Planning a perfect trip to Phillip Island? The island and its charm can change with the seasons, so deciding when to go can elevate your experience to unforgettable levels. From watching the magical Penguin Parade to merely sunbathing on Cowes Beach or indulging your sweet tooth at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, read on to see how this guide will help in planning your stay at Kaloha Resort in just the right seasonal timing.

Key Takeaways

• Summer (December – February): best time for water activities, beach, and outdoors.
• Autumn (March-May): perfect time for more pleasant weather, fewer people, and picturesque walks.
• Winter (June – August): great time to go whale watching and enjoy indoor activities and touring without the summer crush.
• Spring (September – November): Blooms of flowers, new-born wildlife, great outdoors time.
• Whole-year attraction availability: Some of the attractions like Penguin Parade Phillip Island and Phillip Island Chocolate Factory are available regardless of the season.

#1 Summer (December – February): Beach Bliss and Outdoor Fun

Summer on Phillip Island is all about sun, sand, and sea. With the warmer temperatures and plenty of daylight hours, now’s the time to hit up Cowes Beach or meander your way along the coastal walks. For the lover of water sports, plenty of surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding options exist.

Things to Do in Summer:

• Beach days: Enjoy the sun on Cowes Beach, or enjoy a swim in crystal clear waters, or explore some of the other beaches that make up the island, Smiths Beach and Cape Woolamai just top off.
• Water Sports: Go to one of the island beaches that is more water sport-friendly, such as surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
• Visitor Tip: If visiting during summer, rise early to get the best spot on some of the more famous beaches, as it gets rather busy on Phillip Island.

#2 Autumn (March-May): More Pleasant Weather and Pretty Landscapes

Autumn sees cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, so it is an excellent time to enjoy Phillip Island’s natural beauty. The walking trails around the island are at their best this time of year, with a splash of magic added to your hikes through the changing leaves.

Why Visit in Autumn:

• Strolls: Make the most of the milder weather and hit tracks like Nobbies Boardwalk and the Cape Woolamai Walking Track.
• Fewer Crowds: A much more relaxed experience with fewer tourists swamping popular spots like the Penguin Parade Phillip Island.
• Tourist Tip: Bring warm clothing, as the weather during autumn is super-unpredictable for example, chilly mornings and very warm afternoons.

#3 Winter (June – August): Cozy Escapes and Whale Watching

While a bit colder, winter in Phillip Island does not take away the opportunities to experience some of the most unique features this island has in store. Undoubtedly, some of the biggest highlights of winter are whale watching, with the migration of humpback and southern right whales along the coast during this period. It is also a good time for indoor activities like visiting the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory.

Winter Highlights:

• Whale Watching: Go face-to-face with whales migrating along this coastline by taking a pre-booked whale-watching tour.
• Comfort Stop: Warm up at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory and reward yourself with a sweet treat while learning how chocolate-making works.
• Visitor Information Bring warm clothing with you, as these onshore winds may make it feel like the temperature is lower than actuality.

#4 Spring (September – November): Blooming Beauty and Baby Wildlife

For Phillip Island, spring is a time of renewal, with flowers blooming and the emergence of wildlife with their young. This is the best time to visit gardens, farms, and nature parks to see everything from baby koalas to wildflowers in bloom.

Why Spring is Special:

• Wildlife Viewing: Koalas and their joeys at the Koala Conservation Centre; meet baby farm animals up close on Churchill Island.
• Gardens in Bloom: Take in the island’s riotously colourful wildflower gardens and nature parks complete with serene landscapes.
• Visitor Hint: Spring weather is unpredictable, so layer your clothing for a comfortable day.

#5 Fun Available All Year: Exploring Phillip Island

No matter what time of the year you come, some attractions on Phillip Island are accessible whatever the weather, so you can always find something to do from your accommodation at Kaloha Resort. You will not want to miss the Penguin Parade Phillip Island that takes place each evening as the little penguins return to their burrows. The Phillip Island Chocolate Factory and A Maze’N Things are also open daily and will keep everyone in the family entertained.

Year-Round Favourites:

• Penguin Parade Phillip Island: Get ready for the ever-mesmerising parade of little penguins marching every evening at sunset, regardless of the season.
• Phillip Island Chocolate Factory: Get to sample some great chocolates with an insight into the chocolate-making process.
• A Maze’N Things: A day fully packed with fun in puzzles, illusions, and outdoor activities fitting for all ages.
• Visitor Tip: Some popular attractions, such as the Penguin Parade call for advance ticket booking to make sure it’s available during the visit.

Find Your Perfect Time to Visit Phillip Island

Phillip Island is an all-year-round destination with each season offering its unique value proposition. Soaking up the sun on Cowes Beach during summer, hiking along scenic trails in autumn, spotting whales in winter, or enjoying spring blooms, you will find the perfect time to visit based on your interests. You will undoubtedly find an excellent time to head out and experience Phillip Island, depending on what things you want to do. No matter what time of year you choose to explore, though, Kaloha Resort is the perfect base for a truly unforgettable Phillip Island adventure.