Penguin Island is a captivating 12.5-hectare nature reserve located off the coast near Perth, Western Australia, approximately 660 metres from Shoalwater. It lies within the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and offers a pristine natural setting with stunning coastal and marine scenery. The island is renowned for housing the largest colony of little penguins on the west coast of Australia, alongside diverse wildlife including dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, pelicans, and ospreys. Visitors enjoy the serene and unspoilt environment that provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation and ecological appreciation.
Accessible by a brief 5-minute ferry ride from Shoalwater Bay, Penguin Island provides a peaceful retreat with a relaxed vibe perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. The island is managed as a Conservation Park by the Department of Parks and Wildlife, with facilities such as the Penguin Experience Discovery Centre and improved recreational amenities enhancing the visitor experience. The island is open daily from mid-October to early June, supporting sustainable tourism while preserving its extraordinary natural beauty and wildlife heritage.
With each visit, guests can connect closely with nature through educational and recreational activities, making it one of Western Australia's premier ecotourism destinations. Its proximity to Perth makes it a favored day trip, combining wildlife encounters with stunning beach and marine environments.