Situated on the stunning Bass Coast of Victoria, Australia, Phillip Island is a favourite among locals and visitors. This special island has natural beauty, wildlife, beaches and loads of things to do. Only a short drive from Melbourne, it’s no wonder it’s a popular destination all year round. From the famous Penguin Parade to the rugged Cape Woolamai and the historic Churchill Island, Phillip Island has a beachy holiday feel for everyone.
Penguin Parade
One of the island’s best experiences is the Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach, where every evening, hundreds of fairy penguins (also known as little penguins) come ashore. This is managed by Phillip Island Nature Parks, which has viewing platforms and the popular Penguins Plus option, where you can get up close to the penguins without disturbing their natural behaviour. The Penguin Parade is a must-see as it’s home to the largest colony of fairy penguins in Australia.
This natural wonder is an opportunity to learn more about these little penguins and the conservation efforts to protect them. Phillip Island has interactive exhibits at the visitor centre to educate guests about the island’s native wildlife, including a wide range of bird species and Australian animals.
Cape Woolamai: Surfing and Scenic Trails
Cape Woolamai is one of Phillip Island’s most beautiful landscapes, famous for its National Surfing Reserve and coastline. Home to Woolamai Surf Beach and Woolamai Beach, this area is popular with surfers, hikers and beach lovers. The Cape Woolamai Circuit Walk is a highlight with epic views of the coastline and Bass Strait. This walk also passes rock formations and the historic George Bass coastal walk, where you can see scenic views of Ventnor Beach and Cowes Main Beach.
Woolamai Beach Surf School offers lessons for beginners and experienced surfers. A great beach to relax with family or friends and build sandcastles, play beach games or just soak up the summer sun.
San Remo: The Island’s Front Door
Just before you cross the bridge to the Island is the lovely fishing village of San Remo. Famous for its beachside charm and boutique shops, San Remo gives you a taste of island life. This little town offers visitors the chance to see Australian pelicans being fed daily, enjoy local seafood or try one of the many dining and accommodation options.
San Remo is also the departure point for many Phillip Island tours from Melbourne and from here you can visit the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park where you can see a wildlife wonderland, including Tasmanian devils and native birds.
Churchill Island Heritage Farm
Connected to the Island by a bridge Churchill Island is a lovely historic destination for a day trip. Famous for farm animals and the beautifully preserved Churchill Farm the island offers daily farming demonstrations – sheep shearing and cow milking. Churchill Island is also great for its greenery, walking trails and tree top boardwalks.
The Churchill Island Heritage Farm is a great place to take a leisurely walk and enjoy the beauty of the island’s farm life. The visitor centre and information centre will give you insight into the area’s history and natural significance. It is a family-friendly attraction and popular during school holidays, so it is great for kids and adults alike.
Koala Conservation Centre
If you want to see Australian wildlife, the Koala Conservation Centre is a must-see. This sanctuary allows you to walk among the trees on treetop boardwalks, where you’ll be at eye level with koalas in their natural habitat. The Koala Conservation Reserve is dedicated to preserving the island’s native wildlife, particularly the koala population and educating visitors about conservation.
The walking trails are surrounded by bushland, where you can also see native birds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Make sure to wear walking shoes to get the full experience with the animals in a natural environment.
Beaches: Endless options for relaxation and fun
Phillip Island has some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. From Smiths Beach, a popular surf beach, to Shelly Beach, a calm beach, the island has a beach for everyone. Families love Cowes Beach and Flynns Beach, which are both perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, and picnicking.
Woolamai Surf Beach is a great spot for surfers, while Berries Beach and Ventnor Beach are quieter. These beautiful beaches offer everything from bay beaches with calm waters to ocean beaches with stunning views. During the warmer months, the beaches are a hub of activity and a great place to spend the day by the sea.
Seal Rock and the Nobbies Centre
The Nobbies Centre on the southern coast of the island offers breathtaking views of Seal Rock, home to the largest fur seal colony in Australia. From the viewing platforms and telescopes at the centre, you can see thousands of Australian fur seals on the rocks and in the water. Wildlife Coast Cruises also offers boat tours to get up close and personal with these seals and the coastline.
The Nobbies Centre is more than just wildlife – it has interactive exhibits about the marine environment of Phillip Island and is the perfect spot to take in the coastal views. You can learn about conservation and explore this wild part of the island that’s teeming with wildlife.
Phillip Island Circuit: For Racing Enthusiasts
Phillip Island Circuit is home to the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix and other motorsport events and attracts visitors from all over the world. You can go-kart on a mini replica of the track for a fun experience for all ages. With motorsport events on throughout the year, the Phillip Island Circuit is a must see for racing fans.
If you want to explore beyond the track, all the major attractions of Phillip Island are within walking distance of the main dining and accommodation options so that you can plan your whole trip.
The Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
No trip to Phillip Island would be complete without a visit to the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory. Famous for its Belgian chocolate and interactive exhibits, the chocolate factory is a kids paradise. Watch chocolate making demonstrations, participate in chocolate activities and sample a huge range of chocolates. The gift shop has some unique treats to take home so it’s a must see for families and chocolate lovers.
More Attractions and Secrets
Beyond the main attractions, Phillip Island has:
- Conservation Hill: Birdwatching and gentle strolls.
- Swan Lake: Birdwatching and peaceful walks.
- Phillip Island Winery: Wine and food pairings.
- Ramada Resort: Family-friendly accommodation close to beaches and nature reserves.
With its natural beauty, attractions, and wildlife, Phillip Island is a treasure on the southern coast of Australia.
FAQ
When to visit?
October to April is the best time to visit Phillip Island when the weather is warm and perfect for beach, wildlife and outdoor activities. However, events and wildlife experiences are available all year.
How to see the Penguin Parade?
The Penguin Parade is every evening at Summerland Beach. Tickets are available at Phillip Island Nature Parks Visitor Centre and Penguins Plus for a closer view. Get there early to score a good spot!
Are there family activities on Phillip Island?
Yes! Phillip Island has lots of family friendly activities, A Maze’N Things amusement park, Phillip Island Chocolate Factory and Maru Wildlife Park. Cowes Beach and Smiths Beach are also great for families.
Which beaches are for surfing on Phillip Island?
Woolamai Surf Beach and Smiths Beach are the best for surfing, with surf schools for all levels. Woolamai is also a National Surfing Reserve, so it’s a must for experienced surfers.
Can I see Phillip Island in a day?
You can see the main attractions in a day but there’s so much to see and do on Phillip Island that you should stay longer. Koala Conservation Reserve, Cape Woolamai and Seal Rock are just a few of the many.
