Everything to know about Phillip Island, the setting for this season of The Block
The Block is officially back on the airwaves, and this time, they're coming to us from Block Island.
This year, for Season 20 of the legendary home renovation show, The Block has headed to Phillip Island, a stunning coastal spot two hours south of Melbourne.
Scott Cam and Shelley Craft dubbed the island "pure paradise" and a "slice of heaven" in the opening episode.
In fact, Shelley reckons it's the perfect place for a family holiday, and invited her kids to come down for a visit while she was filming.
READ MORE: What makes the perfect weekend getaway?
The Block is filming on Phillip Island this year. Nine
"It's not just Block Island, it's Phillip Island," she said. "A wonderful place for families to come and have a really authentic holiday experience."
"There are lots of amazing things to do, no matter who you are or what you enjoy."
Here's everything to know about a trip to Phillip Island.
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Phillip Island has something for everyone. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Things to do on Phillip Island
See the penguins
Every night as the sun goes down, hundreds of fairy penguins make their way out of the water, up the beach and into their burrows. Head to the Penguin Parade and find a perfect spot on the boardwalk to watch them waddle around from a safe distance.
Take a look at the Grand Prix Circuit
Motorsport enthusiasts can visit the famous GP circuit for a tour, or maybe even watch a race event or track day if your timing is right.
There's also a 750-metre go-kart replica of the track with amazing ocean views that you can take a spin on.
Have a beach day
The island's southern beaches are rough and windy, a favoured spot for surfers who head to the area for huge waves. But on the north side of the island you'll find calm beaches - Cowes Beach is a family favourite spot that also has a great ice cream shop.
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Phillip Island is home to the largest Little Penguin colony in the world. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Feed koalas
Perfect for kids and adults of all ages, at Maru Koala and Animal Park you can spend a day hand-feeding and patting koalas, kangaroos and wallabies. They also have wildlife shows, reptile houses, and an 18-hole mini-golf course on site.
Take a cruise
The ocean around the island is home to diverse marine life, which you can get up close to on a sightseeing cruise. On a typical trip, you can spot basking fur seals, dolphins and even migrating humpback whales.
Hike Cape Woolamai
This area is higher than the rest of the island, so offers great views of the coast for hikers. The entire Cape Woolamai circuit is built with 3 different trails that add up to 8km return distance, so you can choose what matches your fitness level.
Phillip Island is just two hours outside of Melbourne. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Where to stay on Phillip Island
No matter your budget or travel style, there are endless choices when it comes to accommodation on the island.
Best low-cost Phillip Island accommodation
You can't beat a holiday park, whether you're parking a caravan, pitching a tent, or renting a cabin on-site. Amaroo Park is just off the main street in Cowes, and a five-minute walk to the beach. They've also got a games room and a heated pool for guests.
Five Acres is luxury at its finest. Five Acres
Best mid-range Phillip Island accommodation
If you want to soak up your natural surroundings, why not try glamping? The Sheltered Glamping Co has spacious tents complete with four-poster beds, wood-burning fireplaces, and solar power USB chargers. There's even a fully equipped kitchen and Weber barbecue to use.
Best luxury Phillip Island accommodation
Five Acres is a five-star luxury coastal property set on a working micro-farm nestled among rolling hills. There are three standalone cabins to choose from, or a two-bedroom farmhouse, all with sweeping views over Western Port Bay.
