Phillip Island offers a variety of beach activities, from fishing and surfing to swimming and sunbathing. Known as a surfer’s paradise, it boasts Victoria’s first National Surfing Reserve. However, the island’s diverse coastline caters to many other pursuits.
With its sheltered waters, the north side is ideal for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding, while the south side is home to wild beaches perfect for surfing and bodyboarding. Discover six of the island’s top beaches as you read on.
Be sure to catch: 7 Must-Do Activities on Phillip Island
Red Rock Beach: A Scenic Escape with Ideal Swimming and Fishing Opportunities
Red Rock Beach features a golden stretch of silica contrasted by jagged, brick-red rocks. Located on the island’s north side, this scenic and sheltered beach is perfect for early morning or sunset walks, relaxing family picnics, and exploring wildlife-filled rockpools. Its shallow, clear waters offer a safer option for swimming.
The area is also a favorite among anglers, who come here for rock fishing and often catch King George whiting, snapper, and flathead. Note, that this beach is distinct from the ‘Red Rock’ in the island’s southeast.
Cowes Beach: The Heart of Phillip Island for Sunbathing, Dining, and Local Charm
No list of Phillip Island’s top beaches would be complete without mentioning Cowes Beach, arguably the island’s most popular stretch of sand. Located conveniently close to the township’s shops and cafes, Cowes Beach is perfect for a relaxing afternoon of sunbathing or a picnic.
After soaking up the sun and surf, take a stroll along the jetty to check out the catch of local fishermen, then head over to Thompson Avenue for a refreshing glass of crisp rosé at one of the nearby bars or pubs.
Cape Woolamai: Surfing Paradise and Scenic Trails on Phillip Island
Cape Woolamai, the longest and most exposed beach on Phillip Island, is renowned for its exceptional beach breaks, with waves averaging around 1.7 meters. Seasoned surfers will appreciate the long lefts and rights rolling over the wide banks.
Despite being patrolled by the Woolamai Surf Lifesaving Club during summer, the waters are notoriously dangerous, making it unsuitable for casual swimmers. Those looking to swim should consider other beaches on the island.
Surrounded by the Cape Woolamai State Faunal Reserve, this area is perfect for exploring via one of the four coastal walking track loops. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surf from lookout points at Phillip Island’s highest elevation. A small kiosk offers hot coffee and cold ice cream, while the nearby Wooli General provides more substantial fare.
Smiths Beach: Surfing Hotspot and Family-Friendly Rockpooling
Known for the legendary ‘Express Point,’ a challenging reef break for experienced surfers, this spot is considered the island’s premier wave by many locals. Beginners and bodyboarders can also find plenty of white water action here, with several surf schools offering lessons, including Girls on Board, Island Surfboards, and Archy Surf.
Additionally, surf shops provide board and wetsuit rentals. The one-kilometer-long beach is perfect for family rock pooling during low tide, with pools at both ends of the beach that are even large enough for snorkeling. After a day in the sun, sand, and sea, refuel with an Allpress coffee and a housemade sausage roll at the Smiths Beach General Store.
Kitty Miller Bay Beach: A Hidden Gem for Surfers, Snorkelers, and History Buffs
Kitty Miller Bay Beach is perfect for adventures both above and below the waterline, attracting surfers, snorkelers, beach walkers, swimmers, and fishermen. Visitors can also explore the rusted remains of the SS Speke, shipwrecked on this shore in 1906.
It’s a great spot for collecting shells with the little ones and inspecting numerous rock pools. The only downside is the lack of facilities—there are no toilets, showers, or shops nearby—but it’s just a 10-minute drive from the main township of Cowes.
