Phillip Island is off the southern coast of Victoria and is known for its ruggedness, natural wonders and community. With beautiful beaches, big water, and lots of activities, Phillip Island is a water sports mecca. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are the most popular activities, and for good reason: you get to see the island from a whole new perspective. Whether you’re an old hand or a beginner looking to paddle in calm waters, Phillip Island has something for everyone.
Top Kayaking and Paddleboarding Spots
Phillip Island has so many amazing spots for kayaking and paddleboarding. Each one has its own charm and suits different skill levels and preferences.
- Cape Woolamai: One of Phillip Island’s most popular destinations, Cape Woolamai has stunning views, rugged beauty and exciting paddling. It’s a hotspot for experienced surfers and paddlers, with Cape Woolamai beaches part of the Phillip Island National Surfing Reserve. The waters here can be rough, so check the ocean conditions via the Beach Safe App or other beach safety tools before you head out. For those looking for a challenge, Woolamai Beach and Surf Beach have waves that will appeal to more experienced water users.
- Smiths Beach: For beginners who are paddleboarding, Smiths Beach is the place to start. Known as a beginner friendly beach, it has calm waters making it perfect for families and newcomers to water sports. You can paddle along the shore, take in the views and even join a 2 hour stand-up paddleboard lesson to get started. With its sheltered bay and gentle beach conditions, Smiths Beach is great for beach games, family days and soaking up the north facing beach.
- Rhyll Inlet: For paddlers looking for a more peaceful experience, Rhyll Inlet is the spot. This secluded spot is perfect for a peaceful paddle, calm waters and views of Phillip Island’s natural beauty. The area is also known for its wildlife, with birds such as pelicans and cormorants frequently spotted. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
- Cowes Beach: Located in the main town of Cowes, Cowes Beach is another great spot for stand-up paddleboarding. The shallow waters and relaxed beach vibe make it popular for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders. You can paddle along the waters and enjoy the coastal views and maybe spot dolphins near the shore.
- Ventnor Beach: One of Phillip Island’s north-facing bay beaches, Ventnor Beach has perfect conditions for both kayaking and paddleboarding. The calm, sheltered waters are ideal for long-distance paddleboarding or a leisurely Kayak Phillip Island Tour. Less crowded than Cowes Main Beach or Woolamai Beach, it’s a peaceful spot for water sports.
- Churchill Island Marine National Park: For a truly peaceful paddling experience, visit Churchill Island Marine National Park. Just off the coast of Phillip Island, Churchill Island has calm waters, coastal scenery and marine life. It’s the perfect spot for a paddle or kayak adventure and to explore the nearby Churchill Island Heritage Farm.
Wildlife and Natural Attractions
One of the best things about kayaking and paddleboarding around Phillip Island is getting up close to nature. The island is a wildlife hotspot, with Seal Rocks where you can see seals sunbathing, dolphins at San Remo and Cowes Beach, and in the quieter waters of Rhyll Inlet and Churchill Island Marine Park, you can spot pelicans and herons. Being so close to Bass Strait means you might even see some bigger marine life, so every paddle is a wildlife adventure.
Along with wildlife encounters, paddlers can see some of Phillip Island’s most famous natural attractions, such as the Forrest Caves, Pyramid Rock, and hidden sea caves around Cape Woolamai’s rugged coastline. The Bass Coast Shire Council has done a great job of preserving the natural beauty of the area so you can enjoy the views and serenity of the island’s coastal waters.
Guided Kayak Tours and Rentals
If you’re new to kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding or just want a hassle-free experience, consider joining one of the many guided kayak tours available on Phillip Island. These tours take you to some of the island’s most beautiful spots, Cowes Beach, Ventnor Beach and Swan Lake and provide expert guidance and all the equipment. Guided tours are also a great way to learn about the island’s history and natural attractions.
