Observatory Point Picnic Area (Point Nepean National Park)

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Observatory Point Picnic Area (Point Nepean National Park)

Only a short walk from the Gunners Cottage Carpark, head to Observatory Point for a scenic Picnic. Take in the vistas over Port Phillip Bay, back towards Melbourne and across the length of the Point Nepean.

How to get there

Observatory Point Picnic Area (Point Nepean National Park)

Need to know

Observatory Point Picnic Area (Point Nepean National Park)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

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. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

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.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

No fishing
No vehicles
No firearms allowed
No generators
Boating zones apply
Management vehicle only
No motorised vehicles, including electric bikes or scooters allowed on management vehicle only paths, tracks or roads
No fires permitted
No horses
No dogs allowed
No camping

Warnings

Water hazards
Strong currents

Rough Surf

Deep water
Animals and pests
Snakes
Other warnings
Unpatrolled area

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

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.

South Channel Fort (Point Nepean National Park) - Tunnels closed

The South Channel Fort and Jetty remains open to public access. However, all access into the sub terrain tunnels/ keep (via Licensed Tour Operators) is currently restricted due to safety concerns - pending further engineering/ technical assessments.

Closures - Fort Nepean

Engine house walking track closed until further notice. Access to Gun emplacements 5 & 6, Engine House, Battery Observation Posts restricted.

Gunners Car Park Closure - 6th January

Gunners Car Park will be closed from 3pm onwards on Saturday 6th of January for a public event.

The shuttle bus service will be operating as normal.

Beach access at The Bend

Beach access from the Bay Beach Walk at The Bend, within Point Nepean National Park, is affected by storm damage.

Altered Front Gate Opening/Closing Times

Point Nepean National Park is open daily. Temporarily vehicles may enter the park between 7am-7pm and can exit at any time. Pedestrians and cyclists can enter and exit the park any time.