Places to Enjoy a Sunset on Phillip Island this Summer

Phillip Island, famous for its beaches, rocky coastline and wildlife, is one of Victoria’s top summer spots. Whether you’re after an epic sunset, a walk along a wild surf beach or an opportunity to see Aussie wildlife in its natural habitat, Phillip Island has you covered. With its many beaches, stunning views and peaceful scenery, it’s the perfect place to chill after a big day of exploring. In this article, we’ll show you the best places to watch the sunset on Phillip Island this summer and give you some tips to make the most of this iconic experience.

Watch the Sunset

As the sun starts to set, Phillip Island becomes a sunset lover’s paradise. With vantage points all over the island—from the bay beaches of Cowes to the rocky coastline near Cape Woolamai—there’s no shortage of awesome spots to watch the sunset. The southern coast offers panoramic views where the sun dips below the horizon and casts a golden light over Western Port Bay and the Bass Coast. Whether you’re relaxing on a quiet beach or walking the island’s trails, you’ll find plenty of places to chill and take in the island’s beauty as the day winds down.

Top Sunset Spots

Smiths Beach

A quiet beach with calm waters, Smiths Beach is one of the best places to watch the sunset. This beautiful beach has wide views of the horizon, perfect for a sunset picnic or evening walk. As summer approaches, Smiths Beach is a local and tourist favourite for a quiet spot to chill. Whether you’re playing beach cricket with the family or just soaking up the view, Smiths Beach has a relaxed vibe to watch the sun go down.

Red Rocks Beach

Red Rocks Beach gets its name from the red cliffs that line the beach. It has one of the most dramatic sunsets on the island. The contrast of the red cliffs against the golden sky and ocean is breathtaking. This rugged coastline is a bit of a hidden gem, so it’s perfect for those looking for a more secluded spot to watch the sunset. Whether you’re taking photos or just soaking up the view, Red Rocks is an experience to remember.

San Remo Pier

Just off the mainland, San Remo has stunning views of Phillip Island as the sun sets behind it. The San Remo Pier is a favourite spot for photographers and tourists. The views over Western Port Bay are expansive, and you’ll often see fishing boats and local wildlife (Aussie fur seals) in the water. As the sun sets, the sky turns pink and purple, and the bustle of the little town is a great backdrop.

Grossard Point Lookout

If you want views, head to Grossard Point Lookout. Perched above the southern coast, you’ll get views of Phillip Island Nature Parks and the surrounding waters. Here, you can get some amazing photos of the island as the sun sets over the horizon. The hills, cliffs and ocean views make this one of the island’s best-kept secrets.

Summerland Beach

Near the Penguin Parade, Summerland Beach offers a sunset and the opportunity to see the island’s most famous residents – the fairy penguins – as they return to their burrows for the night. With its long stretch of sand and views, Summerland Beach is perfect for a sunset walk. As the sun sets the light dances across the water and the cliffs, it’s a magical experience for nature lovers and photographers.

The Pinnacles

For the more adventurous, a hike to The Pinnacles is one of the best sunset experiences on the island. In Phillip Island Nature Parks, The Pinnacles offers views of the rugged coastline, rock formations and surrounding nature reserves. The walk is moderately difficult, but the views are some of the best on the island. As the sun sets behind the cliffs, the golden light casts long shadows on the rock formations; it’s a sight to remember.

Cowes Main Beach

In the heart of Cowes, the island’s main township, Cowes Main Beach is perfect for those who want a lively and scenic sunset. The beach is a great place to take a leisurely evening walk with views of Western Port and French Island. The town of Cowes is just a short walk away and has plenty of dining options with a sunset view. Whether you’re with family or friends, Cowes has a great sunset and plenty of things to do nearby.

Berrys Beach

Berrys Beach is a secret spot known for its isolation and ruggedness. Surrounded by cliffs and rock pools, it’s a peaceful escape from the crowds. The deep waters and rocky coastline make for great scenery, and as the sun sets, the sky turns orange and pink, perfect for photography or just taking in the serenity.

Summer Sunset Dining

A sunset on Phillip Island isn’t complete without a meal with a view. Several restaurants around the island offer great dining options where you can watch the sunset while you eat. Churchill Island Heritage Farm has a unique setting with historic buildings and farm animals, while The Cape Kitchen in Woolamai has views of Cape Woolamai Beach. For a more relaxed experience, you can dine at Phillip Island Winery, which has some of the best Pinot Noir and beautiful views over the vineyards.

Best Sunset Spots

Get there early: For the top spots like Pyramid Rock or The Pinnacles, get there early to get the best view and avoid the crowds.
Check the weather: Phillip Island can be windy especially near the coast so bring a light jacket if you’re visiting in the cooler months or later in the evening.
Bring a picnic: Some of the best sunset spots like Smiths Beach and Red Rocks are perfect for a picnic. Pack your favourite snacks, a blanket and enjoy the peacefulness.
Snap it: Phillip Island is a photographer’s paradise, especially in places like Pyramid Rock Lookout and Cowes Beach. Make sure your camera or phone is ready for some great sunset shots.