Things To Do in Phillip Island

Looking for things to do in Phillip Island? Look no further! Discover the top attractions and experiences that this picturesque island has to offer.

Exhausted from Melbourne’s endless activity? Choose Phillip Island and its fantastic offerings instead! Renowned for being a preferred destination among travellers, the island has captivating attractions and endeavours!

Dive deeper to uncover fantastic activities to undertake on Phillip Island tour.

Table of Contents

Looking for top activities in Phillip Island?

1. Experience the penguin parade

Certainly a highlight! This is one of the most sought-after experiences in Phillip Island tour, ranking high among the spectacular activities available.

In this unmissable event, observe penguins arriving ashore after an exhaustive day of fishing, living freely in their natural environment. There are three distinct ways to experience the Penguin procession:

  • Basic admission ticket: $26. This standard viewing area accommodates up to 3,000 spectators.
  • Penguins premier: $50. For a closer perspective, upgrade to this option, situated along the coastal path, offering a closer look.
  • Subterranean View: $65. For a unique experience, stay in the underground vantage point. Here, you’ll observe the penguin procession from a comfortable indoor locale, watching these creatures at eye level through a transparent partition.
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2. Experience nature at the Koala Conservation Centre

This eco-friendly attraction plays a pivotal role in conserving the koala population of Phillip Island. It stands out as one of the marvellous activities to indulge in on the island.

Here, you have the chance to intimately observe koalas in their native surroundings and also gather more insights about them. The entry fee for the Koala Conservation Centre is approximately $8.

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3. Take in the panorama at the Nobbies Boardwalk

Yet another destination you should take advantage of when in Phillip Island. To immerse yourself in the island’s scenic charm, walk along the Nobbies boardwalk and behold the magnificent blowhole, a striking sea cavern that resonates during robust southern waves.

Explore the wonders of the Nobbies information centre, where you can immerse yourself in the secrets of the surrounding area, marvel at the majestic Silver Gulls, and witness the enchanting fur seal communities at Seal Rocks.

4. Cape Woolamai trail

Stroll along the Cape Woolamai Trail to witness the breathtaking vistas of Phillip Island and the nearby shoreline.

From October to April, prepare to be dazzled by the breathtaking sight of Cape Woolamai on Phillip Island as it becomes a sanctuary for thousands of graceful shearwater birds.

The trail spans 8.5km in a loop and generally requires about 2.5 hours to finish. If you have a penchant for trekking on foot, the Cape Woolamai path will be noticed! Its allure will captivate you.

Alternative: Scenic cruise around Cape Woolamai.

Alternatively, embark on a 1-hour scenic boat tour from San Remo to marvel at the stunning cliffs and caves of Cape Woolamai from a different angle. From the boat, there’s a significant likelihood of observing the local fauna in their natural setting, so keep your eyes peeled!

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6. Embark on a seal observation voyage

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ou have the chance to observe seals on a 2-hour voyage! The twin-hulled boat equipped with open-air and sheltered observation areas is ideal for witnessing Australia’s most extensive gathering of fur seals.

During your voyage, fortune might be on your side as you could see dolphins, penguins, and perhaps even whales. Typically, these voyages have an expert onboard to enlighten you about the wildlife and the legacy of Phillip Island. These excursions generally last about 2 hours.

5. Explore the Chocolate Establishment

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The Phillip Island Chocolate Establishment is not just the most delectable destination on Phillip Island; it’s also among the top intriguing human-made sites. While the island is renowned for its natural wonders, the Phillip Island Chocolate Establishment is a fantasy realised for both young ones and grown-ups alike. This remarkable establishment, overseen by the creative chocolatier Panny, stands out as a distinctive and captivating site for all visiting Phillip Island, complete with plenty of sampling chances for everyone!

7. Digital Odyssey at the Nobbies Antarctic Centre

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Embark on a digital exploration of the enchanting Southern Ocean and Antarctica and delve into this exhibition’s myriad interactive and captivating encounters. ‘The Lab’ is replete with endeavours crafted to amuse and enlighten.

Moreover, explore the Sound Lab and Research Station, which shed light on the auditory world of Antarctic creatures through animal vocalisations and microscopic views.

