Things to do in Phillip Island

Lately, Phillip Island has been gaining traction in the gourmet realm. Many farms are crafting a culinary trail, making “things to do in Phillip Island” not just about sightseeing but also about tasting. This trail reflects the island’s profound history and introduces a culinary dimension to it. Visitors today can immerse themselves in genuine farm stays, relish meals at wineries featuring their restaurants, and even take home baskets brimming with local delicacies.
Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teenagers, Phillip Island tour extends various activities and things to do, ensuring a memorable time for every family member. The Otways is well worth a trip of its own as there is so much to see here, including amazing waterfalls, encounters with rare wildlife, and even the chance to see the tallest trees in the world (California Redwoods).

1. Witness the Iconic Penguin Parade

Phillip Island is renowned globally for its mesmerizing Penguin Parade – an event many travel miles to experience. As dusk settles, witness the enchanting spectacle of Little Penguins assembling along the beachfront of Phillip Island’s southwest. These adorable creatures wait for sunset to avoid aerial predators before bravely making their wobble-filled journey from the surf to the sandy shores, often tumbling along the way. Their mission? To return to their burrows and nourish their awaiting chicks. The chorus of young penguins calling out adds to the magic. Stay longer, and you can stroll on nearby boardwalks, observing the adult penguins as they feed their young — a highlight of any Phillip Island Penguin tour.

2. Encounter Koalas and Indigenous Wildlife

Beyond its famous penguins, Phillip Island is a haven for koalas. Historically, these cuddly creatures faced near extinction on the island in the 20th century due to deforestation. Thankfully, conservation initiatives have now turned their fate around. Today, you can visit several koala sanctuaries that allow intimate experiences – from observing them munching on eucalyptus leaves to even holding them.

Experience the wonders of nature at the Koala Conservation Centre and Phillip Island Wildlife Park, where beauty and wildlife come together in perfect harmony.

Also, the nearby “Maru Koala and Animal Park” in Grantville offers another immersive experience.

3. Embark on a Nautical Adventure

Enclosed by Western Port Bay to its north and the tempestuous Bass Strait to its south, Phillip Island boasts diverse water experiences. The northern bay offers serene waters perfect for novice sea kayakers, while the southern side promises wilder waves and opportunities to spot marine life. Choose between exhilarating kayak tours with Pioneer Kayaking or amp up the adrenaline with jet boat rides courtesy of Ocean Adventures Phillip Island.

4. Soar Above with Aerial Views

Elevate your Phillip Island adventure – quite literally! There’s genuinely no parallel to viewing the island’s breathtaking topography than from the sky. Embark on a helicopter flight offering panoramic vistas of renowned spots, including:

Cape Woolamai
Grand Prix Circuit
Rhyll
Cowes
Seal Rocks
And, of course, the penguins

Bring your little ones along for the adventure because guess what? Kids under three can fly for free when snuggled up on an adult’s lap! It’s a family-friendly bonus you won’t want to miss.

5. Step Back in Time at a Heritage Farm

Situated on the eastern fringes of Phillip Island near Newhaven, Churchill Island is a testament to yesteryears. Spanning 57 hectares and linked to Phillip Island by a slender bridge, it boasts a cluster of heritage farm structures from the 19th century.

Take a stroll along the breathtaking footpath of the island, a favorite route for the exhilarating Phillip Island Park Run. Prepare to be enchanted by stunning island vistas and the graceful presence of black swans at every turn.

Inside the farm, a rustic experience awaits. Meander among vintage buildings and interact with the farm’s residents, from cows and horses to ducks and sheep. Engaging activities, run by dedicated volunteers, immerse visitors in farm life – be it animal feedings, witnessing cow milking, or observing sheep shearing. If local produce beckons you, mark your calendar for the Farmer’s Market on the last Saturday of every month. Beyond Churchill Island, another farm gem awaits discovery. Omaru, nestled in the warm hills of Ventnor, boasts a climate mirroring the Mediterranean. It’s an ideal haven for olive cultivation. Relish in the farm’s delightful offerings like spicy chilli jam and olive oil. While there, allow yourself a moment to soak in the sweeping views of Western Port and the Nobbies and perhaps a playful detour to the on-site playground.

6. Ride the Waves or Master Surfing

Phillip Island’s pristine surf beaches present an enticing call for both novices and seasoned surfers. Many of these beaches are monitored for safety, especially during peak seasons:

Smiths Beach
Cape Woolamai

Though YCW Beach isn’t patrolled, its gentle waves make it apt for beginners. In contrast, the more tumultuous waters of Cape Woolamai beckon only the skilled.

Beginners or those wishing to sharpen their skills should go to The Big Wave Surfing Complex. Here, a range of classes catering to different proficiency levels await. As a fun addition, snap a photo with the iconic Big Wave and Combi Van installations in the parking lot.

