PHILLIP ISLAND
Phillip Island is a compact, spectacular island renowned as a wildlife haven and a sanctuary of pristine coastal beauty just a short drive from Melbourne. It seamlessly blends thrilling nature encounters with family-friendly attractions.
This island is most famous for its Little Penguin Parade, one of Australia’s most treasured wildlife spectacles. It offers a unique mix of rugged coastline, serene beaches, motor racing heritage, and historical farming.
Most Popular Attractions
Nature & Wildlife Experiences:
Penguin Parade: The world-famous nightly spectacle where Little Penguins waddle ashore at dusk on Summerland Beach.
Koala Conservation Reserve: Elevated boardwalks offering up-close viewing of koalas in their natural habitat.
The Nobbies Centre: A headland offering stunning coastal views, boardwalks, and a chance to spot seals, seabirds, and the Blowhole rock formation.
Seal Rocks: Home to Australia’s largest colony of Australian Fur Seals, best viewed via a wildlife cruise from Cowes.
Rhyll Inlet Wetlands: Boardwalks through internationally recognized wetlands, a significant site for migratory and resident waterbirds.
Phillip Island Wildlife Park: A sanctuary where you can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies and encounter various native Australian animals.
Cape Woolamai: The island’s highest point, featuring dramatic coastal scenery, granite cliffs, and the Pinnacles Lookout.
Oswin Roberts Reserve: Bushland reserve perfect for spotting wallabies and echidnas along easy walking trails.
Swan Lake: A freshwater lake reserve with bird-watching hides accessible via boardwalks.
Whale Watching: Seasonal cruises (May to October) to spot Humpback Whales and Southern Right Whales.
Beaches & Coastal Walks:
Woolamai Surf Beach: A renowned National Surfing Reserve known for its powerful surf breaks and rugged beauty.
Cowes Main Beach: The island’s main north-facing beach, perfect for safe swimming, families, and watersports.
Smiths Beach: A family-friendly beach offering gentle surf, ideal for beginner surfers and a leisurely day out.
Pyramid Rock: A distinctive natural rock formation accessible via a scenic coastal walk.
Forrest Caves: Unique sea caves carved into the rock, only accessible and explorable at low tide.
Kitty Miller Bay: A secluded bay offering beautiful coastal views and the site of the SS Speke shipwreck visible at low tide.
Culture, History & Entertainment:
Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit: An internationally renowned motor racing track hosting major events; also offers Go-Karting and a Circuit Visitor Centre.
Churchill Island Heritage Farm: Victoria’s first farm, now a working heritage farm with historic cottages, gardens, and daily farming demonstrations.
Phillip Island Chocolate Factory: A must-visit for sweet-tooths, offering interactive exhibits and a café to indulge in all things chocolate.
A Maze’N Things: A family entertainment centre featuring a giant maze, optical illusions, puzzles, and mini-golf.
National Vietnam Veterans Museum: A nationally recognized museum exhibiting the history and impact of the Vietnam War.
Phillip Island Winery: One of the island’s oldest wineries, offering cool-climate wine tastings and seasonal cuisine.
Activities & Experiences
Witness the Penguin Parade: The island’s signature experience. Watch the world’s smallest penguins, the Little Penguins, waddle ashore at sunset after a day of fishing. Book tickets in advance!
Explore the Nobbies Centre & Boardwalk: Walk the spectacular boardwalks for awe-inspiring views of the rugged coastline, look for blowholes, and spot Australia’s largest colony of Australian Fur Seals from the clifftops at Seal Rocks.
Walk the Cape Woolamai Trails: Hike to the highest point on the island for breathtaking coastal views, the Pinnacles rock formation, and spectacular surf beaches. This area is a National Surfing Reserve.
See Koalas on a Treetop Boardwalk: Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve to observe koalas in their natural habitat from elevated boardwalks, which brings you up close without disturbing them.
Take a Seal Watching Cruise: Join a boat tour departing from Cowes or San Remo to get an up-close view of the massive Australian Fur Seal colony at Seal Rocks.
Experience the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit: Get your adrenaline pumping by riding the Go-Karts on a replica of the world-famous circuit, or take a guided tour of the track and its History of Motorsport Museum.
