Phillip Island

Some of the best surfing in Australia can be had on Phillip Island, and it's able to accommodate surfers of all skill levels (and tolerance to cold water). Phillip Island is also home to many attractions and events unique to the area. Famous rock formations such as the Nobbies, Pinnacles and Pyramid Rock can be seen on the island.

HIKING
There are many hiking trails available for use to help you explore the land. Cape Woolamai Trail is a two-hour walk to the island's highest point, reaching 109 metres. With incredible views from the top, this trail is the most diverse and aesthetically breathtaking of them all.

The walk starts at Woolamai Beach Surf Life carpark where you can view the old granite quarry and the Pinnacles. Other walks include the 2-hour Pinnacle walk, the 3-hour Old Granite Quarry Walk, the 3 and a half hour Cape Woolamai Beacon walk, or a combination of all three walks totaling 4 hours.

THE BIG WAVE
When it comes to a famous "big" icon, the locals would likely point to the Big Wave, a giant life-like wave located 200 metres over the bridge from San Remo, placed outside the front of the Island Accommodation and Islantis Surfboards. Over the past twenty years the Big Wave has built quite the reputation, becoming the most well known "big thing" in the region and growing dear to the hearts of citizens and tourists alike. The structure provides a chance to experience being "barreled" in a wave.

SURFBOARDS
If you are a surfer, history fanatic, or both, Islantis Surfboards has a huge collection of antique and vintage surfboards that date as far back as the ‘30s. This is a great chance to view and understand the unique history of surfing and the progression of board designs from the early 20th century to the beginning of the 21st century.

MOTORSPORTS
Motorsports also have a role on the island. The annual Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, which is held just after winter every year, is a must-see for sports fans around the country. You can get your own fix with a range of activities held at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, from Go Karts to Hot Laps, which allows visitors and locals alike to satisfy their need for speed.

HELICOPTER TOURS
Being such a gorgeous destination, the island should be seen from any and every way possible. One of the more unique ways to view the island is by air. Helicopter tours are notoriously fun and can provide much insight on the history and geography of the island. At a fairly low cost, these tours are a great opportunity to view the island from a different vantage point.

FOOD AND WINE
Two attractions that are not to be forgotten. There are plenty of seaside restaurants along the island that are sure to replenish you after a long day of exploring.

For great food and drink at a fair price, try Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant & Bar. Rusty is conveniently located for anyone finishing a long day of exploring, nestled comfortably right in the heart of most tourist activities. Choose between 5 of the beers on tap, or give their award-winning Koala Pale Ale a go! If you don't fancy beer then take a look at their wine list, dominated by local award-winning vineyards.

The wine of Phillip Island is beginning to gain a reputation for its cool-climate wines with full fruit flavour. Stay for lunch among the vines after tasting some of the local wines with their respective winemakers.

WILDLIFE
Last but not least, Phillip Island is also home to an abundance of wildlife for you to encounter during your stay. Animals include penguins, seals, kangaroos, koalas, birds and wallabies. You can learn about the habitats and behaviours of each animal at one of the island's many educational interpretive centres.

The possibilities on Phillip Island are quite numerous and diverse enough to satisfy a wide range of people. With all of this and more to offer, Phillip Island is a visit to strongly consider for a brief or lengthy break this winter.