Explore
Beaches and coasts
Venture out along Victoria’s dramatic coastline and explore one of the most biodiverse and unique marine ecosystems in the world. The rugged, southern coast of Australia has been isolated for millions of years from other continents due to ocean currents, resulting in unique marine life evolving in many different ways. Home to over 12,000 species of plants and animals, 90% of all marine life here is found nowhere else.
To the east of Melbourne, discover some of Victoria's most spectacular and pristine unspoilt beaches. The broad sandy open beaches of Venus Bay in Cape Liptrap Coastal Park are popular for swimming, surfing and fishing all year round. Travel to spectacular Wilsons Promontory National Park to walk a few of the many coastal trails or experience magnificent views to the coastal headland of Tongue Point. Walk along the expanse of pristine sands in Ninety Mile Beach Marine National Park or follow the far-eastern coastline of Croajingolong National Park, with secluded coastal camping spots perfect for beach walks, birdwatching, boating and fishing.
Head toward the iconic Great Ocean Road to experience the natural beauty of Victoria’s rugged coastal landscape. Take in the fresh ocean breezes and stunning ocean views from towering limestone cliffs. Point Addis Marine National Park features spectacular scenery with wide sandy beaches, crumbling sandstone cliffs and rocky platforms and is home to world renowned surfing reserve, Bells Beach. Step on to the Great Ocean Walk - a one-way long-distance bushwalk extending east to west, just over 100km, between Apollo Bay and the 12 Apostles. Weave your way through coastal heathlands, wild rocky shores and windswept cliff-tops to settle down at night and camp on the beach. Travel beyond the 12 Apostles to the coastlines of Port Campbell National Park and Bay of Islands Coastal Park. Sculpted over millions of years, this special part of Victoria boasts some of the most beautiful natural areas in the world including Loch Ard Gorge and the Bay of Martyrs. Continue along to Discovery Bay Coastal Park to see high coastal cliffs, huge rolling sand dunes and freshwater lakes. Look out over the rocks to see the largest colony of Australian fur seals on the mainland.
Things To Do
This area is well known for its wildlife. Keep an eye out for: