Top Stargazing Accommodation on Phillip Island: Best Places to Stay Under the Stars Near Melbourne 🌠

With its stunning coastline, rural farmland, and dark, open skies, Phillip Island is one of Victoria's most accessible and rewarding stargazing destinations. Just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the island offers a peaceful escape where the Milky Way shines bright overhead, undisturbed by the glare of city lights.

Thanks to minimal light pollution, a wide range of luxury and eco-friendly accommodation options, and breathtaking natural settings, Phillip Island and its surrounds are a dream come true for astronomy enthusiasts, romantic getaways, or anyone craving a connection with the cosmos.

Here’s our curated list of the best stargazing stays on Phillip Island and beyond:

✨ The Gap Retreat – Cowes

Located on a quiet bush block, The Gap Retreat's eco-cabins are embraced by native vegetation. Private decks and large windows make it easy to unwind under starry skies, offering both seclusion and comfort.

✨Zoarii

Escape to Zoarii, a secluded luxury retreat where nature, wellness and sustainability come together in effortless harmony. Set on 3.5 acres of private farmland, this exclusive beachfront sanctuary offers uninterrupted ocean views, expansive open space, and immersive wellness experiences designed to restore and rejuvenate.

✨ Marlin Beachfront – Smiths Beach

Perched just above the beach, Marlin Beachfront property combines ocean serenity with panoramic sky views. Its elevated position and coastal breezes make for unforgettable nights under the stars, especially from the private balconies.

✨ Five Acres – Ventnor

Set on a peaceful micro-farm, Five Acres features luxury cabins designed for privacy and relaxation. Each boasts an outdoor bath with expansive views across Western Port Bay and open skies ideal for stargazing. The rural setting ensures minimal light interference and a deeply tranquil experience.

Photo Credit - Marine Hawson

✨ SaltHouse Retreat – Surf Beach

Minimalist design meets coastal charm at SaltHouse Retreat. Tucked among coastal banksias, it provides a tranquil spot to lie back and watch constellations rise and just a short stroll from coastal lookouts.

✨ Waikiki Beachfront – Smiths Beach

With dramatic oceanfront positioning, Waikiki Beachfront offers an upscale beach house experience. The spacious deck becomes your private observatory, perfect for watching moonrises or catching a glimpse of the Milky Way.

✨ Kilcunda Oceanview Holiday Park – Kilcunda

Just off the island in the tranquil town of Kilcunda, Kilcunda Ocean View Holiday Park sits atop a coastal headland with sweeping views of Bass Strait. With almost no ambient light and an uninterrupted southern horizon, it’s a spectacular spot for astrophotography or simply soaking in the stars.

✨ Bimbadeen Farm Retreats – Ventnor

Bimbadeen's eco-retreats are nestled on a 340-acre working farm. Surrounded by farmland and bushland, the open skies offer brilliant night views. Its sustainability-focused design complements the natural surrounds, creating an immersive nature escape with celestial flair.

✨ Grey Goose @ Smiths Beach

Grey Goose @ Smiths is a tranquil coastal retreat perfectly positioned for a night under the stars. Nestled away from the glow of city lights, this boutique accommodation offers clear, dark skies ideal for stargazing on Phillip Island. With minimal light pollution and a peaceful setting near Smiths Beach, guests can wrap up in a blanket, step outside, and witness the Milky Way in all its brilliance.

✨ NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park

Wake to the sound of waves, unwind beneath the stars, and let island time take over at NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park. Located a stone's throw away from the beach, choose between comfy cabins, safari tents, or set up on a spacious site just metres from the sand.

Why Phillip Island is Perfect for Stargazing

Proximity to Melbourne: A short 90-minute drive means you can escape city light pollution quickly and easily.
Low Light Pollution: The island's rural and coastal areas offer clear, dark skies ideal for viewing stars, planets, and celestial events.
Diverse Natural Landscapes: From beaches to farms and bushland, the varied settings offer different perspectives and experiences under the stars.
Accommodation for Every Style: Whether you prefer luxury, eco-friendly, or beachfront, there's a stay that suits your stargazing desires.

Phillip Island's blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and pristine skies make it a hidden gem for night sky enthusiasts. Whether you're curled up on a deck with a glass of wine or soaking in a hot outdoor bath under the stars, the night skies here are sure to leave you in awe.