The Island Accommodation

Just 90 minutes from Melbourne in southeast Australia, Phillip Island is the perfect destination to escape the city. Dotted with nature reserves and protected parks, it’s a place where wildlife, a few laid-back towns and indigenous history happily coexist among the grassy landscape and pristine coastline. Its native penguins and wild koalas are some of the island’s biggest draws, and you’ll find adventure on its surfing beaches and Grand Prix go-karting circuit. 

Stay minutes from Port Stephens’ beaches at a Philip Island hostel. You'll find modern stays with environmentally friendly designs that save resources. You can sleep in a sociable shared dorm with other travellers or choose a private room with an en-suite bathroom. Expect relaxed vibes in Philip Island backpackers hostels with sea-view roof decks, barbecues and lounges with TVs. Communal kitchens can help your budget go further, while having bed linen, adaptors and towels provided means more room in your backpack. 

Sitting within Victoria's Western Port Bay, the island’s northern coastline is sheltered from heavy swells, while its southern coastline has ideal surfing conditions. You’ll find the main town Cowes on the northern shore, along with calm swimming beaches. This pretty seaside town has plenty of al-fresco cafés, boutiques and unique vintages stores. Rhyll, a small fishing hamlet, has woodland trails and an esplanade full of seafood restaurants. Cape Woolamai on the east of the island is home to golden beaches that are perfect for a coastal walk.

One of Phillip Island’s most spectacular sights is the Penguin Parade. To see this natural marvel, visit Summerland Beach at sunset and watch as the world's smallest penguins wobble from the sea back to their burrows. The island also has resident koalas – you can spot them dozing on the eucalyptus trees at the Koala Conservation Centre. Love motor sports? Head to the Grand Prix circuit to watch the pros or book a go-karting session and speed past the track’s mountain and ocean scenery. 

The island's connected to the mainland by a bridge, so it’s possible to drive here. From Melbourne Airport, catch a bus to the Skybus Coach Terminal, then a train from Southern Cross to Stony Point. From there, take a taxi to Phillip Island (the journey takes just under 5 hours). From Melbourne itself, the V/Line coach departs daily and arrives at various spots across the island including Newhaven, Cape Woolamai and Cowes. You can also get the ferry from Stony Point to Cowes. Get around the island by electric bike or the South Coast Bus service.