My partner and I visited Wilsons Promontory National Park from October 6th to 8th, 2023, just for the weekend, but I could easily spend more than a weekend here; there is so much to do and see. In October, it is spring in Victoria, Australia (spring is September, October, and November), but because it is in the south and right along the coast, it is usually colder.
We stayed in Sandy Point at Prom Coast Apartments, which is a 49-minute car ride to the entrance of Wilsons Promontory National Park, then another 30 minutes by car to get to Tidal River campground. It’s advisable to drive at a slower pace during early mornings and before sunset at night to avoid any potential encounters with animals that are often active during those times.
Nestled in the heart of Sandy Point, Victoria, the Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park is my go-to haven for coastal serenity. This unique park is a testament to the diverse beauty of nature, where the calm waters of the Inlet meet the dynamic energy of the Southern Ocean. Whether I’m seeking a tranquil spot for birdwatching, windswept dunes to explore, or a peaceful stretch of beach to unwind, this park has it all. Its unspoiled landscapes and rich biodiversity make it a perfect escape from the everyday hustle, offering a glimpse into the untamed wonders of Victoria’s coastal ecosystem.
Food Supplies
I recommend planning your meals in advance and completing any major grocery shopping before arriving near Sandy Point. There are no large supermarkets in the area—only a general store that carries a wide range of items, but not everything you might need.
Sandy Point General Store 107 Beach Parade, Sandy Point VIC 3959, Hours:Tuesday to Monday 8am to 6pm, Phone: (03) 5684 1362
Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Sandy Point in Victoria, Australia, the Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park is a well-kept secret, waiting to be discovered. This enchanting coastal park offers a unique blend of unspoiled natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and a peaceful ambiance that makes it an ideal escape for nature lovers. Join me on a virtual journey as we uncover the wonders of Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park, a place where tranquility and the wild beauty of the Southern Ocean converge.
A Coastal Sanctuary
Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park stands as a testament to the pristine allure of nature. With its serene inlets, pristine beaches, and windswept dunes, it’s the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re a beachcomber, a birdwatcher, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, this park offers something for everyone.
Birdwatcher’s Delight
Bird enthusiasts will find Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park a true haven. The park hosts a diverse range of avian species, from majestic seabirds to delicate waders. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Coastal Walks and Hikes
For those who love to explore on foot, the park offers a network of scenic walking tracks. Meander through coastal dunes, lush wetlands, and windswept heathlands, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the coastal environment.
Water Adventures
The park’s sheltered inlets provide the ideal setting for water-based activities. Kayaking, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular choices for visitors looking to cool off and enjoy the calm waters. Fishing enthusiasts will find a variety of fish species to catch, making it a rewarding experience for all levels of anglers.
The Gateway: Sandy Point
Sandy Point, a charming seaside town, serves as the gateway to the Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park. With its golden sandy beach and excellent surfing conditions, it’s a perfect complement to your park visit. Enjoy a relaxing day by the sea and savor delicious local cuisine at the town’s cafes and restaurants.
Practical Information
- Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park is approximately a three-hour drive from Melbourne, making it an accessible weekend getaway.
- The best time to visit is during the warmer months, from December to March, for the most favorable weather conditions.
- Accommodation options in Sandy Point range from holiday homes to cozy cottages, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park, cradled within the natural beauty of Sandy Point, Victoria, Australia, is a coastal paradise that’s too good to miss. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, outdoor adventures, or a close encounter with the diverse flora and fauna of the region, this hidden gem has it all. It offers a tranquil escape from the hustle of daily life, allowing you to connect with the untamed beauty of the Australian coast. Discover the allure of Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park, and create lasting memories in this coastal haven.
Attractions Near Sandy Point
Shallow Inlet
Nestled at the northern edge of Wilsons Promontory, you’ll discover this tranquil and secluded tidal waterway.
The serene waters are ideal for a range of activities, from swimming and sailing to surfing and sea kayaking—whatever you enjoy, it’s likely been experienced here. The surrounding woodlands are alive with native wildlife and a vibrant array of bird species.
Shallow Inlet is famous for its fishing opportunities, where you can catch salmon, trevally, large flathead, and King George Whiting. The area is equipped with amenities like toilets and barbecue facilities.
Thanks to the well-compacted sand, you can drive vehicles onto the beach for easier access to the water, but remember to check tide times before doing so.
Patrols: None
Hazard Rating: 3/10. During severe weather, the entrance may not be easily navigable, and there could be significant changes to the channel configuration.
Foreshore: The beach is exceptionally wide and sandy. The inlet, which extends for 18 km, features compact sand.
Activities: Popular activities include swimming, windsurfing, kite surfing, and fishing.
Boat Ramp or Jetty: Access for launching is available via sand. Check tide schedules before launching.
Access: Convenient access is provided via a short walk from the car park on Sandy Point Road to the beach.
Waratah Bay
A tranquil and charming coastal town is ready to welcome you.
