Phillip Island Guides Attractions Events in Victoria

There's an unusual attraction on Phillip Island, in Victoria, that is certainly making people's heads turn. All who drive the Phillip Island Road can't help but be mystified by the Giant Purple Tap that seemingly floats in mid air, whilst gushing out thousands of litres of water into an apparently Flooded House.


When you enter the building, you will be absolutely amazed by what you can see. Water and chairs go uphill, people fly in mirrors, and others shrink right before your very eyes. In Puzzle Island, a world first interactive area you can drive the sky train, fall off a 7.5 metre cliff, get lost on a hospital wheelchair, find hidden treasure or see your friends head on a dinner plate,


The maze itself, is one Australia's largest, takes an average of 45 minutes to complete. When you have finished getting lost why not tackle the stimulating 19 hole maxi mini-golf course. After all the excitement you can browse in Victoria's most unique puzzle and games shop or just relax in the Puzzle Cafe with a bite to eat. Other facilities provided include electric BBQ's and children's' adventure playgrounds.


New to A Maze'N Things this year are two brand new shops.


Lolly Lips - Phillip Island's premier ice creamery specialising in low fat gelato which allows you to enjoy the rich taste of real fruit and natural flavours.


Cafe Chocolatte - which serves wickedly delicious hot chocolates and coffees, chocolate truffles and desserts.


A Maze'N Things is located on the Phillip Island Road, opposite the Koala Conservation Centre, 5km before Cowes. It is open 7 days a week and can cater for individuals, small or large recreational groups, as well as corporate and educational groups.

Aromatherapy in Action, a new boutique day spa, has opened in Cowes on Phillip Island. Featuring signature services such as customised aromatherapy massages and a 'classic aromafacial', Aromatherapy in Action also provides first rate therapeutic massage, pregnancy massage, hot stone massage, facials and other pamper packages. Other modalities include ear candling, reiki and angel readings.



Owned and run by local aromatherapist Patricia Hanrahan, Aromatherapy in Action is the ideal place for a spot of holiday relaxation, offering high level of healing therapies, performed with attention to detail in a tranquil, peaceful environment.



All appointments are spaced out and there is no need to rush, so slow down, take a breath and allow yourself to be cared for in a space where peace and warmth surrounds you.



Dual therapies are available with advanced notice and this location, in the main street of Cowes with a fantastic shoe shop and fabulous cafe among the few boutique shops downstairs, is the ideal setting for a 'girl's day in' or the prelude to a romantic getaway for any couple wanting high quality services to enhance their special trip to Phillip Island.



Bookings are recommended with credit card details recorded to secure bookings.



Contact Patricia to today to discuss the options available to you.

'Bedrock Family Restaurant', come in and enjoy the Bedrock experience where there is something for everyone.


A great family venue with a vast variety of delicious foods such as steak, seafood, chicken and burgers and a comprehensive kids menu.


You'll need to bring your appetites if you want to try one of our signature burgers.


Try our famous 'Bedrock Burger', the 'Surf & Turf' or for the huge eaters tackle one of the 'Brontosaurus Burgers' and then just sit back and relax while the kids play on the exciting three level indoor playground.


Adults can enjoy a game of billiards or just have a quite drink at bar prices.


Seniors are welcome.


We guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Bonsai Island Gallery


Plants - Pots - Books - Tools - Lessons - Accommodation


Everything for the bonsai enthusiast, from novice to expert, including a visual feast in our outdoor display area & landscaped stroll garden. Now also offering luxury accommodation for an extended bonsai experience, an ideal base to explore Phillip Island & surrounds. Rates available on request.


Quality established bonsai for sale, all styled by the proprietors. And Yes, we have starter material so you can style your own trees, from tubestock to advanced trees. We provide tuition for individuals, couples and groups by arrangement - please enquire.


See an extensive range of conifers, Australian natives, broadleaved evergreens, deciduous, flowering and fruiting examples in all bonsai styles. Our displays feature trees at their seasonal peak, so any time of year is a great time to visit Bonsai Island. We also provide advisory, potting, styling and bonsai boarding services.


What is Bonsai?


