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Bay of Islands Coastal Park
Bay of Islands Coastal Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.
The wild Southern Ocean has carved a stunning collection of rock stacks and sheltered bays with clifftop walks, scenic lookouts and small beach coves near Peterborough along the Great Ocean Road.
Perhaps overshadowed by the Port Campbell and the Twelve Apostles down the road, the Bay of Islands Coastal Park offers just equally spectacular experience without the crowds.
Peterborough is a secret summer destination for many Victorian visitors escaping the busier sections of the Great Ocean Road to the east. The extra distance from Melbourne as well as more remote access means there are far fewer tourists than the nearby Port Campbell National Park.
Bay of Islands beach on Boat Bay Road is one the best spots along the coastline to easily launch a sea kayak and explore the park.
Dogs are welcome on lead at Sandy Cove near Murnanes Bay, but need to kept well away from the area between the high tide marks and edge of the dunes that are home to Hooded Plovers's nests.
The park’s small beaches are not patrolled. Parks Victoria does not recommend them for swimming.
As beaches and coasts are natural environments, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at Bay of Islands Coastal Park is a safe and enjoyable one.
Things To Do
The beaches and dunes through out the Bay of Islands Coastal Park is home to the much loved yet threatened Hooded Plover. Rufous Bristlebirds are also endemic to the coastal heath and shrublands above the famous cliffs, and you're likely to see wallabies as well.
Between May and October Southern Right Whales are often observed offshore at Peterborough.
Fishing
Bird watching
Port Campbell National Park
Wildlife viewing
Peterborough Walk
Tours in the area
Bushwalking, four-wheel driving, horse riding, kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking are just some of the many activities you can experience in Victoria's parks.
If you want to try something new or meet some like-minded people on your next visit to a park, contact a licensed tour operator.
Parks Victoria licenses tour operators who are experts in these activities and more. They will help you get the most out of your visit.
Nearby Events
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How to get there
Bay of Islands Coastal Park
The park continues on from the Port Campbell National Park at Peterborough and extends through to Warrnambool. The visitor areas for the park occur in the Peterborough area. The Bay of Islands Coastal Park is around 400km from Melbourne on the Great Ocean Road and about 670km from Adelaide.
When you're there
Download the Port Campbell National Park and Bay of Islands Coastal Park visitor guide for more information about the park and the plethora of experiences to be had within its borders.
Need to know
Bay of Islands Coastal Park
Accessibility
Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state.
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
Stay safe this summer around beaches
Beaches may have hazards such as steep cliffs, slippery rocks, strong ocean currents, large waves, rips, and sudden changes in weather conditions. Stay safe on your day at the beach by only swimming where there are lifeguards and by staying in between the red and yellow flags. Always heed warning signs and advice even if you are not planning to go in the water and be aware of changing weather conditions. Always wear a lifejacket whenever boating, rock fishing, or using a watercraft.
