Guidebook Forana Phillip Island
National Parks, Beaches & Nature Reserves
Phillip Island has plenty of natural features to explore. You will find calm bay beaches in Westernport Bay, popular with the younger kids and adults. While just a few km away on the ocean side of the island the wilder waves of Bass Strait beckons you to have a go at surfing or an ocean swim.
NB: For your safety we recommend using the Bay beach - just 5 mins walk from Forana. Ocean beach is more suitable for very strong swimmers.
The highest point on the island with its magnificent coastline and views are worth a visit...
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Cape Woolamai State Faunal Reserve
The highest point on the island with its magnificent coastline and views are worth a visit...
The famous Penguin Parade are a must see for visitors to Phillip Is! The Little Penguins are the smallest in the World. They are truly adorable battlers. Making their way up from the ocean and into the sand dunes every night at Sunset, with their little feet attached directly to the body, making movement hard and cumbersome. Yet they waddle as fast as they can, to quickly make it to safety from predators. The boardwalks allows you to get in close proximity of the penguins, but without interfering with their daily routine. Penguins are coming in every night throughout the year, with numbers varying from a few 100s to approx. 4000. You can get a taste of the experience here: https://www.facebook.com/PhillipIslandNatureParks/posts/10164067742035364
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Pingvinparad
1019 Ventnor RdThe famous Penguin Parade are a must see for visitors to Phillip Is! The Little Penguins are the smallest in the World. They are truly adorable battlers. Making their way up from the ocean and into the sand dunes every night at Sunset, with their little feet attached directly to the body, making movement hard and cumbersome. Yet they waddle as fast as they can, to quickly make it to safety from predators. The boardwalks allows you to get in close proximity of the penguins, but without interfering with their daily routine. Penguins are coming in every night throughout the year, with numbers varying from a few 100s to approx. 4000. You can get a taste of the experience here: https://www.facebook.com/PhillipIslandNatureParks/posts/10164067742035364
This unbeatable divine nature experience offer calm & tranquil walks along the bay beach, while breathing in the fresh air from the sea. When you get to the boat ramp, turn either right towards Cowes (15 mins walk) or left towards Ventnor. – My personal preference is the left side, as the beach here is less used and quite spectacular with its interesting rock reef pools, which you are likely to have almost to yourself – Enjoy
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Cowes Boat Ramp
Anderson RoadThis unbeatable divine nature experience offer calm & tranquil walks along the bay beach, while breathing in the fresh air from the sea. When you get to the boat ramp, turn either right towards Cowes (15 mins walk) or left towards Ventnor. – My personal preference is the left side, as the beach here is less used and quite spectacular with its interesting rock reef pools, which you are likely to have almost to yourself – Enjoy
Enjoy a visit to the only permanent freshwater lake on Phillip Island. This lovely lake is a significant site for the local Aboriginal Bunurong people. A lovely walk where you may come across wallabies, rabbits and of course bird life.
You will find the start of the trail at the car park on Ventnor Road, 400m West of the Back Beach Road (near the Penguin Parade). Take this leisurely walk to the two viewing hides, from where you can experience some great bird watching, close to the lake's edge. This easy walk is only about 1.3km long. The return journey should take you about 40 min. Have fun, and remember your camera and/or binoculars so the memories can be shared.
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Swan Lake
Enjoy a visit to the only permanent freshwater lake on Phillip Island. This lovely lake is a significant site for the local Aboriginal Bunurong people. A lovely walk where you may come across wallabies, rabbits and of course bird life.
You will find the start of the trail at the car park on Ventnor Road, 400m West of the Back Beach Road (near the Penguin Parade). Take this leisurely walk to the two viewing hides, from where you can experience some great bird watching, close to the lake's edge. This easy walk is only about 1.3km long. The return journey should take you about 40 min. Have fun, and remember your camera and/or binoculars so the memories can be shared.
