French Island

French Island

Tucked away in Western Port Bay, just a short ferry ride from Phillip Island with Westernport Ferries, French Island is one of Victoria’s most intriguing hidden gems. Wild, rugged and largely untouched, this off-the-grid destination offers a genuine escape from the everyday.

With no mains power, limited infrastructure and just one general store and café, life on French Island moves at a different pace. It’s a place to slow down, reconnect with nature and embrace the simple pleasures of island life.

At the heart of the island, French Island General Store & Café is a welcoming hub for visitors and locals alike. Stop in for a meal, pick up a free island map or essential supplies, hire an e-bike to explore, or find local visitor information. The General Store also offers accommodation and a courtesy transport service, making it a handy starting point for your island adventure.

Covering more than 170 square kilometres, much of French Island is protected within French Island National Park. Its diverse landscapes of woodland, coastal mangroves and salt marshes provide a haven for wildlife, including koalas, echidnas and long-nosed potoroos.

Explore the island by bike along quiet gravel roads, wander through its peaceful natural landscapes, or take in sweeping views across Western Port on a guided eco tour with Naturaliste Tours. With abundant wildlife, secluded scenery and a wonderfully unhurried atmosphere, French Island is an unforgettable escape for nature lovers, photographers and adventurous travellers.

Where to stay: French Island Eco Inn

French Island isn’t just a destination – it’s a step back in time and a world away from the ordinary.