Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or foodie, Phillip Island has plenty to offer. Find out the best things to do on this beautiful island paradise.
The wide variety of unique attractions and activities ensures days of engagement without ever leaving the Island!
Discover a world of excitement with thrilling attractions, endless family fun, unforgettable guided tours, breathtaking panoramic flights, and heart-pounding motorsports that will leave you in awe.When it comes to aquatic activities, the choices are boundless! Indulge in the ultimate adrenaline rush as you conquer the crashing waves or embark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure in the enchanting Rhyll Inlet or the awe-inspiring Cape Woolamai. Embark on a boat voyage or a fishing expedition and admire the stunning views and terrains while you spend a day at sea!For those seeking relaxation and renewal, peruse the stores, partake in yoga, or unwind with a massage at a spa and wellness centre. Explore the wonders of Phillip Island tour with our expert guided. Witness the famous Penguin Parade and more on this unforgettable excursion.
Phillip Island Highlights
Phillip Island presents a plethora of highlights and activities! Phillip Island has something in store for every visitor, from natural wonders to enjoyable family attractions!
Dive into a universe of enigmas and optical deceptions at A Maze N Things, discover the most delightful experience at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, and witness the adorable penguins return at dusk at the Penguin Parade.
Witness thousands of naturally frolicsome seals during a Wildlife Coast Cruises journey, behold the magnificent edges of Cape Woolamai with an exhilarating trip by Ocean Adventures, or gaze upon Phillip Island from the skies with a Phillip Island Helicopter tour!
Compete with buddies on a model of the Phillip Island Circuit at Phillip Island Go-Karts, gauge your dexterity at Clip N Climb Phillip Island, paddle around Cape Woolamai with Pioneer Kayaking, or grab a surf tutorial with Island Surfboards. Engage the family in a ten-pin or laser tag game at Phillip Island Ten Pin Bowling and Fun Centre.
Phillip Island Family Adventures
Forge unforgettable moments with Phillip Island’s family-oriented activities! Delight in a standout coastal vacation filled with family-centric attractions, amiable animals, and protected bays ideal for a round of beachside games.
Delve into a realm of riddles and marvels at A Maze N Things, engage in a spirited family race at Phillip Island Go-Karts, expend boundless energy scaling walls at Clip N Climb Phillip Island, or aim for that first perfect roll at Phillip Island Ten Pin Bowling. And remember to stop by the most delicious site, Phillip Island Chocolate Factory!
Interact with native creatures at Maru Koala and Animal Park, or dive into the captivating universe of Antarctica with the Antarctic Journey. Observe koalas in their genuine surroundings at the Koala Conservation Sanctuary or allocate an afternoon to discovering how to extract milk from cows or handle a whip at Churchill Island. Conclude your day by observing the tiniest penguins march back to their dens at dusk during the Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
Prepare a picnic, set aside electronic devices, and journey through one of Phillip Island’s exquisite trails. Embark on a cycling adventure, rent a bicycle from Super Cruzer E-Bike Hire to meander through the Island, or bask in the sun rays and embrace surfing during a collective day at the shore!
Embark on a voyage to witness one of Australia’s grandest fur seal gatherings with Wildlife Coast Cruises, or elevate the family’s thrill levels aboard the Ocean Adventures Jet Boat.
The Phillip Island Adventure “PIA” is an exemplary route to experience Phillip Island’s top Attractions and Expeditions with privileged savings and special deals.
If you’re scouting for a pause on your way to Phillip Island, consider dropping by Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Preservation Park and Caldermeade Farm.
Surfing At Phillip Island
Fishing & Nautical Activities On Phillip Island And San Remo
Phillip Island is ideally suited for boat entry in the harbour and direct routes to Bass Strait. Numerous fishing opportunities abound on local docks, beachfront, and the surrounding shoreline. Always observe the signs, and before casting your line, peruse the safety guidelines listed here.
Reserve a spot on a local fishing expedition to embark on an exciting journey with a companion, or choose any of the abundant docks and platforms to test your fishing prowess! Among the local fishing trips are Reel Obsession and Fishing Expeditions. For all your angling essentials, visit Jim’s Bait and Gear in San Remo.