These beauties are Natures own creations. They offer a stunning sight, designed and executed by the power of the waves eroding the rocks. The Forrest Caves can be safely viewed at low tide. Look up the timings to get the most out of your visit. You may offcourse visit at any time, but will only be able to see the cave when the tide is low. You can also climb the top of the rock for some stunning photographs. You will find Forrest Caves located just before the Surf Beach Estate, to the left, off Phillip Island Road. Use the steps (approx. 100m) adjoining the carpark to get onto the beach, then turn left. (no wheelchair access). When you reach the beach turn left and walk approx. 300 m to get to the caves. The trip will take you about 45 mins return. You will be passing by large sand dunes, which are the home of thousands of shearwaters, during the warmer summer period from Oct. to Apr.. Other sights includes rock pools for the kids. The beach is un-patrolled and it can get very rough at times. There are areas spots where you can get your feet wet - but it is NOT a safe swimming beach. - Enjoy!
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Forrest Caves
Phillip Island RoadThese beauties are Natures own creations. They offer a stunning sight, designed and executed by the power of the waves eroding the rocks. The Forrest Caves can be safely viewed at low tide. Look up the timings to get the most out of your visit. You may offcourse visit at any time, but will only be able to see the cave when the tide is low. You can also climb the top of the rock for some stunning photographs. You will find Forrest Caves located just before the Surf Beach Estate, to the left, off Phillip Island Road. Use the steps (approx. 100m) adjoining the carpark to get onto the beach, then turn left. (no wheelchair access). When you reach the beach turn left and walk approx. 300 m to get to the caves. The trip will take you about 45 mins return. You will be passing by large sand dunes, which are the home of thousands of shearwaters, during the warmer summer period from Oct. to Apr.. Other sights includes rock pools for the kids. The beach is un-patrolled and it can get very rough at times. There are areas spots where you can get your feet wet - but it is NOT a safe swimming beach. - Enjoy!
Apart from the Penguins this is a must see, with Wallabies coming out just before sunset, grazing along the undulated landscape. Cape Barren Geese (Blue Geese) are often spotted here as well, always waddling along in pigeon pairs. While overhead - with a bit of luck - you may see a Wedge tailed Eagle - our largest bird of prey with a wingspan of up to 2m.
Summerlands
Apart from the Penguins this is a must see, with Wallabies coming out just before sunset, grazing along the undulated landscape. Cape Barren Geese (Blue Geese) are often spotted here as well, always waddling along in pigeon pairs. While overhead - with a bit of luck - you may see a Wedge tailed Eagle - our largest bird of prey with a wingspan of up to 2m.
Enjoy an opportunity to experience many of Australia's diverse and unique animals in the one place. Open from 10am - 5pm daily, last entry 4.30pm. (Closed Christmas Day).
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Phillip Island Wildlife Park
2115 Phillip Island RdEnjoy an opportunity to experience many of Australia's diverse and unique animals in the one place. Open from 10am - 5pm daily, last entry 4.30pm. (Closed Christmas Day).
Also known as the Koala Reserve. Get up close with one of Australia's most popular animals, in its natural environment. This reserve is also home to both wallabies, parrots, and other wildlife. Tickets can be purchased with your penguin & Churchill Island ticket for the best deal.
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Koala Conservation Reserve
1810 Phillip Island RdAlso known as the Koala Reserve. Get up close with one of Australia's most popular animals, in its natural environment. This reserve is also home to both wallabies, parrots, and other wildlife. Tickets can be purchased with your penguin & Churchill Island ticket for the best deal.
Fantastic authentic and well preserved Farm. This was one of the first Dairy farms in the area. Today it is home to rare breeds of both old cattle breeds, as well as other animals. At this living museum, you can watch the sheep dogs round the stock, and the cattleman run his whip. While the shearer are busy in the shed taking the wool of the sheep. They also have an area with local wallabies, and if you want to bring home a memento the shop stocks plenty of interesting items.
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Churchill Island
Fantastic authentic and well preserved Farm. This was one of the first Dairy farms in the area. Today it is home to rare breeds of both old cattle breeds, as well as other animals. At this living museum, you can watch the sheep dogs round the stock, and the cattleman run his whip. While the shearer are busy in the shed taking the wool of the sheep. They also have an area with local wallabies, and if you want to bring home a memento the shop stocks plenty of interesting items.