If you prefer to go at your own pace, there are many rental shops that offer kayak and paddleboard rentals. Whether you want to paddle the South Coast or the calmer waters of Eastern Beach or Williamstown Beach, renting equipment gives you the freedom to create your own adventure.
Best Time to Kayak and Paddleboard
The best time to kayak and paddleboard around Phillip Island is during the warmer months November to March. The weather is mild, the water is calm and the beach conditions are perfect for water sports. But always check the Beach Safe App for real time updates on ocean conditions and any hazards like strong currents especially around more challenging areas like Cape Woolamai.
Morning and afternoon are the best times to paddle for a peaceful experience, avoid the crowds and see the sun rise or set over the coastline. For a real treat, paddle the bay beaches or have a beach day at Cowes Main Beach.
Family Friendly Water Activities
Phillip Island is a great place to get in the water with the family. Smiths Beach and Cowes Beach are the best for families, shallow water and safe for kids to play. Both have beach car parks so it’s easy to get to and the surrounding amenities like Anzacs Beach Parking and beach chairs make it a full day at the beach.
For a family experience like no other try the Phillip Island Aquabikes or the Phillip Island Flyboard. These water sports will have kids and adults screaming for more, an adrenaline rush to get in the island’s water.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding Safety Tips
While kayaking and paddleboarding are generally safe, here are some basic rules to follow:
- Check the weather and ocean: Always check local conditions before you go. The Bass Strait can create big swells, especially around Cape Woolamai and the Bass Coast, so be aware of any hazards.
- Wear a life jacket: No matter your skill level, wear a life jacket when water sports.
- Stay in designated areas: Some areas like Cape Woolamai have strong currents and are best for experienced paddlers. Beginners should stick to the bay beaches like Smiths Beach or Cowes Main Beach.
- Follow local guidelines: Be aware of other water users and follow local water rules, lifeguard advice and local authorities.
Other things to do and see
Phillip Island isn’t all about water sports—there’s more! After a day of paddling, head to the Phillip Island Circuit to watch a motorsport event or visit the Churchill Island Heritage Farm to learn about the island’s farming history. If you want more wildlife, the Penguin Parade is a must see, the little penguins are so cute!
If you need accommodation Bimbadeen Phillip Island Farm Retreats is a peaceful and unique place to stay with lovely views of the surrounding countryside. There are also attraction tickets available for visitors who want to visit multiple sites including Seal Rocks, Gull Island and Phillip Island Flyboard.
For a more chill afternoon, paddle board on one of Phillip Island’s lakes, Swan Lake or take a walk along the beach at Berries Beach Road.
Whether you want a peaceful paddle in calm water or an adrenaline rush along the island’s coastline, Phillip Island has it all. With beautiful scenery, wildlife and activities for all ages, Phillip Island is the place to go for your next kayaking or paddle-boarding trip.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are the most popular activities, and for good reason: you get to see the island from a whole new perspective.
FAQ
Where are the best kayaking and paddleboarding spots on Phillip Island?
Cape Woolamai, Smiths Beach, Rhyll Inlet, Cowes Beach and Churchill Island Marine National Park are some of the best. These spots offer everything from calm waters for beginners to more challenging conditions for the experienced.
Do I need to be an experienced paddler to enjoy water sports on Phillip Island?
No, you don’t need to be. Smiths Beach and Cowes Beach are perfect for beginners, but Cape Woolamai is more challenging for experienced paddlers. Guided tours are also available to get you started.
Will I see wildlife while kayaking or paddleboarding around Phillip Island?
Yes, you’ll see dolphins, seals and various bird species while kayaking or paddleboarding, especially around Seal Rocks, San Remo and Rhyll Inlet.
Is it safe to paddleboard or kayak around Cape Woolamai?
While Cape Woolamai is beautiful, the waters can be rough due to strong currents. More experience is recommended. Check conditions before you go and follow local guidelines.
Can I hire paddleboards or kayaks on Phillip Island?
Yes, there are several hire shops where you can hire kayaks and paddleboards. Guided tours also provide equipment.
