Does Phillip Island have Hot Springs? That’s the one question people ask me when that Bass Strait wind is whipping across their face at the Penguin Parade. I’m Paul Beames, and I have to break it to you – Phillip Island doesn’t have any natural hot springs… yet! But things are about to change – the Phillip Island Hot Springs Project is coming in 2026, bringing thermal experiences, bathing spots, and a complete wellness package to the island. To be honest, it’s going to look pretty sweet – set right on the oceanfront near Forrest Caves.
For now, though, some of Victoria’s best geothermal pools are just a short trip off the island. And, guess what? They fit neatly into any Phillip Island itinerary. I know a lot of people are keen to get some warmth after a chilly Penguin Parade, or they’re planning a full Health & Wellbeing break. Either way, I’ll give you the lowdown on what’s open now, what’s coming and how to prepare it without getting caught out by crowds, cold winds or the worst – those massive mozzies that seem to appear out of nowhere.
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Where To Soak Near Phillip Island
There are no operational geothermal pools on the island just yet. Still, when the Phillip Island Hot Springs Retreat finally opens its Lagoon Bathing Precinct and this fabulous reflexology walk network, you’ll be able to get that actual thermal experience right on the Bass Coast. Until then, it’s all hot spring action on the Mornington Peninsula – a pretty straightforward, scenic drive.
The Closest True Geothermal Springs
Here’s what’s available right now:
| Hot Springs Name | Distance From Phillip Island | Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peninsula Hot Springs | ~73 km | ~1 hr 10 min | 70+ geothermal pools, cave baths, family areas |
| Alba Thermal Springs | ~72 km | ~1 hr 5 min | Luxury, quiet, architectural, adults-oriented |
Tourism Research Australia reports wellness tourism growing 6–8% annually, which explains the Victorian Government’s investment in new projects — including the Phillip Island development supported by the Regional Tourism Investment Fund and the Enabling Tourism Fund.
What Makes Peninsula Hot Springs a Solid Addition to Your Trip
I’d stumbled upon a geothermal paradise after a long day exploring Cape Woolamai and Pyramid Rock with a group of tourists. The combination of misty steam, sculpted rock and cave pools pretty much ticked everybox.
What our travellers love:
- The sight of steam drifting over the pools like a mist rolling in off the Southern Ocean.
- Plenty of options to choose from, whether hot, calm, deep, or shallow.
- A pool right at the top of the hill, overlooking the coastline – perfect spot to recharge after battling those Bass Strait winds.
- The place is super family-friendly, with accessible pathways and wheelchair-friendly facilities too.
For those coming off the Surf Beach cliffs or doing a ramble at Forrest Caves, a hot soak really hits the spot after the shock of the cold air.
Alba Thermal Springs: The Sleek, Fancy Cousin
Peninsula Hot Springs is our bustling social hub, but Alba is where to go for a relaxing retreat – think minimalist pool areas, quiet decks and a nod towards serene Japanese onsen culture. It fits nicely with a day of wandering around Phillip Island – past the Vietnam Veterans Museum, around 1215 Phillip Island Road and out towards the eastern edge of the island.
It’s ideal for:
- Couples looking for some severe chill
- Travellers celebrating an anniversary
- Anyone who loves clean modern design and a curated, relaxing experience.
The building style reflects what you see in some new developments on Phillip Island: local stone, water features that reflect the island’s geology, and plants.
How to Build Hot Springs Into a Phillip Island Day Trip
You can combine a soak with your island day without making it a logistical nightmare. Here are a few plans that actually make sense.
Option 1: Penguin Parade + Evening Soak
That’s my go-to for winter.
- Check out the Nobbies boardwalk, it’s really breezy, but the views are stunning.
- Grab an early dinner – I like The Cape Kitchen
- Go to the Penguin Parade
- Soak in the hot springs at night
Why does it work?
- It’s such a great combo of cold air and hot water
- You avoid the crowds of daytime visitors
- You’ll sleep like a baby kangaroo after – very easy going
Option 2: Morning Soak + Afternoon Exploring
Perfect for hot summer days when the morning is the best time to soak.
- Morning soak at Alba or Peninsula
- Grab some lunch in Cowes
- Take a walk to Forrest Caves or Cape Woolamai
- Watch the sunset at Pyramid Rock
Why does it work?
- You can cool off in the morning.
- Less chaos at the pools because the day trippers tend to arrive in the afternoon
- You can relax before even getting to the island
Seasonal Realities You Should Know
The Island changes its personality with every season before our very eyes.
Winter
- Biting winds from the Bass Strait are a given
- That means the hot springs are especially perfect this time of year
- Penguins tend to arrive earlier than usual, too
Spring
- The flowers start blooming, the air cools down, and the birdlife is electric – it’s a lively time.
- You can expect the crowds to get bigger at the Peninsula
- Still a great time for long walks and admiring the clear views
Summer
- Hot days are the norm, but the ocean breeze still provides some relief
- The springs get a fair bit of attention during this time
- And don’t even get started on dehydration – make sure to bring water with you
Autumn
- The crisp, calm days during autumn are truly something special
- And the thermal bathing is just as excellent during this time
- Plus, the crowds tend to be smaller
Local Insight
The island’s unique geology of basalt and sediment doesn’t naturally produce geothermal water – that’s why the upcoming Phillip Island Hot Springs Project will use sustainable systems to combine fresh water with geothermal water, creating various thermal experiences.
This project is being spearheaded by the Onsen Group, guided by experienced groups and organisations, together with local partners and support from the Victorian Government through their tourism initiatives.
Some of the planned features include:
- A lagoon bathing precinct with geothermal pools, perfect for a relaxing soak.
- A reflexology walk circling landscaped areas, to help you unwind.
- Apothecary workshop experiences, using locally sourced Australian botanical ingredients.
- A swim-up bar where you can enjoy a drink while you soak the day away.
- Cultural spaces that have been designed in partnership with the local community.
- A range of accommodation options available, from Original Beach Retreat to Island Beach Retreat – even Forrest Caves Retreat.
- The landscaping has been designed by Karl Russo, incorporating indigenous trees, shrubs and natural geological formations.
AutopiaTours will almost certainly be adding it to our future Phillip Island tour schedules — it’s a natural fit.
FAQ
Does Phillip Island have hot springs right now?
No, not yet. The Phillip Island Hot Springs Project is still in development and is scheduled to open in 2026, with geothermal bathing areas, wellness spaces and a new retreat precinct.
Where can I go to soak until the new Phillip Island springs are open?
Your nearest options are the Peninsula Hot Springs and the Alba Thermal Springs, both about an hour’s drive away.
Will the new Phillip Island springs be wheelchair accessible?
Yes, they will be – the design includes wheelchair-friendly pathways, gentle-gradient walkways and easily accessible bathing areas.
What types of bathing will be available in 2026?
Expect a range of options, including geothermal pools, lagoon-style soaking, reflexology paths, a swim-up bar, and cultural spaces for workshops and therapies.
Who is behind the new development?
The project involves the Onsen Group, Hatcher Advisory, local partners and support from the Victorian Government through their tourism initiatives.