Cowes

Celebrate life by the water and soak up the relaxed seaside vibe in Cowes, Phillip Island's commercial hub, which positively bustles during the holiday season.

I do like to be beside the seaside

Set up for the day down at the north-facing beach, a perfect spot for picnics, beach adventures, water sports and playtime with the kids. Cool off with a swim and then peddle on over to San Remo along the dedicated path.

Dine out in seaside eateries and renowned restaurants, check out contemporary and Indigenous artworks at Mingara Gallery, or do a bit of shopping for souvenirs and artisan wares.

Just need to relax? Zone out at one of the town's divine day spas, sample craft ales at Rusty Water Brewery, or hit the lanes at the ten-pin bowling centre.

History beckons

If you want to learn about early life on the island, stop by the Phillip Island Historical Society Museum. Here you'll find exhibitions on geology, maritime history, aboriginal culture and the life of the early settlers.

Learn more about local Indigenous culture and the island's wildlife at the Shearwater Festival, complete with workshops, music and dance performances, environmental talks and street parade.

Sails in the sunset

Hire a boat from the Cowes launch and catch a fish to barbeque beachside or join a cruise around the bay and get a close look at the cute inhabitants of Seal Rocks. Want to go further? Catch the passenger ferry over Western Port to Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula or on to French Island.

The perfect home base

Boasting the largest range of accommodation options on the island, Cowes is the perfect spot to use a base to explore the many local attractions. Pop into the iconic Penguin Parade and the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre, located just ten minutes away. Visit the island at race time to experience the speed and excitement of the Superbike World Championship, the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, or one of the many motor sport events held throughout the year.