Phillip Island, a charming locale famous for its breathtaking scenery and varied fauna, is a must-see. If you're wondering how to go to Phillip Island from Melbourne, you have multiple transportation options to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.

Located just 140 kilometres southeast of Melbourne, this charming island is famous for its enchanting beaches, breathtaking coastal scenery, and, most notably, the adorable Little Penguins parade along the shore at dusk.

Phillip Island lies off the southeast shore of Victoria, Australia. Surrounded by the Bass Strait, the island is famous for its breathtaking beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lively wildlife.

The largest town on the island is Cowes, where numerous travellers come to find lodging, dining choices, and access to local attractions. Due to its close distance to Melbourne, Phillip Island is an excellent choice for a day trip or a weekend retreat, offering a delightful break from the hectic pace of urban living.

The best way to travel from Melbourne to Phillip Island largely hinges on your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you're looking for.

Let’s look at each option for getting to Phillip Island.

Riding the bus from Melbourne to Phillip Island is a highly convenient method of travel.

Daily V/Line coach services depart from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne, offering a straightforward journey to Phillip Island with multiple stops en route, such as Grantville, Corinella, Bass, San Remo, Newhaven, and Cowes.

The journey takes around 3 hours, with a bus transfer at Koo Wee Rup. After reaching Cowes, you can use local bus services to get to different locations on the island, such as Anderson and Wonthaggi. This choice is perfect for those seeking a simple and economical transportation option.

A thrilling alternative for getting to Phillip Island is by ferry. To embark on this journey, you must first travel to Stony Point on the mainland. From there, the Western Port Passenger Ferry Service runs frequent ferries to Cowes on Phillip Island.

How long is the ferry from Melbourne to Phillip Island? The ferry trip lasts approximately 45 minutes and provides stunning vistas of the surrounding waters and scenery. This alternative especially appeals to those who enjoy a picturesque sea voyage while travelling to the island.

For individuals who value the liberty and adaptability of driving, opting for Melbourne to Phillip Island by car is a great option. Starting from Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD), you can conveniently reach the Monash Freeway (M1), which will take you to the South Gippsland Highway (M420) through the Cranbourne exit.

Travelling along the Bass Highway (A420), you'll traverse Grantville and Bass before turning onto Phillip Island Road (B420) toward San Remo. Upon reaching San Remo, you'll cross the renowned Phillip Island Bridge, which will take you straight to the island.

The journey lasts approximately 2 hours, offering a flexible choice for those who want to discover the island at their leisure.

A train is a practical choice if you’d like to combine rail travel with another form of transportation.

How to get to Phillip Island from Melbourne by train? Start by boarding a train from Melbourne heading towards the Dandenong area, with the trip lasting around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on where you start your journey.

Upon reaching Dandenong, you can proceed to Phillip Island by bus or ferry. This choice is lovely for those who relish train journeys and wish to take in the picturesque vistas of Victoria.

To make the most of your visit, it's essential to understand how to reach these parks and discover the attractions they provide.

A standout highlight of the island is the Penguin Parade, where guests can see the charming spectacle of Little Penguins returning to the beach after a day of foraging.

The Penguin Parade is held at Phillip Island Nature Park, readily accessible by car or bus from Cowes. Frequent shuttle services run from Cowes to the park, providing a convenient option for those staying there.

Churchill Island, a historic agricultural site situated a brief drive from Phillip Island, allows visitors to delve into Australia’s farming heritage. Guests can engage in farm activities, explore picturesque gardens, and enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas.

The island is conveniently reachable by car, with parking available on the premises. Guided tours and demonstrations are offered for those interested in delving deeper into its history.

The Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island is an essential stop for nature lovers. Here, guests can view koalas in their natural environment while strolling along a picturesque boardwalk.

The reserve is just a brief drive from Cowes and features plenty of parking. Visitors can take guided tours to inform them about the region's conservation initiatives and distinctive ecosystems.

Journeying from Melbourne to Phillip Island is easy and pleasant. Various travel choices are available to accommodate different tastes and financial considerations.

By now, you should clearly understand how to go to Phillip Island from Melbourne, including essential information on reaching the island and its incredible attractions.

For those looking to make their trip even more accessible, consider making reservations through Traveloka. You can find the best deals on transportation, accommodations, and activities to enhance your Phillip Island experience.