Phillip Island is off the coast of Victoria, Australia and is a treasure trove of family fun. With rugged coastlines, sandy beaches and wildlife, there’s something for all ages. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or education, Phillip Island has it all. Here’s a complete guide to the top attractions and activities on Phillip Island, with a focus on family-friendly.
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Nature Park
Phillip Island Nature Park is the epicentre of the island’s wildlife and family-friendly activities. It includes several key attractions:
Penguin Parade: The Phillip Island Penguin tour is an institution where you can watch the Little Penguins march from the ocean to their burrows at night. This is a great opportunity for families to see these little critters in their natural habitat. The educational talks will give you insights into the life and conservation of these amazing birds.
Koala Conservation Centre: At the Koala Conservation Centre, you can walk through treetop boardwalks and see koalas in their natural environment. This reserve is dedicated to koala conservation and is an interactive and educational experience for families.
- Churchill Island Heritage Farm: Located on Churchill Island the Churchill Island Heritage Farm is a glimpse into historical farming life. Families can participate in daily farming activities such as cow milking, interact with farm animals and watch traditional farming demonstrations. It’s a great way to learn about agricultural history and experience farm life firsthand.
Cape Woolamai
Cape Woolamai is one of the highlights of Phillip Island and is known for its dramatic landscapes and natural beauty:
Cape Woolamai Beach: This beach has stunning granite cliffs and soft sand. It’s a popular spot for swimming, picnicking and exploring rock pools. The sheltered areas are perfect for families to spend the day in the sun and sand.
Walking Tracks: Cape Woolamai has several walking tracks that take you through its rugged coastlines and offer amazing views. The tracks are suitable for all levels of walkers and a great way to see the island’s natural environment.
Pyramid Rock: Nearby is Pyramid Rock, a granite formation that adds to the area’s drama. It’s a great spot for photography and to appreciate the island’s geology.
A Maze’N Things
A Maze’N Things is fun for families:
The Great Maze: Get lost in one of Australia’s biggest mazes. A great activity for families to work together and have a bit of fun competition.
Illusion Room: The Illusion Room has a collection of optical illusions that will amaze and challenge kids and adults. Educational and fun.
Awesome Mini-Golf: Play a round of mini-golf on our crazy courses. Perfect for families looking for some light hearted fun and a bit of competition.
Wildlife Coast Cruises
Take a Wildlife Coast Cruise and explore the waters around Phillip Island. See the largest Australian fur seal colony in its natural habitat. Also see dolphins and other marine wildlife. A great adventure for the whole family.
Cowes Beach and Smiths Beach
For a classic beach experience, visit Cowes Beach or Smiths Beach:
Cowes Beach: Family-friendly atmosphere, soft sand and shallow water. Perfect for swimming, building sandcastles and a beach picnic. Cowes Main Beach is just a short walk away with additional amenities and dining options.
Smiths Beach: Less crowded than Cowes Beach, Smiths Beach is perfect for exploring rock pools, gentle waves and a quiet beach experience.
Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
Take the family to the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory for a sweet treat. Interactive exhibits where you can learn about the chocolate-making process and sample chocolates. Fun for all ages.
Phillip Island Wildlife Park
The Phillip Island Wildlife Park is where you can get up close and personal with Australian wildlife. Kangaroos, koalas, wombats and emus and more. Hands on encounters and educational activities.
Phillip Island Helicopters
For a different view of the island take a flight with Phillip Island Helicopters. The aerial tour takes in the rugged coastlines, sandy beaches and natural bushland. A thrilling experience and a new perspective on Phillip Island.
Cape Woolamai Cruise
See the dramatic landscapes of Cape Woolamai from the water with a Cape Woolamai Cruise. This tour takes in the island’s granite cliffs and rugged coastline. A unique view of the island’s natural beauty.