Currently, authorisation is mandated for recreational angling in Western Port. Rules exist about the smallest permissible catch size, bait collection, and the approved methods for capturing certain fish varieties. Rigorous guidelines also apply to boaters concerning proximity to marine creatures, notably whales. Ensure you acquaint yourself with these rules to sidestep any penalties.
Distinctive rules apply to nautical activities on Victorian channels. These stipulations address issues like boat permits, security measures, life vests, emergency signals, and alcohol consumption on board. Consult with the Marine Safety Authority of Victoria or secure a version of the Victorian Nautical Manual, accessible at police precincts and angling stores..
Aerial Views & Tours In Phillip Island
Experience the splendour of Phillip Island from the skies on one of Phillip Island Helicopters’ aerial tours! There’s also a range of fantastic trips available to explore the landmarks and flavours of Phillip Island. Witness Phillip Island from the waters with a Pioneer Kayaking journey, or set sail on one of Wildlife Coast Cruises expeditions.
Looking for assistance in exploring? Tour Local presents a wine, wildlife, and penguin excursion from Melbourne or Phillip Island. Dianne’s Adventure Tours offers niche wine, gastronomy, miniature penguins, natural landscapes, nature, and hiking trips. Additional nearby tour operators encompass Posh Penguins, Outstanding Expeditions, and Exclusive Wine Journeys.
Consider services from Drive Me Classy or Meandering Routes Tours for commutes related to cruise vessels, events, and excursions.
Island Maserati extends sunset excursions, regional voyages, and airport shuttle services, while Phillip Island Elite ensures airport commutation and intimate group trips to penguin spots and vineyards.
Embark on Western Port Ferries from Cowes and land at Fresh Island for an independent exploration. Enlist with Enthusiast Excursions for a knowledgeable and thrilling expedition around French Island.
Shopping In Phillip Island & San Remo
Wellness & Relaxation In Phillip Island
The Nobbies Exhibition
The immersive Antarctic Expedition is housed within The Nobbies Centre. This expedition kicks off by showcasing one’s thermal silhouette. Subsequently, youngsters can perch on a simulated iceberg, engage in activities in the Antarctic research workstation, immerse themselves in the visual and auditory wonders of the Antarctic fauna, and lastly, partake in an augmented reality session where they find themselves on an icy patch, spotting surrounding wildlife.
At the centre, young listeners can also learn about conservation tales and strategies for adapting to changing climates.
Pricing: There’s no admission fee for the exhibition highlighting penguin conservation. However, the Antarctic Expedition costs $13.50 for adults and $6.75 for the younger audience.
Location: 1320 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922
The Nobbies boardwalks
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of ‘the Nobbies’ and Seal Rocks from the clifftop boardwalks. The Nobbies, located at the island’s western tip, feature a strip of cobblestone rocks extending into the water. However, the main attraction lies in Seal Rocks, which is home to Australia’s largest fur seal colony.
The Nobbies is a popular spot for wildlife, including penguins that nest under the boardwalks. It is recommended to visit during a big southern swell to witness the blowhole in action.
Visit the cliff-top boardwalk on a day when the Southern Ocean is tempestuous and experience an exciting water show at the Blowhole.
Cost: Free
The address is 1320 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, VIC 3922.
The Phillip Island Go Kart track
You can experience the thrill of being a racing car driver at the Phillip Island Go Kart track, a replica of the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Enjoy a 750-meter outdoor course with the Bass Strait as your backdrop.
The cost starts at $35 per person.
Jet Boat Ride
Discover Koala Conservation Reserve
Elevate your experience with koalas at the Koala Conservation Reserve through its treetop boardwalks.
Two distinct boardwalks, The Canopy Koala Walkway and the Forest Woodland Path, offer a 20-minute stroll. Children will thoroughly enjoy identifying koalas and immersing in the interactive exhibits about koala preservation.
Venture through the woodlands and look for echidnas, wallabies, and birds. These woodlands spread over six hectares of Phillip Island’s natural bush.
Fee: Adults $13.50, Children $6.75. Opt for a 4 Parks Pass for savings.
