With an area of just over 100 square kilometres, you’ll be surprised at just how many attractions can be found on Phillip Island.
If you only have a weekend to discover its many delights, it pays to plan ahead to make the most of your time there. This itinerary packs in many of the best things to see and do.
Friday
Afternoon: Hit the road
It’s only a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne, but it’s worth setting off on Friday afternoon so you can get settled in at Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island ready for a full day ahead. With a great location and a range of cabins, camp and caravan sites, you’ll find accommodation options for all budgets.
Saturday
Morning: Wild wonders
After breakfast, get your blood pumping on the Cape Woolami Walk. Stroll along the beach and up the steps to enjoy 360-degree views from the highest point on Phillip Island. At 6.6km, allow 2.5 hours return, or opt for the shorter Pinnacles Walk at 1.5 hours return.
Next head to Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies. Open from 10am to 4pm, you’ll find something to educate and entertain all ages. Allow at least a few hours to explore the interactive and immersive exhibits. Get a feel for sub-zero temperatures in the Antarctic Chill Zone, visit the Sound Lab and Research Station and enjoy a state-of-the-art augmented reality experience that makes you feel like you’re in Antarctica.
Afternoon: Penguin parade
An absolute must when visiting Phillip is a trip to the nightly Penguin Parade. Watch these adorable little creatures as they waddle up the beach each night to nest in burrows dug into the dunes. It is an unforgettable experience the whole family will enjoy. Aim to arrive up to an hour before the penguins do, which ranges from 5.15pm in June through to 8.45pm in January. Check out this handy calendar to see when they’re due during your visit.
Filled with a warm fuzzy feeling after watching the parade, head back to the park to relax and unwind ready another day of discovery.
Sunday
Morning: Tasty treats
Move over Willy Wonka, Phillip Island has its own chocolate factory, Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate, and it’s heaps of fun for all ages. From viewing the world’s biggest chocolate waterfall to crafting your very own chocolate creations, this is one attraction that will have everyone begging for more. And if you get peckish during your visit, just nibble your entry ticket…it’s made of chocolate!
Afternoon: Go cruising
After a lazy lunch in Cowes, there’s time for one last adventure. Head to the jetty and hop aboard a Wildlife Coast Cruise outto Seal Rocks. Marvel at the antics of Australia’s largest fur seal colony as you view them up close and keep your eyes open for dolphins and whales too.
Back ashore, it’s time to pile into the car and head for home after a weekend well spent. To book your Phillip Island getaway, click here.
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