Go Away to Phillip Island
Phillip Island is situated about 140 kilometres south-east of Melbourne city in Victoria (about 90 minutes drive by car). The island was first discovered by George Bass in 1798, although the land had been occupied by the Bunurong people for thousands of years prior.
Places of interest
The main attraction of Phillip Island these days is the Fairy Penguin night-watch. Every day, groups of visitors sit by the beachside with torch-lights and wait for the world’s smallest penguins to return to shore from their daily swimming.
Other major attractions include the Ocean Rafting Adventure, Wildlife Coast Cruises, Phillip Island Helicopters, the National Vietnam Veterans Museum, golf, nature walks, Koala Conservation Centre and many more.
For motor enthusiasts, Phillip Island is host to International MotoGP Motorcycle Grand Prix, World Championship Superbikes and Australian Touring Car Championships. Go-karting is also available at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Go Kart Track, a miniature scale version of the official competition circuit.
For a heritage experience, visit Churchill Island, accessed by a bridge on Phillip Island. Churchill island is a heritage farm and hosts quaint cottage gardens, historic buildings and ancient Moonah trees. The farmhouses provide a glimpse into the lives of the early European settlers and their farming techniques.
If you are driving, take the Monash Freeway (M1), then turn south into the South Gippsland Highway (M42), then turn onto the Bass Highway (A40), then the Phillip Island turn-off to San Remo and across the bridge onto the island.
Buses from Melbourne city only reach Cowes, from which you will need to hire a bike, car or join a tour.
You can visit Phillip Island any time of the year, although winter nights (June, July, August) are significantly colder. If you want to see any baby fairy penguins, their breeding season is from August to March.
Phillip Island has a host of activities and accommodation styles to suit many different kinds of travellers. There are honeymoon packages, family packages and even hostels for backpackers. Other options may be day tours which depart from Melbourne city.
Accommodation
• Hostels start at $30/night
• Caravan Parks start at $30/night
• Motels start at around $80/night
• Bed & Breakfast and Farmstays start at around $95/night
• Hotels range from $130 to $300/night
• Houses and Cottages range from around $100-$200/night
Food & Wine
For 180 degree water views with your dinner, try the Foreshore Bar & Restaurant in the village of Rhyll.
The Phillip Island Vineyard and Winery is most famous for its Chardonnay, a hint of fruity flavours and very light in texture.
Additional Resources
If you are planning on visiting Phillip Island soon, you will find a range of Phillip Island Accommodation, Tours, Activities and other information about Phillip Island on our Book it Now website.