Step Back in Time at Churchill Island Heritage Farm: Visit this historic working farm (the site of the first farm in Victoria) to enjoy demonstrations like sheep shearing, cow milking, and whip cracking.
Go Surfing or Take a Lesson: Hit the waves at a beginner-friendly beach like Smiths Beach or challenge the breaks at the National Surfing Reserve of Cape Woolamai.
Indulge at Pannys Phillip Island Chocolate Factory: Explore a fun, interactive world of chocolate, learn about its production, and sample or purchase a huge variety of locally made treats.
Wander Rhyll Inlet: Explore the tranquil wetlands and saltmarshes of Rhyll Inlet, a protected area perfect for birdwatching and gentle walking along boardwalks.
Have Fun at A Maze’N Things: Spend a few hours at this family-friendly attraction filled with illusions, puzzles, magic exhibits, and a giant timber maze.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Highly Recommended: While the island is small, the main attractions are spread out. A car offers the most flexibility to see the Penguin Parade, Nobbies, and Cape Woolamai, especially since the Penguin Parade finishes late after sunset.
Getting to the Island: Phillip Island is connected to the mainland by a bridge at San Remo, making the two-hour drive from Melbourne straightforward via the Monash Freeway (M1) and Bass Highway (A420/B420).
Public Transport (V/Line Coach): V/Line operates daily coach services from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne to Cowes (the island’s main town), stopping at various points like San Remo and Newhaven. This is a reliable option for arriving/departing but less convenient for daily island exploration.
Local Buses & Taxis: Local bus services (South Coast and Phillip Island Bus Lines) connect key towns like Cowes and San Remo, but services are infrequent. Taxis are available, but pre-booking is advised, particularly for the late return trip from the Penguin Parade.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: During peak season, look into the Phillip Island Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off bus, which offers flexible transport to major attractions.
Book Penguin Parade Tickets Early: The Penguin Parade is extremely popular and often sells out, especially during peak summer months, weekends, and holidays. Book well in advance online.
Dress Warmly for the Penguins: Even on a warm day, the viewing area for the Penguin Parade on Summerland Beach can be very cold and windy after sunset, as you are right on the Bass Strait. Pack layers, a windproof jacket, and a hat.
Respect the Wildlife Rules: Flash photography is strictly prohibited at the Penguin Parade as it can scare and disorient the Little Penguins. The viewing experience is strictly about observation, not interaction or selfies.
Traditional Owners: The island’s Aboriginal name is Millowl, and it is the ancestral land of the Bunurong people, part of the Kulin Nation. Many attractions and local groups acknowledge this heritage.
Enjoy Cowes’ Vibe: Cowes is the main town, featuring the island’s only north-facing beach (calmer and great for families), as well as the majority of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is the social hub of the island.
Stargazing Opportunity: Due to relatively low light pollution compared to Melbourne, Phillip Island offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, especially at more remote locations like The Nobbies or Pyramid Rock lookout after dark.
Daily Pelican Feeding: Check out the spectacle of the daily pelican feeding at the San Remo jetty around noon, a long-standing local tradition and a great photo opportunity.
Top Restaurants
San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op (SRFCO) [$15-$25] – While technically just over the bridge in San Remo, this is the essential spot for the freshest, locally caught seafood, especially flake (gummy shark) fish and chips, where you can watch the boats unload.
Ocean Reach Brewing [$15-$25] – A popular craft brewery and taphouse in Cowes offering a relaxed vibe, a range of locally brewed beers, and hearty pub fare like gourmet burgers and fried snacky bits.
Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant & Bar [$20-$30] – Home to Phillip Island Brewing Co., this venue features a cozy fireplace, live music, and a menu of pub classics and modern Australian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
The Westernport Hotel [$20-$30] – A traditional pub in San Remo offering a mix of classic pub meals and coastal favourites in a venue known for its live music and country hospitality.
Wooli Tavern [$15-$25] – A family-friendly pub in Cape Woolamai with a large outdoor beer garden and a menu of affordable, generous tavern-style meals like chicken parmigiana and burgers.
G’Day Tiger [$10-$20] – A stylish, Melbourne-esque cafe in Cowes known for sensational toasted sandwiches, high-quality third-wave coffee, and excellent brunch options.