Bonsai is a horticultural art. Woody plants are grown in shallow containers and styled to resembled scale-models of the mature tree in nature.


Bonsai need sunlight, air movement, water, nutrients and a substrate in which to grow. That's the horticultural element, and it's the same as in any other form of gardening.


The art of bonsai involves styling, training and pruning the tree to the shape you want and then matching it to a complementary container to create the desired overall effect - drama, strength, grace, elegance or whimsy.


We teach that Bonsai is not about the age of the tree, per se - it is about the effectiveness and beauty of the design. Come visit us soon, we look forward to welcoming you.

Habitat types represented within the Marine National Park include seagrass beds, mangroves, sheltered intertidal mudflats, sandy beaches, subtidal soft sediments and rocky intertidal shores, which provide habitat for a range of important marine fish and invertebrate species.


The park forms part of the Western Port Ramsar site, and contains significant roosting and feeding sites for migratory waders. The intertidal mud flats extending from Rhyll to Newhaven are of State significance, and the area from Rhyll Inlet to Churchill island is of national significance as part of a group of primary foraging sites for the 32 migratory waders found in Western Port (especially whimbrels and bartailed godwits).


Looking After the Park

For the protection of the marine environment, a number of activities are prohibited within the boundaries of Victoria's marine national parks and marine sanctuaries. No fishing, netting, spearing, taking or killing of marine life. All methods of fishing, from the shore or the sea, are prohibited. Minimise your impact on these areas by:


* Enjoy the marine environment without removing the plants and animals

* Minimise your impact while diving and snorkelling by:
being careful to avoid damage to marine life caused by fins
developing good skills in buoyancy control
securing all gauges and pressure hoses to avoid snagging them on objects

* Take any rubbish home with you

* Avoid stressing marine life by not chasing or grabbing free-swimming animal

* Exercise great care if approached by large marine animals (including birds) & avoid blocking their paths if moving

* Take care where you anchor your boat (anchor in sand, rubble or mud, avoiding sensitive areas, and use mooring buoys where provided)

* Do not pollute the water with sewage - ensure that if your vessel has an onboard toilet that it has an approved sewage holding facility and that sewage is disposed of appropriately on land

HARRY'S on the Esplanade is proud of its waterfront dining with magnificent panoramic views over Westernport Bay. The restaurant is perfectly positioned on the famous north-facing beach of Cowes, the principal township of Phillip Island. It offers one of the best vantage points on The Island to eat, drink, relax and watch the world go by. A gorgeous place to have breakfast, lunch, coffee, a cocktail or dinner. Whatever the reason - HARRY'S on the Esplanade is THE venue to enjoy Phillip Island's casual beachfront atmosphere!



Owner and Chef Harry has earned a reputation for sourcing the very best local, fresh produce. Fresh seafood straight from the boat: From crayfish to local fish for the quintessential Australian beach dish 'Fish & Chips'. Local, island grazed beef and lamb are also on the menu as are vegetarian and gluten free dishes. The in-house bakery delivers the tasty bread and the spectacular cakes. The extensive wine list shows besides a very good selection of Australian and European wines also some of the best locally produced wines.



The Restaurant seats up to 100 and a flexible, stylish catering option is available for small or bigger groups. Besides being a very popular wedding venue, HARRY'S on the Esplanade dines and wines often car and motorbike racing teams from all over the world.



Last but not least HARRY'S on the Esplanade does not only offer a dining venue for all occasions, but since very recently, also well appointed modern apartments on The Esplanade in Cowes!

Nestled in the tiny fishing village of Newhaven on Phillip Island is a health spa with a difference.


An easy 90 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne, Island Healing offers locals and visitors alike the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate amongst the pristine setting of Phillip Island.



You'll leave us feeling lighter, looser, revitalised, and ready to take on the world. Leave your cares behind and let the dedicated team of therapists take care of your needs.


Allow yourself to drift off as your body begins the healing process. Let your mind be free of chatter while you take the time needed to recharge your senses.



