Things to do in Cowes, Victoria

The best things to do in Cowes, Victoria, include swimming at Cowes Main Beach, taking a tour with Wildlife Cruises and feeding kangaroos at the Phillip Island Wildlife Park.

Cowes, Victoria, is the main town on Phillip Island. Most people on a day trip from Melbourne probably won’t pay Cowes a second glance, however. They’re on their way to see the Penguin Parade, walk at Cape Woolamai or get close to koalas at the Koala Conservation Reserve.

Some explore Phillip Island’s indulgent side at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, Purple Hen Winery and Rusty Water Brewery.

Cowes on Phillip Island

However, if you’re giving Phillip Island more than a day, then chances are you’ll be staying in Cowes. This is where most Phillip Island accommodation is based.

Cowes is also where the ferry from French Island and Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula comes in.

Things to do in Cowes, Victoria: Swimming at Cowes Main Beach

The most obvious attraction in Cowes is the beach. Cowes Main Beach is north-facing, which means it doesn’t get the pounding surf of most Phillip Island beaches. It’s a good spot for swimming, while fishing off the jetty is popular, too.

Cowes Foreshore in Cowes, Victoria — The Cowes foreshore in Cowes, Victoria. Photo courtesy of Visit Victoria.

The best thing to do in Cowes, however, is hop on board a Wildlife Cruises tour. This boat tour company offers a series of nature-focused cruises around Phillip Island. These include a seal-watching tour, a sunset cruise and a trip to see the seabirds at Cape Woolamai. In the winter months, there are also Phillip Island whale-watching cruises.

Things to do in Cowes, Victoria: Phillip Island Wildlife Park

Also on the list of things to do in Cowes is the Phillip Island Wildlife Park. A little further inland from the Cowes restaurants and accommodation, the Phillip Island Wildlife Park covers 60 acres and hosts more than 100 different Australian animal species. These include cassowaries, emus and cockatoos. You can hand-feed the kangaroos and wallabies.

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