Families with little ones aren’t left out. A delightful playground is strategically located off the main route at Newhaven, serving as a warm welcome after crossing over from San Remo.

7. Dive into aquatic adventures

One of the highlights of a Phillip Island trip with kids is the opportunity to hit a beach almost any day. Regardless of your child’s age, from the tiniest toddlers to older children, there’s something for everyone, from the toddler-friendly shallow waters to the more tranquil waves of Western Port Bay and even some thrilling surf adventures. Cowes Main Beach is the top pick, conveniently located by the town center. However, the northern shore offers extensive beaches, so you’re never confined to just one spot. Interestingly, Cowes Main Beach stands out as lifeguards frequently monitor it on weekends from December to February and throughout the summer break.

A few other beaches that are kid-approved include

Red Rock Beach
Ventnor Beach: Known for its distinctive red rocks.
Forrest Caves: A shallow surf beach that offers an exciting walk to its sea caves. But remember, getting to the beach does require navigating many steps over the dunes.
San Remo Back Beach: It is located in San Remo and is adjacent to the Lions Park Playground, making it a hit with kids.

8. Engage in some mini-golf fun

During a lengthy beach vacation, a dash of semi-indoor fun can be a refreshing change. Mini-golf is a fabulous activity that caters to all age groups, from the youngest to the eldest.

You have two main options: Grumpy Crazy Golf in Cowes means you can skip the car ride if you’re staying in town. Alternatively, A Maze’N Things, located centrally on the island, is not just about mini-golf. They offer many attractions, from puzzles and illusions to mazes, ensuring hours of fun.

9. Pelicans in San Remo

San Remo is an excellent detour en route to or from Phillip Island. It’s also a worthwhile day trip if you’re lodging on the island. Top activities? Grabbing some fish and chips from the San Remo Fishermans Co-Op and then enjoying the daily midday pelican feeding on the beach beside it.

San Remo isn’t just about pelicans; it’s a haven of beautiful beaches, ideal for kids. San Remo Children’s Beach and San Remo Back Beach are prime spots. Additionally, although lacking shade, San Remo Park Playground offers play equipment suitable for toddlers to pre-teens.

10. Delve into the natural wonders at Rhyll

Rhyll, a quaint village on Phillip Island’s northeastern corner, boasts unique flora, fauna, and panoramic views. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as you step onto the enchanting Rhyll Wetlands Boardwalk, guiding you to the breathtaking Rhyll Inlet Lookout.

Along this route, you’ll witness the distinct mangroves of this region of Victoria and distant views of French Island and Sandy Point.

Explore the enchanting boardwalk that winds its way through the breathtaking Rhyll Inlet State Wildlife Reserve, where the mesmerizing Conservation Hill to Rhyll walk will transport you on a captivating journey that lasts approximately an hour. The path, comprising galleries and compacted gravel, is pram-friendly but might need a bit of effort in places. As you stroll, watch for wallabies visiting the neighboring farmlands. Starting or pausing your walk in Rhyll? Plan to drop by the Wild Food Farm and its cafe. Indulge in meals infused with a touch of bush tucker. Plus, the kid-friendly menu and babycinos make it a hit. And while you’re there, don’t miss Robbo’s aviary, home to an approximately 85-year-old sulphur-crested cockatoo.

11. Witness the serenity of swans at Summerlands

Journey to the island’s western end, in the direction of the Nobbies and the penguin hub, and you’ll stumble upon Swan Lake. This tranquil spot offers a scenic walking trail and is flanked by bird hides with breathtaking vistas. As you tread the wooden boardwalk leading to these hides, immerse yourself in the symphony of goose calls and the unique sounds of pobblebonk frogs. Once inside a bird hide and after sliding open the viewing window, you’re presented with a spectacular view of the lake, teeming with swans, geese, and diverse waterfowl. If fortune favours you and you remain patient, you might just see swamp wallabies quenching their thirst by the lake’s edge.

12. Marvel at marine life at the Nobbies

From May to October, witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of majestic whales embarking on their epic journey south of Phillip Island to their enchanting breeding grounds near the Great Ocean Road and Warrnambool. This migration turns the Nobby’s reserve into a perfect vantage point to glimpse these gigantic creatures. The Nobbies Centre offers a leisurely walk, including the boardwalk, spanning 1 km, which takes about 20 minutes to complete. It’s designed with prams and kids in mind. Consider a whale and seal observation cruise to get an up-close encounter with these marine mammals. While seals feel their presence year-round, whale cruises are seasonal, available only in the colder months. Wildlife Coast Cruises is the official cruise partner for Phillip Island Nature Parks.

The Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies Centre is an educational retreat if the climate isn’t conducive for a maritime excursion. Here, you and your children can delve deep into the mysteries of the southernmost ecosystems, complete with visuals, interactive modules, and captivating videos of penguins, seals, whales, and avian species.

