Nestled on the stunning north-west coast of Tasmania, Penguin is a picturesque seaside town renowned for its quirky sense of humour and laid-back coastal lifestyle. The town embraces its name proudly — you’ll find penguin statues and bins, and even a Big Penguin standing tall by the waterfront.
With its main street right beside the beach, the town offers spectacular views across Bass Strait to the north, with the fertile farmlands and Dial Ranges rising behind it. This unique blend of coastal beauty and rural charm gives the town its trademark sense of peacefulness and tranquillity.
How Penguin Got Its Name
It won’t surprise anyone to learn how the penguin got its name. In 1861, the renowned Tasmanian botanist Robert Campbell Gunn observed large numbers of little penguins nesting along this stretch of coastline. Impressed by what he saw, he named the area ‘Penguin’ — a name that has delighted visitors ever since.
The town was officially proclaimed in October 1875, but its story began even earlier. Once a small timber and mining town, Penguin grew quickly after the construction of a shipping wharf that helped export vast quantities of timber to Victoria during the gold rush of the 1850s.
Although often overshadowed by its larger neighbours, Burnie and Devonport, Penguin has played an important role in the development of Tasmania’s north-west, thanks to its rich forests, convenient coastal access and strong sense of community.
Today’s Penguin
The modern-day town of Penguin is a thriving, colourful community of around 3,500 people. It is beloved for its friendly locals, vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking coastal scenery.
Take a stroll along the beachfront promenade, explore the local shops and cafés, or meet the resident penguins at dusk. Whatever your interests — heritage, nature or quirky charm — Penguin offers a uniquely Tasmanian experience that’s both relaxing and full of character.
Explore More About Penguin
- Penguin, Tasmania – Wikipedia
- ABC’s Back Roads – Penguin, TAS
- Deathly Dinner
- Penguin 7-day makeover
- Penguin-themed bins to stay in town of Penguin on Tasmanian coast | ABC News
- Gallery of Penguin
Where Is Penguin?
Penguin is located on the north-west coast of Tasmania, between Ulverstone and Burnie.
It’s just a 20-minute drive from Devonport and around 90 minutes from Launceston.
Things to See & Do in Penguin
- Self-Guided Audio Walks
- Penguin, Tasmania – Aussie Towns
- Penguin, Tasmania: Travel guide and things to do – The Sydney Morning Herald
- Things to Do in Penguin – Tripadvisor
- Penguin Tasmania – Discover Tasmania
Accommodation
Looking for places to stay in Penguin? From cozy beachside cottages to boutique bed and breakfasts, there’s something for every traveller.
Check out the latest Accommodation Deals →
Attractions
- Beach Esplanade
- Big Penguin
- Penguin trash bins
- Ceramic beachfront art installation
- Hiscutt Park & Dutch windmill
- Beachfront cafes & art gallery
- Miniature railway
- Penguin Market
- Jasper fossicking beach
- Dial Regional Sports Complex
- Mountain Bike Park
- Heritage Vantage Point
- Gunns Plains Caves
- Wings Wildlife Park
- Penguin to Cradle Mountain walking track
- Preston Falls
- Mt Dial Natural Recreational Area
- Mt Montgomery State Reserve
- Mt Duncan
- Ferndene Gorge