Almost half of Phillip Island’s population of 9,400 people lives in Cowes. During the summer months, this resort town swells with visitors. A cluster of retailers and cafes hug the gentle slope of Thompson Avenue. Tourists are shaded from the sun by an impressive canopy of Australian golden cypress. These trees can reach a height of 65 feet. Hotels and the best restaurants face the shore along The Esplanade. The most popular watering hole is at the North Pier Hotel.
