Phillip Island 101

"Welcome to Phillip Island, 101km² of amazing experiences distilled into one easygoing island sanctuary."

Near enough to reach on a short drive from Melbourne but far enough to feel like you’ve had a real escape, Phillip Island is Victoria’s holiday sweet spot.

The island is famous for its Little Penguin parade and the legendary Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, but there’s much, much more to see and do, and Phillip Island 101 is your guide to getting out there and experiencing it all.

No matter what time of the year you visit, there’s 101km² of island magic to be discovered. From watching fur seals sun themselves on Seal Rocks, to enjoying a smooth red at a cosy wine bar and taking to the skies on an exhilarating scenic helicopter ride, whichever direction you head there’s fun to be found.

Whether you glamp under the stars, stay in a luxury cabin or book a caravan park with a view, we invite you to stay and create your own Island adventure. Soon you’ll see what us locals have long known – there’s nowhere quite like Phillip Island.

101 square kilometres of amazing is waiting. Phillip Island 101. One amazing place.

Square Kilometre 1-8

The hub of Phillip Island – Find a range of eating and drink venues, shops, accommodation and beautiful bay beaches. Home to one of only two north-facing beaches in Victoria, Cowes is an ideal place to base yourself right in the heart of Phillip Island’s holiday vibe.

1km²-5km²

Red Rocks Beach

Known for its beautiful red coloured rocks, this stretch of low wave and beautiful north-facing bay beaches provide a fantastic option for exploring and beach games on low tide.

Cowes Township

Coastal cafes, restaurants and bars – this is where you will find that buzzing coastal vibe in the summer months. Check out eat and drink here.

Grab an ice cream, pack your swimmers and have a dip at the picturesque Cowes main beach, which is patrolled by lifesavers in the summer months. Take a cruise out to see one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies or a twilight cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises. Hire a bike with Super Cruze E-Bikes and explore Phillip Island on two wheels, play a round of mini-golf at Grumpys Crazy Golf or browse a range of boutique shops including Tyde, The Corner Dispensary, Flowers of Philip Island, Island Market Place , Brinnie T Designs and more!

Click here for all shopping.

Find central accommodation right in the heart of Cowes including a range of fantastic caravan and holiday parks, holidays houses, apartments, bed & breakfasts, hotels and motels within walking distance to shops, restaurants, beaches and supermarkets. For a central accommodation located in the centre of Cowes, discover
350 Sur la Plage at The Waves, The Seahorse Motel, The Coachman Motel, Glen Isla House Bed and Breakfast, Ramada Resort Phillip Island, Amaroo Park, Anchor Belle Holiday Park, NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park and much more!

Discover accommodation here.

6km2 – 8km2

Silverleaves beach

Another beautiful north-facing beach offering low waves and a great option for families to spend a beach day.

Seen from the sky onboard a Phillip Island Helicopter scenic flight, discover the natural beauty of this protected area that covers Silverleaves, Rhyll wetlands and Ghetto Rocks.

Square Kilometre 9-19

From the northern part of Ventnor to Rhyll – Discover the boutique and camping accommodation, wineries, cafes, climbing adventures, family fun attractions and beautiful nature walks.

9km²

Grossard Point

With magic views across to Flinders, this point became the site of the lonely grave of Captain Grossard in 1868 after a tragic accident.

In the Winter months, watch whales entering or exiting the bay close to shore as a lookout point on the Whale Discovery Trail.

10km² – 13km²

Ventnor dog beach

Visiting with your best furry friend? Ventnor dog beach is the only all year round off-leash beach on Phillip Island. For more information on where you can walk your dog on Phillip Island, click here.

Accessible Accommodation

Ripples n Tonic - A unique, accessible farm stay set on 15 acres near Ventnor beach.

Pitch A Tent

Anchorage Camp Park - A quiet and uncrowded park set on five acres in the semi-rural township of Ventnor. Pitch a tent, park up your van or unpack your bags at one of their standard cabins.

14km² – 16km²

A continuation of the central part of Cowes includes supermarkets, shops, cafes, restaurants and accommodation.

Shops, Galleries and Eateries

Explore the beginning of Cowes township including Mingara Art Gallery, Phillip Island RSL and a range of essential shops.

Have some group fun or do a leisure activity

Race your friends to the top at Clip N Climb, get the first strike at Phillip Island Ten Pin Bowling or play a round of golf at the Phillip Island Golf Club.

