Phillip Island 101

Welcome to Phillip Island 101

101 things to do. 101km² of wonder. Nothing beats being here.

Spring on Phillip Island is a season of renewal - where nature awakens, events light up the calendar, and every square kilometre offers a new reason to stop, breathe and explore. With 101km² of coastline, countryside, flavours and fun, this island sanctuary is your ultimate escape - close enough for a quick trip from Melbourne, yet far enough to feel like a world away.

Sure, we’re famous for the Little Penguins and the high-octane thrill of the Australian MotoGP. But that’s just the beginning. Phillip Island 101 is your invitation to go beyond the obvious and dive into the full story - from kayaking alongside rugged cliffs to sipping a smooth pinot in the sunshine, spotting playful animals in the wild, or catching all the action from an event-filled weekend!

This guide brings together 101 unforgettable things to do across the Island this season - all easy to access, and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a school holiday escape, or a midweek reset, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to unplug, slow down and tune into the simple pleasures of Island life.

So go ahead - take a walk, try something new, get your feet wet, and your hands a little sandy. Because when you’re here, you’ll discover what locals already know - there’s nowhere quite like Phillip Island.

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1. Fly high and see Phillip Island from above with Island Helicopters – nothing beats this view, especially in Spring!

2. Say hello to koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, quokkas (and more) at Maru Koala and Animal Park – Spring babies are everywhere!

3. Catch up for a pot and parma, or classic pub fare and a live music gig guide that won't disappoint at the Westnerport Hotel San Remo.

4. Watch the sun rise from Newhaven, Cape Woolamai or Rhyll

5. Pop into The Store at Ventnor for top-notch coffee, delicious eats, good vibes and unexpected finds.

6. Watch pelicans being fed daily at San Remo jetty 12 noon – a timeless local tradition.

7. Explore Cape Woolamai on foot – spot wallabies, wedge-tailed eagles and spectacular views from the highest point on the island. Remember to stick to the path and designated tracks.

8. Indulge in some self-care with a massage, facial or take a yoga class at Island Healing – spring into self-care. For the ultimate Spring R&R, book into their newest experience - signature Island Healing Head Spa treatment.

9. NEW Highland Cattle Experience at Churchill Island! Climb aboard a scenic tractor-drawn wagon ride and journey through the rolling paddocks of Churchill Island. Along the way, you’ll meet and hand-feed iconic Highland cattle (yes, the ones with the fabulous fringe), learn their story, and take in breathtaking coastal views and historic landmarks. It’s the perfect family-friendly outing with plenty of photo ops and farmyard charm!

10. Cruise past seals and sea caves with Wildlife Coast Cruises on their Phillip Island Seal Cruise or Cape Woolamai Cruise – pure wow factor.

11. Treat the kids to school holiday magic with Paw Patrol at A Maze’N Things.

12. Discover the amazing world of chocolate at Phillip Island Chocolate Factory and then warm up with a hot chocolate or a chocolate fondue masterpiece

13. Stroll the Oswin Roberts Reserve and listen to birdsong instead of your notifications

14. Book a stay at Zoarii and experience this new luxurious wellness retreat offering breathtaking views of Phillip Island's serene countryside and a stone's throw from the famous Berrys Beach surf break.

15. Grab a cone and follow the Island’s Ice Cream Trail – because one scoop isn’t enough.

16. Go tenpin bowling and laser tag at Phillip Island Ten Pin Bowling and Entertainment Centre – rainy day win!

17. Start your day with a locally roasted brew at G’Day Tiger, The Store Phillip Island, The Waterboy Cafe, Anerie General Store, Sweet N Sassy, Beachside Bakehouse or Kristos Cafe & Tavern.

18. Take Local Way Tours’ Phillip Island Explorer hop-on-hop-off bus and explore without a car – a must-do if you are looking to explore the island without transport!

19. Soak up the beach views and surf culture of Smiths Beach with a stay at Marlin Beachfront Smith’s Beach.

20. Catch the Rip Curl GromSearch surf event and watch future champions tear it up Sep 30 – Oct 4.

21. Book a couple’s mid-week escape to the Gap Retreat – a stylish, eco-friendly boutique accommodation on Phillip Island, located in a stunning bushland setting.

22. Fill your esky with Spring produce, wine and cheeses for your own DIY picnic. Pick up fresh local seafood from Bass Strait Direct or the San Remo Fisherman's Co-op, handmade chocolates from the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, cheese from Bassine Speciality Cheeses and local wines and beers.

23. Sip something special at Phillip Island Brewing Co and pair it with local flavours at Rusty Waters Restaurants and Bar.

24. Experience a farm stay weekend away – wake up to roosters, not emails. Check out Five Acres Farm Stay, Bimbadeen Phillip Island, Omaru Farm Stay and Ripples N Tonic Farm

25. Experience the thrill and scenery of Ocean Adventures Phillip Island Thundercat tours! A high-speed adrenaline boat ride guaranteed to get the heart pumping!

