# Destination Phillip Island > Phillip Island is 90 minutes from Melbourne and offers unique wildlife experiences including the penguin parade, beaches, attractions & eateries. Phillip Island, located just 125 km south of Melbourne, is a stunning Australian island renowned for its rich natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. This picturesque destination is home to the world-famous Penguin Parade, where visitors can witness thousands of little penguins returning to shore at dusk, creating a magical spectacle that draws millions each year. Beyond the penguins, the island boasts diverse ecosystems, including the rugged coastlines of The Nobbies and Seal Rocks, where you can observe Australia’s largest fur seal colony. Adventure seekers will find plenty to do on Phillip Island, from surfing the renowned waves at Woolamai Beach to exploring scenic walking trails that wind through lush landscapes. The island is also a hub for motorsport enthusiasts, hosting major events at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, the National Vietnam Veterans Museum offers a poignant glimpse into history, while Churchill Island Heritage Farm showcases the region's agricultural heritage. With its unique blend of wildlife experiences, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions, Phillip Island is the perfect getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you're here to relax on pristine beaches, explore nature reserves, or indulge in local cuisine, Phillip Island promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the best of Australia’s coastal charm. ## Quick Facts - **Geographic Scope:** Island in Victoria, Australia. Victoria - **Coordinates:** 38.48°S 145.23°E - **Area:** 101 km² (39 sq mi) - **Population:** 13,799 (2021) - **Region:** Bass Coast Shire - **Official Website:** https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au - **Data Source:** Listings managed via [Roam](https://www.roamhq.io), Australia's leading destination marketing platform - **Last Updated:** 2026-03-06 ## Top Attractions - [Wellbeing Elements](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/wellbeing-elements): At Wellbeing Elements, connection sits at the heart of everything we do. We are Phillip Island’s premium bathhouse and recovery centre, offering a welcoming space for individuals, groups and teams to relax, recover and rejuvenate. - [Patrolled Beaches - Phillip Island](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/patrolled-beaches-phillip-island): Understanding Beach Conditions. The beach is a dynamic, ever-changing environment, and Phillip Island's beaches are no exception. Although it can be very fun, it can also be unpredictable and dangerous to people who are unaware. - [Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach Walk](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/pyramid-rock-to-berrys-beach-walk): Walk to Berrys Beach along a gently undulating clifftop track and marvel at spectacular coastal views of Phillip Island’s southern coastline including Point Grant and The Nobbies. - [Anerie](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/anerie): A pint-sized French bistro only a stone’s throw from the beautiful Cowes foreshore on Victoria’s Phillip Island, Anerie has quickly become an institution since opening its doors in 2021. - [Saltwater Phillip Island](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/saltwater-phillip-island-1): Combining a love of the ocean with quality local produce, Saltwater caters to a broad range of tastes, balancing craft and comfort. - [Pioneer Kayaking](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/pioneer-kayaking): Looking for something different to do on your visit to Phillip Island? Want a bit of adventure? Feel the need to get away from the crowds on the beach and do some exploring from the water? - [Phillip Island Apartments](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/phillip-island-apartments): Phillip Island Apartments is renowned for its exceptional location, within a few minutes walk of dining, shopping and the beautiful Cowes beach. - [The Gap Retreat](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/the-gap-retreat-1): The Gap Retreat is a stylish, eco-friendly boutique accommodation on Phillip Island, located in a bushland setting. - [Genesta House Bed & Breakfast](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/genesta-house-bed-breakfast): Step back in time. Genesta House Bed and Breakfast is one of the few original guesthouses on Phillip Island, offering boutique accommodation in the heart of Cowes. - [The Store’s Phillip Island Makers Market](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/the-stores-phillip-island-makers-market): A market showcasing local artisans and their crafts, perfect for finding unique souvenirs. - [Dinosaur Discovery at The Caves, Inverloch](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/dinosaur-discovery-at-the-caves-inverloch-1): Join an engaging session led by an Education Officer from the Bunurong Environment Centre to learn about the dinosaurs that once roamed the Bass Coast area and hunt for fossils. Experience ancient fault lines and petrified trees, and even try your ha ## Featured Experiences - [Phillip Island Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/phillip-island-explorer-hop-on-hop-off-bus): Stay Longer, Explore Further - the best new way to experience Phillip Island. Local Way Tours - The Phillip Island Explorer is hitting the road this September and continuing all through the summer season. - [The Nobbies Walk](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/the-nobbies-walk): Awe-inspiring views of the rugged Southern coastline. Overlooking Bass Strait, the Nobbies is home to spectacular clifftop boardwalks and views out to the Nobbies and Seal Rocks. - [Cape Woolamai Walk](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/cape-woolamai-walk): Cape Woolamai, the highest point on Phillip Island, offers spectacular coastal views and is home for up to a million shearwaters between October and April each year. - [Hotel Phillip Island](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/hotel-phillip-island): Hotel is home to Phillip Island's premier bar, with beer and cider on tap, wines by the glass and innovative cocktails complemented by traditional pub meals, tapas and gourmet pizzas. - [Ocean Adventures Phillip Island](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/ocean-adventures-phillip-island): Ocean Adventures