Check out these local spots on Phillip Island!
Often, Phillip Island is dubbed ‘the place to see penguins near Melbourne.’ Which is true, and Phillip Island owes its iconic-ness to being the most well-known spot to see the little penguins.
But it’s so much more than that! Check out some of the hidden gems of Phillip Island.
Rhyll Inlet Wetlands
These wildlife-filled wetlands are a well-known migration location in Rhyll. There is a small walk around the wetlands, where you can see the migratory birds of the area.
This is where you’ll be able to do a small walk around the wetlands and see some fantastic birds of migration.
Swan Lake
Check out this pretty boardwalk area. It takes you around this secluded lake in the middle of Phillip Island, where you’ll see a cute recreational area. Explore the rich greenery and local wildlife in this small aquatic inlet! Make sure you pack your binoculars. There are a few bird viewing hides dotted around the walk too, so you’ll be able to explore the local birdlife from the confines of these small boardwalk huts.
The Store
Just en route to Ventnor, you’ll find ‘The Store’, which sells and cooks local produce. The Store sell a whole range of sandwiches, cakes and other sweet treats.
Sip on a hot coffee in the cold, windy Phillip Island weather and get cosy in the warmth of this rustic cafe! Plus, it’s dog friendly – so it’s likely that you’ll spend a while here…
This hidden gem is just near Ventnor Beach, so dip in for a hot coffee after a cold water swim!
Phillip Island itself is a hidden gem of Australia. Tucked underneath the peninsula of Australia, because not many people know it’s there.
The Forrest Caves
Go up the stairs of the Forrest Caves car park and turn left. Then, you’ll find these interesting caves nestled under the ground. They’re currently closed for renovations in 2025, but after the walkway up to the car park is completed, it’s expected that the caves with reopen. The caves are also only accessible during lower tide!
The whole walk near the Forrest Caves is a 45-minute return walk (spanning 2km).
Banner image credit: Visit Victoria Content Hub