Fabulous 24/7 Dog Beach, where both the native wildlife (see young Echidna above) and your 4 legged best friend can roam freely!
Ventnor Beach Road
Ventnor Beach RoadFabulous 24/7 Dog Beach, where both the native wildlife (see young Echidna above) and your 4 legged best friend can roam freely!
Shopping & Essentials
Supermarkets, food stores and General shopping are centred around Thompson Avenue with ample parking in both the main street as well as carparks in the side streets.
New large supermarket caters to all you needs.
Corner of Church St & Thompson Ave - in the centre of Cowes.
Open 7.00 - 22.00
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Coles Cowes
114-122 Thompson AveNew large supermarket caters to all you needs.
Corner of Church St & Thompson Ave - in the centre of Cowes.
Open 7.00 - 22.00
New large supermarket caters to all you needs.
Located in the centre of Cowes.
117-133 Thompson Ave.
Open 7.00 - 22.00
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Woolworths Cowes
133 Thompson AveNew large supermarket caters to all you needs.
Located in the centre of Cowes.
117-133 Thompson Ave.
Open 7.00 - 22.00
ALDI are now in Cowes as well. Good food at a better price but with more limited selections.
Opening hours are: Mon-Fri. 8.30-20.00 Sat-Sun. 8.30-19.00
- All supermarkets are near each other. So take your pick!
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ALDI Cowes
80 Thompson AveALDI are now in Cowes as well. Good food at a better price but with more limited selections.
Opening hours are: Mon-Fri. 8.30-20.00 Sat-Sun. 8.30-19.00
- All supermarkets are near each other. So take your pick!
IGA Supermarket, can be found at 161-163 Thomson Ave, Cowes.
Open from 7.00 - 22.00
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IGA Cowes
161-163 Thompson AveIGA Supermarket, can be found at 161-163 Thomson Ave, Cowes.
Open from 7.00 - 22.00
Markets & Boutiques
Lots of lovely boutiques with unique decor and clothing designs, are popping up in and around Thomson Ave in Cowes. If lucky you may also experience one of the popular local markets. Town Center is a great place to visit if you like to bring home a sweet memory or two from your visit...
This is the main street with all the supermarkets, shops, and it is the heart and hub of Phillip Is. The monthly markets are worth a visit, offering fresh fruit and veggies, odd bits and bobs, art, garage sale items, plants, honey, and friendly people galore - good fun, with some serious bargains to be had!
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Thompson Avenue
Thompson AvenueThis is the main street with all the supermarkets, shops, and it is the heart and hub of Phillip Is. The monthly markets are worth a visit, offering fresh fruit and veggies, odd bits and bobs, art, garage sale items, plants, honey, and friendly people galore - good fun, with some serious bargains to be had!
This lovely iconic local market is worth a visit, if you should happen to be in Cowes while its on. The market reflects the many skills of the locals. It is on every 2nd Saturday at St Phillips Parish Hall in Thompson Ave. Here you can meet the locals, and perhaps find a treasured memory to take home.
Cowes Phillip Island General Market
This lovely iconic local market is worth a visit, if you should happen to be in Cowes while its on. The market reflects the many skills of the locals. It is on every 2nd Saturday at St Phillips Parish Hall in Thompson Ave. Here you can meet the locals, and perhaps find a treasured memory to take home.
If you prefer organic food, then a visit to the Island Organics shop are recommended. Supermarkets also offer a variety of organic foods.
Open daily from 8.30 - 17.30, 7 days a week.
Island Organics
32 Boys Home RoadIf you prefer organic food, then a visit to the Island Organics shop are recommended. Supermarkets also offer a variety of organic foods.
Open daily from 8.30 - 17.30, 7 days a week.
Food Scene
Our favourite food shops and restaurants.
