Phillip Island, on the southern coast of Victoria, Australia, is a holiday hot spot during school holidays and public holidays. With its stunning natural environment, beautiful beaches, unique wildlife and rich history, the island is the perfect place to relax, explore and have a picnic in nature. From golden beaches to cliff tops and farmland, Phillip Island has a picnic spot for everyone.
In this post we’ll look at the top picnic spots on Phillip Island and what they offer in terms of scenery, wildlife and history.
Cowes Main Beach
You can’t visit Phillip Island without stopping at Cowes Main Beach. Located in the heart of Cowes, this beach has everything a family needs for a perfect beachside picnic. The seaside holiday feeling is strong here, with picnic tables, calm waters and a backdrop of golden sand and blue water.
Cowes Beach is easy to get to and is a great spot for visitors staying in nearby accommodation. The beach is calm and sheltered making it safe for swimming and perfect for families with kids.
Features:
- Beautiful beaches with calm waters.
- Good facilities, including picnic tables and outdoor seating.
- Close to dining options, cafes and a fishing village with fishing boats.
- Great for a road trip holiday with easy access from Melbourne via the Mornington Peninsula Fwy.
Churchill Island Heritage Farm
Churchill Island a 50 hectare island connected to Phillip Island by a bridge is a historic picnic spot. This farm gives visitors the chance to experience farm life as it used to be with cow milking, farm animals and views of Western Port and French Island.
Churchill Island is a great spot for a peaceful picnic, surrounded by green pastures, heritage buildings and natural beauty. You can watch farm demonstrations or visit the Churchill Island Farmers’ Market, which is held monthly. It’s also perfect for history buffs who are interested in the legacy of Arthur Phillip, the island’s namesake.
Features:
- Panoramic views of Western Port and French Island.
- Family-friendly activities, including farm animal interactions.
- Historical significance and peaceful atmosphere.
- A day trip is perfect with picnic tables and outdoor dining facilities.
Cape Woolamai
Cape Woolamai the highest point on Phillip Island is a must see for any picnic enthusiast. With its rugged coastline and rock formations Cape Woolamai offers epic views of the Bass Strait and the southern ocean. The area is a nature lovers and wildlife enthusiast’s paradise with several walking trails that pass by lookouts like the Pyramid Rock Lookout and Gull Island Lookout.
Cape Woolamai Beach is popular with surfers, while quieter sections like Cleeland Bight Beach are perfect for a peaceful picnic. Whether you want to relax on the beach or hike along the coastal paths, Cape Woolamai has something for everyone.
Highlights:
- Amazing rock formations and views of Bass Strait.
- Great picnic spots with a seaside holiday feel.
- Popular surf beaches like Woolamai Beach and Pyramid Rock Surf Beach.
- Australian wildlife, including seabirds and fur seals.
The Nobbies and Seal Rock
For one of the best picnic spots on Phillip Island, head to The Nobbies. This coastal area has stunning views of Bass Strait, Seal Rock and the fur seal colony. Enjoy your picnic while watching the fur seals laze in the sun.
The Nobbies Centre is a great place to learn about the local wildlife and environment. From here, you can take the Wildlife Coast Cruise and see the largest colony of Australian fur seals up close. The Antarctic Journey virtual experience at The Nobbies is also very popular with visitors.
Highlights:
- The best coastal views are of Seal Rock and Bass Strait.
- Wildlife sightings, including the largest colony of fur seals.
- Close to the Phillip Island Penguin Parade, where you can see penguins return to Summerland Beach.
- Good facilities, picnic tables and outdoor seating.
Rhyll Inlet
Rhyll Inlet is located on the northern side of Phillip Island and is a quiet and secluded spot to have a peaceful picnic. Surrounded by wetlands and bushland, Rhyll Inlet is home to lots of birdlife and Australian wildlife. Sit by the water’s edge and enjoy the tranquility with picnic spots with great views of the inlet.
Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Rhyll Jetty, which has walking trails through the wetlands and Conservation Hill. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, where you can see pelicans, black swans, and migratory birds.
Highlights:
- Quiet and peaceful with Australian wildlife.
- Beautiful walking trails, 5km return.
- Picnic spots near Conservation Hill and Rhyll Jetty.
- A great day trip for nature.
Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach (not to be confused with Shelley Beach) is a little hidden gem near Kitty Miller Bay. This small, quiet beach is perfect for an intimate picnic away from the crowds. The blue waters, sandy beach and rocky coastline make for a beautiful day by the sea.
Shelly Beach is a peaceful spot for couples or those wanting to get away from it all. Nearby, you can walk to Berrys Beach and Pyramid Rock Lookout for stunning views of the coastline. Experience the serenity of Shelly Beach, a quiet retreat ideal for couples. After a relaxing day, take a stroll to local attractions and join the unforgettable Phillip Island penguins tours.
Highlights:
- Unspoilt beach and surroundings.
- Perfect for couples or small groups looking for a quiet escape.
- Access to walking trails, Berrys Beach Walk.
- Great for photography, natural beauty and rock formations.
FAQ
Where to go with the kids?
Cowes Main Beach and Churchill Island Heritage Farm are good spots. Cowes has safe swimming and amenities nearby, and Churchill Island has farm activities and historical sites the kids will love.
Where has the best views?
Cape Woolamai and The Nobbies have the best views. Cape Woolamai has Bass Strait and rugged coastline, The Nobbies has Seal Rock and the largest fur seal colony.
Can I see wildlife while I’m picnicking on Phillip Island?
Yes, The Nobbies is the best spot to see Australian fur seals, Rhyll Inlet is good for birdwatching. The Phillip Island Wildlife Park is nearby if you want to see more Australian wildlife up close.
Where are the best beaches to picnic on Phillip Island?
Woolamai Beach, Cleeland Bight Beach and Shelly Beach are good spots. Each has a different atmosphere, Woolamai has the surf vibe, Shelly Beach is secluded.
Is there a historic picnic spot on Phillip Island?
Yes, Churchill Island Heritage Farm has loads of history, picnic in peace while learning about Arthur Phillip and the early settlers.