Best Things to do In Phillip Island

What you need to know about Phillip Island

Before you pack your bags, there are a few essential things you should keep in mind, such as the ideal time to visit and the most convenient ways to get to the island and more. Read on to discover all the important details you need to know to make your trip to Phillip Island unforgettable.

 

How to get to Phillip Island

Getting to Phillip Island in your Britz camper is much simpler than it sounds! Although Phillip Island is technically an island, it is easily accessible from the mainland via a bridge. If you're driving from Melbourne, it's a scenic two-hour drive south via the Monash Freeway and the South Gippsland Highway. 

 

Image: Visit Victoria

 

The best time to visit Phillip Island

As Phillip Island is further south of Melbourne, it tends to be a couple of degrees cooler. Summer (December and March) is a popular time to visit, when you can expect comfortable, warm temperatures. However, the Phillip Island weather is known for its cool southerly winds in the afternoon and evening, so bring some light layers. 

 

What Phillip Island is known for

Phillip Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife. The island has been made famous in particular for the ‘Penguin Parade’, where visitors can witness hundreds of little native penguins returning to shore at sunset. Additionally, the island is a popular destination for surfing, hiking, and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the things to expect from a campervan adventure to Phillip Island: 

• Beautiful beaches

• Unique wildlife

• Red rocks

• Plenty of water-based activities

 

Best things to do in Phillip Island

Ready to start exploring? From breathtaking scenery to abundant wildlife and outdoor adventures, there's plenty to explore on this stunning island. Let's dive into the top must-do activities and attractions that make Phillip Island a must-visit destination.

 

Test your brain at A Maze N Things 

A Maze N Things is a must-visit attraction on Phillip Island, offering an exciting and unique experience for visitors of all ages. Featuring mind-bending puzzles, illusions, and mazes, this popular family-friendly attraction is sure to test your brain and keep you entertained for hours. Highlights include a mirror maze, a magic flying chandelier, and a disappearing room that defies gravity. Beyond the indoor attractions, A Maze N Things also offers outdoor activities such as mini-golf, a giant maze, and a sky trail ropes course. 

Cost: Starting at $42 per adult and $28 for children. 

 

Visit the chocolate factory

A visit to Panny's Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is a must-do for families and chocolate lovers alike. They offer a range of chocolate-themed experiences, including guided tours, tastings, and interactive exhibits – even your entry ticket will be made of chocolate! Here you can watch the chocolate-making process from start to finish and even create your own unique chocolate bar with the help of the friendly staff. With plenty of delicious treats to try and a gift shop filled with chocolate goodies, Panny's Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

 

See the famous Penguin Parade

The famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts and visitors of all ages. Every evening at sunset, hundreds of Little Penguins (recognisable by their blue and white feathers) waddle up the beach to their burrows, providing a unique and unforgettable experience. The Penguin Parade offers various viewing options, which provide an up-close encounter with the penguins in their natural habitat. Additionally, visitors can learn about the penguins and their conservation efforts through interactive exhibits at the on-site visitor centre. This iconic attraction is bound to be a highlight of any visit to Phillip Island.

 

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Hit the water on a kayak

Kayaking on Phillip Island is a popular activity and the perfect way to explore the island's stunning coastline. With a variety of tours available, visitors can choose from guided kayak tours, sunset paddles, and even a fireworks tour! Best of all, no previous kayaking experience is required, making this activity accessible for the whole family. 

 

Visit the Koala conservation reserve

The Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island is the perfect opportunity to see these native Australian animals in their natural habitat. Visitors can view these sleepy creatures from the elevated treetop boardwalks or join a guided ranger tour for a more in-depth experience. The reserve also offers educational displays and interactive exhibits that teach visitors about koala conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these beloved creatures.  

 

Learn something new at Nobbies on Phillip Island

Nobbies is a spectacular headland on the southwestern point of Phillip Island. One of the draws of Nobbies, Phillip Island, is the Antarctic Journey exhibition, where you can explore the region's rich marine life and learn about the local ecosystem. This attraction features interactive displays and multimedia exhibits that take you on a virtual journey to Antarctica. The outdoor viewing platform also provides breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and resident seal colony You may even spot a whale or two if you are visiting between May and October. 