17km²-19km²

Rhyll Township

Home to the tranquil hamlet of Rhyll, explore the scenic foreshore, world-renowned wetlands, remnant bushland and an array of different eateries including the Wild Food Farm and Café.

Boutique Accommodation

Unwind and embrace the slower pace of Rhyll at one of the several boutique stays in the village including, Snapper House, Oak Tree Lodge and Rhyll Haven Luxury Apartments.

Rhyll Inlet

Discover the tranquillity of the Rhyll Inlet and wetlands as you take a walk along the boardwalks and paths. These world-renowned wetlands on the north shore of Phillip Island are home to mangroves and mudflats that are a significant site for the wading birds that fly thousands of kilometres to feed during the summer months. They are recognised under the Ramsar international wetlands agreement.

Boardwalks of varying lengths loop through the mangroves, saltmarsh and mudflats, and walkers are rewarded by the presence of spoonbills, oystercatchers, herons, egrets and cormorants. Climb the Conservation Hill Observation Tower for panoramic views of the wetlands and surrounding woodland reserves.

Take a kayak tour

For a different perspective of the wetlands and mangroves, take a kayaking tour with Pioneer Kayaking. Or if you are a keen boater or fisherman, Rhyll is a great place to cast a line or launch your boat.

Square Kilometre 20-29

Discover off the beaten track cafes, boutique accommodation, bush walks and farming and coastal vistas.

20km² – 24km²

Coffee, toasties and local produce

Discover off the beaten track produce and boho-chic café, The Store.

Accommodation amongst the farmland

Looking for a place to get away from it all? Find hidden accommodation spotted among the farmland in Ventnor.

25km² – 26km²

Ramada Resort

Be surrounded by nature and bushland at the Ramada Resort, which offers a convenient location to stay with fantastic onsite facilities.

27km² – 29km²

Oswin Roberts Reserve

Explore the last remaining remnant bushland on Phillip Island and spot a range of wildlife along the way including koalas, wallabies and birds at the Oswin Robers Reserve. The area offers a series of different walking and cycling tracks through the beautiful, lush bushland.

Square Kilometre 30-41

Discover Phillip Island’s most luxurious accommodation, taste fresh local produce, spot koalas in their natural habitat, get lost in a world of illusions and mazes, sip locally brewed beers and wines, and find out why the Churchill Island Marine Park is so special.

30km²-34km²

Luxury Accommodation

Sit back, put your feet up and take in the stunning country views at the luxurious Five Acres in Ventnor, Phillip Island. The three luxury cabins have sweeping views of the Western Port Bay, surrounded by lush rolling farmland.

Farm Vistas

The rolling paddocks in Winter make for some beautiful photography, but please remember to pull over safely and keep a lookout for wildlife.

35km² – 39km²

Fresh Strawberries

Home to the residential area of Wimbledon Heights, you will find Phillip Island Strawberries tucked away waiting for the summer season of fresh berries, along with a selection of boutique accommodation and holiday houses.

Local Produce

Hill Top Farm Meats not only stocks some of the best in Grass Fed and Free Range Meats, but also has a fantastic array of homemade pies.

Spot Koalas among the gum trees

Wander treetop boardwalks and witness Koalas in their natural habitat at the Koala Conservation Reserve.

Get lost in a world of magic

Pop over the road and get lost in a world of magic and illusions at A Maze’N Things.

A local feed

Feeling hungry? Stop by Rusty Waters Brewery Restaurant and Bar for a taste of locally brewed beers and great food.

Wedding Bells

If a rustic wedding venue on Phillip Island is what you are looking for on your special day, then you won’t want to miss the charm of The Shearing Shed.

40km²- 41km²

Churchill Island Marine Park

Located south of Rhyll, on the eastern shore of Phillip Island, in Western Port, Churchill Island Marine National Park extends from Long Point south of Rhyll township to the north point of Churchill Island and along the island's western shore to the bridge.

The Park is part of the Western Port RAMSAR site and is an important habitat for many bird species. Bird watching is a popular activity in the park. Many birds feed, roost and breed around the bay and you may be able to spot birds that have migrated from across the globe.

Canoeing is an ideal way to explore the mangroves and estuarine conditions. Yachting is increasingly popular in the bay's relatively tranquil waters. No fishing is allowed in this area. For more information, please visit Parks Victoria here

Square Kilometre 42-54

Experience life on a real working farm at a farm stay, spend an afternoon sipping on local wines and eating delicious food, view the world-famous Phillip Island Circuit and discover the beautiful homestead and gardens at Churchill Island.

