: Penguins are part of a delicate ecosystem so don’t leave any waste behind and follow local conservation guidelines.
- Be Quiet and Wait: They will come ashore if not disturbed by noise. Arrive an hour before penguin arrival and you can settle in and enjoy the surroundings.
How to Get to the Great Ocean Road
Melbourne is the start of the Great Ocean Road and is easily accessible by air, rail or road. From Melbourne you can drive the Great Ocean Road which is over 240km long. Depending on where you’re starting from it takes around 3-4 hours to get to Warrnambool or Apollo Bay. If you want to see the penguins you should rent a car as it will give you the flexibility to stop at all the spots along the way. Or if you prefer a more structured experience there are guided Great Ocean Road tours available.
Conclusion
Whether you’re beachcombing in Apollo Bay or gazing at the cliffs of Port Campbell National Park the Great Ocean Road has plenty of opportunities to spot Australian wildlife including the most loved of them all – penguins. With its diverse ecosystems, stunning views and long standing partnerships with local conservation the Great Ocean Road is a wildlife watching experience you’ll never forget. By respecting the habitats and watching responsibly you’ll make sure these little guys will be here for future generations of visitors.
FAQ
Where can I see penguins on the Great Ocean Road?
Warrnambool’s Logans Beach Penguin Colony and Apollo Bay are the best places to see penguins. These areas have active penguin colonies and are great for viewing.
What time of day can I see penguins on the Great Ocean Road?
Penguins are nocturnal and come ashore minutes after sunset. Best time to see them is around dusk when they return to their burrows or nests after a day of fishing.
How can I watch penguins responsibly?
Use designated viewing areas, keep quiet, no flash photography and respect the habitats. Follow the guidelines from local visitor information centres and parks.
Can I visit the Great Ocean Road if I have a disability?
Yes, there are sensory inclusive sites and accessible experiences and beach wheelchairs at some locations along the Great Ocean Road so everyone can enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
What other wildlife can I see?
Apart from penguins the Great Ocean Road has Australian wildlife such as whales, dolphins, Australian fur seals, native birds and blue whales during their migration.