Pyramid Rock

Phillip Island is one of Victoria’s most loved destinations, and it is famous for its wildlife, beaches, and coast. Among all the attractions, Pyramid Rock is one of the island’s most popular landmarks. On the southern side of the island, this natural wonder gives visitors a chance to see the island’s coastline and natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting the island for the wildlife, the Penguin Parade, or to take in the views, Pyramid Rock is a must-see. This guide will help you discover everything Pyramid Rock has to offer, from how to get there to what to do.

Island’s Natural Wonder

Pyramid Rock is a natural wonder on the southern side of Phillip Island. It’s named for its pyramid shape and stands tall against the Bass Strait. This coastal cliff is part of the island’s rugged coastline, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Over time erosion and weathering has carved the rock into the cliff edge we see today. The rock has views of the Bass Coast so it’s perfect for photography and sightseeing.

How to Reach Rock

To get to Pyramid Rock, you’ll need to drive along Pyramid Rock Road, a beautiful drive from the main township of Cowes. From San Remo, head towards Berrys Beach and turn onto Pyramid Rock Rd. The drive is only 15 minutes from Cowes and takes you through some of the island’s most scenic landscapes. There’s parking near the Pyramid Rock Lookout, which has easy access to the viewing platforms. If you’re using public transport, consider using the Phillip Island Bus, but a car is the best way to get around the island at your own pace.

A Visit Worth Making

Pyramid Rock is not just a pretty face – it’s a must-see part of the Phillip Island experience. The views of Bass Strait and the rugged coastline make it perfect for photography, nature walks and birdwatching. It’s also a significant site for the local indigenous people. If you want a peaceful and picturesque spot to chill and take in the island’s beauty away from the crowds of the more touristy areas, then Pyramid Rock is the place. And there’s wildlife too – so it’s a nature lover’s paradise.

Pyramid Rock View

One of the best things about Pyramid Rock is the viewing platforms that offer 360-degree views of the area. From the Pyramid Rock Lookout, you can see Bass Strait and the distant shores of Wilson’s Promontory. The elevated platforms allow you to take in the full glory of the coastline, and on clear days, you can see as far as Norfolk Island National Park. Perfect for photography or just taking in the island’s natural beauty.

Wallaby Spotting

Pyramid Rock is famous for its geological formations but also its wildlife. The area is a great spot to see Australian wildlife, particularly wallabies that can be seen grazing near the cliffs. These lovely creatures are a part of Phillip Island’s natural fabric and can be seen in the early morning or late afternoon. If you’re lucky, you might also spot koalas, kangaroos and various bird species, including masked boobies and sooty terns.

Fishing

Fishing? Pyramid Rock is a great spot to cast a line. The waters around the rock are full of fish, and it’s a popular spot for shore and boat fishing. The rugged coastline offers many fishing opportunities, and if you’re coming from San Remo or Phillip Island, you’ll find plenty of places to rent equipment, join Phillip Island tours, and book guided trips. Just check with the Visitor Information Centres for local regulations before you go.

Walks & Trails

If you like to get outdoors, Pyramid Rock has a number of walking trails, from easy coastal walks to more challenging tracks. The walk to the Pyramid Rock Lookout is a short 10-minute walk and offers stunning views of the southern coastline. If you’re up for a more challenging climb, there are several other trails around the rock that offer cliff views and migratory seabird sightings. Walking time varies depending on the trail you choose, with some longer walks taking you along the island’s rugged beaches, such as Berry Beach and Summerlands Beach.

Timing Your Visit: When to Go

December to March is the best time to visit Pyramid Rock when the sun is shining, and the trails are open. Early morning or late arvo is the best time to get here if you want to avoid the crowds and get the dramatic views in the soft light of sunrise or sunset. Spring and autumn are milder, and you can avoid the summer holiday crowds, so it’s a great time to get amongst the island’s natural beauty.

Nearby Attractions

Besides Pyramid Rock itself, there are heaps of other attractions nearby, which makes it a great base to explore. The Phillip Island Penguin Parade, where you can watch little penguins waddle up the beach at sunset, is just a short drive away. Pannys Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is another family-friendly stop, perfect for a sweet treat after your beach adventures. For more wildlife encounters, head to the Koala Reserve or Maru Koala Park. You can also hit the beach at Berrys Beach or visit historical Churchill Island to see what farming life was like on the island.