Family-Friendly Activities at a Glance
To help plan your trip, here’s a quick rundown of some of the family-friendly attractions and activities on Phillip Island:
| Activity | Location | Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penguin Parade | Phillip Island Nature Park | Watching Little Penguins return to their burrows | All ages |
| Koala Conservation Centre | Phillip Island Nature Park | Treetop boardwalks and koala sightings | Families, Wildlife lovers |
| Churchill Island Heritage Farm | Churchill Island | Cow milking, farm animals, daily farming activities | Kids, Animal enthusiasts |
| Cape Woolamai | Cape Woolamai | Rugged cliffs, stunning views, walking tracks | Hikers, Beachgoers |
| A Maze’N Things | Phillip Island | Great Maze, Illusion Room, Mini Golf | Families, Kids |
| Wildlife Coast Cruises | Western Port | Seal and dolphin spotting, scenic views | Nature lovers, Families |
| Cowes Beach | Cowes Beach | Soft sands, shallow waters, family-friendly | Beachgoers, Swimmers |
| Smiths Beach | Smiths Beach | Secluded atmosphere, rock pools | Explorers, Beach lovers |
| Phillip Island Chocolate Factory | Phillip Island | Interactive exhibits, chocolate sampling | Sweet tooths, Families |
| Pyramid Rock | Phillip Island | Granite cliffs, unique rock formations | Sightseers, Photographers |
| Phillip Island Helicopters | Phillip Island | Aerial views of the island‘s coastlines | Adventure seekers, Sightseers |
| Phillip Island Wildlife Park | Phillip Island | Interactions with kangaroos, koalas, wombats | Kids, Animal lovers |
| Cape Woolamai Cruise | Cape Woolamai | Scenic cruise, granite cliffs | Nature lovers, Adventurers |
More Attractions and Activities
Phillip Island has even more family-friendly activities to discover:
San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op: Pop into this busy spot for fresh seafood and a taste of local life. The co-op is a great place to grab a bite and see the fishing industry in action.
Magic Manor: A magical experience for kids with interactive exhibits and activities to spark creativity and imagination.
Nobbies Centre: At the southern end of Phillip Island the Nobbies Centre has interactive exhibits and stunning views of the rugged coastline. A great place to learn about the island’s natural environment and wildlife.
Park Lane Phillip Island Holiday Park: For a family friendly place to stay Park Lane Phillip Island Holiday Park has a range of accommodation from cabins to camping sites with indoor pools and tennis courts.
Rusty Water Brewery: For a more adult oriented stop Rusty Water Brewery has a selection of local craft beers. A nice place to relax while the kids are at the nearby attractions.
Phillip Island Winery: Try local wines and relax in the peaceful surroundings of the Phillip Island Winery. A great place to unwind and taste the region.
Western Port: Explore the diverse ecosystems of Western Port, including mangroves and salt marshes, which are important habitats for local wildlife.
Phillip Island is a great destination for families, offering a mix of wildlife, beaches, and interactive experiences. From the Penguin Parade and Koala Conservation Centre to Cape Woolamai and A Maze’N Things, there are heaps of things to make your family holiday unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring the island or the attractions, Phillip Island has something for all ages.
FAQ
When is the best time for families?
Best time to visit is spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild and the attractions are less busy. Summer is good for beach activities but can be busier.
Is there family-friendly accommodation on Phillip Island?
Yes, Phillip Island has family-friendly accommodations. Resorts like Ramada Resort Phillip Island, holiday parks with cabins and self-contained apartments. Many have indoor pools and playgrounds and are close to attractions.
How do I get to Phillip Island?
Phillip Island is 90 minutes from Melbourne. You can drive or use bus services and tour operators that do day trips from Melbourne. Phillip Island Rd is the main road to the island.
Are there kid-friendly dining places on Phillip Island?
Yes, Phillip Island has plenty of dining options for families. From casual cafes and fish and chip shops to restaurants with kids’ menus, there are many choices. Many are located near Cowes Beach and San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op.
What’s free or cheap on Phillip Island?
Free or low cost activities on Phillip Island. Cowes Beach and Smiths Beach, walking tracks and rock pools. The island’s bushland and coastline is perfect for outdoor adventures and family fun.