Explore The Neck and Penguin Rookery from Truganini Lookout

The Neck is a narrow strip of land that connects North and South Bruny Island. Climb the 260 wooden steps to Truganini Lookout and you’ll score a 360-degree panorama view of surf on one side, glass-calm D’Entrecasteaux Channel on the other, and mountains into the distance. Stick around after sunset, switch your torch to a red filter, and watch hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore, right beneath your boardwalk perch.

Truganini lookout: Best views on Bruny Island

360° coastal views

See Adventure Bay, the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, and distant Tasmanian mountains from the viewing platform.

Easy climb

Reach the lookout by climbing 97 wooden steps. Information panels along the way share local history and wildlife details.

Wildlife Spotting

Watch for seals, seabirds, and surfers enjoying the waves below.

Penguin watching at The Neck

Phillip Island penguins walking on sandy beach during Penguin Parade, Australia.
  • Ideal visiting season: September to February provides warmer weather and high penguin activity. Penguins usually arrive around sunset.
  • Penguin arrival tips:
    • Penguins arrive in small groups after dusk.
    • Stay quiet and keep behind the designated viewing fences.
  • Guidelines for viewing:
    • Avoid flash photography and loud noises.
    • Use red-light torches for visibility without disturbing penguins.

Facilities & visitor access

  • Pathways and lookouts:
    • A well-maintained 600m pathway connects the parking area to the main lookout.
    • Stable viewing platforms are available for wildlife watching.
  • Parking information:
    • Free parking, but limited spaces during busy periods.
    • No entry fee, but donations are appreciated.
  • Important visitor rules:
    • Dogs are not allowed during penguin season to protect them from disturbance and danger.
    • Always follow signs and stay on designated paths.

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Frequently asked questions about the Neck & Penguin Rookery

Visit just after sunset, especially from September to February, when little penguins return to their burrows after a day at sea.