Island Whole Foods [$10-$20] – A unique and innovative plant-based cafe in Cowes focusing on healthy, sustainable, and 100% plastic-free food, including acai bowls, fresh smoothies, and gluten-free options.
The Little Pizza Shop [$15-$25] – Located in San Remo, this spot is highly regarded by locals for its great selection of toppings and quality pizzas.
Island Burger Bar [$15-$25] – A Cape Woolamai spot that prides itself on handmade burgers using 100% prime Gippsland beef and free-range meats, also offering fish and chips and a beer garden.
MadCowes Cafe & Foodstore [$15-$25] – A Cowes Esplanade favorite with a chill vibe, gorgeous bay views, and an all-day breakfast menu featuring both classic and innovative dishes like buttermilk hotcakes.
The Shed Phillip Island [$20-$30] – A family-friendly spot in Cowes known for its variety of food, including burgers and wood-fired pizzas, making it a great option for a casual family meal.
Tides of Rhyll [$15-$25] – A local go-to in Rhyll known for simple, great quality fish and chips and good service.
Phillip Island Bakery [$10-$20] – A highly-rated hidden gem in Cowes offering a solid menu and drinks list, popular for its baked goods and a pleasant atmosphere off the main track.
Gullivers [$15-$25] – Known by some locals as “Eddies,” this cafe near Aldi is popular for a good breakfast and a variety of hot drinks.
Mon Dieu [$15-$25] – A cosy cottage-style cafe in Cowes focusing on fresh and healthy “farm-to-plate” fare, known for comforting food and welcoming vibes.
Churchill Island Cafe [$15-$25] – Located on the beautiful Churchill Island Heritage Farm, this cafe uses fresh local produce for its breakfast and lunch menu in a peaceful setting with farm and bay views.
Burnt Toast [$10-$20] – An “island jewel” in Cape Woolamai offering early morning breakfast and brunch with a varied menu enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
Silverleaves Store and Café [$15-$25] – A local cafe popular for its relaxed setting and a reliable menu of café standards in Silverleaves.
Porter fresh Poké Bowls [$15-$25] – Located in San Remo, this eatery offers fresh and healthy Poké Bowls for breakfast, lunch, and brunch, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
The Pantry Phillip Island [$20-$40] – Specializing in high-quality local produce, this Ventnor spot is perfect for gourmet grazing platters in funky takeaway boxes or large grazing tables.
Saltwater Phillip Island [$30-$50] – A modern restaurant in Newhaven with stunning 270-degree waterfront views, offering Australian dishes with a focus on fresh local seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and modern comfort food.
The Cape Kitchen [$30-$50] – More than a meal, it’s an experience at Cape Woolamai with 270-degree water views. The modern Australian menu showcases native herbs and local produce, known for buttermilk hotcakes and charcuterie boards.
Beach HQ Restaurant & Bar [$30-$50] – Boasting stunning views of Western Port Bay in Cowes, this spot offers modern Australian cuisine in a casual, relaxed atmosphere, with a rooftop option.
Fig & Olive at Cowes [$30-$50] – A Mod-Oz eatery with a European twist in Cowes, often sought out for seafood, paella, and a stylish interior described as an “oasis of hanging and potted greenery.”
Phillip Island Winery [$30-$50] – Offers the “elusive holy trinity” of dining out: great food, great views, and great service. The seasonal menu focuses on local produce, paired with their own cool-climate wines.
Bang Bang Bar & Food [$25-$45] – A funky, cool coastal-styled bar and restaurant in Cape Woolamai with a focus on fresh, Asian-influenced share-style food and a great selection of local and national craft beer.
Grenache Bar & Restaurant [$30-$50] – An elegant and popular wine bar in Cowes offering modern Australian cuisine with a wide selection of local wines and gins, perfect for enthusiasts.
The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in Rhyll, this rustic-chic space has a balcony with water views, serving a menu of steak, pasta, and seafood dishes.
The Palms Phillip Island [$30-$50] – A casually refined oasis tucked within Comfort Resort Kaloha in Cowes, offering a fully licensed restaurant experience.
Flametrees Bar and Restaurant [$25-$45] – A restaurant/cafe and bar located at the Ramada Resort, offering all-day dining with a menu that includes burgers, parmigianas, and various dinner favorites.
