For a well-balanced long weekend escape that caters to both adults and kids, Melbourne and Phillip Island make a compelling duo. From the creative laneways of the city to the coastal charm and quirky attractions of the island, there’s no shortage of memorable moments—especially when travelling as a family.
The trip began with a smooth flight into Melbourne, where our younger traveller made sure her beloved “Ellie” elephant blankie had a clear view out the window. That set the tone—small delights and attention to detail would define the long weekend.
In Melbourne, the base was the Vibe Hotel in the CBD, an excellent choice for families and couples alike. Beyond its central location, it offers well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, and a rooftop bar with one of the better views of the city. Watching the skyline light up while enjoying a quiet drink above the urban bustle is a must-do experience.
Then the Melbourne food scene delivered (as it always does), with a visit to Hawker Hall on Chapel Street. It’s a little drive, but well worth it. The menu is bursting with bold Southeast Asian flavours and the atmosphere buzzes with energy, and has plenty on offer also for any vegetarians accompanying you. A must-visit for food lovers.
One of the more serene highlights came the following morning, watching hot air balloons glide silently across the city skyline—visible from the comfort of the accommodation. It’s these quieter moments that showcase a different side of Melbourne: tranquil, cinematic, and unexpectedly peaceful.
Breakfasts in the laneways bring their own kind of charm. With Melbourne’s signature café culture on full display, people-watching and colouring in becomes the perfect slow start to the day, especially with children in tow. The energy is vibrant but never rushed.
From there, the journey continued down to Phillip Island, where the tempo shifts to a relaxed coastal rhythm. A highlight here is a visit to A Maze’N Things, a family-friendly attraction that delights with optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and a sizeable outdoor maze. Younger visitors especially enjoy the oversized pin art, mirrored rooms, and quirky fish tanks. The maze challenge—collecting all four flags—is surprisingly satisfying and brings out the competitive spirit in all ages.
For lunch, Chapel Lane Restaurant & Bar delivers an impressive experience. With local Riesling on offer, a beautifully curated menu, and an alfresco setting, it provides the ideal location to recharge after a morning of activity. The food is refined without being fussy, and the atmosphere is distinctly laid-back.
This short getaway ticks all the right boxes: culinary variety, family-friendly attractions, moments of serenity, and just enough adventure. Whether you're chasing laneway coffee or conquering a maze on the island, this combination of city and coast makes for a weekend that’s as fulfilling as it is fun.
Over the years, we've been fortunate to check off some of Melbourne’s most iconic dining experiences—including Hawker Hall, Coda, Chin Chin, Atlantica, Flower Drum, Hochi Mama, Nomad, and Maha. With each visit, the city continues to impress. We're already looking forward to discovering more fine dining gems on our next trip. Recommendations are always welcome.
