As spring arrives on Tasmania’s North-West Coast, one of Devonport’s most loved wildlife experiences is beginning again.
Penguin season is returning to Lillico Beach Conservation Area, where little penguins make their nightly journey from the sea back to their burrows. The reserve is one of the best places in Tasmania to see these remarkable birds in the wild, with viewing platforms and passionate volunteer guides helping visitors enjoy the experience responsibly.
Watching little penguins return from a day at sea and make their way home across the beach is one of Devonport’s most memorable wildlife encounters. There’s no staged performance, just the chance to quietly observe nature. Lillico Beach is also a free nightly activity, making it an easy addition to any Tasmanian itinerary.
Before you visit, check the latest updates and viewing conditions on the Lillico Penguins Facebook page, as weather and wildlife activity can affect nightly sightings.
While you’re here, stay overnight. Devonport is well worth more than a quick stop, with great food, waterfront walks, beaches, arts and culture to explore. Don’t miss From Sky to Sea, the free nightly sound and light show on the Mersey River foreshore, celebrating the natural beauty and stories of the region
If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania this spring or summer, be sure to add an overnight stay in Devonport to your itinerary – an evening at Lillico Beach might just be the highlight of your visit.
Tip: Remember to keep noise to a minimum, stay within designated viewing areas, and avoid using torches or flash photography to help protect the penguins and their habitat.