tours Phillip IslandPhillip Island is one of Victoria’s top holiday spots, famous for its stunning coastlines, Penguin Parade and wildlife. While the island itself has plenty to offer, the seaside villages and coastal towns nearby are worth a visit too.
From historic islands to fishing villages, the area around Phillip Island is full of natural attractions, boutique accommodation and adventure activities. Whether you’re looking for a family friendly holiday, luxury indulgence or a fishing village experience, these towns near Phillip Island have something for everyone.
San Remo – The Entrance to Phillip Island
Distance from Phillip Island: 0 km (connected by the Phillip Island Road concrete bridge)
San Remo is a fishing village that is the main entry point to Phillip Island. This village atmosphere is perfect for people who love fresh seafood, wildlife encounters, and coastal views.
Top San Remo Attractions
- Pelican Feeding – A daily feeding event at noon near the jetty.
- San Remo Coastal Walking Track – Offers breathtaking views of Bass Strait.
- San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op – Serves some of the best fish in the region.
Many people do Phillip Island tour from San Remo, visiting wildlife parks, beaches and attractions.
Cowes – Phillip Island’s Main Tourist Town
Distance from Phillip Island Bridge: 14 km
Cowes is the biggest town on Phillip Island, with a range of accommodation options, restaurants and holiday attractions. It’s a great base to explore the island’s natural beauty and tourist attractions.
Cowes Attractions
- Cowes Beach – A beach access for safe swimming.
- Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre – Learn about the history of motor sport.
- Phillip Island Seal Cruise – A two hour cruise to Seal Rocks, home to one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies.
For adventure seekers there are plenty of Phillip Island tours from Cowes, including wildlife encounters and scenic drives.
Rhyll – A Fishing Village Charm
Distance from Phillip Island Bridge: 18 km
Rhyll is a cute town with a protected harbour and wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for wildlife spotting, fishing and birdwatching.
Must See in Rhyll
- Rhyll Inlet State Wildlife Reserve – A wildlife haven with a tree top walkway.
- Churchill Island Heritage Farm – A historic island with Victorian history and farm experiences.
- Phillip Island Nature Park – Home to Australian animals like koalas and echidnas.
Rhyll is also a stop on some of the best tours Phillip Island has to offer for nature lovers and photographers.
Ventnor – A Hidden Treasure on the North Coast
Distance from Phillip Island Bridge: 16 km
Ventnor is a beach side town with panoramic views of Western Port Bay and Bass Strait. It’s also close to the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
Top in Ventnor
- Ventnor Beach – A secluded beach with rugged coast.
- The Nobbies & Seal Rocks – Enjoy stunning ocean views at dusk.
- Summerland Beach – Home of the Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
Among the top attractions Phillip Island has to offer Ventnor is a must see for wildlife and coastline.
Newhaven – A Coastal Village Charm
Distance from Phillip Island Bridge: 3 km
Newhaven is a small town with plenty of natural attractions and tourist experiences. Home to Phillip Island Park Lane Holiday Park and Ramada Resort Phillip Island.
Newhaven Highlights
- Phillip Island Chocolate Factory – A fun stop for optical illusions and yummies.
- Churchill Island – A historic island accessible by a suspension bridge
- Cape Woolamai – A popular surf spot with some of the best surf beaches like Woolamai Beach.
For scenery seekers book a tours Phillip Island from Newhaven and visit Cape Woolamai and Churchill Island.
Kilcunda – Coastal Views & Outdoor Fun
From Phillip Island Bridge: 13 km
Kilcunda is a coastal town on the Bass Coast, famous for outdoor activities and the Bass Coast Rail Trail.
Kilcunda Highlights
- Kilcunda Trestle Railway Bridge – A historic adjacent bridge with amazing views.
- Surfies Point – A popular surf beach with endless coastlines.
- Kilcunda Beach – A beachside retreat for beach walks and swimming.
Wonthaggi – The Biggest Town Near Phillip Island
From Phillip Island Bridge: 23 km
Wonthaggi is a busy town with various shops, antique shops and gift shops. It’s also home to the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail and South Gippsland’s coastal dunes.
Wonthaggi Top
- State Coal Mine – A insight into Victorian history.
- Wonthaggi Wetlands – A peaceful nature reserve for birdwatching.
- Wilsons Promontory National Park – A quick trip to one of Victoria’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Why Visit the Towns Near Phillip Island?
The towns near Phillip Island have so much to offer, from Bass Strait views to family attractions like the Koala Conservation Reserve. Whether it’s a beachfront holiday, a quiet town experience or an outdoor adventure you’re after, these Bass Coast Hinterland towns are perfect.
Accommodation Near Phillip Island
- Ramada Resort Phillip Island – Standalone luxury cabins and self contained units.
- Wyndham Phillip Island – Boutique accommodation with a seaside holiday vibe.
- Marlin Beachfront Smiths Beach & Waikiki Beachfront Smiths Beach – For those who want to stay at Phillip Island’s safest surf beaches.
- Silverwater Resort – Luxury seaside retreat with stunning coastlines.
Conclusion
Exploring the towns near Phillip Island adds depth to any visit, with stunning coastlines, wildlife encounters, historical sites and outdoor adventures. From the seaside fishing village of San Remo to the quaint town of Rhyll, each destination is a unique experience beyond the island itself.
Whether you want luxury accommodation, coastal scenery, popular surfing beaches or natural wildlife experiences, the Bass Coast region has it all. The renowned surf destination of Woolamai Beach, the historic island charm of Churchill Island and the unforgettable experience of the Phillip Island Penguin Parade make this area a perfect destination for all types of travellers.
For those who want a guided experience, Phillip Island tours offer a convenient way to visit the island’s top attractions including wildlife wonderlands, coastal rail trails and stunning ocean views.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best town to stay in near Phillip Island?
The best town to stay depends on your travel style. Cowes is the most popular option, with comfortable accommodation, boutique shops and beach access. For a quieter retreat Rhyll or Ventnor offer a peaceful seaside village atmosphere.
What are the top tourist attractions near Phillip Island?
The most popular attractions near Phillip Island are the Phillip Island Penguin Parade, Churchill Island Heritage Farm, Koala Conservation Reserve and the Nobbies & Seal Rocks.
What tours are available on Phillip Island?
There are many Phillip Island tours to suit different interests, wildlife tours, scenic cruises and adventure tours. Popular options include the Phillip Island Seal Cruise, Penguin Parade Tours and eco-friendly nature walks through the Phillip Island Nature Park.
What is the nearest mainland town to Phillip Island?
San Remo is the nearest mainland town, connected to the island by the Phillip Island Road concrete bridge. It’s a popular stop for fresh seafood, coastal walks and pelican feeding before heading onto the island.
How long should I stay to see the towns near Phillip Island?
2 to 3 days is the ideal time to see Phillip Island and its surrounding towns. This allows time to do the Penguin Parade, scenic walking tracks, surfing at Smiths Beach, visiting Churchill Island and exploring the Bass Coast Hinterland’s natural beauty.