Cowes, Victoria

Cowes
Golden Cypress trees on Thompson Avenue
Cowes
Coordinates: 38°27′04″S 145°14′31″E / 38.45111°S 145.24194°E / -38.45111; 145.24194
CountryAustralia
StateVictoria
LGA
Location
Established1869
Government
 • State electorate
 • Federal division
Area
 • Total
20.7 km2 (8.0 sq mi)
Elevation
12 m (39 ft)
Population
 • Total6,593 (2021 census)
 • Density318.5/km2 (824.9/sq mi)
Postcode
3922
CountyMornington
Mean max temp18.8 °C (65.8 °F)
Mean min temp10.3 °C (50.5 °F)
Annual rainfall763.4 mm (30.06 in)

Cowes is the main township on Phillip Island in the Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia. Located approximately two hours' drive from Melbourne, it is also accessible from Melbourne by bus or passenger ferry from Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula. Positioned on the northern coast of Phillip Island, Cowes faces French Island and the Mornington Peninsula, offering sweeping views across Western Port Bay. According to the 2021 census, Cowes had a population of 6,593. Its north-facing Cowes Beach was named the 10th best beach in Australia for 2025, known for its safe swimming conditions and family-friendly atmosphere.