Be sure to take advantage of the audio-visual marvel, where augmented reality tech enchants you to such a degree that it feels like you could extend your hand to caress a penguin, touch a seal, and beyond!

8. Experience the Churchill Island Heritage Farm

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Churchill Farm provides a plethora of routine agrarian tasks and guided tours across the island. Be transported to a mesmerising world of daily chores, where cow milking, sheep shearing, whip cracking, and the incredible talents of working dogs will leave you captivated and in awe.

This endeavour is fitting for families and youngsters. And if you’re eyeing additional attractions, remember that the Churchill Island Heritage Farm entry is part of the 4 Park Pass, should you wish to explore further destinations.

9. Discover the Wilsons Promontory National Park

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Numerous day excursions from Melbourne lead you to the scenic Wilsons National Park, showcasing its magnificent mountain landscapes, pristine beaches, forest trails, and countless other awe-inspiring locales.

Venture into activities like bushwalking, viewing scenic spots, observing birds, and tracking down wildlife. If you want to arrange a journey with an expert guide, don’t hesitate! You’ll receive invaluable insights from a local, enhancing the adventure’s enjoyment and educational value.

10. Partake in a whale-watching excursion

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Within this journey, you can spot whales (fingers crossed) and witness the northern shoreline of Phillip Island, encompassing places like the Summerland Peninsula, the Nobbies, the vast expanse of Bass Strait, and its additional picturesque surroundings.

The boat trip navigates you to regions where majestic whales thrive in their genuine surroundings; as you fortuitously observe them, a knowledgeable guide imparts intriguing details about these magnificent mammals. These expeditions typically span around four hours.

11. Embark on a wine and beer exploration tour

If you’re searching for a unique activity on Phillip Island, this wine and beer journey might pique your interest as you immerse yourself in local traditions.

During this expedition, you can enter a local cheese establishment for delightful cheese sampling and proceed to a few venues for wine tastings.

Additionally, you can make a pit stop at a nearby brewery to round off your day. This journey offers loads of enjoyment, as apart from familiarising yourself with the local specialties, you’ll also soak in scenic views transitioning from one site to the next!

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12. Take a Phillip Island Helicopter Adventure

Gain a fresh and mesmerising outlook of Phillip Island when you embark on a helicopter adventure!

Once airborne, you’ll marvel at the splendid beauty of Australia’s coastal stretch and its natural treasures. Relish the sky-high perspectives of notable locales in Phillip Island, such as Cape Woolamai, Seal Rocks, the Australian Grand Prix circuit, and Summerland Bay, where a captivating penguin procession can be observed, among others.

Allocating 45 minutes for the helicopter voyage ensures ample time to absorb the magnificent sights from the skies.

13. How can I book Phillip Island excursions?

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Numerous travel companies offer these extraordinary activities at incredibly competitive rates! While browsing online, deciding what to select or which provider to trust might seem overwhelming. Fear not! To discover where to snag these exceptional experiences, turn to TourScanner. There, a multitude of activities promising top-notch Phillip Island adventures await. This platform will surely guide you in identifying the most fitting choices for your preferences!

14. When's the optimal period for a Phillip Island adventure?

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Consider heading to Phillip Island on a weekday; this approach helps sidestep the bustling weekend visitors. Opt for the summertime (December to February) to maximise daylight explorations! This ensures you have ample hours and might even skip the Penguin Parade. However, if your schedule confines you to the winter season (May to August), remember that dusk arrives sooner! This shortens your daylight hours to explore the Philip Islands to the fullest. Given the plethora of outdoor pursuits on Phillip Island, it’s essential to strategise your visit, keeping weather conditions paramount in mind! Here’s to an unforgettable Phillip Island experience!

Experience a close encounter with one of Australia’s largest colonies of fur seals in their natural environment.  This 90-minute boat ride will take you to the Nobbies sea cave to watch the antics of these fun loveable seals. Tickets start from $85 per adult for the Adventure Tour and operate daily.

