With the school holidays coming up, parents are once again faced with the challenge of keeping the whole family entertained (and sane) for an entire fortnight. If you’re looking for a fun excursion location which both parents and kids can enjoy, Phillip Island is the place to go. This week, we show you why the island is the perfect day trip destination for families.
Animals
There are opportunities aplenty for close encounters with wildlife on Phillip Island: the famous Penguin Parade where families can watch fairy penguins make their way up the beach to their burrows after a long day of fishing at sea, the Koala Conservation Centre where you can see koalas in their natural habitat, Maru Koala and Animal Park where you can hand feed some of the animals, and wildlife coast cruises which let you get a closer look at the inhabitants of Seal Rocks.
Education opportunities
Phillip Island is full of opportunities for kids to learn about the natural world as well as the history of the island. The Nobbies Centre is the place to go if you want to learn about the marine biodiversity which makes Phillip Island such a unique place. In addition to the famous fairy penguins and the largest fur seal colony in Australia, the coastal waters around the island are home to sharks (including the great white shark), whales, migratory birds, and a colourful array of sea life. The Churchill Island heritage farm is a gorgeous location where you can learn about the history of European settlement in Victoria. The heritage working farm showcases traditional farming practices and the restored farmhouse and cottages offer a unique glimpse into the lives of European settlers.
Gentle waters
During the warmer months, the sheltered beach at Cowes is the perfect place for family members of all ages to enjoy a day by the sea. The beach is on the side of the island that faces into Western Port Bay and French Island, so it isn’t subjected to the blustery weather of the Bass Strait which creates world class surfing on the south side of the island. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer and features soft yellow sand and weatherworn rocks to play on. Cowes beach is surrounded by shady park area which is perfect for a picnic, and there are toilet and shower block as well as barbecue facilities available.
Melbourne on the Move offer Melbourne bus tour services to Phillip Island as well as a day trip package which is full of fun, family friendly activities.