Island Healing offers:


* Remedial, Deep Tissue & Relaxation Massage

* The Bowen Technique

* Aromatherapy Massage & Facials, Hot Stone Massage

* Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine & Diet Therapy

* Reflexology & Pregnancy Massage

* Naturopathy & Ear Candling

* Group Bookings - 4 treatment rooms available for simultaneous bookings

* Packages

* Gift Vouchers - Online an in-store

* Pilates, Yoga & Circuit Classes

* Warm, friendly, professional service guaranteed

From the world famous Little Penguins to Australia's most loved steam train, Puffing Billy, the regions to the east and south-east of Melbourne provide many wonderful experiences to add value to a Melbourne visit. The Yarra Valley, Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island and the Mornington Peninsula are all easily accessible within two hours' drive of the city on simple self-drive routes that also connect to form the South & East touring route. Head east to the Yarra Valley for more than 55 mainly boutique wineries, fine local produce and the native wildlife of Healesville Sanctuary. Just 30 minutes south of here, the hillside retreat of the Dandenong Ranges is a great spot for a bushwalk among the eucalypt trees, scones and tea at a traditional tearoom, superb rhododendron gardens and of course a journey on Puffing Billy. Journey south from here to Phillip Island, for the remarkable nightly penguin parade, thousands of seals offshore and beautiful surf beaches. Then continue on to the stunning Mornington Peninsula, a Mediterranean-like jewel with sandy bays, upmarket wineries and cafes, strawberry farms and excellent golf courses. From the peninsula it's just over an hour back to cosmopolitan Melbourne.

The National Vietnam Veterans Museum is a treasure house of Vietnam era memorabilia and the spiritual home of all Vietnam Veterans. We bring to life the story of Australia's longest war.


The armoury contains weaponry of the period. Displays include exquisitely made diorama, photographs, uniforms, equipment and vehicles. The Vietnamese Community has contributed cultural artefacts and information.


The Huey Cobra helicopter, "the exhibit with attitude is an awesome sight, armament intact, the only one in Australia. The 'Light and Sound Show is technical excellence and provides an overview of Australia's involvement; an evocative and very moving experience.


Veterans are fascinated by the balls that decided their fate in the lottery of conscription . The Long Tan cross replica, made for the 40th Anniversary commemoration, stands proudly in the Garden of Reflection, whilst the wall of bricks ; is the tribute, by families and friends of veterans, honouring their service.


The Museum has great historical and cultural significance for Australians of all ages. Entertaining and educational, whilst making no political comment, just showing how it was.


Our Research Library and Archive holds much information useful to students and historical scholars, offering on-line facilities for research relating to the Vietnam conflict and listings of personnel, enabling visitors to track family involvement in the armed forces at that time.


This Museum is the result of much effort by the Veterans themselves, relying almost wholly on volunteer labour for the construction, fitting and dressing of the building. The staff consists of volunteers who are themselves Veterans or people connected in some way to the Veteran Community.


A visit to this new attraction will bring back memories for some and provide food for thought for others. Our Caf serves light snacks and great coffee while our shop has unique memorabilia popular with all visitors.

Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit will dazzle and excite and there doesn t have to be a race car or a motorcycle in sight. The smooth curves and super fast straight of this world class circuit sit snug along breathtaking southern coastline where rugged cliffs meet an ocean rolling on to the horizon.


The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is home to massive motor racing events each year, including the MotoGP which is seen live in 200 countries by over 350 million spectators.


This is your chance to experience the iconic venue in the flesh. Get involved on a level that suits you.


Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, it s worth the drive for go karting on our replica Grand Prix track, or an adrenalin-amping triple lap ride around the circuit with a racing driver in our HSV Hot Laps.


Revisit the racing history within the Visitor Centre s History of Motorsport Display. Share crazy adventures of pioneering racers who blazed a dusty, muddy and frequently dangerous trail for today s international superstars. Ogle at real life examples of the sleek machines they raced, including vintage, classic and contemporary cars and bikes.


Follow in the footsteps of racing champions on a guided circuit tour. Allowing exclusive access to off-limit areas, including the control tower, media centre, pit lane, pit roof and where every racer would love to finish the winner s podium being sprayed with champagne!


Whether you go extreme or relax with a latte and lunch in the Champion s Cafe, there are recreational facilities galore. Including tranquil gardens, a secure toddlers' playground, interactive games room and a gift shop overflowing with racing memorabilia just perfect for capturing the spirit and excitement of your experience.

