The best waterside camping in Phillip Island

On the southwestern tip of Phillip Island, Summerlands is home to the island’s main attraction, the Penguin Parade. The natural spectacle of tens of thousands of penguins emerging from the ocean and waddling toward their nests takes place just after sunset every evening. Nearby you’ll find Nobbies Centre, outside of which you can see fur seals and birds, then learn about them through interactive displays. As Summerlands is a protected area, you’ll need to set up camp a little farther away. Nevertheless, you’ll find camping areas within a 10-minute drive.

In the small town of Ventnor, just a five-minute drive from the Penguin Parade, camping options include upscale glamping near Berry’s Beach and rural settings near Ventnor Beach.

As the island’s main township, Cowes is home to several accommodation options, including camping areas. Your choices include family-friendly holiday parks with access to both the beach and nearby shops and restaurants.

In the southeast of the island, minutes from San Remo, Newhaven is home to caravan parks set upon sand dunes. Some parks feature powered caravan sites and non-powered camping grounds, plus comforts such as wifi and family playgrounds.