42km²-43km²

Flynns Beach

Find the tree tunnel down to picturesque Flynns Beach, a popular surf break for reef riders.

Find a hidden getaway

Omaru Farm Stay, Store and Cafe is another great option when you are looking to get away from it all, with breathtaking views of the Nobbies, Seal Rocks, and Cat Bay. Enjoy heavenly food, accommodation & farm products, all in one delightful place.

44km²-46km²

Wine and Dine

Wine enthusiasts won’t want to miss the chic vibe of the Phillip Island Winery. Located on Berries Beach Road, the Phillip Island Winery is where you could spend an afternoon sipping on local wines and grazing on platters.

Farm Stay

Soak up the tranquillity of Bimbadeen Phillip Island Farm Retreats and stay at an authentic working farm.

47km²-49km²

Phillip Island Circuit

Home to the world-famous Phillip Island Circuit, square kilometre 47 is where you will find all the action on and off track. Race your friends for first position on a mini replica go-kart track, take a walk through the history of motorsport display or be trackside at one of their yearly events including the Australian MotoGP and the World Superbikes.

Rustic Accommodation

Take some time out and admire the beautiful views and surrounds of Grey Goose @ Smiths.

50km²-53km²

Award-Winning Wines

Back in Rhyll drop by the Purple Hen Winery for a taste of award-winning cool-climate wines, surrounded by farmland and the shimmering waters of the Bay of Western Port.

You will also find private farmland, residential estate of Sunset Strip and a continuation of the Churchill Island Marine National Park.

54km²

Churchill Island

Escape to another time and enjoy heritage farming activities, explore the historical grounds & soak up the scenery on Churchill Island.
Explore the historical grounds and farming activities, walk the bay trails soaking in the tranquil scenery and enjoying the bird watching huts, or relax on the deck of the café with a coffee or tea in hand.

Square Kilometre 55km-72km

Home to the Summerland peninsula, the world-famous Penguin Parade and a range of reef surf breaks, this area is popular to spot a unique range of Australian wildlife and stunning coastal views.

55km²-58km²

Swan Lake

As easy walk and pram friendly, pack your binoculars and stroll through lush vegetation to reach the pristine Swan Lake. This freshwater lake, situated just before the Penguin Parade, is a significant site for the Traditional Custodians of Millowl (Phillip Island), the Bunurong. Walk along an easy track to the bird viewing hides, beginning at the Swan Lake information shelter.

Penguin Parade Phillip Island

Home to the world-famous nightly Penguin Parade, sit down and wait in anticipation as the Little Penguins cross the beach on sunset and make their way back to their burrows.

Shelly Beach

National Surfing Reserve - Watch surfers take off on waves at this popular left-hand reef break.

Coastal Drive

Follow the road and marvel at the coastline's magnificent landscape and rugged beauty all year round. Be sure to slow down and look out for wildlife. Wallabies and Cape Barron Geese also call this place home.

59km²

Kitty Miller Bay - Snorkelling and Surfing

A reef break for experienced surfers and a rock pool ramblers delight on low tide. Bring your snorkel and flippers, or join a snorkel tour.

60km² – 63km²

Phillip Island Go-Karts

Race your friends and family around the 750m Phillip Island Go Kart, a replica of the world-renowned Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. Situated alongside the circuit and overlooking Bass Strait, the smooth curves and super-fast straight of this unique Go-Kart track are strung along some of the most breathtaking coastline on the Island. Phillip Island Go Karts gives you the chance to get the feeling that so many past and present motorsport champions have had the privilege of.

64km²

Smiths Beach & YCW Beach

One of Phillip Island’s most popular beaches for all surfing abilities. Learn to surf at Smith’s Beach with Island Surf Boards or discover an underwater world in the rock pools at low tide.

Discover more on swimming and beaches here.

65km²-67km²

Explore Phillip Island's rugged coastline and surf breaks for experienced surfers along Surf Beach.

68km²

Scenic Estate Conservation Reserve

The Scenic Estate Conservation Reserve is well known for its birdlife, providing habitat for six species of threatened birds and endangered grasslands and vegetation, as well as delightful bay views to Churchill Island, Rhyll and beyond. Don't forget to pack a picnic and take advantage of the picnic shelters and seats. Enjoy the array of walks consisting of 1500 metres of walking tracks connecting the attractions and 195 metres of boardwalk through the native grasslands.

69km² – 71km²

Churchill Island Entry – Walks

Churchill Island's easy walking trails and cruisy cycling tracks are a great way to take in all the beauty of this little island. A short bridge drive from Phillip Island, explore the walking and cycling trails of Churchill Island as you soak in the tranquil scenery, spot wetland birds and the shaggy Highland cattle.

