Best Things to Do in Phillip Island: Your Ultimate Guide

Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is the kind of weekend escape that has it all — surf beaches, coastal walks, local eats and wildlife encounters to remember. Whether you’re chasing adventure or craving some serious chill time, this seaside gem is cosy in winter and buzzing with energy in summer, delivering getaway vibes year-round.

From penguin parades to scenic lookouts, our guide to the best things to do on Phillip Island will help you soak up every magic moment.

Best Things to Do in Phillip Island: Explore

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Forrest Caves

The Phillip Island Forrest Caves are one of the best-kept secrets on the island. These sea caves are caused by natural erosion, and when the tide is low, visitors can explore and access this beautiful sight. Start at the Forrest Caves car park and turn left once you ascend the steps and walk past the rolling sand dunes until you come across the Forrest Caves.

Sitchu tip: Check the tides before going to the caves, as they can change quickly. Lifesavers don’t patrol this beach, so be extra careful when visiting.

Phillip Island Road, Newhaven

Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit

Checking out the Grand Prix Circuit is one of the most iconic things to do on Phillip Island. Head on down to watch professionals race each other to the finish line in a flurry of sports cars, motorcycles, and jam-packed action, or let your inner child run free and race go-karts with your friends in a wild need for speed on the 750m replica track.

381 Back Beach Road, Ventnor

Hike Cape Woolamai

Head to Cape Woolamai, where you’ll discover one of Australia’s top surf beaches and some jaw-dropping scenery. Known for its dramatic pink granite cliffs and the Pinnacles Lookout, this spot is a must-visit for adventurers. Hike the 8.5 kilometre circuit to the top of the cape and be rewarded with postcard-perfect views of the sparkling coastline—don’t forget your hiking boots!

Cape Woolamai is famed for its surf, attracting seasoned surfers eager to tackle its waves. While it’s not ideal for casual swimmers, the beach’s thrilling surf and stunning landscapes make it a standout destination.

Watch the Playful Penguins

Each night at sunset, the colony of little penguins come to shore after a day out fishing in the ocean—and believe us, there’s nothing better than ending your day watching these majestic creatures march their way onto shore. The main penguin parade viewing area is at Summerland Beach and has tiered seating with a breathtaking 180-degree view of the beach below. There’s also the Penguin Plus experience and underground viewing platforms for a close-up view. 

Summerland Beach

Laze About Summerland Beach

Speaking of Summerland Beach, it isn’t just a spot for quirky animal encounters; it’s also one of the most picturesque beaches on the island. It’s a famed surfing spot that introduced surfing on the island in the 1920s, and thanks to its flat sandy bottom, it’s also a haven for swimmers. 

Churchill Island Heritage Farm

Churchill Island sits just off the shore of Phillip Island but holds a special mark in the area’s history. It was the site of the first European agricultural pursuits in Victoria and is now a historic working farm with a restored farmhouse and cottages that give visitors a glimpse into the early lives of Australian settlers.

You’ll watch activities such as cow milking, blacksmithing, sheep shearing and working dog demonstrations, as well as meet the horses, cattle, and other farm animals. Trust us – this is one spot the whole family will love.

246 Samuel Amess Drive, Churchill Island 

Go Kayaking 

Looking to add a splash of adventure to your PI getaway? Pioneer Kayaking has you covered. Ditch the crowds and explore the island’s stunning coastline and waterways with its exciting guided sea kayak tours.

Whether you’re gliding past the dramatic cliffs of Cape Woolamai, paddling through the serene Rhyll Wetlands, or taking a scenic trip around Churchill Island, each tour offers a unique perspective of Phillip Island’s natural beauty. With options ranging from a quick one-hour “come and try” to more immersive tours, Pioneer Kayaking is the perfect way to make your island escape even more memorable. 

Wencliff Court, Newhaven

Jet Boat Action With Ocean Adventures Phillip Island

Ocean Adventures Phillip Island is all about fun, safe and personalised adventure-based activities for families, couples and travellers alike. Its beauty lies in its ability to highlight some of Phillip Island’s most majestic scenery. Tours depart from Ocean Adventure’s head office in San Remo. Strap in for some high-action thrills!