 

Enjoy the hikes

Phillip Island boasts a range of hiking trails suitable for all levels of fitness and experience. From coastal walks with breathtaking ocean views to lush rainforest trails, the island offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore. Some popular hikes include: 

• The Cape Woolamai Trail – This track winds its way through scenic coastal landscapes to the highest peak on the island. This is the perfect spot to soak up the panoramic views of the ocean. 

• The Pyramid Rock Walk – This track is another coastal favourite giving fantastic views of the island's rugged southern coastline. 

• Rhyll Inlet Loop and the Conservation Hill Walk – These are perfect for bird watchers. Set amongst the wetlands and mangroves, there are plenty of opportunities to see the local birds in their natural habitat.

 

Check out the whale trail

Wondering where to spot whales on Phillip Island? From May to October, the Whale Discovery Trail is the place to be! This self-guided walk takes you on a guided journey to learn about the southern right whales that inhabit the waters around Phillip Island. The trail is lined with informative signs that offer insights into the life cycle and behaviour of these magnificent transient creatures. This means you can follow the trail at your own pace, all while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

 

Visit Phillip island winery

Phillip Island Winery is the perfect spot on the island for a wine-tasting experience. This boutique winery produces a range of award-winning cool-climate wines using traditional techniques, showcasing the unique terroir (environmental factors affecting the wine) of the island. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings at the cellar door paired with delicious local produce, all while taking in stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and ocean. This is a must-visit destination, and easily one of the best things to do in Phillip Island for wine lovers and foodies alike.

 

Image: Visit Victoria 

 

Watch a race at the Phillip Island Circuit

Phillip Island Circuit is a world-famous racetrack that hosts several international motorsport events throughout the year. Here you can watch thrilling motorcycle and car races, including the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix and the Superbike World Championship. If you prefer to get a taste of the high-speed action yourself, the track also offers a range of racing experiences, from hot laps to go-karting. Regardless of your affinity for racing, the scenic location of the circuit, with its stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, makes it a unique and exciting destination for motorsport enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

 

Where to stay on Phillip Island

Looking for some Phillip Island accommodation ideas? Here are some of our top picks for where to stay during a campervan trip to Phillip Island. 

 

Big4 Phillip Island

Big4 Phillip Island Caravan Park offers a range of accommodation options for families, couples and groups in a picturesque location. You can choose from powered and unpowered camping sites and enjoy the modern amenities and facilities, including:

• A swimming pool

• Playground

• Games room

• BBQ areas

• Wifi

Cost: Powered sites start at $59 per night 

 

NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park

NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park offers beachfront camping sites in Cowes. This is a great spot to stay close to the action with its proximity to many of the best things to do in Phillip Island, such as the Penguin Parade, A Maze N Things, and Nobbies. The park features all your essential amenities, including:

• A playground and jumping pillow

• BBQ facilities

• A camp kitchen

Cost: Powered sites start at $43 per night 

 

Beach Park tourist caravan park

Beach Park Tourist Caravan Park is a family-friendly campground located in Cowes, just a short walk from Cowes Beach and the town centre. Powered and unpowered sites are available for campervans with plenty of great facilities on-site, including:

• A swimming pool

• Games room

• Playground

• Communal kitchen 

• BBQ area

Cost: Prices depend on season and availability. For more details on pricing, contact admin@beachparkphillipisland.com 

 

Ready for your Phillip Island campervan adventure?

Phillip Island is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature on a campervan trip. From exploring the island's natural wonders to indulging in local cuisine and wine, there are plenty of great things to do in Phillip Island for the whole family.

Ready for your Phillip Island campervan adventure? Hire a campervan today with Britz and visit this beautiful island on your next escape. Best of all, you can easily book online or at your local Britz branch and then simply pick up from our Melbourne branch for a short 90-minute drive to start exploring the best things to do in Phillip Island. If you are looking to visit Phillip Island as part of a larger Australia road trip and are looking for more travel itinerary ideas, check out the popular Melbourne to Sydney itinerary and the great southern touring route, as well as many more on the Britz blog.