Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is heaven on earth for nature lovers and adventurers. The island boasts gorgeous coastlines, unique wildlife, sandy, peaceful beaches, complete with activities for water-sports lovers. There are also many opportunities for adventure, with trails for hiking and biking.
Nature enthusiasts who arrive here are in for a treat. Phillip Island is a peaceful yet exhilarating retreat for all its visitors. You can plan a trip here with family, friends, or go solo. Let’s take a look at what this popular destination has in store for its visitors and their different accommodation options.
Phillip Island
There is so much to do and see at Phillip Island, from idyllic beaches to a variety of wildlife.
You can start from one of the many coastal walking or biking trails. The most popular trail is the Cape Woolamai Walk from where you can appreciate the beautiful coast from the highest point on the Island. You can then explore the island on a bike and ride through the city from Cowes to San Remo.
During the winters you can look at whales on the Whale Discovery Trail. Talking of whales, Phillip Island actually has a lot of unique wildlife. It is home to Australia’s largest fur seal colony, little penguins, koalas, short-tailed shear waters, and much more.
If bird watching is more your thing then you can visit the mangroves at Phillip Island’s renowned wetlands. During the summer, surrounding birds flock here to feed and mate.
For the adventurous types there are many water sports and family activities at Phillip Island. You can take a kayaking or boating tour around Rhyll Inlet or see the island from on tour flights.
If adventure is not your cup of tea then you can also kick back and relax on the island’s beaches. Smith beach is the most popular beach among families and is perfect for surfing. Otherwise you can always hit the spas or steam rooms to chill and let off some steam.
How to get to Phillip Island
Phillip Island is connected to mainland Australia via a bridge and is just 90 minutes from Melbourne. Traveling by car is the best option since you will be able to take in the scenery and picturesque views.
Here’s the route if you are traveling by car from Melbourne:
- (M1) to the Cranbourne exit
- Take South Gippsland Highway (M420) to Bass Highway (A420)
- Travel through Grantville and Bass
- The take the Phillip Island Road (B420) to San Remo
- Drive over the bridge to Phillip Island
You can also take public transport to Phillip Island; these include the V/Line coach, local bus service, or Western Port Ferries.
Places to Visit and things to Do
There is plenty to do and see at Phillip Island. Its’ top attractions are:
- Cape Woolmai: The Cape Woolmai Walk is the most famous trail at Phillip Island. It is also a popular surfing spot and home to the largest colony of Short-tailed Shearwaters.
- Bass Coast
- Rhyll Village and Rhyll Inlet
- San Remo
- Whale Discovery Trail
- Pyramid Rock Walk
- Wildlife Coat Cruises
- Smiths Beach
- Cat Bay
- Penguin Parade
- Koala Conservation Centre
- Churchill Island Heritage Farm
- Nobbies Centre
- Southern Grippsland Wine Trail
- Australian Grand Prix Circuit
- Cowes
You can also learn to surf at Island Surfboards or go kayaking from Pioneer kayaking.
Where to eat and drink at Phillip Island
When it comes to wining and dining, Phillip Island has a lot to offer. From international cuisines and waterfront dining to local pubs. For international cuisines, you can go to:
- Pino’s Trattoria, Isola Di Capri – Italian
- Bani’s Restaurant and Bar – Mediterranean
- Bang Bang Bar and Restaurant – Asian Fusion
There are many ocean front restaurants as well where you can eat while taking in the sights. Some them are:
- Saltwater Phillip Island
- The Cape Kitchen
- Beach HQ
The island is dotted with many pubs cocktail bars that you can visit. For wine and beer lovers you can visit Phillip Island Winery or Phillip Island Brewery Co.