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16. Visit Cape Woolamai

One of the most spectacular attractions around Phillip Island is Cape Woolamai.  See why this giant consistent wave break is popular amongst adventurists. It is the island’s highest point and the region was recently declared a National Surfing Reserve in recognition of its fantastic surfing history and sublime natural environment. Stroll along one of the four coastal walking track loops at Cape Woolamai and stop at viewing platforms to take in the serenity of the pink granite Pinnacles, the Beacon and Old Granite Quarry.

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17. Sightseeing

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Tourism is, most of the time, all about sightseeing. Seeing the place, the scenic attraction, anchors tourism; the Blue Mountains has a lot of impressive spots to view sunset. Go sightseeing on a four-wheel drive, on a horseback, or on foot for some nature walks. The spectacular views and panoramic landscapes must be the highlights to your Blue Mountains tours and adventures.

18. Have a family picnic

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Picnic areas are always available in the scenic spots of the Blue Mountains. The picnic area in Govetts Leap would have you enjoy the breathtaking landscape of the Grose Valley as a backdrop. Or you may want to have a picnic at the picnic areas of the beautiful Leura Cascades or in the lakeside of the equally impressive Wentworth Falls Lake.

Experience a close encounter with one of Australia’s largest colonies of fur seals in their natural environment.  This 90-minute boat ride will take you to the Nobbies sea cave to watch the antics of these fun loveable seals. Tickets start from $85 per adult for the Adventure Tour and operate daily.

philip island things to do

20.Visit Cape Woolamai

One of the most spectacular attractions around Phillip Island is Cape Woolamai.  See why this giant consistent wave break is popular amongst adventurists. It is the island’s highest point and the region was recently declared a National Surfing Reserve in recognition of its fantastic surfing history and sublime natural environment. Stroll along one of the four coastal walking track loops at Cape Woolamai and stop at viewing platforms to take in the serenity of the pink granite Pinnacles, the Beacon and Old Granite Quarry.

what to do in phillip island

21. Visit Churchhill Island

Discover the ways of the land and how it use to be at the Churchill Island Heritage Farm on of the most popular Phillip Island attractions.  It is recognized as the site of the first agricultural pursuits in Victoria. Here you will learn the olden-day secrets as the rangers and farmhands complete the daily heritage farming routine such as sheep shearing, working dogs, cow milking, whip cracking and wagon rides.  Make friends with the local highland cattle, Clydesdale horses and baby farm animals. Entry costs $13 per adult and is open daily.

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22. Phillip Island Gand Prix Circuit and Go Karting

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Phillip Island is home to several major heart pumping motor racing events each year, including the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, Superbike World Championship and V8 Supercar Series.  Alight your adrenaline by zooming around this fast track with a genuine race car driver! Prefer something a little less face-paced? Drive your own go-kart around a more miniature replica of the circuit.

23. Entertain your family at A Maze'n Things

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Get Lost in the amazing world of surprising optical illusions, epic mazes, fun puzzles, mind-blowing magic and maxi mini-golf that will amuse, delight and entertain both adults and children.  Tickets start from $35 per adult for admission to Puzzle Island, Magic Manor and the Giant Maze, or $46 per adult if you want to include Maxi Mini Golf as well.  Open daily.

24. Visit the township of Cowes

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The quaint town of Cowes has everything you will need for your Phillip Island adventure, including the Visitors Centre, supermarkets and petrol stations.  Relish in one of the many seaside cafes and renowned local restaurants. Meander through contemporary and Indigenous artworks at Mingara Gallery, or shop for artisan wares. Relax at the main beach and watch the world go by as the boats lap against the calm water.

Pelican Feeding at San Remo Pier

Make sure you do not miss the San Remo Fishermans Co-op feeding the pelicans daily at noon at the San Remo Pier. Learn about the life of a Pelican and how we can conserve their natural environment. You may also be lucky enough to see large Stingrays that graciously glide through the water on the shoreline or from the pier.

25. Phillip Island Local Markets

The local Farmers Market operates on Churchill Island every 4th Saturday of the month from 8 am to 1 pm, with over 40 stalls selling local gifts and produce from Gippsland.  The Cowes Island Craft Market is on the 2nd Saturday of the month selling local artisans crafts, clothes and local produce. Fancy a ‘Trash and Treasure’ experience? Check out Market on Chapel on the corner of Chapel Street and Warley Avenue on the 4th Saturday of the month.

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