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm, with the final entry at 3:30 pm
A Maze’N Things Adventure
Pelican Feeding Time
Before entering Phillip Island or as you depart, make a quick stop at San Remo. The Fisherman’s Co-Op has hosted a remarkable pelican feeding event for nearly four decades. Every day at noon, the pelicans gather on the foreshore near the jetty, awaiting their feast.
Expect to see silver gulls trying to partake in the feast, and don’t be surprised by the giant stingrays emerging from beneath the jetty for the leftovers. Amenities in the vicinity include barbecues, play areas, and a delightful fish and chips shop with a view of the bay.
Timing: Daily at 12:00 pm
Location: Marine Parade, San Remo, VIC
Churchill Island Farmers' Market
Navigate to the Churchill Island Farmers Market, where around 40 stalls showcase regional products. Encourage and patronize farmers who sell fruits and veggies from the Gippsland region.
When: Every fourth Saturday, from 8 am to 1 pm.
Beach Adventures on Phillip Island
The coasts of Phillip Island are nothing short of spectacular. The island presents a varied topography, from tranquil sandy shores in the north to frothy surf points and gusty cliffs down south.
Phillip Island boasts 26 picturesque beaches. Smiths Beach, Kitty Miller Bay, and Cowes Beach stand out for younger beachgoers due to their safety features and periodic patrolling. Especially at Smiths Beach, the low tide reveals mesmerizing rock pools ready for exploration.
Dive Beneath Phillip Island's Waters
Phillip Island boasts 18 spectacular diving sites, four dedicated to wreck diving. While diving, you’ll likely encounter seals or even a penguin, especially near Seal Rocks. The underwater world also includes inhabitants like crayfish, kingfish, abalone, and leopard sharks.
For those keen on learning, Ocean Adventures offers a beginner’s dive course under PADI for $199.
Library Visits
On a day when the clouds decide to pour, the Phillip Island Library in Cowes stands as an ideal refuge. They house an array of children’s literature and entertaining games. The library organizes dedicated reading sessions, with volunteers narrating stories to the young listeners. They also offer virtual story sessions for those who can’t make it in person.
Location: 89 Thompson Avenue, Cowes 3922
Operating Hours: Doors open at 10 am daily, with varying closing hours.
Indoor Climbing at Clip ‘n Climb Phillip Island
Introduce your children to the exhilarating world of indoor rock climbing at Clip ‘n Climb. Such activities promote strength, self-assurance, coordination, analytical thinking, and the essence of teamwork. Climbers can opt for various coloured grips and paths to diversify difficulty levels. It’s a fitting activity, especially on unpredictable rainy days.
Operating Hours: From 10 am to 4 pm. Operational from Friday to Sunday during academic terms and open daily during school vacations.
Fee: $22 for a 60-minute session.
Forrest Caves Exploration
A mere 2-kilometer walk from its designated parking space will lead you to the Forrest Caves. Formed from volcanic residue, these sea caves are a sight to behold, but remember. They’re accessible exclusively during low tides.
Beholding Pyramid Rock
This geological wonder comes from the ocean’s embrace like a volcanic dome. Pyramid Rock has two observation decks on Phillip Island’s southern coast. The 2.5-kilometre trail from Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach offers mesmerizing coastal vistas for those seeking a trek.
The Legendary Grand Prix
Lodging Options on Phillip Island
Most of the accommodation on Phillip Island is located in the main town of Cowes, known for its bustling shops and restaurants.
For a more peaceful option, BIG4 Phillip Island Caravan Park in Newhaven offers a variety of cabins and sites for families at affordable prices.
Berrys Beach Glamping Experience
The Sheltered Glamping Co. offers a unique camping experience with its selection of glamping tents situated at Berrys Beach.
For families, they present the Emperor Safari tent. This eco-friendly tent has solar-powered amenities, ensuring you aren’t disconnected from your electronic devices. You’ll have the convenience of warm showers, a gas-operated stovetop, a compact kitchen area, a Bluetooth-compatible speaker, and USB charging ports. Emphasizing sustainability, these tents operate entirely off the grid, and even the restroom facilities utilize an eco-conscious composting system.
Inside, you’ll be treated to a four-poster queen-sized bed and an additional king-sized sleeping space.
Fee: Rates start at $350 per night.
