Phillip Island lies just to the east of the Mornington Peninsula and is 140 km southeast of Melbourne. Access by car is via the Bass Highway with an exit onto the Phillip Island Tourist Road that leads to San Remo and then across the bridge onto the island at Newhaven.
The island has a population of 7500 people. It is known the world over as Australia’s motorcycle capital and is the home of the annual Australian MotoGP and Superbike races as well as V8 car racing.
Long before racing raised the profile of the island, it was recognised as a popular destination for bushwalkers, rock climbers, bird watchers, and fishermen. Phillip Island has some of the best surfing spots in Victoria. A popular attraction at Summerland Beach is the Phillip Island Penguin Parade of the Little (Fairy) Penguins and bookings are essential during holiday periods.
There is always an opportunity to get close to koalas at the Koala Conservation Centre with its unique treetop boardwalks and close-up viewing areas of koalas in their natural habitat.
One of the hidden treasures on Phillip Island is Pyramid Rock, where you can enjoy views from Cape Woolamai to the Nobbies and watch a magnificent sunset. The coastal walk along the cliff tops allows visitors to explore the coastline between Pyramid Rock and Berrys Beach and has spectacular vistas in all directions.
Scenic cruises travel along the island coastline to Seal Rocks, a group of rocky outcrops lying 2 km offshore. A colony of up to 12,000 wild fur seals has made their home here and many of them regularly approach the boat to satisfy their curiosity.
The towns and parks on the island are well equipped for picnics and camping excursions. There are lots of toilet facilities, gas-fired BBQ facilities, picnic tables, and children’s playgrounds.