13. Ferry over to the serene French Island

Historically a haven for koalas, French Island, like Phillip Island, is brimming with undisturbed wildlife. Distinctly, French Island transitioned into a haven overseen by Parks Victoria, prioritizing its status as a wildlife sanctuary over development.

This emphasis on conservation means the island houses roughly 100 human inhabitants, with its primary connectivity being passenger ferries.

Once on the island, you can explore its diverse terrains and pristine beaches. For camping enthusiasts, Fairhaven Campground is open for foot-based camping. For trekkers, the island offers several prominent routes:

Old Coast Road Track – a 5km stretch lasting around 1.5 hours.
West Coast Wetlands Walking Track – a 9.6km journey with a round trip duration of approximately 3.2 hours.
Fairhaven Northern Beach Walk – a shorter 4km path, taking about 2 hours for a return journey.

Transport between Cowes and French Island is facilitated by Western Port Ferries, with weekends seeing the maximum ferry frequency.

14. Embrace the bustle of Cowes

Cowes stands proud as Phillip Island’s most populous town, housing the central administrative infrastructure. It shares its name and sister city status with Cowes on the Isle of Wight in England. Particularly during the Australian summer school break, Cowes witnesses an influx of visitors, swelling its population considerably.

Outside the peak season, the town resumes its quieter pace, serving its local inhabitants, roughly 7,000 in number. Main Cowes Beach and its adjoining jetty form the core of the town’s activities. It’s a hub for fishing enthusiasts and the occasional seal spotter. This beach, notable for its shallow waters, is especially beloved by families and is the only one on the island’s northern coast with regular lifeguard patrols.

For a slice of tradition, the Island Summer Carnival graces Cowes during a specific period in the summer holidays. The carnival boasts over 50 years of history and is a delightful potpourri of exhilarating rides, nostalgia-inducing stalls, and mouthwatering delights.

15. Relish the sweetness at the chocolate factory

The allure of Panny’s Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is hard to resist, especially with the claim of the world’s most enormous chocolate cascade. Beyond this spectacle, the factory offers a medley of chocolate-centric games and the promise of delicious cocoa delicacies. Your journey begins with a delectable chocolate bar, but the real highlight is crafting your unique chocolate bar, among other delightful experiences.

For families, the cherry on top is the complimentary entry for kids under 4, making it a tempting destination for those with younger children.

16. Race Your Heart Out on Phillip Island's Track

Phillip Island is renowned for its annual Australian Moto GP event at the Phillip Island Circuit. This adrenaline-pumping race attracts spectators from far and wide.

17. Relish in Authentic Island Cuisine and Views

located at the island’s tip, offers some of the most elevated points, unveiling spectacular views of the beach and ocean below. Cape Woolamai Beach, known for its intense surf, is among the island’s few patrolled beaches. The Woolamai Park Playground serves as a delightful pitstop for the little ones.

But the island’s culinary adventures beckon further north along the coast at The Cape Kitchen. Perched on cliff tops overlooking the Red Rocks, this fine dining establishment boasts a seafood menu that harmonizes with its surrounding vistas.

Post-feast, consider a cliff-top stroll along one of Cape Woolamai’s trails. Incredibly family-friendly is the Pinnacles Walk (marked green). It’s a 4 km round trip, so packing snacks and water is advised. However, it’s not pram-friendly.

18. Marvel at Pyramid Rock and Savor the Vineyard's Best

Head to the Pyramid Rock Lookout for an unparalleled view of Pyramid Rock Rock. An 800m walk from the parking area leads you to this majestic view. The first segment is pram-friendly, but the path becomes less so as you proceed.

Just an 8-minute drive away, immerse yourself in the Phillip Island Winery’s offerings. This emerging culinary gem features a winery cellar door, a top-notch restaurant, and a store brimming with Victoria’s best produce.

The restaurant’s menu, ever-changing with the seasons, showcases fresh, local ingredients in an authentically Australian manner. They have delightful choices for kids and even treats for furry friends.

FAQ

What is the must-see wildlife experience on Phillip Island?

The Penguin Parade is the island’s most famous attraction, where Little Penguins waddle ashore at sunset to return to their burrows.

Can families enjoy water activities on Phillip Island?

Yes, families can enjoy calm beaches like Cowes Main Beach for safe swimming, or try kayaking and gentle surf spots suitable for beginners.

Are there heritage attractions to explore?

Churchill Island offers a heritage farm experience with 19th-century buildings, animal feeding, and a monthly farmers’ market.

What unique nature spots can I visit besides beaches?

Visitors can explore the Rhyll Wetlands Boardwalk, Swan Lake bird hides, and The Nobbies for stunning coastal views and wildlife encounters.

Is there a food and wine scene on Phillip Island?

Yes, the island has a growing gourmet trail with farm stays, olive groves, wineries like Phillip Island Winery, and local dining spots such as The Cape Kitchen.

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