The Churchill Island Loop walk is an easy stroll around the island, and you can also enjoy the shorter walks - the North Point Loop, and the Wadjil’garook Wetland, where you can learn about Indigenous culture and wetland birds.

Fresh Local Seafood

Taste some of the region's best local seafood straight off the boat at Bass Strait Direct.

72km²

Newhaven Marina

Newhaven Yacht Squadron marina, with 188 berths, is the only marina on Phillip Island and provides an all-weather safe haven for boats from 6-12 metres. They provide casual berths for overnight stays for both visitors and members of the squadron. Also, a great spot to watch the sunrise and for photography.

Newhaven Beach

A hidden tranquil side of Newhaven offers small rocky beaches which are ideal for kayaking or SUP’n.

Square Kilometre 73km – 89km

Discover wide open spaces, beautiful beaches, an old shipwreck, sea caves, helicopter flights, history museums and lunch with incredible ocean views. Cross over the bridge to San Remo and discover what this coastal town is all about. Home to adrenaline jet boats and relaxing scenic cruises, coastal eateries, fresh local seafood, boutique shops and beautiful beaches.

73km²-74km²

Seal Rocks

2kms off the rugged southwest coast of Phillip Island is Seal Rocks, home to more than 25,000 fur seals – one of the largest colonies in Australia.

The numbers grow during the October to December breeding season and watch as they sun themselves on the rocks, feeding their young, wrestling, or flopping into the cool water. The only way to visit this fascinating seal colony is onboard a Wildlife Coast Cruises – Seal Watching Tour.

The Nobbies Discovery Centre & Antarctic Journey

Inside the Nobbies Discovery Centre, immerse yourself in a fun and interactive virtual journey to the Southern Ocean and the world's most extreme continent. Learn stories of conservation, climate resilience and what lives in the deep, with the interactive and immersive experiences at the Antarctic Journey — a joint venture between the Nature Parks and WWF-Australia.

Browse the gift shop and enjoy some fresh fish n chips in the café as you admire the spectacular views of the Southern Ocean.

The Nobbies Boardwalk

A visit to Phillip Island is not complete without a walk along the Nobbies Boardwalks! With spectacular clifftop boardwalks and views out to the Nobbies and Seal Rocks, marvel at the stunning and rugged views of the Southern Coastline as you stroll along. If the weather is right, see the explosive blowhole in action and keep your eyes out for a rare sighting of the iconic little penguins, seabirds and whales passing by in winter.

75km²-76km²

South Coast Road and Coastline

Follow the South Coast dirt road and marvel at the coastlines magnificent landscape and rugged beauty all year round. Be sure to slow down and look out for wildlife. Wallabies and Cape Barron Geese also call this place home.

Summerlands Lookout

Watch surfers rip up the waves in the right conditions and spot whales passing by in the Winter months at the Summerlands Lookout.

77km² – 82km²

SS Speke Shipwreck

Discover the remnants of the SS Speke that ran aground in 1906 on the Kitty Miller Bay Walk.

Walk to the left of the bay and on low tide to see what remains of the SS Speke Shipwreck. The Speke was the second-largest ship-rigged vessel ever built. In February 1906 it ran ashore on Phillip Island as a result of poor navigation by the captain. After battling headwinds on a voyage from Sydney to Melbourne in ballast, the ship Speke was forced ashore east of Kitty Miller's Bay.

Make sure you plan your walk for low tide, as access is otherwise limited.

Berries Beach

A beautiful secluded beach, which is also the end or can be the start of the Pyramid Rock to Berries Beach walk. Not safe for swimming.

Ocean – Whales

From May to October, you can discover these beautiful majestic creatures along the coastline of Phillip Island and Bass Coast, on the Whale Discovery Trail. Witness the sheer beauty of Humpback and Southern Right Whales as they flap their fins, slap their tails and occasionally breach.

83km²-84km²

Forrest Caves

An explorers delight on low tide, discover the wind and ocean swept Forrest Caves on the Forrest Caves Walk. * Only accessible on low tide.

85km²-87km²

Phillip Island Helicopters

Take to the sky and marvel at the breathtaking landscape of Phillip Island onboard a Phillip Island Helicopter flight!

National Vietnam Veterans Museum

The National Vietnam Veterans Museum museum seeks to remember, interpret and understand the experience of the veterans of Australia’s longest war and the enduring impact of the war on society.

