Located on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, the Bay of Islands Coastal Park is a must-see. Often overlooked by its more famous neighbours, the Twelve Apostles, this little-known gem has stunning rock formations, beautiful beaches and wildlife. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer or adventurer, the Bay of Islands Coastal Park will be an experience you’ll never forget.
Bay of Islands
- Rock Formations The Bay of Islands Coastal Park is famous for its dramatic limestone rock stacks and spires that rise up from the Southern Ocean. These formations, created over centuries of wind and water erosion, provide a stunning backdrop to the turquoise water and golden beaches. Popular lookouts like the Bay of Martyrs and Peterborough offer breathtaking views and ocean views. The geology and cliffs make it a must-see for coastal landscape enthusiasts.
- Beaches and Beach Coves The park has secluded beaches and beach coves to escape to. The sandy beach shores are perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or just taking in the natural beauty. Swimming is not always recommended due to strong currents, but the beaches are great for rock pooling and enjoying the sea breeze. Iconic beaches in the area provide a unique backdrop for coastal park photos and videos.
- Wildlife and Cultural Heritage Wildlife lovers will love the park’s diverse fauna. Keep an eye out for seabirds like gannets, oystercatchers, kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas in the surrounding areas. The park has a rich cultural heritage with heritage walks and information on the history of the area. The lookouts provide opportunities to see wildlife while taking in the ocean views.
- Walking Trails and Lookouts The Bay of Islands Coastal Park has several walking trails, including clifftop walks that access lookouts and natural attractions. These trails range from short and easy to longer and more challenging. Some may have a slight incline or extra distance, but the views and experience are worth it. Don’t miss the walking tracks to the Bay of Islands Lookout and Boat Bay which will give you great shots for your location gallery or coastal park photos. The cliffs and rugged coastline add to the park’s coastline views.
- Photography and Filming The Bay of Islands Coastal Park is a photographer’s and filmmaker’s dream, as is its rugged coastline, sunsets, and unique geology. The rugged coastline, cliffs and rock stacks are an iconic location. Image and coastal park video descriptions showcase this stunning coastline and are a popular spot for original audio and digital content. Offshore rock stacks and limestone spires are a visual feast for any gallery.
- Accessibility and Fun Spots The park is designed to be accessible for everyone, where possible we have met accessibility standards. Keyboard navigation tools are available for those with specific needs and there are fun spots and nearby camping spots to stay overnight. Families and adventurers will love the park’s attractions from clifftop walks to secluded beaches.
- Nearby Attractions and Tours Combine your visit with other Great Ocean Road highlights like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and Port Campbell. Don’t forget to visit Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve and Warrnambool, both have unique experiences and rich cultural heritage. Hot springs and iconic surf spots are part of the road trip fun. For a guided Great Ocean tour book with Autopia Tours who are experts in parks and Great Ocean Road.
Visitor Info
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. Winter is best for whale watching.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, water and snacks. Keyboard navigation tools for those with specific needs.
- Safety: Be careful near cliff edges and follow signs. Swimming is not recommended in most areas due to strong currents.
- Nearby: Include beaches and hot springs in your Great Ocean Road trip or network of country roads. Use the park as a base to explore other Great Ocean Road attractions.
Accommodation and Camping
There is no camping in the park, but nearby towns of Peterborough and Port Campbell have a range of options from budget to luxury. Check nightly, average or monthly prices for accommodation to suit your needs. For camping, designated camping spots near the park are the perfect spot to get back to nature. Discover the Bay of Islands Coastal Park and add it to your Great Ocean Road trip. Its natural beauty, cultural heritage and accessibility standards make it a must-see for anyone who wants to get up close to Australia’s rugged coast. For a guided Great Ocean day tour, book with Wildlife Tours who are experts in parks and Great Ocean Road.
FAQ
What is the Bay of Islands Coastal Park?
Bay of Islands Coastal Park is a conservation area along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia: limestone cliffs, secluded beaches and wildlife.
How do I get to Bay of Islands Coastal Park?
250km southwest of Melbourne. Access via Great Ocean Road, parking at lookout points.
Are there any entry fees?
No, free to visit. Donations appreciated.
Can I swim at the beaches?
No, strong currents and unpredictable conditions. Beach coves are great for exploring and relaxing.
What are the best lookouts?
Bay of Islands Lookout, Bay of Martyrs, Peterborough. Each has great views of the coastline, offshore rock stacks and limestone stacks.