Phillip Island is a favourite for locals and tourists alike, with its stunning natural beauty, beaches and native wildlife. It has some of the best picnic spots and barbecues in Victoria, whether you’re after a quiet retreat or a family picnic. With views, space, well-maintained picnic areas and good facilities, it’s the perfect day trip. From coastal views to sheltered picnic spots with barbecues, Phillip Island Nature Park has outdoor dining options for all ages and interests. The Phillip Island Penguin Tour is a must do where you can see the little penguins come ashore at sunset, it’s one of the island’s most popular wildlife experiences.
In this guide, we look at the best picnic spots and barbecues on Phillip Island, where you can find sandy beaches, walking tracks and Australian animals. Whether you want to picnic near native birds or barbecue overlooking Port Phillip Bay, Phillip Island has it all.
Cowes Foreshore: Family Favourite
Cowes Foreshore, in the heart of Phillip Island’s largest town, is one of the most popular and well-equipped picnic areas on the island. With views of Port Phillip Bay, picnic tables, and electric barbecues, Cowes Foreshore is perfect for family picnics and day trips with friends. The nearby beaches are sandy and have plenty of space for beach games, and the calm waters are great for a dip. After lunch, explore the town’s cafes and boutiques or take a walk along the boardwalk.
Why It’s Good:
- Barbecues: Multiple electric barbecues for a quick and easy feed
- Space: The Beachfront is huge, with plenty of room for picnicking and games
- Views: Panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay and, on clear days, the city skyline
- Family picnic: Great for family gatherings with playgrounds for kids
Cowes Beach itself is a great spot to chill and is close to public amenities like toilets and shops so it’s perfect for a day stay. Bring a picnic basket with fresh goodies and spend the day in this vibrant part of Phillip Island.
Rhyll Inlet: Wildlife Paradise
For a peaceful nature escape Rhyll Inlet is one of Phillip Island’s best kept secrets. This area is part of the Phillip Island Nature Park and is famous for its birdlife and wetlands. The picnic area has picnic shelters and barbecues so you can enjoy a relaxing outdoor lunch surrounded by nature. Rhyll Inlet is great for birdwatching as the area is home to many native birds including pelicans, black swans and egrets.
Why It’s Good:
- Native wildlife: See native birds in their natural environment
- Secluded beach: Quiet spot near the wetlands
- Picnic shelter: Shady spots to escape the summer sun
- Walking tracks: Post picnic walk around the wetland areas
Rhyll Inlet is a real nature experience and perfect for getting away from it all. After your picnic, take a walk along the coastal path or visit Rhyll Jetty for a quiet water view.
The Nobbies: Coastal Views and Wildlife
At the western end of Phillip Island, the Nobbies have the most spectacular views. The rugged cliffs and Bass Strait views are a must-see for anyone who loves scenery. There are no barbecues here, but there are picnic tables at the Nobbies Centre where you can sit and enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the views. The Nobbies is also home to the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade, where you can see Australian wildlife up close.
Why It’s Good:
- Coastal views: Ocean and Bass Strait cliff views
- Penguin Parade: Visit in the evening to see the penguins return from the sea
- Walking track: Walk the coastal boardwalk to see the blowhole and Seal Rocks
- Good for: Wildlife and nature photographers
If you want to see the full natural beauty of Phillip Island The Nobbies is the place to be. No barbecues here but packing a picnic and eating lunch with these views is a must.
Churchill Island: Heritage Picnic
For a day out like no other, visit Churchill Island, part of the Phillip Island Nature Park, where history meets nature. This heritage island has a working farm where you can see sheep shearing and cow milking. The picnic areas on Churchill Island have picnic shelters, barbecues and Western Port views, so it’s a great spot for a family picnic. There’s plenty of space and a relaxed atmosphere, and Churchill Island is also home to Australian animals such as kangaroos and wallabies.
Why It’s Good:
- Heritage farm: See animals and family-friendly farm activities
- Barbecues: Relax and barbecue in this beautiful spot
- Native wildlife: See kangaroos and birds while you chill
- Walking track: Walk the scenic tracks for bay views
After your summer picnic you can explore the island’s history or visit the nearby Koala Conservation Reserve. Churchill Island has plenty of shade so it’s a summer must do.
San Remo Foreshore: Phillip Island Gateway
Before you even get to Phillip Island, the San Remo Foreshore has a great family picnic area right on the water. Famous for the daily pelican feeding, this spot has electric barbecues, plenty of tables and room for the kids to run around. Perfect for a quick barbecue or picnic lunch before you head into Phillip Island.
Why It’s Good:
- Pelican feeding: Fun for the kids
- Barbecues: Electric barbecues and picnic tables in a tidy area
- Family picnic: Big and suitable for large groups or families with kids
The views of Western Port from the San Remo Foreshore make it a popular spot for locals and visitors to picnic. After lunch, head into the San Remo shops or spend the day at the beach.
Kitty Miller Bay: A Hidden Beach
For a more secluded picnic spot, head to Kitty Miller Bay, a lesser known beach on Phillip Island. This beautiful bay has a secluded beach, rocky outcrops and views of the surrounding coastline. While there are no picnic tables or barbecues, Kitty Miller Bay is perfect for a beachside picnic. Bring your picnic blanket and a fully loaded picnic basket for a day by the water.
Why It’s Good:
- Secluded beach: Peace and quiet in this secret spot
- Panoramic views: Views of the coast and distant cliffs
- Natural beauty: For nature lovers who want to get away from it all
Kitty Miller Bay is for those who want to get amongst Phillip Island’s natural beauty without the crowds. Picnic lunch with views and spend the day exploring the rock pools and beach.
Pyramid Rock: Cliff Top Picnic
Pyramid Rock is another great spot on Phillip Island and is famous for its rock formations and coastal views. The Pyramid Rock Lookout has picnic tables with views of the coast and Bass Strait. No barbecues but the views are worth it. Bring your picnic blanket, sit back and enjoy the sea air.
Why It’s Great:
- Scenic views: Coastline views from the clifftop walk
- Walking tracks: Walking trails to explore the area
- Natural habitat: Birdwatching and nature photography
Pyramid Rock is one of the most beautiful spots on Phillip Island and a perfect spot to picnic with friends or family.
Phillip Island is the perfect place to spend a day outside and dining. From famous spots like The Nobbies and Cowes Foreshore to secret spots like Rhyll Inlet and Kitty Miller Bay, there are plenty of picnic spots and barbecues to find. Whether you’re taking in the views of the coastline, exploring native wildlife habitats, or just relaxing on the beach with a picnic basket, Phillip Island is an unforgettable outdoor experience.
FAQ
Where is the best spot for views?
The Nobbies and Pyramid Rock both have panoramic views of Bass Strait and are great spots for a scenic picnic. Cowes Foreshore has views of Port Phillip Bay.
Are there barbecues in most picnic areas?
Yes, many of the popular picnic spots on Phillip Island, Cowes Foreshore, San Remo Foreshore and Churchill Island have electric barbecues so you can cook up a fresh meal outside.
Can I see wildlife while I’m picnicking on Phillip Island?
Yes. Churchill Island and Rhyll Inlet are great spots to see Australian animals like kangaroos, wallabies and native birds. The Penguin Parade at The Nobbies is a must see for wildlife lovers.
Which picnic spots are family friendly?
Cowes Foreshore and San Remo Foreshore are family friendly with plenty of space, playgrounds and toilet facilities and safe swimming areas for kids at the nearby beaches.