The Lost Cowe, Phillip Island [$20-$40] – Located on the Cowes Esplanade with uninterrupted water views, this spot serves breakfast, lunch, or dinner with dishes created fresh in-house daily, alongside cocktails.
Watermark Restaurant [$40-$60] – Located in San Remo, this spot is known for its Modern Australian cuisine and its reputation as one of the better-regarded dining options in the area.
Fig & The Bay [$25-$45] – A Modern Australian spot in Corinella offering a menu focused on fresh local ingredients.
The Shearing Shed Function Venue [$40-$70] – Primarily a function venue in Wimbledon Heights, their dining experience offers a Modern Australian menu in a unique, historic setting.
Chapel Lane Restaurant & Bar [$25-$45] – Located in Cowes, this venue offers a mix of Modern Australian and traditional European/English dishes in a stylish setting.
Timour’s Lounge Bar [$25-$45] – A modern Australian dining spot in Cowes with a relaxed lounge atmosphere.
Anerie [$50-$80] – A pint-sized French bistro in Cowes that has quickly become an “institution,” known for its high-quality traditional French cuisine, exceptional cocktails, and service, exuding class.
Cape Kitchen [$50-$80] – For dinner, this venue steps up to a fine-dining experience with its focus on regional Victorian and Bass Coast produce, served with breathtaking clifftop views.
Pino’s Trattoria [$25-$45] – A renowned, family-owned Italian restaurant in the heart of Cowes, famous for its genuine Italian experience, reliable service, and a great selection of classic dishes, pizzas, and pastas.
Isola Di Capri [$25-$45] – A long-standing family-run Italian restaurant in Cowes, established since 1972, known for its quality, traditional Italian dining and mouth-watering homemade gelati next door.
Bani’s Restaurant & Bar [$30-$50] – A modern Greek restaurant in Cowes lovingly creating authentic Greek cuisine with a focus on fresh local ingredients and picturesque views of Western Port Bay.
Youki’s [$20-$40] – An authentic Japanese restaurant in the main street of Cowes, offering fresh sushi and sashimi made daily, along with an assortment of unique and delicious vegetarian dishes and shared platters.
The Spicy Duck [$25-$45] – A highly recommended Thai restaurant in San Remo known for having excellent, authentic Thai food, friendly staff, and catering to various needs.
Phillip House – Eatery on the Island [$20-$40] – A dining destination in Cowes offering a fusion of Australian and Vietnamese flavors in a spacious and cosy vibe.
Cowes Curry Club [$20-$40] – A reliable spot in Cowes for traditional Indian cuisine.
Sambreros Tex-Mex Cantina [$20-$40] – A popular Mexican and Tex-Mex spot in Cowes.
Fig and Olive Steakhouse & Seafood Restaurant [$35-$60] – A specialist restaurant in Cowes focusing on quality steaks and seafood, with a menu featuring options like arancini and paella.
Wild Food Farm [$25-$45] – A unique destination celebrating Australia’s native ingredients, offering a menu that incorporates these distinct flavors.
Mello [$25-$45] – A stylish and modern cocktail bar and pizzeria located in San Remo.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Hotel Phillip Island (HPI): Situated right on The Esplanade in the heart of Cowes, this is Phillip Island’s premier late-night venue. It offers a great range of innovative cocktails and a well-stocked bar, transforming into the island’s only true late-night club on Saturday nights with resident and special guest DJs.
Chapel Lane, Restaurant & Bar: Found on Chapel Street in Cowes, this establishment offers a cozy yet sophisticated European-inspired atmosphere with a good selection of cocktails, wines, and craft beers, perfect for a relaxed pre-dinner or post-dinner drink.
Mello: Located just across the bridge in San Remo, this stylish and modern cocktail bar is a great addition to the area’s dining and nightlife scene, known for its mixology and gourmet pizzas.
Grenache Bar and Restaurant: Situated on Thompson Ave in Cowes, this venue prides itself on its “wonderful” selection of cocktails, along with fine wine and craft beer, in a setting that encourages enjoying the island’s culinary delights.
