When I think of Phillip Island the first place that comes to mind to stay is Cowes. Cowes is a perfect spot to camp or cosy up in a hotel with beautiful sandy beaches, restaurants, pubs and shops all within walking distance. A short drive away are the main attractions of Phillip Island.
On our 3 day stay in Phillip Island we opted to camp at the Caravan Park right on the beach. We were extremely lucky to get a spot with a view of Westernport Bay. From our campsite we could easily stroll along the beach into Cowes centre.
Now this is what I call a beautiful place to escape to. Just metres from our campsite. It didn’t take long to realise why so many flock to this popular island in the Gippsland region of Victoria.
Cowes has always been a place to visit for me from a very young age. Whilst more homes have been built over the years there is still a gorgeous, relaxing, holiday vibe. With the main street lined with cafes, restaurant’s, ice-cream shops and boutique style shops. If you have forgotten your beach gear, don’t stress, there are tourist shops where you can grab your bathers, bucket and spade, beach umbrellas, towel’s and other fun beach activities to ensure you make the most of your beach side escape.
Our 2 day experience in Cowes
Day 1
We loved our stay in Cowes. The first night we arrived there was a gorgeous rainbow that we could see from our campsite and beach. It was a short stroll into the town centre where we were spoilt for choice of places to eat. From Indian, Thai, Chinese, Pizza, Fish n Chips or local pubs to name a few.
Arriving after work it was getting late, however there was still time for a short stroll along the beach and get our bearings. It was then time to take another stroll along the beach into town where we opted to check out the local pub, situated across the road from the beach. It was the perfect place to finish our day, relaxing whilst we eat delicious food and taking in the fresh sea air.
Day 2
This weekend escape was to relax and unwind. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and fresh air. We walked for hours along the beach, stopping for a coffee and to soak up the atmosphere. Our beach walk lead us to Ventnor Common Bushland Reserve, a lovely place to walk for a change of scenery. A place where Wallabies were a common sight to see hiding amongst the bushland. If you’re a bird lover this is also the place to go and watch for the Woodland birds of Ventnor Common
In the opposite direction we walked along the beach to check out the Cowes Jetty where you can catch the Ferry across to Stony Point or French Island. This is on our to do list !! With the Cowes Jetty in the process of being restored it did not stop the fishermen lining the jetty in hope of catching their next meal and others hopping on or off the Ferry.
It was extremely difficult to decide where to eat, we opted for Thai, we certainly didn’t regret our decision. It was absolutely delicious. We drank our Thai Singha beer as we reminisced our wonderful holiday in Thailand 4 years ago. After dinner it was a stroll along the streets back to our home away from home to chill.
Cowes, Phillip Island 
Cowes, Phillip Island
5 Reasons to visit Cowes
- Beautiful beaches
- Catch the Ferry to Stony Point or French Island
- Close proximity to tourist destinations on Phillip Island
- Seaside accommodation
- Variety of places to eat
Places to visit on Phillip Island
My all time favorite place to explore on Phillip Island has to be the famous Nobbies. The walk along the cliffside boardwalk offering spectacular panoramic views of the Nobbies cannot be missed. As you walk along you may be lucky to spot a penguin huddled away in their burrow. Ensure you keep a lookout for them.
To find out more about the beautiful places we explored click on the below links:
- Ventnor Common Bushland Reserve
- Cat Bay
- Pyramid Rock
- Nobbies Ocean Discovery Centre
- Nobbies
- Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre and Go Karts
- Smiths Beach
- Conservation Hill and Rhyll Inlet
- Ventnor Beach
- Cowes Jetty
- Cowes
How long should I stay on Phillip Island?
Within our short 2 night stay we got to see a lot of what Phillip Island has to offer. However I would recommend to stay longer if time permits. This will enable you to take a more relaxed pace to explore the gorgeous beaches, have a surf, visit the Koala Sanctuary to name just a few reasons. Or perhaps you will time your visit to see the Grand Prix.
Cowes Location
Cowes is located on the scenic Phillip Island which is part of the Gippsland Region of Victoria. It is an easy drive from Melbourne CBD for a day trip or longer.
- Approximately 142km, 2 hrs from Melbourne CBD
Feedback/Comments
Have you explored this gorgeous part of Gippsland Region Victoria? If you have we’d love to hear about your experiences and what your favorite destination is on Phillip Island. Have you got any suggestions of places we should explore?
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