180 Marine Parade, San Remo

Sail Off Into the Sunset

Cruise into a Western Port Bay sunset aboard the beautiful 19-meter vessel, the ‘Kasey Lee’, with a Phillip Island Sunset Cruise. Admire a cocktail of colours painted across the sky and enjoy the twilight views as the island comes to life. As your boat sets sail, grab a drink of choice from the fully licensed onboard bar and savour a complimentary selection of nibbles while cruising Phillip Island’s balmy seas.

Departing from the stunning San Remo Jetty, your sunset cruise takes you on a unique tour through turquoise waters to the historic Sandy Point—one of the area’s most scenic stretches.

170 Marine Parade, San Remo

Have a Self-Care Day at her. Skin & Day Spa

Is it a holiday if you haven’t treated yourself to a self-care day? her. Skin & Day Spa was the first luxury day spa in Phillip Island, and the beauty and spa therapists that work there deliver luxurious treatments that will have you in a complete state of zen. Take a trip to the day spa or give your skin some TLC in the skin clinic before heading into their infrared sauna.

2/15 The Esplanade, Cowes

Support Local at the Phillip Island Markets

There’s nothing like a local market, and luckily, Phillip Island is home to a few winners. There’s the Cowes Island Foreshore Market held on various dates between October and June, the Corinella Community Market on the second Saturday of each month, the Bass Market on the third Saturday of each month, and the popular summer-only On the Lawn Market. Each is a celebration of local makers, food, jewellery, clothing, live music and entertainment—you never know what treasure you will find.

Various dates and locations

Best Things to Do in Phillip Island: Eat

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Hotel Phillip Island

Tucked along The Esplanade in Cowes, Hotel Phillip Island is a beloved local offering stunning views of Western Port and beyond. This premier pub boasts a vibrant atmosphere with beer and cider on tap, wines by the glass, and inventive cocktails. Savour traditional pub meals, weeknight specials, tapas, and gourmet pizzas, all while enjoying the street-side buzz or the cosy intimacy of the courtyard and deck.

Come Saturday night, it transforms into the island’s top late-night venue, with DJ sets that keep the party going.

11-13 The Esplanade, Cowes, Phillip Island 

Pino’s Trattoria

You will find one of Phillip Island’s best-known Italian restaurants tucked away from the main street in Cowes. Pino’s Trattoria is an institution that has been serving locals and tourists for the past 30 years. They serve up simple and honest Italian food, and are known for the best pizza and pasta in town. They also make a mean Italian aperitivo! Bring your family and friends to Pino’s for lunch through to late-night dinners. You’ll instantly be smitten by the beautiful piazza area outside.

29 Thompson Avenue, Cowes

The Store 

The Store in Ventnor is your quintessential haven for gourmet delights on Phillip Island. It’s a one-stop shop where you’ll find the finest locally sourced treasures, perfect for indulging in or taking away for later.

Step inside and let the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm sourdough draw you in. Browse through an array of local cheeses, fruits and veggies, and order up as many of the delightful toasties on the menu as you can. Not to mention, the fresh flowers and plants for sale add a touch of charm to every visit.

511 Ventnor Road, Ventnor

Isola Di Capri

Run by the Fumagalli family, this popular island restaurant has been serving up quality Italian food—along with its adjoining gelateria—for over 27 years. The restaurant is BYO and overlooks the bay, making it a wonderful venue for celebrations, and is the perfect place to enjoy antipasti, pizza or pasta, all year round.

2 Thompson Avenue, Cowes

Kelp

Kelp is a small, warm and vibrant cocktail bar and eatery dreamed up by a young local couple determined to bring something different to town. Its evolving menu is ideal for anyone, ranging from burgers and tacos to small and large share plates. ​You’ll find inspiration from all things North and South America throughout its menu, from Canada down to Chile, with a big focus on the centrepiece—Mexico.

​Drinks-wise, there are beers on tap and an extensive cocktail list to ensure there is something for everyone. 

