Although French Island is not a town per-se, we have included it in out towns listings.

A 10 minute ferry ride from Stony Point, near Hastings, or a 20 minute ferry ride from Cowes Jetty on Phillip Island takes you to Tankerton jetty on French Island.

Sheep and cattle graze on the island today although tourism is now the main support to the island's tiny population. The largely unspoilt ecosystem is a major attraction for holiday-makers and nature lovers. It is an excellent spot for walking, nature studies, bus tours and bicycling. You can also visit Tanderum Farm and enjoy the company of Llamas as you take a tour through their organic olive grove.

Hire a bicycle from the French Island General Store/Post Office, Tel: (03) 5980 1209 or take an organised tour with either French Island Tours or French Island Eco Tours.

There are short, half-day and full-day walks on the island. All start at Tankerton Foreshore Reserve. Guides to the routes and other information are available from an information board located next to Tankerton Jetty (where the ferry docks).

French Island supports a large population of the long-nosed potoroo, as well as Australia's largest population of koalas. The island's coastline is predominately salt marsh with flourishing mangroves on the mudflats. Wetlands, mangroves and salt marshes provide spectacular habitat for water birds including sea eagles. Over 230 bird species have been recorded on the island as well as 33 species of waders that forage in the mud-flats for shell-fish, crabs, worms and other small animals. Migratory waders, such as the Eastern Curlew, may also be seen feeding on Ghost Shrimps and crabs. There are around 600 plant specieson the island including 100 species of orchid. The interior is mostly heathland with magnificent wildflower displays in spring.

Below please find a quick reference for things to do, places to stay and places to eat on French Island. If enjoy reading about the history of the Mornington Peninsula, check out our Fascinating Historical Facts.