One of the best things of living in Melbourne is the number of places you can explorer as weekend getaways with your family and friends. So if you are thinking of a quick escape from the city buzz but short on time? Look no further than Phillip Island, a nature lover's paradise perfect for a relaxing break and change of pace. Phillip Island boasts adorable penguins, dramatic coastlines, and adventure around every corner. But the best part? You can turn this into a dream staycation – a staycation fueled by the freedom of the open road. And that's where Drive mate comes in, your trusty aussie car rental, without any further delay lets dive in! 


Things to see and do at Phillip Island

1. Penguin Parade:

Witness the undisputed stars of the show – the adorable Little Penguins! Watch them waddle home in a tuxedoed procession after a day's fishing at sunset at The Phillip Island Nature Park. To maximize your experience, we recommend arriving about an hour before the scheduled penguin appearance. Securing tickets early is crucial, especially during school holidays and extended weekends, as they tend to sell out quickly. Don't underestimate the weather – even in summer, the sea breeze can bring a chill, so be sure to bring a jacket. Reaching here is easy, it is a 20-25 minute drive from the bridge on Phillip Island will lead you to the Penguin Parade. They have free on-site parking.  

2. Seal Rocks:

Drive 15 mins ahead, then catch a ferry to witness the playful antics of Australia's largest fur seal colony basking on the rocks. Learn about their fascinating social hierarchy and witness the occasional squabble, best time to visit October to December.​

3. Nobbies Centre:

​Hike along the rugged cliffs, explore the interactive Nobbies Centre with its penguin pools and underwater viewing windows, and keep an eye out for migrating whales during winter. Open daily from 11 am to 5 pm, closing hours may change with the seasons, but what remains constant is the inviting atmosphere. Dive into a delightful lunch break at their cafe – the perfect spot to chill and refuel.

4. Koalas and Conservation:

Get up close with these cuddly marsupials at the Phillip Island Koala Reserve. Learn about their conservation efforts and watch them snooze in the gum trees.

5. Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit:

Feel the adrenaline rush with a go-karting experience on a 750-meter scale replica of the race track or you can try the hot lap around the iconic circuit. If you are racing fan you cant miss this!

Beyond the Big Five:

Foodie Delights:

Phillip Island is a haven for fresh seafood. Indulge in succulent fish and chips at Cowes, sample local wines at multiple wineries, or grab a handcrafted pizza or even try some hand crafted chocolates.

Surfing and Water Sports:

Catch waves at Woolamai Beach, paddleboard in the sheltered waters of Rhyll Inlet, or go for a thrilling jet boat ride off Cape Woolamai.

Also read - 6 Important Questions To Check When Renting A Car ​

Gear Up for Your Phillip Island Staycation:

Distance and Drive Time:

​Buckle up for a scenic 140km journey, roughly 1.5 hours by car. But don't just slam the pedal – this coastal route deserves some savoring. Embrace the leisurely pace, wind in your hair, and stunning ocean views.

Best time to visit Phillip Island:

​Phillip Island's magic unfolds year-round. Summer brings penguin parades under the setting sun. Autumn boasts vibrant foliage and fewer crowds. Winter offers cozy charm and the chance to witness fur seal pups frolicking on the beach. Spring bursts with wildflowers and newborn penguin chicks. Remember to drive cautiously from dawn to night due to active wildlife.

Where to Stay:

From luxurious beachside resorts to charming B&Bs and quirky glamping tents, Phillip Island has something for every taste. Book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Drive mate: Your Aussie Car Rental:

​Forget the hassle of rental car queues and exorbitant fees. Drive mate is your key to a smooth and affordable Aussie car rental.

Here's why we're the perfect partner for your road trip adventures:

Variety of Vehicles: ​Choose from a diverse fleet, from zippy hatchbacks for solo explorers to spacious SUVs for family outings. We have fuel-efficient options for budget-conscious travelers and luxurious choices for those who want to roll in style.

Flexible Rentals: Rent by the hour, day, or weekend – Drive mate adapts to your needs. No need to commit to long-term contracts, just choose the rental period that suits your plans.

Convenient Locations: Pick up your car from various locations across Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, or we can even deliver the car as well to you! We are all about making your journey seamless.

Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or surprises! Our upfront pricing ensures you know exactly what you're paying for.

24/7 Support: Rest assured, Drive mate is always here for you. Our friendly customer service team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and ensure your staycation runs smoothly.

​Also read - A Culinary Journey Through Melbourne: Foodie Adventures with Drive mate ​

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, hop into your Drive mate car, and hit the road for an unforgettable Phillip Island road trip. Adventure awaits, and Drive mate is your trusted companion to make the most of it. Book your rental car today to explore Australia by road! Let's go!