Victoria’s glittering stretch of coastline lends itself to a wealth of astounding experiences.
Sure, we all know about the Twelve Apostles, and they certainly warrant their time in the sun. Yet epic attractions extend from Gippsland to the Great Ocean Road and everywhere in between.
So, we’ve rounded up a super selection of coastal Victoria activities to inspire your next break.
From the famous to the underrated and the freebies to the indulgent, hit the coast for these memorable attractions.
Located offshore from jewel-laden Wilsons Promontory National Park, this towering cranium-shaped creation is gob-smacking. Also known as Cleft Island, it exudes eeriness, and the rock’s cave-like opening only adds to the visual feast.
Cruises from Tidal River within Wilsons Prom reach Skull Rock and take in plenty more alluring scenery. Explore it all on a day trip from Inverloch, just over an hour’s drive to Tidal River.
Nearby parks: Wilsons Prom Holiday Park or nearby Long Jetty Caravan Park or a little further afield at BIG4 Ingenia Inverloch, Ingenia Inverloch Foreshore or Ingenia Cape Paterson.
As Melbourne’s first seaport, Williamstown has a rich past. And it retains that historical vibe through various maritime attractions coupled with bold heritage buildings that overlook its vibrant waterfront precinct.
Just 15km from the CBD, Williamstown is positioned at the mouth of the Yarra River where it enters Hobsons Bay and Port Phillip. And the views extending to Melbourne’s skyline are absolutely glorious.
Nearby parks: BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park or BIG4 Dandenong Tourist Park.
While those aforementioned Apostles steal much airtime, this friendly neighbour is arguably just as impressive.
Dedicated viewing platforms reveal towering windswept cliffs that have been carved with a slender opening out to the rugged waters. This dramatic formation is named after a ship that struck grief at a nearby island, and the gripping story can be retraced at the site.
Nearby parks: NRMA Port Campbell or a little further afield at BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces, Tasman - Warrnambool, NRMA Warrnambool Riverside or BIG4 Port Fairy.
Whether you’re an avid surfer or not, a visit to Bells Beach is one for the bucket-list. This famous stretch of sand hosts the world-renowned Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition at Easter and attracts keen boarders year round.
For those who prefer to stay dry, there are several excellent clifftop vantage points that take in sweeping vistas of these sparkling waters.
Nearby park: Ingenia Holidays Torquay, BIG4 Anglesea or BIG4 Aireys Inlet.
It’s with good reason that this activity is regarded as one of the best things to do in Victoria. Watching on as these adorable little penguins return to shore at night and waddle to their homes is a truly special experience. Various packages are available to witness the nightly procession.
And it’s just one of many engrossing coastal experiences on Phillip Island. For starters, a network of breathtaking walking tracks takes in stunning scenery: Try the paths to Pyramid Rock and Cape Woolamai.
Nearby park: BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island, Phillip Island Park Lane Holiday Park and NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park.
The Bellarine Peninsula allows for ample coastal adventures, and among the highlights is Point Lonsdale. Positioned at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay, Point Lonsdale gifts stunning water views from several vantage points.
Stroll along the inviting beach or jetty or follow the scenic seaside path that extends to Queenscliff. Point Lonsdale Lighthouse is a landmark of the area and tours reach its top where more spectacular outlooks are revealed. Swimming, snorkelling, and fishing are among leading activities here.
Nearby parks: BIG4 Ingenia Queenscliff Beacon or BIG4 Bellarine Holiday Park.
Wye River is often overshadowed by its busier Great Ocean Road neighbours, but that is a huge part of its allure. The quiet township has all that’s needed for a relaxing escape – a beautiful sheltered beach, amenities that include a general store and café, and a great pub that overlooks the sparkling waters. Bliss.
In addition, there’s plenty of wildlife in these parts, and excellent koala-viewing opportunities abound.
Nearby park: BIG4 Wye River Holiday Park.
Lakes Entrance is one of those destinations where the relaxing vibe is instantly attainable, and Ninety Mile Beach only serves to amplify that feeling. This long stretch of golden sand separates the famed Gippsland Lakes from Bass Strait, and from some vantage points it appears to go on forever.
Swimming and fishing are popular activities, and the Trinculo shipwreck makes for excellent photos.
Nearby parks: BIG4 Waters Edge Holiday Park, BIG4 Whiters Holiday Village and NRMA Eastern Beach Holiday Park.
Mornington Peninsula bursts with magnificent coastal scenery, and a visit to this popular national park encapsulates the immense beauty.
Located at the tip of the peninsula, Point Nepean showcases dazzling views incorporating the likes of Bass Strait and Port Phillip Bay, which are easily admired on various walking and cycling tracks. The park is steeped in fascinating military history, too.
Nearby park: BIG4 Mornington Peninsula Holiday Park.
One of the best things to do in Warrnambool won’t cost you a cent. At Logan Beach there’s a dedicated whale-watching platform just metres from the car park, and it’s the perfect place to witness the wonders of nature.
Not surprisingly, it’s full of footprints during whale-watching season (June-September). But outside of these times it’s still a great place to watch the rolling waves, breathe in the fresh sea air, and take prized pics.
Nearby parks: Tasman - Warrnambool, NRMA Warrnambool Riverside or nearby at BIG4 Port Fairy Holiday Park.