141 Marine Parade, San Remo

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

This factory isn’t just for kids. If you’re a sweet tooth, the café and restaurant at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory showcase the best chocolates around. Head chocolatier Panny will tantalise the taste buds with a selection of sweet treats, including his famous chocolate fondue. You can also indulge in hours of chocolate-making fun – there’s even a chocolate waterfall and a hands-on chocolate-making machine. Tempted, much?

930 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven 

Best Things to Do in Phillip Island: Drink

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Ocean Reach Brewing

Ocean Reach Brewery is one of the first brewers to brew its handcrafted ales and ciders on the island. The golden nectar is brewed and poured at its brewpub in the centre of Cowes in a compact operation. The owners have a special philosophy: “made on the island, for the island”, using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, combining them with a passion for craft beer.

47 Thompson Avenue, Cowes 

Grenache Wine Bar

In the heart of Cowes, the Grenache Wine Bar is a one-stop shop for wine lovers. The cellar door/wine bar space has an elegant atmosphere lovingly created by local owners Jerome & Shelley. Depending on the weather, you can take a seat at the front windows and watch the street go by or hunker down at the back by the fireplace. Taste some wines from their impressive local and international list, or sip on quality gin. Grenache Wine Bar also has an evolving food menu, so there’s always something new (and delicious) to try when you visit. 

55a Thompson Avenue, Cowes 

Phillip Island Winery

Phillip Island Winery is where good food, great wine, and a little extra love all come together on the menu. The exquisite cellar door has wines and ciders available for tasting and to take away. While you’re there, be sure to visit ‘The Yards’–the island’s go-to florist and homewares store.

414 Berrys Beach Road, Ventnor 

Things to do in Phillip Island: Stay

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Five Acres 

Nestled amongst rolling farmland with uninterrupted sweeping views over Western Port Bay sit three standalone luxury cabins, all exquisitely crafted to provide the ultimate coastal retreat. The Cabins at Five Acres offers guests an unprecedented luxury experience on Phillip Island. Each cabin has been beautifully designed and carefully curated with individual personality.

Soak in the view from the handcrafted concrete outdoor bath, and cosy up by the log fire and indulge in delicious grazing platters with locally made wine. Unwind in stunning style…you’ll never want to leave!

Book your stay with Five Acres

46 Mchaffies Lane, Ventnor

Sheltered Glamping

Situated on a 10-acre property just minutes away from one of the most pristine beaches on Phillip Island, The Sheltered Glamping Co. provides a unique experience for you to escape the daily grind, with the perfect mix of sustainability and luxury.

Perfect for couples, solo adventurers or families, they have a range of bell tents, a safari tent and mini safari tent onsite, all with private shower and toilet facilities. Their tents are fully furnished with bespoke furniture made here on the island and come with warm lighting, heating/fans and tea and coffee making facilities.

Book your stay with Sheltered Glamping Co

493 Berrys Beach Road, Ventnor

House on the Hill

A luxurious and spacious couples retreat with unparalleled panoramic views, House on the Hill is where you get to relax in complete privacy knowing that you are the only guests set amongst an olive grove. Set within 1000 + olive trees, with reaching views from every window and complete privacy on offer, the villas luring effect is set to impress any couple escaping hectic lifestyle demands in favour of a stress-free, romantic getaway to Phillip Island. 

Book your stay with Riparide

Book your stay with Airbnb

San Remo, Phillip Island

Silverwater Resort

Set high on the hills above San Remo, Silverwater Resort is the ideal place to spend a day or two, whilst enjoying the range of onsite activities. Heated lap pool, outdoor pool, tennis courts, spa and steam room are all available to enjoy, and there’s also a divine restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating with views out onto Phillip Island below. After arriving, you won’t even need to leave. 

Book your stay with Silverwater Resort

Book your stay with Booking.com

Book your stay with Agoda

17 Potters Hill Road, San Remo 

Loved this edit of things to do in Phillip Island and ready to book your next weekend away? Be sure to check out our edit of the best things to do in the Mornington Peninsula and best boutique accommodation in and around Melbourne.