Saltwater Phillip Island: Offering panoramic ocean views from its location, this Cowes restaurant and bar is a stunning spot to enjoy a refreshing cocktail while watching the tide roll by, providing a more upmarket coastal vibe.
The Cheeky Goose Cafe: Located in Cowes, this popular spot has a lively atmosphere and offers a delightful selection of drinks, making it a great place to start an evening out or enjoy a casual cocktail.
Bang Bang Bar and Food: Found in Cowes, this venue features an Asian-inspired menu and a well-curated bar offering with a focus on craft beers, though the lively front bar is great for cocktails and they often feature “Acoustics Under the Palm” on Friday nights.
North Pier Hotel: Overlooking the water in Cowes, this hotel’s bar is a long-standing local favourite with a relaxed pub atmosphere that gets lively on weekends, often featuring live music and a decent cocktail offering alongside traditional drinks.
Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant & Bar: Located inland, on the road toward Cowes, this spot is primarily known for its locally crafted ales and beer, but its restaurant and bar setting provides a great atmosphere for a relaxed evening out, with some standard cocktail options available.
The Wooli Tavern: Found in Cape Woolamai, this local hangout is an unpretentious pub that offers meals, a beer garden, and frequently hosts live music on weekends, providing a great local atmosphere for a casual drink.
Westernport Hotel: A classic pub located in San Remo, right near the bridge. It’s famous for its extensive live music gig calendar, drawing some of Australia’s best acts, making it an excellent spot for a beer, wine, or simple cocktail with a lively crowd.
Beach HQ Restaurant & Bar: Positioned near the water in Cowes, this venue offers beautiful water views, making it a scenic location for a drink. It provides a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a meal and a cocktail.
Kelp: A newer, trendy spot in Cowes mentioned by locals as a good place for cocktails and simple eats, with a great fried chicken burger. It offers a modern, coastal bar experience.
Phillip Island RSL: The Returned and Services League club in Cowes is a popular venue with locals and visitors, featuring good food and a full bar offering, providing a welcoming and reliable spot for a drink and socialising.
San Remo Hotel Motel: Situated with panoramic views near the Phillip Island Bridge, this is a great traditional pub in San Remo to enjoy a relaxing drink and local live music over the summer.
Hotel Phillip Island (HPI) – Late-Night: On Saturday Nights, this venue in Cowes transforms into the island’s most reliable and vibrant late-night club, featuring local and national DJs for dancing until the early hours.
Westernport Hotel – Live Music Nights: While primarily a pub in San Remo, its dedication to an extensive live music gig guide often turns the venue into a high-energy, crowded club-like experience, especially when hosting well-known Australian bands.
North Pier Hotel – Weekend Nights: This Cowes location features live music and DJs on weekends, drawing a lively crowd of both locals and tourists looking for a dance floor and a high-energy pub atmosphere.
The Wooli Tavern – Live Music Nights: This Cape Woolamai spot is a popular gathering place that frequently hosts live music on weekends, which can turn the beer garden or indoor space into a lively dance environment.
Bang Bang Bar and Food – DJ/Acoustic Sessions: While not a traditional nightclub, the atmosphere on weekend nights, particularly during its Acoustics Under the Palm sessions, is intentionally energetic and social, serving as a lively gathering and pre-club spot.
San Remo Hotel Motel – Summer Gigs: During the peak summer season, this San Remo pub increases its live music and entertainment schedule, creating a vibrant, club-like feel with its coastal views.
Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Bar: While primarily a motorsports venue, the on-site bar (check seasonal opening hours) is reported to be open quite late, attracting a sporty crowd and offering a unique setting for an evening drink.
Cowes Esplanade Atmosphere: On warm peak-season nights, the collective atmosphere of the various bars and pubs lining the Esplanade in Cowes (including HPI, North Pier, and others) creates a large, interconnected, and buzzing social scene comparable to a small club district.
Ocean Sounds Music Festival (Seasonal): A large-scale, all-ages sunset concert event held at Churchill Island in the summertime, which provides a massive, temporary ‘club’ environment with top Australian musical acts in a beautiful natural setting.
Berninneit Cultural Centre Events: Located in Cowes, this newly built centre hosts live music, theatre, and dance events. While not a club, its scheduled performances often involve high-energy musical acts that serve as a sophisticated alternative to the pub scene.