26. Enjoy a flavoursome homemade milkshake and cheese platter at Bassine Specialty Cheeses.

27. Hike to Kitty Miller Bay and discover the old SS Speke ship wreck – only accessible at low tide.

28. Try your luck fishing off the Cowes Jetty or San Remo Pier – or just enjoy the calm. Grab all your supplies from Jim's Bait and Tackle. For charters, check out Newhaven Fishing Charters or Better Than Working Charters.

29. Listen to the sound of waves and wind as you walk the coast – nothing else.

30. Check into a beachfront cabin, safari tent, or camp out under the stars at NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park.

31. Stop in for Spring cocktails at Grenache Wine Bar or Mello San Remo – fresh flavours, coastal vibes

32. Dine with ocean views at Beach HQ Restaurant & Bar as you watch the sunset over Cowes Beach. Our tip – try the seafood spaghetti.

33. Create a clay masterpiece at Clay & Co – perfect for rainy days or creative play.

34. Walk the Nobbies boardwalk and feel the Southern Ocean spray as you watch the blowhole in action.

35. Book your MotoGP tickets (Oct 17–19) – or join the homecoming ride! Catch all the off-track entertainment in Cowes, as it comes alive with live bands, and race highlights that you'll find on the BMW Superscreen and stage, as well as an extended outdoor licensed area at the bottom of Thompson Ave in Cowes.

36. Get lost in a world of magic, mazes and mini golf at A Maze N Things! Perfect for families or groups looking for a fun day out! Also, a great wet weather idea!

37. Browse handmade wares and fresh produce at Churchill Island Farmers Market or kick off your festive shopping at The Store’s Phillip Island Makers Market on Saturday, November 22, where you’ll discover a curated mix of locally made products, plus live tunes, tasty eats and fresh brews! Then mark your calendar for the popular Clay & Co Makers Market on Saturday, 29 November, where local creatives and artisans will be selling their works.

38. Take a day trip to Kilcunda, Cape Paterson or Inverloch – coastal charm everywhere.

39. Pack up the family for the perfect family caravan trip or holiday at Anchor Belle Holiday Park, with onsite facilities including a jumping cushion, heated indoor pool, games room, multi-use ball court and more!

40. Explore the George Bass Coastal Walk and feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.

41. Watch the AFL Grand Final at a local pub where the passion is just as loud as the city. Check out North Pier Hotel, San Remo Hotel and Westernport Hotel

42. Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at the Phillip Island RSL. Enjoy a 220-seat dining area with a kids’ playroom, seasonal menus, local wines like Purple Hen, and options for all dietary needs. The Terrace offers casual alfresco dining, while kids' and seniors' menus are available daily for lunch and dinner.

43.See baby animals at Churchill Island’s Heritage Farm – Spring is the best time!

44. For a central base, book a stay at the Coachman Motel or the Seahorse Motel for a relaxing base for your Spring getaway!

45. Visit the Phillip Island Circuit – trackside thrills even off-race weekends, and race your mates around the mini replica go-kart track. After, take a wander through the History of Motorsport Display.

46. Book a stay at Ramada Resort, an ideal location for families and groups looking for a fantastic range of onsite facilities, including a pool, tennis court and restaurant.

47. Plan a Spring mid-week stay or school holiday getaway at one of Phillip Island's self-contained apartments or charming cottages. View all apartments & cottages here.

48. Be swept away to Paris and enjoy a French-inspired dinner at Anerie Restaurant

49. Taste local brews at Ocean Reach Brewery and Phillip Island Brewing Co. Enjoy a tasting paddle accompanied by some mouth-watering food!

50. Climb to new heights at Clip N Climb Phillip Island - Challenge your mates or your kids! A great wet-weather option!

51. Stop by The Wooli Tavern for a pre-surf coffee, or post-walk lunch or dinner. Their beer garden is pet-friendly, and the interior is warm and inviting.

52. Taste some of the freshest seafood and the best local fish n chips at San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op, as you soak up the serenity of San Remo.

53. Hop on a kayaking tour with Pioneer Kayaking and feel the spray on your face as you kayak around Cape Woolamai's spectacular coast.

54. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes, signature cocktails, and laid-back coastal vibes at Hotel Phillip Island - the island’s go-to spot for modern dining and nightlife. With a sleek menu, buzzing atmosphere, and unbeatable views, it’s where great food meets good times.

55. Walk 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.

56. Looking for a school camp, holiday retreat or group accommodation this Spring? Check out the Phillip Island Adventure Resort, CYC The Island and The Island Accommodation - Phillip Island Camps.

57. Book a weekend away or mid-week getaway in one of Phillip Island Park Lane Holiday Park’s safari tents or glamping pods.

58. Snap a selfie with something iconic to Phillip Island (the big wave, big koala, the nobbies - but then put the phone away).

59. For spring eats and flavours, check out Bang Bang Bar & Food, Bani's Restaurant & Bar, Pinos Trattoria, Isola di Capri and Chapel Lane.

60. Sit fireside with a glass of wine or gather friends and family and soak up the sunshine outside on the lawn at Phillip Island Winery. There is also a full restaurant onsite featuring wood-fired pizzas, seasonal dishes and of course, charcuterie boards!

