Phillip Island is famous for its tiny, feathered swimmers, the fairy penguins. Every day, hundreds of people travel to watch the parade, where the penguins waddle across the beach after emerging from the sea. Sure, the penguins are fantastically cute, but there’s so much more to see on this wonderful island.
The wildlife on Phillip Island is something to behold. With animal sanctuaries, nature reserves, farms, and a stunning coastline, you’re spoiled for choice! The island also boasts fantastic wineries and restaurants, perfect for those who like to indulge after a wildlife walk.
Luckily, the island is only 26km long so you can visit most of these in a single day if you wish. I love the challenge of trying to visit as much as I can in one day. I mean, if you’ve only got one day then why not make the most of it? At sunrise (or just after if you can’t wake up that early) you can head to the Phillip Island Nature Park on the south-eastern peninsula to gaze across the water and over to the mainland. If you’re visiting in the winter months, you may see a plume of spray coming from a passing whale as it migrates north.
Phillip Island has some great places to eat at any time of day. After your sunrise (or later) visit to the nature park, you can find breakfast at many of the nearby restaurants and cafes. The Cape Kitchen provides breakfast accompanied by stunning waterfront views and a fantastic menu that will keep you fuelled throughout the day.
Phillip Island isn’t just about the penguins… it’s about koalas too. The Koala reserve on the island allows you to come face to face one of Australia’s most iconic creatures in their natural habitat. I don’t know about you, but just looking at these sleeping cuties instantly makes me feel calm (and like I want to take a nap).
The landscape on the island not only supports a range of animals but also a thriving wine industry. Several wineries have popped up over the last few decades, each producing fantastic bottles. A visit to Phillip Island winery will have you tasting a wide variety of drops from a rich shiraz to a fruity chardonnay and a more unusual sparkling chardonnay pinot noir blend! This winery also serves excellent food, perfect for a relaxing lunch stop amidst your island exploration.
In the afternoon, you can hop aboard an EcoBoat adventure and take to the seas to see more of the island’s incredible wildlife. As you ride along the island’s spectacular coastline on this 90-minute journey, you’ll encounter one of Australia’s largest colonies of fur seals.
Your day trip around Phillip Island will reach its perfect conclusion at the Nobbies on the eastern coast. Watch the penguin parade and stroll along the boardwalks as the sun sets, casting a beautiful glow across the gorgeous scenery. As the daylight fades, you can drive to find your perfect dinner spot. There are several places to choose from and the north of the island boasts several fantastic choices. Bani’s Kitchen offers a delicious Mediterranean menu, the Cheeky Goose serves up local produce that the whole family will enjoy, and Ocean Reach Brewing gives you the chance to sample local, craft beer.
So there you have it, Phillip Island is packed with things to do for every kind of traveller – but if you are there, I thoroughly recommend a visit to the penguins!
Sightseeing Tours Australia offers several tours to Phillip Island, allowing you to see the best that the island has to offer!
