Cowes Beach
Best Beach · VIC
Tourism Australia's Best Beach 2025, No. 10.
On a delightful island near Melbourne, sits this charming coastal gem/
On a delightful island near to Melbourne, sits this charming coastal gem. A couple of hours southeast of Melbourne's bustling CBD is a barefoot escape to Phillip Island, where the lack of pretence is made up for in laidback vibes. The beaches around the 100sq km island vary from sedate shorelines to roaring beaches with wild surf and heavy rip currents. Phillip Island has four National Surfing Reserves, a testament to the hordes of stoked surfers who flock to Victoria for some of the best waves Australia has to offer. Best known for its nightly penguin parade, the seaside hub of Cowes attracts families and visitors in droves for its safe waters and charming English-style atmosphere. Like early British seaside holiday hotspots, Cowes has a historic rotunda, a promenade and pier - all the elements of early England which allowed the working class an opportunity to enjoy fresh ocean breezes and wade in the icy waters. Cowes' buzzing seaside holiday vibe is complemented by one of Victoria's few north-facing beaches, tailor made for picnics on the grass or sand, beach games, soaking up the sunshine or water sports. These sheltered, sandy beaches in Cowes are in Western Port Bay, resulting in gentle, low swells, making them a popular choice for families. The beaches at high tide offer excellent swimming conditions and have an abundance of shallow rocks and tidal flats to explore at low tide. During the summer months, Cowes Main Beach is patrolled by lifesavers offers barbecues, shops, cafes, restaurants and other amenities. After a day out in the sun, indulge in seafood, take a stroll along the pier with a gelato or sit back and soak up the bay views with a cocktail. Beach walks further east along to Silverleaves or west towards Ventnor are also worthwhile. Phillip Island is 23km long and 10kms at its widest point, with several fantastic beaches and private coves to explore.
⚠️ Ocean conditions can change quickly and rips can form even on calm days. Only swim at patrolled beaches, and supervise children at all times.