This volunteer-created and run museum is home to a huge collection of artifacts, both large and small, interpreted with information, imagery and audio.

Phillip Island Visitor Information Centre

Stop by and chat with the knowledgeable and friendly staff at the Phillip Island Visitor Information Centre about the best things to do and see on Phillip Island. They also offer a range of brochures, attraction tickets, accommodation help, free wifi and a selection of local products and souvenirs.

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Calling all chocolate lovers, the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is a must-do with so many activities and delicious chocolately treats with interactive machines, attractions, fascinating facts with the ability to make your own chocolate creation on the spot.

Cape Woolamai Precinct

After a hike or a day out exploring, drop by the Cape Woolamai precinct for a cold drink and a delicious meal at Bang Bang Bar and Food Phillip Island or The Wooli Tavern.

88km²-89km²

BIG 4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island

Located in Newhaven and only meters from the beach, Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island provides the ultimate beachfront location paired with a natural bush setting.

Saltwater Phillip Island

Combining a love of the ocean with quality local produce, Saltwater Phillip Island is an exceptional dining experience paired with 270 degree waterfront views including the Phillip Island Bridge, the eastern entrance and Westernport Bay to the north.

Newhaven Precinct

Grab a coffee, do some plant shopping, get a massage and enjoy the park at the Newhaven Precinct.

For plant lovers, you won’t want to miss a visit to the Ivy Plant Studio.

San Remo Bridge

As soon as you drive across the bridge that connects San Remo (the mainland) to Phillip Island, you instantly feel relaxed. Welcome to Phillip Island!

San Remo Township

San Remo is an authentic fishing village with a relaxed coastal vibe. The gateway to Phillip Island, San Remo is an ideal spot to base yourself, where you will find boutique shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Soak up stunning coastal views on walks in the area and watch the daily pelican feeding.

Take a cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises to view Cape Woolamai’s sheer beauty, or embark on a search for whales on their Winter Whale and Dolphin Cruise. For thrill-seekers, jump aboard Ocean Adventures Jet Boat or Thundercat and enjoy a mix of stunning scenery and adrenaline.

For a cold brew and a good ol' parma, check out the San Remo Hotel and the Westernport Hotel. If fresh local seafood is on your mind, enjoy fish n chips with a view at the San Remo Fishermans Co-Op. Discover modern cocktails, delicious tapas and a breezy coastal vibe at Kelp San Remo.

For accommodation, Silverwater Resort overlooks the bay with beautiful views and a full range of onsite facilities. And if you are looking to pamper yourself, check out the beautiful Her.Skin.Spa for Phillip Island's only day spa.

Square Kilometre 90km – 101km

Marvel at the spectacular views of the Island’s southern coastline, gaze into the night sky, take a kayak tour and do a walk to discover the amazing rock formations and views of Cape Woolamai.

90km²-91km²

Pyramid Rock Lookout

Discover spectacular views at Pyramid Rock lookout and walk. A great vantage point for spotting whales in the winter months.

92km²

The Colonnades

Check out the unusual rock formations at the colonnades. Please note – cliffs may be unstable; please be careful.

Stargazing

Look out for shooting stars and the milky way from one of the beach car parks at night time. Please only stick to dedicated car parks and paths. See here for stargazing tips.

93km²

Cleeland Bight

A beautiful low wave beach at Cape Woolamai that provides ample opportunities for water sports including SUP, boating and beach games. Pioneer Kayaking’s Cape Woolamai tours depart from here.

94km²

George Bass Coastal Walk

One of the region’s most popular walks, the George Bass Coastal Walk is a cliff-top trail that stretches from the outskirts of San Remo at Punchbowl Road, to the Bass Highway in Kilcunda.

The walk is around seven kilometres long and takes an average of two hours to walk one way. The walk offers spectacular views of the coastline and follows the route of the explorer George Bass' epic voyage of discovery along the southern edge of the Anderson Peninsula, over 200 years ago.

95km² - 101km²

Cape Woolamai Surf Beach

A world-class surf beach, Cape Woolamai is where you will see experienced surfers all year round carving up the waves. Please note – this beach is not safe for swimming.

Cape Woolamai Walk

The Cape Woolamai Walk is a stunning 8km loop that guides you along the sheer cliff tops of Phillip Island's most southerly point. This area is a hiker's delight with various walks to choose from, all offering breathtaking views and scenery! The walk provides an opportunity to spot a range of wildlife and takes you past the Instagram worthy pinnacles lookout.