Phillip Island specialises in fun, safe and personal adventure-based tourism for the whole family, couples and travellers, showcasing some of Phillip Island's most majestic scenery. - [Wildlife Coast Cruises](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/wildlife-coast-cruises): Wildlife Coast Cruises provides exceptional wildlife and scenic cruises around Phillip Island, Seal Rocks, Westernport Bay, and Wilsons Promontory. - [Phillip Island Penrite 100 Classic](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/phillip-island-penrite-100-classic): An exciting motorsport event showcasing classic cars on Phillip Island. - [Inverloch Equinox Festival 2026](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/inverloch-equinox-festival-2026): A vibrant festival celebrating the equinox with various activities and entertainment. - [Dinosaur Discovery at Eagles Nest](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/products/dinosaur-discovery-at-eagles-nest): Explore Eagles Nest, the site of Australia's first dinosaur fossil discovery. Meet at the Bunurong Environment Centre for an introduction and safety briefing before heading to Eagles Nest, about seven kilometers away. ## Accommodation Phillip Island offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, holiday parks, and self-contained apartments. Popular areas for stays include Cowes and Newhaven, with prices ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts, catering to all types of travelers. - [All Accommodation](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/accommodation): Browse all stays - [Hotels & Resorts](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Stay?st=HOTEL): Full-service hotels and resort properties - [Holiday Houses & Apartments](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Stay?st=SELFCONT): Self-contained stays for families and groups - [B&Bs & Guesthouses](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Stay?st=BEDBREAKFAST): Boutique stays with local character - [Caravan Parks & Camping](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Stay?st=CARAVAN): Outdoor and budget-friendly accommodation - [Farm Stays](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Stay?st=FARMSTAY): Rural and outback experiences ## Things To Do Visitors to Phillip Island can enjoy unique attractions such as the famous Penguin Parade, where thousands of little penguins return to shore at dusk. Other highlights include the Nobbies Centre, wildlife parks, and beautiful beaches, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. ### Attractions & Sightseeing - [All Attractions](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/See): Must-see places across the region - [Nature & Wildlife](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/See?at=NATURAL): Natural wonders and wildlife encounters - [Museums & Galleries](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/See?at=MUSEUM): Cultural attractions and exhibitions - [Historic Sites](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/See?at=HISTORIC): Heritage landmarks and history ### Tours & Experiences - [All Tours](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Do): Guided experiences and activities - [Adventure Activities](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Do?at=ADVENTURE): Outdoor and adrenaline experiences - [Food & Wine Tours](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Do?at=FOOD): Culinary tours and tastings - [Cruises & Water Activities](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Do?at=CRUISE): On-water tours, sailing, and snorkelling ## Food & Drink The dining scene on Phillip Island features a mix of local seafood, international cuisine, and farm-to-table experiences. Key dining areas include Cowes and Rhyll, where visitors can enjoy fresh produce and local wines, with many restaurants offering stunning views of the coastline. - [Restaurants & Cafes](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Eat): Dining across the region - [Fine Dining](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Eat?dt=RESTAURANT): Premium dining experiences - [Cafes](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Eat?dt=CAFE): Coffee and casual dining - [Wineries](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Drink?dt=WINERY): Cellar doors and tastings - [Breweries & Distilleries](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Drink?dt=BREWERY): Craft beverages - [Pubs & Bars](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Drink?dt=PUB): Local pubs and bars ## Events & Festivals Phillip Island hosts several major events throughout the year, including the Phillip Island Grand Prix in March and the Penguin Parade's special events during the summer months. Additionally, local markets and festivals celebrate the island's culture and community throughout the year. - [Upcoming Events](/events): What's on now and coming soon - [Festivals](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Events?et=FESTIVAL): Major festivals and celebrations - [Markets](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Events?et=MARKET): Local markets - [Sports Events](https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au/search/Events?et=SPORT): Sporting events and competitions ## Plan Your Trip To reach Phillip Island, visitors can drive approximately 125 km from Melbourne, with the journey taking about 90 minutes. The best time to visit is during the warmer months from December to March, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. ## About - [About Phillip Island](/about): History, culture, and character of the region - [Contact Us](/contact): Official contact information ## Weather & Climate Temperatures range from 7°C (July) to 24°C (January). The coolest months are June with daytime highs around 14°C. | Month | Min °C | Max °C | |-------|--------|--------| | January | 14 | 24 | | February | 14 | 24 | | March | 13 | 22 | | April | 11 | 20 | | May | 9 | 17 | | June | 8 | 14 | | July | 7 | 14 | | August | 7 | 14 | | September | 8 | 16 | | October | 9 | 18 | | November | 10 | 20 | | December | 12 | 22 | --- - **Cite as:** "Destination Phillip Island" — https://www.visitphillipisland.com.au - **Organisation:** Destination Phillip Island - **Platform:** Powered by [Roam](https://www.roamhq.io) - **Copyright ©** Destination Phillip Island. Some data licensed from [ATDW](https://www.atdw.com.au/) Event dates, prices, and availability should be verified directly with operators. *Generated by Roamcrawler — 2026-03-06*