Phillip Island: Witness the Wild Side this Winter

Discover the magic of Phillip Island this winter - from the majestic whale migrations to the charming Penguin Parade, adventure is just a click away.

Feeling the Melbourne winter blues? It’s time to break free from the city buzz and breathe in some wild, salty air. Just under two hours away, Phillip Island is your ultimate winter circuit-breaker - raw, refreshing, and totally reviving. Swap screen time for sea views, traffic for coastal trails, and grey skies for wild skies. Whether you're chasing nature, a little indulgence, or just a chance to slow down together, this is the escape your winter needs.

🐋Wild Winter Days, Whale-Watching Ways

Winter on Phillip Island kicks off with something truly wild: the great whale migration. There is nothing like seeing a humpback breach from the water, or a Southern Right Whale glide along the surface. And there’s no better time to witness it than June through September. Book a front-row seat on a Winter Whale Cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises, where you can also spot dolphins, seabirds, and playful fur seals. Back on land, explore the self-guided Whale Discovery Trail - a series of scenic coastal viewing points from Cowes to The Nobbies and beyond, each offering a unique chance to see these majestic creatures from shore. Bring your binoculars, your warmest jacket, a thermos of coffee, and settle in for the show.

The Island Whale Festival is a fun-filled weekend (July 11 - 13) on Phillip Island that celebrates the annual whale migration with whale spotting, coastal adventures, family activities, art, and expert talks that bring the magic of the ocean to life.

🐧Your Nature Escape Close To Melbourne

And it doesn’t stop there. At dusk, head to the Penguin Parade to watch Little Penguins waddle home after a day at sea. With fewer crowds and more serenity, winter is the most magical time to experience this iconic moment. During the day, brave the elements with a cruise out to Seal Rocks or set foot on the Pyramid Rock or the Cape Woolamai walk for windswept cliff views and a serious reset.

Explore Walks & Trails Here

🍷 Heart-Warming Food & Drink

Warm up with a rich hot chocolate at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, followed by a rustic brunch at The Store in Ventnor or a Melbourne-style breakfast at The Waterboy. Then unwind with a long lunch at Phillip Island Winery or a craft brew from Phillip Island Brewing or Ocean Reach Brewing. For a dinner date with a view, Saltwater Phillip Island and Beach HQ Restaurant and Bar deliver waterfront dining that hits the spot. If a casual meal and brew by a fire is more your scene, The Wooli Tavern offers warm ski lodge vibes, while The Westernport Hotel offers a jam-packed live music schedule.

Take Me To Food

💆‍♀️Winter Wind Down

And if winter wellness is on your list, step into the wood-fired bliss of Phillip Island Sauna - a traditional sauna set beside the sea that will leave you feeling totally reset. Unwind and rejuvenate with a soothing massage or holistic wellness treatment at Island Healing, Phillip Island’s tranquil sanctuary for body and mind.

I Need Wellness

🛌Cosy Winter Accommodation

Stay in one of the island’s boutique cabins, or beachfront hideaways for a midweek circuit-breaker or a long weekend escape. Wake to the sound of waves, breathe in the ocean air, and feel time slow down.

Find Me A Place To Stay

Phillip Island in winter is like cold water therapy for the soul. It's untamed, unfiltered, and unexpectedly romantic. So, grab your beanie, grab your person, and go get grounded.

The wild side of winter is calling.