Discover Cowes: Beaches, culture and leisure

Cowes combines beaches and activities on the water with cultural and leisure offerings. At Cowes Main Beaches, swimming, sailing and other beach activities take centre stage; at Cowes Jetty, fishing and ferry services add to the mix. Cowes also offers experiences related to history, art, events and indoor leisure.

Beaches and time by the water

Cowes Main Beaches are golden, sheltered sandy beaches in Western Port Bay. There is little wind and the waves are gentle; these are also the only north-facing beaches in Victoria. Activities range from swimming and sailing to stand-up paddleboarding and jet skiing, as well as beach walks, fishing and beach games. You can spend your time by the shore being active or focus on a walk.

Facilities at Cowes Main Beaches include toilets, a designated accessible toilet, changing rooms and outdoor showers with cold water. If you are planning to use a particular facility, check its current availability before your visit. Bear in mind that the outdoor showers have cold water.

Cowes Jetty and ferry services

Cowes Jetty was built in 1870. Fishing is a major attraction there, and many fish species can be found at the jetty. This makes it a place that combines leisure by the water with a clearly dated historic structure. From Cowes Jetty, you can take a ferry across Western Port to Stony Point or to French Island and Seal Rocks. If a crossing is part of your plans, check the current timetable beforehand.

History, art and events

The self-guided Cowes West Heritage Walk leads to Phillip Island’s first and second hospitals. The Phillip Island Art & Craft Community Gallery displays and sells local art and craftwork. Berninneit in Cowes houses a performing arts space and cinema, a gallery, a library and a historic museum.

The programme at Berninneit’s performing arts space and cinema includes new films, music, dance, comedy and theatre. Individual events vary, so check the current schedule before visiting. At Clay & Co, you can watch artists at work when the door is open.

Indoor leisure and family entertainment

Grumpy's Crazy Golf is in the centre of Cowes and offers families entertainment in all weather. Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling and Entertainment Centre is an indoor attraction in Cowes. Under one roof, it brings together bowling, Lazer Zone, arcade games, pool tables, table tennis and state-of-the-art golf simulators. Operating conditions and facilities may change; before planning a visit, check whether the activity you are interested in is currently available.

Cycling along the beach and around the island

There are different options for a cycling trip. The Esplanade in Cowes is a starting point for a casual ride along the beach. The shared walking and cycling path from Cowes to San Remo allows you to cycle through the centre of Phillip Island and stop at several attractions along the way. Check current path conditions and any closures before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Jarvis Creek, Yea, Bangholme, Tinamba, Glenalbyn, Kerrisdale, Meredith, Musk.

For the overview of the wider region: Victoria.