San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op

At the bottom of Victoria, just a short drive from Phillip Island, San Remo is a fishing town famous for its fishing industry and local seafood. With the freshest fish and lots of tasty dishes, the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op is the go-to for fresh seafood straight from the source. Whether you’re after a feed of fish, the Pelican Feeding or some of the Co-op’s famous fish, San Remo is the place for seafood lovers.

Fresh, Local Seafood Hub

San Remo has been the heart of Victoria’s fishing industry for decades, with its beautiful coastline and proximity to the fishing grounds. The San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op is the centre of this seafood hub, where locals and visitors can buy directly from the source. You can experience the real deal of fresh seafood, often caught hours before it hits the counter. It’s where you can meet the local fishing community and taste the Southern Ocean in every mouthful.

Decades of Tradition and Growth

The San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op has been around since the early 1900s when local fishermen created it to connect the sea to the people. Today, it’s an icon, providing the freshest seafood to locals and visitors alike. The Co-op’s famous fish, gummy shark and king prawns, are the benchmark for the region’s seafood. Many of the fish sold at the co-op come from the Co-op’s own boats—a fleet of vessels dedicated to getting the catch to the counter as fresh as possible. Since then, the co-op has added more fish to the mix, and its focus on fresh, local seafood has built a loyal following. With sustainability and community at the forefront, the co-op remains the heart of San Remo’s fishing industry and the town’s seafood capital.

The Seafood Selection

San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op has the biggest variety of seafood around. Every day, they have an amazing selection of fresh fish, from gummy sharks to king prawns, and they have all the usual items, like snappers and flatheads. Here’s a few of the day’s catch:

Gummy Shark

A local favourite, gummy shark is the go to fish for locals. Mild and tender, this fish is the default fish for an easy meal. Grilled, fried or in a big soup, gummy shark is a winner at the co-op.

Duck Fish

For something different try the duck fish (or leatherjacket fish) which has a firm mild flavour and a nutty taste. Perfect for grilling or pan frying to add some variety to your daily seafood.

King Prawns

One of the biggest attractions at San Remo is the king prawns—plump, sweet and tender. Whether you cook them at home with your favourite Australian prawn recipes or on a seafood platter at the co-op, king prawns are a must-have.

Fresh Crayfish

When in San Remo, don’t miss the chance to try the fresh crayfish caught off the coast. Served in big, juicy portions, it’s perfect for anyone who wants a special seafood experience.

Experience Local Flavors

For the real deal, dining at the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op is a must. The co-op has a small dining area where you can eat freshly cooked seafood, fish and chips in town. Whether you go for the classic chips in cardboard containers or a more elaborate seafood platter, every bite will be fresh and delicious. The Co-op staff take pride in their service and make sure every customer gets a meal with a side of ocean views.

A Must-See: Pelican Feeding

One of the biggest attractions at the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op is the daily pelican feeding. Every day at 12noon visitors gather to watch as the local wild pelicans swoop in for their fish feed, tossed by the co-op’s staff. It’s a one of a kind experience that attracts visitors from all over and is a must for families, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sight of the pelicans with fish is a must see.

Events and Seasonal Activities

The San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op is more than just a seafood shop; it’s a community hub with events all year round. From seafood festivals to cooking demos and special deals on local accommodations like hotels and B&Bs, there’s always something happening to celebrate San Remo’s coastal lifestyle.

Other nearby attractions include the beautiful beaches, walking trails and art galleries that make San Remo a favourite for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Directions and Tips

San Remo is only 90 minutes from Melbourne or 15 minutes from Phillip Island. Whether you’re driving or cycling along the coast, it’s a lovely trip to this little town. If you’re coming from Phillip Island, don’t miss the Phillip Island Penguin Parade, a wildlife experience you won’t forget when you’re in San Remo for seafood.

Beyond the Co-op

San Remo has more to offer than just seafood. There are secret beaches, walking trails and artistic attractions to boot. For the adventurous, the Phillip Island Restaurants and nearby wineries have plenty of dining options and local wine to match your seafood. Whether you’re relaxing by the beach or exploring the town’s art scene, there’s no shortage of things to do.