61. Walk the Rhyll Inlet boardwalk and wander through mangroves spotting spoonbills, oyster catchers and more.

62. Enjoy a midweek escape at Glen Isla House – heritage charm with coastal soul.

63. Keep your fitness up at My 24/7 Gym to balance out those indulgent brunches.

64. Hire a surfboard or take a lesson to learn to surf with Island Surfboards.

65. Marvel at the shearwaters returning from a day out fishing at sunset – a true nature experience.

66. Try Pilates or a Spring reset class at one of the Island studios, followed by a massage at Island Healing or Cowes Massage Therapy.

67. Host your dream beach elopement without the hassle with Elope to Phillip Island.

68. Experience the island like a local on a guided tour with Local Way Tours.

69. Round up a group of friends and let the stress melt away as you enjoy a woodfired sauna with a view at Phillip Island Sauna, or an infrared sauna at Island Healing.

70. Stroll along San Remo Coastal Walk and spot stingrays from the jetty.

71. Try your luck catching dinner or lunch, and set off on a fishing adventure with Better Than Working Fishing Charters

72. Sample wines from Silverwaters Vineyard, The Gurdies Winery, Purple Hen and Phillip Island Winery

73. Grab takeaway and eat it on the beach – toes in sand, phone in bag. Share fish & chips with your family on the Cowes foreshore, Rhyll Foreshore or San Remo Foreshore.

74. Plan your Spring or Summer getaway with Phillip Island Holiday Homes, who specialise in holiday letting throughout Phillip Island and Bass Coast.

75. Head to one of Phillip Island’s lookouts or remote accommodations and stargaze under the night sky. Find out more here about stargazing on Phillip Island.

76. Set out and experience the epic coastal views along the Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach Walk, and the Pyramid Rock Lookout

77. Enjoy an eclectic breakfast or brunch at Anerie General – an off-the-beaten-track cafe with a touch of French

78. Take Western Port Ferries to French Island and spot wild koalas in the bush, take a tour with Naturaliste Tours, and stay at French Island Eco Inn

79. Step back in time and take in the history at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum. With interactive exhibits, restored vehicles, and personal stories, it’s a meaningful way for kids and adults alike to explore Australia’s history and honour those who served.

80. Catch all the action of the Australian SUP Titles returning to Phillip Island ( Oct 21-25)

81. Treat yourself to a round of golf at Phillip Island Golf Club or Red Rocks Golf Club.

82. Witness the world-famous Penguin Parade and watch little penguins waddle on home at sunset – no matter how many times, it never gets old.

83. Stock up on a range of organic and health goods including fresh produce, treats and bread at The Corner Dispensary in Cowes – plus, did we mention their range of eco goods and gifts.

84. Discover local art at Phillip Island Gallery, Clay & Co and Art Fusion Gallery and Studio.

85. Jump aboard a scenic tour with Wanderer Adventures to explore the spectacular Wilsons Promontory by boat for a day trip

86. Cruise the Island on a rental bike from Super Cruze E Bikes or bring your own – salty air + freedom = Spring bliss.

87. Play at the Rhyll, San Remo or Cowes Foreshore playgrounds – great for a breather with kids.

88. Book a shady camping spot at the centrally located Beach Park Tourist Caravan Park.

89. Create everlasting memories with friends, and a sky full of stars at one of the region's caravan and holiday parks. For holiday and caravan parks, click here.

90. Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve and wander the tree-top boardwalks

91. Explore one of Phillip Island’s touring trails – family, culinary or wildlife themed.

92. Enjoy a beer on the deck, bay views, and pub classics at North Pier Hotel, Cowes.

93. Try out a stand-up paddleboarding session on a calm spring morning.

94. Stop by Linen House Phillip Island to refresh your beach shack with local style.

95. Try a group or family mini gold challenge at Grumpy’s Crazy Golf, Maru Koala and Animal Park and A Maze N Things.

96. The Great Witch Hunt - Fire up your broom and prepare to join 'The Great Witch Hunt' occurring across the Bass Coast Shire right throughout this October. Purchase your 'ticket to hunt' to get a map that outlines where you will find up to 80x witches at businesses throughout Bass Coast.

97. Visit Moonlit Sanctuary en route to Phillip Island for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Explore their enchanting bushland while engaging with over 70 captivating Australian species, including endangered animals.

98. Join a tour and explore wineries, attractions and more with Local Way Tours, Specialty Wine Tours and Your Exclusive Tours.

99. Experience the stunning coastline at your own pace along the Bass Coast Rail Trail - Victoria’s only coastal rail trail. Whether you’re walking or cycling, this scenic path winds through farmland, bushland, and rugged coastline, offering breathtaking views from San Remo to Wonthaggi, with plenty of spots to stop, explore, and soak in the beauty of the Bass Coast.

100. Dine overlooking the bay as you take in the views at Saltwater Phillip Island, Hotel Phillip Island, Beach HQ Restaurant and Bar, North Pier Hotel, San Remo Hotel, Mello and Westernport Hotel

101. Just stop. Breathe. Look around. You’re here – and nothing beats being here.