Paddle calm coastal waters with the Foreshore Tour on Phillip Island. Perfect for beginners and families, this one-hour sea kayaking journey reveals stunning cliffs and native wildlife up close.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; ideal for beginners and families.
Wildlife
History
Phillip Island is traditionally home to the Boonwurrung people, with deep cultural ties to the sea.
Conservation
Operators follow strict guidelines to minimize wildlife disturbance and preserve water quality.
Pioneer Kayaking
Paddle calm coastal waters with the Foreshore Tour on Phillip Island. Perfect for beginners and families, this one-hour sea kayaking journey reveals stunning cliffs and native wildlife up close.
Pioneer Kayaking is a sea kayaking operator based in Newhaven, Victoria, offering guided paddles around Phillip Island. The business provides four signature tours: the one‑hour Foreshore Tour, the three‑hour Cape Woolamai Coastal Tour, the two‑hour Rhyll Wetlands Tour, and the two‑hour Churchill Island Historic Tour. Each guided trip focuses on safe, accessible exploration of local coastlines and waterways.
The Foreshore Tour is a relaxed, beginner‑friendly one‑hour paddle along Phillip Island’s shoreline that introduces paddling basics and coastal scenery for families and first‑time kayakers. The Cape Woolamai Coastal Tour is a longer three‑hour journey that follows the Woolamai Coast to explore caves, granite cliffs, and secluded beaches. The Rhyll Wetlands Tour visits mangroves and mudflats, offering close observation of migratory and resident birds across a two‑hour paddle. The Churchill Island Historic Tour is a peaceful two‑hour paddle around Churchill Island, highlighting sheltered bays and coastal waterways.
Pioneer Kayaking focuses on accessible, family‑friendly experiences for small groups and visitors seeking scenic, guided kayak options on Phillip Island. Launches take place from Newhaven, providing direct access to island coasts and nearby waterways. Tour durations range from one to three hours, making the offerings suitable for half‑day scheduling. Tours are scheduled with consideration of weather and local conditions and can suit morning or afternoon departures for small groups and families. Equipment and exact launch details are provided at booking online.
Base Location
Newhaven, VIC
Launch point for all paddles
Trip Durations
1–3 hours
Short and half‑day touring options
Family Friendly
Suitable for families
Beginner‑friendly routes
Tours Offered
4 tours
Foreshore, Woolamai, Rhyll, Churchill
Reserve a spot on a Foreshore, Cape Woolamai, Rhyll Wetlands, or Churchill Island tour from Newhaven.
Wear a Personal Flotation Device
Always wear your PFD during the paddle to ensure safety on open water.
Apply Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine environment with reef-friendly sunscreen.
Check Weather Conditions
Paddle only in calm weather; high winds can make the water choppy and unsafe.
Bring a Dry Bag
Keep your belongings dry by using a waterproof bag during the tour.
Waterproof jacket
To stay comfortable against variable spring coastal winds.
spring
Hat with chin strap
Protects your face from sun glare while paddling.
summer
Lightweight layers
Keeps you warm during cooler autumn mornings.
fall
Neoprene gloves
Helps maintain warmth during colder paddling conditions.
winter