San Remo, Victoria: A Scenic Coastal Gateway to Phillip Island

San Remo sits proudly at the eastern entrance of Western Port, welcoming travellers as the official gateway to Phillip Island. With sweeping ocean views, abundant wildlife, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere, this charming fishing village has become one of Victoria’s most enticing coastal destinations. Visitors are drawn to its historic maritime character, thriving seafood culture, and spectacular coastal walks that showcase the rugged beauty of the Bass Coast.

A Coastal Town Steeped in Maritime Heritage

San Remo’s story stretches back to 1840, when Griffiths Point emerged as a vital deep‑water port exporting wattlebark, cattle, and local produce. Its sheltered harbour and dramatic coastline soon attracted holidaymakers seeking a peaceful seaside escape. In 1888, the township adopted the name San Remo, inspired by the glamorous Italian Riviera town—a fitting tribute to its growing reputation as a picturesque coastal retreat.

Today, San Remo remains a thriving fishing hub. The San Remo Fishermen’s Cooperative continues the town’s proud maritime tradition, supplying some of the region’s freshest seafood. Visitors can watch commercial boats unload their daily catch, savour fish and chips straight from the source, or join a fishing charter to experience Western Port’s rich marine life firsthand.

Pelican Feeding & Wildlife Encounters

One of San Remo’s most beloved attractions is the daily pelican feeding on the foreshore. Every morning at 11:30am, dozens of pelicans glide in and gather near the jetty for a lively feeding session that delights families, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The foreshore precinct—complete with playgrounds, barbecues, and grassy picnic areas—creates a welcoming community space where visitors can relax by the water and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Beyond pelicans, the region offers abundant wildlife experiences, from seabird spotting along the cliffs to marine encounters around Phillip Island.

Beaches, Outdoor Activities & Coastal Adventure

San Remo offers a diverse mix of beaches and outdoor activities suited to every style of traveller:

• Safe swimming beaches ideal for families
• Surf breaks for those chasing Bass Strait swells
• Tennis courts, squash facilities, and bowling greens for land‑based recreation

For walkers and nature lovers, San Remo is the starting point for some of Victoria’s most breathtaking coastal trails.

George Bass Coastal Walk

Beginning at the southern end of Punchbowl Road, this iconic 6‑kilometre clifftop trail winds toward Kilcunda, offering uninterrupted views of Bass Strait, dramatic headlands, and windswept coastal scenery. It’s a favourite for photographers, hikers, and anyone seeking a soul‑stirring nature experience.

Foreshore Ramble to Bore Beach

A gentle, scenic walk that passes the historic coal bore site before continuing to Shelly Beach, Griffiths Point, and Quarry Rocks. Quarry Rocks holds special historical significance—stone quarried here in the 1870s was used to construct business chambers in Melbourne.

These trails highlight the region’s rugged natural beauty and provide peaceful opportunities for birdwatching, coastal exploration, and quiet reflection.

Accommodation & Visitor Amenities

San Remo caters to all types of travellers, offering:

• Caravan parks and holiday parks
• Comfortable motels
• Boutique coastal stays
• Family‑friendly holiday rentals

The compact town centre is filled with cafés, restaurants, pubs, and specialty shops—many boasting panoramic water views across to Phillip Island. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or an extended coastal holiday, San Remo’s relaxed atmosphere and convenient amenities make it an ideal base for exploring the Bass Coast.

Getting to San Remo

Located approximately 125 kilometres south‑east of Melbourne, San Remo is an easy 90‑minute drive via the South Gippsland and Bass Highways. Its position at the foot of the Phillip Island Bridge makes it the perfect launch point for exploring the island’s world‑famous attractions, including:

• The Penguin Parade
• Koala Conservation Reserve
• Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
• Pristine surf beaches and coastal lookouts

Nearby Towns & Coastal Highlights

Travellers often pair their visit to San Remo with stops in neighbouring towns, each offering its own unique charm:

Town	Highlights
Phillip Island (Newhaven, Cowes, Rhyll, Cape Woolamai)	Wildlife encounters, beaches, motorsport, family attractions
Kilcunda	Coastal cliffs, surf beaches, George Bass Walk
Wonthaggi	Shopping, dining, State Coal Mine
Inverloch	Calm beaches, water sports, fossil sites
Corinella	Fishing, boating, peaceful coastal scenery
Grantville	Family attractions, Western Port views
Bass	Rural landscapes, local history
Cape Paterson	Rock pools, beaches, scenic drives

These nearby destinations enrich any Bass Coast itinerary, offering everything from nature‑based adventures to culinary experiences and cultural discoveries.

Why San Remo Belongs on Your Travel List

With its blend of coastal beauty, historic charm, fresh local seafood, and unbeatable access to Phillip Island, San Remo stands out as one of Victoria’s most memorable seaside destinations. Whether you’re chasing ocean views, wildlife encounters, outdoor adventure, or simply a peaceful place to unwind, this vibrant coastal village offers an unforgettable escape on the Bass Coast.