Wave-sculpted sea cliffs, sandy surf beaches, and starry skies provide an impressive backdrop for Phillip Island’s star attraction—the wildlife. Less than a 2-hour drive from Melbourne, this island getaway has enough outdoor adventures and foodie finds to fill up a weekend itinerary, along with one of the world’s most unique Grand Prix circuits (and its go-kart alter ego). Wildlife watching is, of course, top of the list of things to do on Phillip Island, whether you’re spotting seals, taking a whale-watching cruise, or admiring the evening Penguin Parade.
Wildlife sightings take place in all four seasons on Phillip Island, but late spring through early fall (November–March) is the most popular time for sightings as breeding season is underway. Migratory birds flock to the island in spring, while winter is the time to enjoy whale-watching along the coast. The island can get crowded with day-trippers over holiday weekends as well as for the annual Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix in October.
Many travelers opt to rent a car and drive over to Phillip Island themselves as the island is linked to the mainland by a bridge. Having a car will come in handy, as there’s no public transport on the island. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own wheels—tours and taxis will take you to all of the island’s beaches, towns, and natural attractions.
For a sunset view without the crowds, follow the steps down to Magiclands, a scenic cove just south of Woolamai Beach. Known for its striking rock formations blanketed with bright green moss, it’s most stunning at low tide.
Attractions 14 | Tours 8 | Reviews 167 |
Yes. Phillip Island is easily reached on a day trip or weekend getaway from Melbourne, and some 3.5 million visitors head to the island yearly. Most come to see the nightly Penguin Parade, attend the Motorcycle Grand Prix, and visit coastal attractions such as The Nobbies and Seal Rocks.
...MorePhillip Island is known for its varied wildlife, including fur seals, whales, koalas, and Australia’s largest colony of little penguins, best viewed during the nightly Penguin Parade. The island is also famous for its scenic Grand Prix circuit, great surf beaches, and natural wonders including The Nobbies.
...MoreYou can take in the highlights of Phillip Island on a day trip from Melbourne, but to fully explore the island, plan a 2- or 3-day trip. By spending the night, you can enjoy the evening Penguin Parade, hike the Cape Woolamai Walk, and discover the food and wine scene.
...MorePhillip Island has several claims to fame, including Australia’s largest colonies of little penguins and fur seals, and hosting the annual Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. The island’s close proximity to Melbourne—less than a 2-hour drive—and abundant wildlife make it a popular choice for a day trip.
...MoreYes, you can often spot little penguins for free on Phillip Island along the boardwalk at The Nobbies. However, if you want to witness the spectacle of Australia’s largest little penguin colony returning to their burrows en masse, it’s worth paying to access the evening Penguin Parade viewing area.
...MoreYes. Thanks to its ocean breezes, Phillip Island tends to be two to three degrees cooler than Melbourne. Average daytime temperatures in summer are around 74°F (23°C)—ideal for hitting the beach and enjoying outdoor activities—while winter temperatures are slightly colder than in the city but still mild.
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