Perfectly situated at the very entrance to one of Victoria’s most treasured destinations, the San Remo Rest Stop on Phillip Island Road is the essential first port of call for visitors heading to Phillip Island. This public facility serves as the ideal staging point to prepare for your island adventure or to take a final break before returning to the mainland. Its prime location, just metres from the iconic Phillip Island Bridge, offers not only convenience but also spectacular views across the waters of the Western Port bay. It’s the perfect place to pause, stretch your legs, and soak in the fresh sea air and the anticipation of the experiences that lie ahead.
While this is primarily a day-use area not intended for overnight camping, its value to travellers is immense. The site provides clean and accessible public toilets, a fundamental amenity for families and long-distance drivers. The ample parking area can accommodate cars, vehicles with caravans, and motorhomes, making it a hassle-free stop. From here, the entire San Remo foreshore is just a short stroll away. You can grab a coffee and a famous pastry from the adjacent San Remo Bakehouse, enjoy fresh fish and chips from the Fisherman’s Co-op, or simply wander along the scenic coastal path. A major highlight is the daily pelican feeding on the beach, a beloved local tradition that delights visitors of all ages.
The rest stop’s central location within the vibrant township of San Remo means all essential services are within easy reach. You can refuel your vehicle, pick up last-minute supplies, or enjoy a hearty meal at a local pub before continuing your journey. For those travelling in self-contained vehicles, knowing the locations of nearby caravan parks and dump points provides peace of mind. The San Remo Rest Stop is more than just a place to park; it’s an integral part of the Phillip Island experience, offering a moment of comfort and convenience that sets the tone for a memorable visit.
San Remo Rest Stop – VIC Location Map
San Remo Rest Stop
- Address: 180 Phillip Island Rd, San Remo VIC 3925, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -38.5173, 145.3675
Facility Information & Features
- Location: In the centre of San Remo, right before the Phillip Island Bridge.
- Site suitable for: Day use parking for cars, caravans, and motorhomes.
- Road access: Sealed road, main town street.
- Site surface: Asphalt.
- Camping permitted: No, this is a day-use area only. Overnight camping is not permitted.
- Maximum overnight stays: 0.
- Facilities: Picnic tables, waterfront park area.
- Potable water: Yes, public taps available nearby in the park.
- Mobile phone coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers.
- TV reception: Strong digital TV reception.
- Onsite public toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish bins: Yes.
- Open fires: Not permitted.
- Generator use: Not permitted.
- Number of sites available: Large public car park with numerous unmarked spaces.
- Essentials to bring: Not applicable for camping.
- Pet friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash in the park area.
- Fishing: Excellent fishing from the San Remo Jetty nearby.
- Short walks: San Remo Coastal Circuit walk starts nearby.
- Local pubs:
San Remo Hotel (~200 m),
Westernport Hotel (~400 m),
The Jetty Bar & Grill (~250m).
- Places to eat:
San Remo Bakehouse (adjacent),
San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op (~250 m),
Numerous cafes and restaurants within 500m.
- Local attractions:
San Remo Pelican Feeding (~300 m),
Phillip Island Chocolate Factory (~4 km),
The world-famous Penguin Parade (~18 km).
- Nearest caravan parks:
San Remo Holiday Park (~1 km),
BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island (in Newhaven, ~2 km).
- Next Free Camps:
Longwarry North Rest Area (~50 km),
There are very few free camps in this popular tourist region.
- Nearest dump points:
BIG4 Phillip Island (check for public access/fee, ~2 km),
Cowes Caravan Park (~15 km).
- Nearest petrol station: BP and Shell stations within San Remo (~500 m).
- Drinking water resupply: Public taps available at the foreshore park.
- Public toilets: Onsite.
- Seasonal weather forecast:
Mild to warm summers with sea breezes. Cool and often windy winters. Spring and autumn are typically pleasant but can be variable. Always be prepared for coastal weather changes.