Great location on the Waterfront in Rhyll, (less tourists here, then in Cowes) offers great ambience and good food! Always popular with the locals. On weekends it can be harder to get a table, unless you book in advance.
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The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant
11A Beach RdGreat location on the Waterfront in Rhyll, (less tourists here, then in Cowes) offers great ambience and good food! Always popular with the locals. On weekends it can be harder to get a table, unless you book in advance.
Bakers Delight Cowes
133 Thompson AveLove their bread and rolls - which are always deliciously fresh.
This quirky venue offers delicious fresh food. A family friendly environment in the heart of Cowes with both indoor and outdoor seating.
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Nordic Kantine
113b Thompson AveThis quirky venue offers delicious fresh food. A family friendly environment in the heart of Cowes with both indoor and outdoor seating.
If you like healthy and/or Vegetarian and Vegan friendly food - This is good option. They cater to all your needs incl. gluten free.
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Island Whole Foods
75 Chapel StIf you like healthy and/or Vegetarian and Vegan friendly food - This is good option. They cater to all your needs incl. gluten free.
Here's your chance to try a beer tasting paddle! You can combine it with a hearty beef pie, or maybe try their Barramundi (Delicious Aust. fish, a little bit like Cod) they also have Salt & Pepper Calamari or if you are more to the Italian kitchen try their Ravioli. Kids are welcome too in the relaxing atmosphere of this pleasant venue.
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Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant & Bar
1821 Phillip Island RdHere's your chance to try a beer tasting paddle! You can combine it with a hearty beef pie, or maybe try their Barramundi (Delicious Aust. fish, a little bit like Cod) they also have Salt & Pepper Calamari or if you are more to the Italian kitchen try their Ravioli. Kids are welcome too in the relaxing atmosphere of this pleasant venue.
Popular Australian Cafe & Bar with good food, cater to vegetarians & vegans as well. Open all days except Mon & Tuesday. 9am - 8pm (1-2 hrs longer hrs on weekend) for breakfast, brunch, lunch & dinner.
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Cheeky Goose Cafe
72 Chapel StPopular Australian Cafe & Bar with good food, cater to vegetarians & vegans as well. Open all days except Mon & Tuesday. 9am - 8pm (1-2 hrs longer hrs on weekend) for breakfast, brunch, lunch & dinner.
Centrally located popular family run Pizza & other Italian cuisine, with the love of good food & service, Great for small & large family groups.
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Pino's Trattoria
29-31 Thompson AveCentrally located popular family run Pizza & other Italian cuisine, with the love of good food & service, Great for small & large family groups.
This is our nearest cafe - just 5 mins walk from Forana. Official opening hours are 7am - 6pm. (Not always open as listed - But when they are, you can get inexpensive and simple: breakfast, brunch lunch and early dinner! - Plus Icecream for the kids!
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The Boatramp Cafe
1 Anderson RoadThis is our nearest cafe - just 5 mins walk from Forana. Official opening hours are 7am - 6pm. (Not always open as listed - But when they are, you can get inexpensive and simple: breakfast, brunch lunch and early dinner! - Plus Icecream for the kids!
Arts & Culture
A Historic old Farm (now a museum). Offering you a great view of life in the early days. They have the farm animals: Horses, sheep, cows incl. rare species. Plus native Wallabies (smaller kangaroos) - worth a visit! You will also find a farmers markets here from time to time. A show with cattle dogs, whiplashing, and sheep shearing is offered several times daily. Well worth a visit - Especially for families with children! (Entry fee applies.)
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Churchill Island
A Historic old Farm (now a museum). Offering you a great view of life in the early days. They have the farm animals: Horses, sheep, cows incl. rare species. Plus native Wallabies (smaller kangaroos) - worth a visit! You will also find a farmers markets here from time to time. A show with cattle dogs, whiplashing, and sheep shearing is offered several times daily. Well worth a visit - Especially for families with children! (Entry fee applies.)
This Military Museum, honours the brave men and women who served their country during the Vietnam War. It is run by a passionate group of volunteers, many of whom have served. It is open daily from 10.00 to 17.00. They have a great display of air and land vehicles, plus a popular sound and light show. A great opportunity to learn about Australia's involvement in both of the World Wars.
