Things to Do in San Remo
Named after the Italian Riviera resort, this place is a convenient entry point to the popular tourist destination of Phillip Island. It used to be a hub for shark fishing but now relies mainly on tourism for economic support. One of the main tourist attractions is the pelican feeding, which has become a must-see activity for visitors heading to Phillip Island.
San Remo's commercial centre is bustling with cafes, bakeries, restaurants, and souvenir shops. It is also a popular fishing port where visitors can observe boats bringing in fresh catches of the day and enjoy meals with sea views.
You can visit this coastal town by going on a Phillip Island Tour.
Activities and sights in San Remo
Enjoy fresh seafood at San Remo Fish N Chippery
San Remo is famous for its fresh seafood restaurants, but for a more authentic experience, you can go on a charter boat and catch your fish. The best place for fish and chips is the 1948-established Fish N Chippery by the Fishermen's Co-op. They also have a dining area for 60 customers with shore views. Enjoy locally caught seafood with a spectacular view.
Discover the historical roots of San Remo
San Remo's ancient scenery is stunning, featuring soaring cliffs and deserted beaches along the coastline. Quarry Rocks is a historical site where stone was quarried for Melbourne's banks and business chambers centuries ago. You can explore this area by taking the 5.6-kilometre Old Granite Quarry Walk, which passes by Cape Woolamai and the old quarry site.
Live Like a Local
Central San Remo has a bustling and lively ambience. You can visit local cafes and family-run restaurants to try native dishes. The San Remo Bakehouse is a popular spot known for its award-winning pies and artisan bread. There are also local galleries to explore and wildlife encounters at the jetty, where you can watch and feed the local pelicans. You can enjoy a picnic on the sandy beach or in designated picnic areas in the afternoon. Alternatively, you can grab a bite at one of the fresh bakeries in the town centre.
Bike around Cowes Pier
Cycling is a popular activity in this part of Australia due to the beautiful scenery and coastal trails. Start your trip at the bridge to Phillip Island and end at Cowes Jetty, passing by various attractions. Try the 12.55-kilometre trail from San Remo to Churchill Island for a more challenging ride. This route is ideal for intermediate cyclists and should take less than an hour to complete, crossing the bridge from San Remo to Newhaven before reaching Churchill Island.
Consider hiking to Kilcunda
The George Bass Coastal Walk from San Remo to Kilcunda offers a scenic route for those who prefer walking over cycling. Visitors can explore historic landmarks and enjoy the ancient scenery along the way.
Visiting the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
Just a few kilometres outside of San Remo is the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory. Inside, you'll find a world of decadent chocolate and creamy sweets. The factory includes a retail shop and café for all your sugar cravings and activities and displays for the whole family to enjoy. Check out the world's largest chocolate waterfall, a miniature village made of chocolate, and even try to make your chocolate masterpiece.
Explore at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum
The Vietnam Veterans Museum, initially a mobile exhibition travelling Australia, is now permanently located in Newhaven with expanded displays, including a Light & Sound Show, changing exhibitions, and an extensive collection of artefacts donated by soldiers of the Vietnam War.
Attendees can cruise at the Kustom Nationals Festival
San Remo hosts the Kustom Nationals Beach Party annually, showcasing pre-1976 vehicles modified by enthusiasts. The festival includes rockabilly bands performing over three days. Attendees from across Australia come to see the car modifications and enjoy the lifestyle traders' stalls and daily entertainment at the event.