Location:

The Little Penguin Observation Centre is located on the Burnie foreshore, on Tasmania’s north-west coast. Set beside West Beach, the centre provides a safe and sustainable way to view little penguins (also called fairy penguins) as they return to shore after a day of feeding at sea. It’s easily accessible via a short walk from central Burnie, with parking nearby.

Top 3 things to do at the Little Penguin Observation Centre:

• Evening Penguin Viewing – Watch little penguins waddle ashore and make their way to their burrows. Volunteer guides are often present to provide information and ensure the penguins are protected.

• Learn About Penguin Conservation – Interpretive signs explain the penguins’ lifecycle, breeding behaviour, and the conservation work that helps protect this urban colony.

• Walk the Foreshore Boardwalk – Explore the coastal boardwalk and viewing platforms that link the centre with Burnie’s beaches, allowing you to see penguin habitats without disturbing them.

Best Time to See Penguins:

• Best viewing is at dusk, just after sunset, when penguins return from feeding.

• Peak season is September to March, during breeding and chick-rearing months, when penguin numbers are highest.

• Outside of summer, penguins can still be seen — just in smaller numbers.

• Arrive 15–30 minutes before sunset to get a good viewing spot and allow your eyes to adjust to the low light.

Dogs allowed:

No, dogs are not permitted near the observation centre or penguin habitat areas.

More information:

The Little Penguin Observation Centre is one of Tasmania’s best places to see penguins in their natural environment while still being close to a major town. The viewing area is designed to protect the colony, with low-impact lighting and fenced habitat zones. Burnie’s volunteers provide helpful insights into penguin behaviour and conservation, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for families and wildlife lovers.

Visitors should keep noise low, avoid bright lights or camera flash, and stay behind barriers to ensure the penguins are not disturbed. Whether you’re watching adults return from the sea or spotting fluffy chicks during breeding season, the centre offers a magical wildlife experience right on the edge of the city.