Penguin Parade Seating & Viewing Options compared
The best viewing option is Penguins Plus for close proximity to the penguins, while Underground Viewing is best for cold or rainy weather because it is fully indoors. Standard General Admission is the most affordable but places you much further away.
👁️ Seating Comparison Summary
Comparison: The Three Seating Tiers
How do the options stack up for closeness, elevation, comfort, and value? Review our comparison details below.
1. General Admission (Concrete Bleachers)
Located on the far-left side of Summerland Beach. While you get a wide view of the ocean, the penguins cross the beach further to the right. By the time they waddle up into the dunes near this stand, they have dispersed. You will need to watch their initial arrival on the beach from a distance.
- Distance to Penguins: 15 to 30 meters at the beach; closer as you walk back along the exit boardwalks.
- Best For: Budget travelers, large group bookings, last-minute planners.
- Tip: Once the parade starts, you can stand up and walk along the boardwalks to see penguins closer.
2. Penguins Plus (Specialist Stand)
Designed in collaboration with wildlife rangers, this stand sits directly adjacent to the main sand route that the largest colony of penguins uses. It is shaped like an amphitheater boardwalk, placing you very close to their track.
- Distance to Penguins: 1 to 3 meters. They waddle right past the wooden edge of the stand.
- Best For: Wildlife photographers (who just want to watch closely), couples, and standard tourists.
3. Underground Viewing (Eye-Level Bunker)
An indoor room placed under the Penguins Plus boardwalk. You stand or sit behind long, low glass panels. Because the ground outside is at the bottom of the window, you are looking horizontally at the penguins' feet and bellies as they walk by.
- Distance to Penguins: 1 to 2 meters.
- Best For: Families with children, elderly visitors, and winter travelers.
- Note: Fully sheltered from rain, wind, and coastal gales.
Detailed Comparison Table
| Feature | General Admission | Penguins Plus | Underground Viewing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Price | $32.00 AUD | $90.00 AUD | $90.00 AUD |
| Proximity | Moderate (15m+) | Close (1-3m) | Close (1-2m) |
| Weather Shelter | None | None | Full (Climate Controlled) |
| Capacity | ~2,000 seats | ~300 seats | 70 seats |
| Seating Type | Concrete tiers | Wooden tiers | Indoor standing/seating |
FAQ: Viewing Options
Can I change my seating tier after arrival?
No. Upgrades are not available at the venue as premium stands are booked to capacity. You must stick to the ticket tier printed on your voucher.
Is there wheelchair access for all stands?
Yes. All three options are wheelchair accessible. General Viewing has dedicated spaces at the top of the concrete stands, and both Penguins Plus and Underground Viewing are fully accessible via ramps and elevators.
Where is the best spot to see penguins up close?
For beach viewing, Penguins Plus is the best stand. However, the best overall up-close views are actually on the elevated boardwalks leading back to the visitor center. All ticket holders have access to these boardwalks, where penguins waddle directly beneath the timber pathways.