There is just no other way of experiencing the majestic Phillip Island coastal scenery than from the air.


With years of experience, we can make your stay on our magnificent Island all the more memorable. Allow us to show you just how beautiful this Island truly is. From the world-renowned Penguin parade and race track to the turquoise waters of Cape Woolamai.


Need to beat the traffic for Moto GP, give us a call on 03 59567316


Phillip Island Helicopters operate a Robinson R44 helicopter from Phillip Island Airport. With prices starting from $70.00 per person, this really is an affordable once in a lifetime opportunity.


We fly the very popular Robinson R44. The cabin offers comfortable two plus two seating , assuring exceptional visibility and panoramic views for all passengers. It is not surprising that the Robinson R44 has become the best-selling helicopter in the world and the helicopter s safety record is the best in the industry.


Flight 1 Cape Woolamai and San Remo

Departs from the airport heading for the coast and Cape Woolamai. Along the way you will fly past Woolamai Surf Beach, one of the best known surf beaches in the country and its life saving club, before flying around the Cape itself. This is the highest point on the island and home to the Pinnacles and the old Granite Quarry.


The flight then heads for the San Remo bridge. You will see the fishing boats moored in San Remo before turning around Newhaven. Then it s onto Churchill Island with its historic homestead, then back to the airport.

Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island


Phillip Island Nature Park is renowned as home to one of Australia's most popular wildlife attractions, the Penguin Parade. A mere 90 minutes drive from Melbourne, the Nature Park covers 2,750 hectares of Phillip Island Victoria s wildlife haven. The Park is an island adventure featuring wildlife reserves, wetlands and breathtaking coastlines.


The three main tourist attractions managed by Phillip Island Nature Park are the Penguin Parade, Churchill Island and the Koala Conservation Centre. Other destinations managed by the Park include Rhyll Inlet, Woolamai and the Nobbies, where visitors can experience wildlife in its natural environment.


Phillip Island Nature Park is totally committed to providing outstanding tourism experiences and contributing to the ongoing conservation of Phillip Island's wildlife and its habitat-all funds from visitors go toward achieving this aim. Winner of Victorian Tourism Major Attractions Award 1998, 1999, 2000


We are pleased to offer three exciting new ways to view the penguins!


Penguins plus viewing platform: Providing visitors with a more personal viewing experience, along with a commentary from an experienced ranger.


Penguin Sky Box: Enjoy the Penguin Parade from the comfort of an exclusive, elevated viewing tower whilst interacting with an experienced ranger.


Ultimate Penguin Experience: The best penguin viewing in Australia! Experienced rangers provide extensive commentary to intimate groups of people, on a secluded beach to view the penguins with the latest night vision technology.

The Rhyll Fishing Park is a beautiful farm where you can learn to catch trout both indoors and out, and even have your catch prepared by our chef for a wonderful meal.



Located only 10 minutes from the world renowned Penguin Parade, we have activities for all weather, and a great package selection. Catch rainbow trout indoors at the Rainforest Pool, or outside at the Trophy Lake surrounded by native wetlands.



Our expert staff provide fishing lessons, and help with baiting and detangling lines. In the licensed homestead restaurant and caf we offer great coffee and home made cakes, Australian bush tucker and fish and eat options for lunch and dinner. Not fishing? Ask us for our menu which provides a range of tempting fish, meat and vegetarian options.


Open December 2009, the Bush Tucker Trail winds through four hectares of native food crops and bush gardens. Learn about the exciting natural tastes of Australia and browse a huge range of bush tucker produce in the Farmhouse Cafe.

The Foreshore Bar and Restaurant is situated in the quite little village of Rhyll on Phillip Island.


This unique setting with its amazing 180 degree water views has helped us to create a warm and relaxing environment for people to sit and enjoy good food, great coffee or a cool drink either relaxing on the balcony, or inside in the rustic but stylish restaurant.


Our menus comprise of local produce, fresh seafood and dishes and influences from around the world.


Lunch time we offer light snacks as well as main meals, in the evening we have a full a la carte menu to include starter, mains and desserts lease refer to our web site for our menu s.