Located close to untouched landscapes, the town features a pristine beach with stunning views of Wilsons Promontory’s rising mountains across the bay. Its beautiful coastline and peaceful atmosphere offer an ideal escape into nature.
BEACH The shoreline provides a family-friendly beach experience with amenities like toilets and picnic areas. It’s a great spot for swimming, fishing, and surfing. Offshore Surf School is available for beginners or those wanting to improve their skills, offering both group and private surfing lessons.
FISHING For ocean fishing, visit Waratah Bay Caravan Park to stock up on bait. Although there isn’t a boat ramp, launching a small boat from the beach is a viable option. Just past the breakers is a great spot for catching whiting, with flathead, Australian salmon, and gummy sharks also commonly found in the area. For the best results, fish during the incoming tide to boost your chances of a successful catch.
Patrols: Absent
Hazard Rating: 6/10. Notable for high winds and strong currents.
Foreshore: The bay is open and faces south, boasting a 15 km long beach that is broad and flat. Typically, conditions are calm.
Activities: Suitable for swimming, occasional surfing, fishing, rock pooling, and family outings.
Boat Launching: Boats can be launched from the beach during periods of low waves.
Access: Conveniently accessed via brief bush and sand tracks from nearby carparks.
Wilsons Promontory
Join us in this invitation: It’s time to indulge yourself with a visit to one of the most magical places on Earth.
At the southern tip of the Australian mainland lies the celebrated Wilsons Promontory National Park, affectionately called The Prom. This park features a stunning array of landscapes: granite-covered hills meet pristine white sand beaches, and vivid orange lichen-coated boulders contrast beautifully with the turquoise waters. With fern-filled gullies, sweeping sand dunes, and abundant wildlife, it’s one of the few places where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
Check out my blog post on Wilsons Promontory at the end of this post for the links.
Beaches
Charming names like Fairy Cove, Squeaky Beach, Waterloo Bay, and Whisky Bay conjure images of picturesque shorelines. From hidden coves to expansive sandy beaches that reach toward the horizon, Wilsons Promontory is renowned for its striking turquoise waters and breathtaking coastlines.
Walking
A network of walking trails beckons you to explore every corner of the national park. From the breathtaking panoramic views atop Mt Oberon to multi-day hikes leading to the remote lighthouse, you’ll journey through lush, emerald fern-filled gullies and across sweeping sand dunes.
Wildlife
If we offered refunds for wildlife sightings, we’d be broke! Within the park, you’ll find all your favorite native animals, both furry and feathered, ready for discovery.
Watch for emus and kangaroos as you drive through the plains near the Airfield upon entering the park. At Tidal River Campground, you’ll meet resident rosellas and a fearless wombat population (so be sure to secure your tents). Lazy seal colonies lounge at the base of Skull Rock, and playful dolphins dance in the waves.
Wanderer Adventures
Discover Wilsons Promontory from a new perspective aboard the yellow ecoboats. Dive into adventure and uncover the hidden wonders of this captivating marine national park. Join the 2.5-hour Wilsons Promontory Cruise, departing from Tidal River, and explore the rugged coastline, inaccessible beaches, and secluded islands.
For more information click on the link provided https://www.visitgippsland.com.au/outdoor-activities/wilsons-promontory-cruises—pennicott-wilderness-journeys
Accommodation
Tidal River provides a range of accommodation choices, from camping and cabins to lodges and Wilderness Retreats (safari-style tents with extra comforts).
Roofed accommodations are in high demand, so it’s advisable to book early to ensure you get your preferred option.
Accessibility
Wilsons Promontory provides a range of accessible beaches, accommodation options, and facilities within the park, along with free equipment hire.
Accessible toilets are scattered throughout Tidal River. Visitors with physical disabilities can use free all-terrain wheelchairs, a TrailRider, and beach wheelchairs to enhance their outdoor experience. Additionally, a beach access wheelchair is available for children.
Cape Liptrap Coastal Park
Cape Liptrap stretches from the windswept shores of Point Smythe to the tranquil waters of Waratah Bay, showcasing its captivating beauty.
The coastal park’s charm goes beyond its golden beaches. Banksia woodlands give way to limestone cliffs that drop into the ocean, featuring an iconic lighthouse, vibrant azure waters, and stunning views across the bay to Wilsons Promontory.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Take in the breathtaking views from Cape Liptrap Lighthouse, with a simple, self-guided walk that includes interpretive signs about its historical significance.
- Discover the mangroves, which are rich with unique birdlife.
- Camp at Bear Gully under the shade of banksias and drift off to the calming sound of waves on the shore.
- Try fishing from the rugged shorelines around Walkerville.
Walking
Point Smythe Beach
On a gray autumn or winter day when outdoor activities might seem less inviting, head to Cape Liptrap Coastal Park for a scenic and invigorating walk. The tea tree and banksia woodlands offer protection from the wind as the trail meanders through lush coastal vegetation, eventually leading to Point Smythe Beach. Even on cloudy days, the beach provides stunning photo opportunities.