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National Vietnam Veterans Museum
25 Veterans DrThis Military Museum, honours the brave men and women who served their country during the Vietnam War. It is run by a passionate group of volunteers, many of whom have served. It is open daily from 10.00 to 17.00. They have a great display of air and land vehicles, plus a popular sound and light show. A great opportunity to learn about Australia's involvement in both of the World Wars.
Entertainment & Activities
Grumpys mini golf park, is sheltered and under cover - the perfect place to spend time in Cowes if the sun is too hot, or rain has played havoc with your plans. Honing your golfing skills can be a lot of fun, especially for any little ones.
Mini golf hours in summer are 9.00 - 21.30.
During winter, Easter and spring holidays, 9.00 - 17.00
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Grumpys Crazy Golf
152 Thompson AveGrumpys mini golf park, is sheltered and under cover - the perfect place to spend time in Cowes if the sun is too hot, or rain has played havoc with your plans. Honing your golfing skills can be a lot of fun, especially for any little ones.
Mini golf hours in summer are 9.00 - 21.30.
During winter, Easter and spring holidays, 9.00 - 17.00
For speed freaks, a fast GO-KART RIDE on the 750m scale replica of the Grand Prix circuit is a treat. Or try adrenalin fuelled Hot Laps in a race prepared vehicle. Helicopter flights are also available. (Call in advance) For a more quiet experience, you can enjoy guided CIRCUIT TOURS, taking in the spectacular water gardens, and the panoramic views over the circuit and Bass Strait. They also provide a licensed cafe and gift shop. Hours: 9.00 - 17.30
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Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
381 Back Beach RdFor speed freaks, a fast GO-KART RIDE on the 750m scale replica of the Grand Prix circuit is a treat. Or try adrenalin fuelled Hot Laps in a race prepared vehicle. Helicopter flights are also available. (Call in advance) For a more quiet experience, you can enjoy guided CIRCUIT TOURS, taking in the spectacular water gardens, and the panoramic views over the circuit and Bass Strait. They also provide a licensed cafe and gift shop. Hours: 9.00 - 17.30
Small Airport w. scenic HELI FLIGHTS. Chopper trips w. bird's eye views of the island. Prices start at about $170. There is a Vietnam Museum with WW artefacts and planes on the grounds as well.
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Newhaven
Small Airport w. scenic HELI FLIGHTS. Chopper trips w. bird's eye views of the island. Prices start at about $170. There is a Vietnam Museum with WW artefacts and planes on the grounds as well.
If you time your departure well, and arrive to San Remo (just across the bridge to the mainland on your right hand) prior to 12.00 then you can enjoy the Pelican feeding and quite possibly also view a few big stingrays in the shallow waters of the canal between mainland Australia and Phillip Island. - Great experience for families with kids!
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San Remo Jetty
170 Marine ParadeIf you time your departure well, and arrive to San Remo (just across the bridge to the mainland on your right hand) prior to 12.00 then you can enjoy the Pelican feeding and quite possibly also view a few big stingrays in the shallow waters of the canal between mainland Australia and Phillip Island. - Great experience for families with kids!
Meet life size Penguins made of Chocolate, and do a tour of Panny's amazing world of chocolate, where you get to play with it... Great for children
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Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
930 Phillip Island RdMeet life size Penguins made of Chocolate, and do a tour of Panny's amazing world of chocolate, where you get to play with it... Great for children
Getting Around
If you are after a really special experience, then I would recommend a HELI-FLIGHT with the local Phillip Island Helicopters.
Corner of Veterans Dr & Phillip Is Rd, Newhaven,
Phone: 03 5956 7316
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Phillip Island Helicopters
1 Veterans DrIf you are after a really special experience, then I would recommend a HELI-FLIGHT with the local Phillip Island Helicopters.
Corner of Veterans Dr & Phillip Is Rd, Newhaven,
Phone: 03 5956 7316