Planning a function or a special occasion? We have the answer….
Gather your friends and family to experience a truly memorable getaway at the Island Whale Festival in July. Now in its 10th year, the award-winning festival returns to celebrates the annual whale migration alongside the rich coastal lifestyle that defines the region.
Phillip Island becomes one of the state’s prime viewing spots to see humpback, southern right whales, and even the occasional killer whale travel along the Bass Coast on their journey to warmer waters.
The festival itself runs for three days and offers both visitors and locals a unique opportunity to witness these incredible animals while embracing the region’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant marine environment – all within easy reach.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
Whether you’re planning a family adventure or a relaxed seaside escape, the Island Whale Festival blends nature, discovery and seasonal charm.
A Different Kind of Winter Escape
Perfectly timed for the July school holidays, the festival invites visitors to trade city life for the coast. Winter on Phillip Island is peaceful, invigorating and strikingly beautiful. Think wild seas, crisp air and cosy places to relax after a day outdoors.
From close-up wildlife moments to creative experiences and inspiring ocean stories, this festival offers more than entertainment, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with nature and each other.
Plan Your Visit
Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island offers year-round appeal, from wildlife encounters and scenic walks to exceptional food and wine. Start planning your trip at www.visitphillipisland.com.au.
Festival Dates: 3 – 5 July 2026
Location: Festival Hub, Berninneit Cultural Centre, Cowes & various venues across Phillip Island
For tickets and program info: www.islandwhales.com.au Follow along one Facebook and Instagram @islandwhales #islandwhales
Phillip Island’s winter coastline comes alive each year with one of nature’s great migrations. From May through August, thousands of humpback whales leave the icy waters of Antarctica and travel north along the Victorian coast on their journey to warmer breeding grounds.
With Phillip Island sitting along this migration route, winter becomes an incredible time to get out on the water. Wildlife Coast Cruises gives guests the chance to witness humpback whales in their natural environment, with encounters often including breaching, tail slapping, spyhopping and close passes as the whales continue their journey along the coastline.
Each cruise offers a unique experience out on the water, with humpback whale interactions varying from day to day. Along the way, guests may also spot dolphins surfing alongside, Australian fur seals resting on the rocks, and seabirds such as albatross, gannets and terns gliding overhead.
The annual Phillip Island Whale Festival also celebrates the migration season each winter, bringing the community together through events, education and wildlife experiences centred around these remarkable animals and the importance of protecting our oceans.
Wildlife Coast Cruises works closely with the local whale watching community, sharing sightings through the Wildlife Whales app and contributing valuable observations to ongoing research. Whale behaviours, pod sizes and tail fluke photographs all help researchers identify and track individual whales as they return year after year.
For those wanting to experience the migration firsthand, winter on Phillip Island offers a rare chance to connect with wildlife along an unforgettable stretch of coastline. As winter transitions into spring, whale sightings continue in the spectacular waters surrounding Wilsons Promontory.
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Unwind acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land – The Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation and we pay our respect to Elders past and present.
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