Phillip Island is just a short drive from Melbourne and is the perfect place to get away for a weekend. This beautiful island is famous for its natural beauty, wildlife and local culture, so it’s the perfect escape from city life. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family adventure or a bit of both, Phillip Island has something for everyone. From stunning coastlines and wildlife to fresh seafood and water sports, this island will be an unforgettable experience.
Phillip Island Weekend Getaway
Two days is a great amount of time to visit Phillip Island. The island has different environments from the south coast, rocky cliffs and beautiful beaches. Here, you will find miles of golden sand, sea-side scrub and huge sand dunes where you can get along with nature. Plus, Little Penguins and koalas are Australian icons of flora and fauna found in Phillip Island, so you’ll have the experience of a lifetime. For families, couples, or solo travellers who love fun and adventure, Phillip Island is the place to be, with so much on offer.
Phillip Island Weekend Getaway
There’s so much to love about Phillip Island for a weekend getaway. For example, the island has different landscapes, such as panoramic views of the south coast, rocky outcrops, and beautiful beaches. The natural environment is golden sand beaches, coastal scrub and huge sand dunes. Plus, it’s home to unique Australian wildlife like koalas, Little Penguins, and more, so you’ll have a wildlife experience of a lifetime. With everything on offer, Phillip Island is for relaxation and adventure, as well as for families, couples, and solo travellers.
Getting to Phillip Island
Best Routes and Transport
Getting to Phillip Island is easy as there are several transport options to choose from:
- By Car: The most flexible way to get to Phillip island is to drive. From Melbourne it will take around 90 minutes to get here via M1 (Princes Freeway) and then B420 which is a scenic coastal route with many great spots to stop. Just make sure to check the road conditions or closures before you leave.
- Public Transport: If you don’t want to drive you can use public transport to get to Phillip island; this will be convenient but slower than driving. Take a train from Melbourne CBD to Cranbourne or Dandenong and then bus services run directly to Phillip island.
- Tour: There are many tour operators who offer day trips or overnight stays on Phillip island. These Phillip Island tours include transport plus guided activities and entrance fees to major attractions so you don’t have to worry if you don’t want to organise your trip yourself.
Places to Stop Along the Way
When driving to Phillip Island, it’s worth coming off the main road occasionally so your trip isn’t too long.
- San Remo: San Remo is near the island so it’s a good place to stop before you get to the island. This is a little coastal town with fresh seafood and a cute harbour. You can stretch your legs, eat or just pop into some of the local shops. Here, you can also feed the pelicans and get up close to these big birds.
- Bass Strait: As you cross over to Phillip island you will go through the Bass Strait which separates the island from the mainland. But in reality this strait is stunning with water and rugged coastline which sets the mood for island exploring.
Where to Stay on Phillip Island
There’s something for everyone and every budget when it comes to accommodation on Phillip Island.
- Hotels: Hotel Phillip island, Ramada Resort Phillip island, Silverwater Resort are some of the hotels that offer various facilities and are located around the island for those who want convenience and comfort. These hotels have nice rooms, on-site amenities and are close to major attractions.
- Cabins or apartments: Places like Cape Cabin and Phillip island Apartments give you a home away from home experience. Self contained accommodation is great for families or groups as they have more space than hotel rooms and you can cook your own meals in them. Many cabins and apartments are near beaches or other attractions.
- Camping: If you love camping and want to camp out at the campgrounds on the island, then that might appeal to you. Other campsites around include Phillip Island Park Lane Holiday Park, which has many facilities and is in a beautiful setting. By camping on this island, you will experience all it has to offer
Family-Friendly vs. Romantic Getaways
Phillip Island has something for everyone, whether it’s a family holiday or a romantic escape:
- Family friendly; Koala Conservation Reserve, Penguin Parade where you will see penguins return to shore in large numbers every night at Summerland beach, various surf beaches make this a great place to holiday with kids. Many activities are designed for kids and there are plenty of options for accommodation that welcome children and provide entertainment and adventure for them.
- Romantic Getaways: beautiful beaches, scenic walks and cozy dining options for couples to enjoy if you’re coming to this part of Australia known as Philip Island. Watch the sunset at Cape Woolamai, take a leisurely walk along Smiths Beach or dine at one of the many warm places to eat on the Island.