The Island Spa - Wellness Retreat and Cottages offers a purpose built day spa facility and two self-contained cottages on beautiful Phillip Island. .


Day Spa

We have dual and single rooms, geisha tub and hydrotherapy capsule. Our treatments include LI'TYA and Pevonia products and we offer a wide range of wonderful body treatments, facials, water therapies, massage, spa journeys, waxing, manicures and pedicures with highly trained and qualified therapists. Your experience at our day spa will be one to remember. Bring a friend or we are able to cater for small groups - hens and special occasions.



Accommodation

The Island Spa Cottages are an adult only retreat with unique Eco style units, ideal for people seeking a quiet relaxed holiday. We are central to all attractions and are set in natural surroundings. The philosophy behind our Eco Retreat was to create a low impact tourism accommodation facility with the following priorities:




* Waste minimisation - reuse and recycle

* Energy efficiency and conservation

* Waste water management



Features include solar hot water, northerly aspect and waste water treatment plant. Our fully self-contained cottages are Banksia and Melaleuca and suited to one couple only. Each cottage has a separate bedroom with queen bed. The living area has kitchen facilities, a television, video, DVD and compact disk player. The bathroom has a spa/shower. The Cottage has a wood heater and reverse cycle air-conditioner. Private rear balcony with barbecue and undercover parking at your door.



We are an adult retreat and have no facilities for infants/children or pets sorry.



Accommodation and Spa Pamper Packages available.



For more information visit our website.

Not far from the Penguin Parade at the far south-western tip of Phillip Island is The Nobbies - a magnificent headland with boardwalks and lookout points offering spectacular coastal views. But there's much more to see than great views - the main drawcard of The Nobbies is the chance to view Australia's largest colony of fur seals, located 1km offshore. Up to 16,000 seals gather at Seal Rocks, with the number peaking during breeding season from October to December. Watch the seals sunning themselves on the rocks, feeding their young, wrestling, or flopping into the cool water. From the boardwalks at The Nobbies you can watch their transformation from ungainly land creatures to swift, sleek marine dwellers twisting and rolling in the clear waters. For a closer look, visit the new Nobbies Centre which has just opened on the headland. The centre features state-of-the-art animal viewing technology, via a camera positioned on Seal Rocks that can be steered by visitors to zoom in on their favourite seal. Also onsite are educational displays about marine life, a café and upstairs function centre.

Formerly a major river drainage system inundated by the rising sea in the Holocene period, the Western Port sunkland now forms an extensive tidal bay. The waters of Western Port cover an area of 680 square kilometres of which 270 square km, are exposed as mud flats at low tide.


Things to Do


* Two large islands, French Island (approximately 170 square km) and Phillip Island (approximately 100 square km), dominate Western Port. The coastline, including that of the islands, is some 263 kilometres.

* Fishing, pleasure boating and yachting are some of the popular pastimes on the bay.


Phillip Island


* Visit the Penguin Reserve at dusk and watch the penguins return to their burrows in the sand dunes.

* View seals at Seal Rocks through binoculars,

* See koalas in their natural habitat at the Koala Conservation Centre.

* Bird watching is best at Rhyll Swamp, Conservation Hill Reserve and Rhyll Inlet.

* Explore nearby Churchill Island on foot.


French Island


* Pre-booked bus for 'Drop and pick up later' service for those who wish to participate in sketching, photography, bushwalking or bird observing or visit orchid and fishing areas.

* Horse riding, bike rides, bushwalks, and deep water fishing.

* See koalas in their natural habitat.

* Camping is at Fairhaven, 5 kilometres from the Tankerton jetty and at a private site, Bayview, 10 kilometres from the jetty. Bus transport of packs to campsite.

In-the-know surfers flock to stunning Woolamai Beach, located on the southern coastline of Phillip Island. The vast beach is virtually deserted most days and the cliffs and golden sands are a stunning backdrop to the challenging waves. Cape Woolamai frames the eastern end of the beach – it is Phillip Island's highest point and is criss-crossed with walking tracks that lead to viewing platforms and breathtaking views of The Pinnacles rock formations offshore. The long beach is patrolled by the Woolamai Surf Lifesaving Club during the summer months.