Where to Eat on Phillip Island
Phillip Island has plenty of places to eat, from casual to fine dining:
- Seafood: Being so close to the ocean, there is an opportunity to try different types of fresh seafood. San Remo’s Fisherman’s Co-op is one of the best places to try some local catches, while Beach HQ Restaurant & Bar and Rusty Water are eateries that serve great fish dishes in a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Diverse Restaurants: Cape Kitchen and Genesta House, among others. There are many other places to try these local products and other food made by fellow Islanders who have created a home away from home in their dining areas.
Phillip Island Itinerary
Visitor Centre-Phillip Island
Start your trip at the Phillip Island visitor centre, where you can get information, maps and advice on everything. This centre has a virtual Phillip Island tour of all the key attractions on the island so you can plan your stay better. Make sure you get all the information about Phillip Island through the open displays or interactive exhibits at this centre.
Smiths Beach
Everyone who visits Phillip Island should come here at least once. Golden sandy beaches with great surfing conditions make it a great spot for families to holiday near the water. Relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, and learn to surf by booking lessons with instructors from The Surf School, which are some of the activities available here.
Australian Fur Seals at Seal Rocks
Seal Rocks is home to the largest colony of Australian fur seals. Here, you can see these cheeky creatures in their natural habitat. The rocky outcrop has great viewing points, and you can look out over the Bass Strait while the seals sunbathe and play.
Cape Woolamai
Cape Woolamai is known for its cliff faces and views. There are several walks in the area, including the Cape Woolamai Circuit, which gives you a 360-degree view of the island’s rugged coastline and Southern Ocean. Great for hiking or photography.
Churchill Island
Churchill Island gives you a glimpse into farming on the island with its historic farm, where you can see cow milking. Also, beautiful gardens with coastal views, so a nice stop on your itinerary.
Penguin Parade
The Penguin Parade is one of Phillip Island’s biggest attractions, and you get to see little penguins come ashore every evening. Get there early so you can get good seating, as watching these little guys up close is quite an experience.
Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
For those who love sweet treats, there is the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, where visitors are spoiled for choice with chocolates for connoisseurs. The fun experiences include learning how chocolate is made, tasting different brands and taking home mementos whenever you want. It is a great place to get a unique souvenir or just indulge.
Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise
Go on a dolphin and whale watching cruise for a sea adventure. You might see dolphins playing or whales swimming.
Pelican Feeding in San Remo
See these big birds up close during the daily pelican feeding in San Remo, where you can learn some interesting facts about them.
Dinner in Cowes
Finish the day with dinner in Cowes where there are plenty of food options. Eat at one of the restaurants with water views.
The Nobbies
Finish the weekend with a visit to The Nobbies. Here, you can walk the boardwalks and see blowholes and the Southern Ocean.
Koala Conservation Reserve
This conservation reserve gives you an up-close encounter with one of Australia’s favourite animals. There are koalas on elevated boardwalks, and you can walk beside them in their natural habitat. The main purpose of the reserve is to preserve indigenous wildlife like koalas, so it’s an interactive learning experience for visitors.
Summary
Phillip Island is a great weekend getaway with natural beauty, unique wildlife and lots of things to do. Whether it’s wild coastlines, surf beaches or seafood dining, this is a sweet island with something for everyone. You will have a holiday to remember as there are plenty of places to stay, eat and visit here. Make sure you plan your time so you don’t miss out on these must see spots with beautiful views and island vibes.
FAQ
When to visit Phillip Island?
December to February when everyone is at the beach but otherwise all year round is good to visit as every season has its own charm.
How do I book tickets for the Penguin Parade?
To avoid disappointment and to secure your spot at the Penguin Parade, book in advance from Phillip Island Nature Park’s website.
Is there anything for kids in Phillip Island?
Yes! There are many family-friendly things to do on this island, which include the Koala Conservation Reserve, beach time and the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory tour.
Can I see wildlife on Phillip Island?
Yes! This place is famous for its wildlife, such as Australian fur seals, Little Penguins and many other Aussie animals.
Where to eat in Phillip Island?
For great seafood and lively dining, Beach HQ Restaurant & Bar, Rusty Water, or the Phillip Island Winery would be good options, as each one has its own scenery and local food.