Location: Cape Liptrap Coastal Park
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 2 hours
Grade: Level 3
Start/Finish: End of Lees Rd, Venus Bay
Check out my blog post on Venus Bay: Bushwalking to Point Smythe
Anderson To San Remo Shared Pathway
Energize yourself on this peaceful yet invigorating trail.
Connecting the charming village of Anderson with the more lively San Remo, this path offers a rewarding journey. Start in the morning to reach San Remo by midday and catch the local pelican feeding frenzy, where co-op members hand-feed the eager birds.
Throughout the walk, take in the soothing vistas of the magnificent Western Port Bay.
Location: San Remo
Distance: 8 km return
Duration: 2 hours
Grade: Level 3
Start/Finish: Anderson Interchange car park, at the roundabout
Limeburners Walk
This trail connects North and South Walkerville, following the coastal contours and leading to the historic lime kilns.
These kilns, which produced quicklime—a key ingredient in cement—operated until 1954. As you walk, you can also explore the Walkerville Historic Cemetery and relax on a peaceful stretch of beach.
Location: Walkerville
Distance: 1.5 km return
Duration: 40 minutes
Grade: Level 2
Start/Finish: The end of Bayside Dr, on the cliff behind the lime kilns
Walkerville Overlook Walk
Wander through the coastal woodlands of the picturesque Cape Liptrap Coastal Park.
The trail winds from the Walkerville North campground to a lookout offering views over the bay. From the viewing platform, relish the sea spray from the turquoise waters below and marvel at the majestic, rugged peaks of Wilsons Promontory in the distance.
Location: Cape Liptrap Coastal Park
Distance: 1.2 km one way
Duration: 45 minutes
Grade: Level 2
Start/Finish: Walkerville Camping Reserve
Fishing
Cast your line from the beach or rocks along Walkerville’s shoreline. With plenty of kingfish, snapper, trumpeter, and parrotfish around, a seafood dinner is easily within reach. You can also launch your boat right from Walkerville’s beach.
Anderson Inlet’s sheltered waters are full of flathead, salmon, whiting, mullet, and trevally. For surf fishing, try your luck at Venus Bay Beach.
Great Southern Rail Trail
Nyora to Port Welshpool | 109 km One-Way
This remarkable trail winds through South Gippsland’s famous green hills, providing stunning 360-degree views and passing through picturesque villages. If the full distance seems overwhelming, you can enjoy the trail in shorter segments, with numerous access points and villages along the way.
It’s also popular with horse riders, with dedicated horse parking available at Sagasser Park in Toora.
AT A GLANCE
Distance: 109 km
Start: Nyora Railway Precinct, Mitchell St
Finish: Port Welshpool
Track: Compacted gravel surface
Grade: Level 1 (The sections between Loch and Korumburra, and Fish Creek and Foster, are Level 2)
Getting There: Take the Monash Fwy (M1) and South Gippsland Hwy (A440), then turn onto Lang Lang – Poowong Rd to arrive at Nyora.
For more information click on the link provided https://www.visitgippsland.com.au/do-and-see/outdoor-activities/cycling/great-southern-rail-trail
South Gippsland Beaches
The charm of South Gippsland’s celebrated beaches is simply irresistible.
Spanning miles, these beaches feature pristine sands, secluded coves, and enticing cliff-top trails, complemented by quaint coastal villages.
Relax on the golden sands and soak up the sun, or dive into adventure with some thrilling surfboarding in the deep blue sea. The coastline, extending from Phillip Island to the breathtaking Wilsons Promontory, is best experienced along the Penguins to Prom Drive.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Wilsons Promontory is renowned for its stunning turquoise coastline and magnificent beaches.
- Family-friendly swimming is abundant along South Gippsland’s beaches, including Cape Paterson, Inverloch Foreshore, Waratah Bay, Anderson Inlet, and Port Welshpool.
- Explore the marine and coastal parks of the Bunurong Coast, known for its dramatic seascapes, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves, by taking the Bunurong Coastal Drive, which follows the coastline for 14 km to Inverloch.
- The 23 km Bass Coast Rail Trail, Victoria’s only coastal rail trail, offers sweeping views of Bass Strait as it meanders through rugged coastline, bushland, and farmland.
- Experience the thrill of kite-surfing with the wind at your back at popular spots like Venus Bay and Inverloch.
For more information click on the link provided https://www.visitgippsland.com.au/do-and-see/nature-and-wildlife/beaches/south-gippsland-beaches
Fish Creek
Set in the midst of picturesque, lush countryside, this delightful township radiates a charming village atmosphere.
A perfect retreat for explorers, it features boutique shops, galleries, and cafes with stunning rural views. Celebrated as an arts and culture center in South Gippsland, Fish Creek boasts a vibrant community of artists who have made it their home..
For more information click on the link provided https://www.visitgippsland.com.au/destinations/south-gippsland/fish-creek
Key Packing List
Tap here to check out my packing list
Places To Get Food
- Wilsons Prom Licensed Pizza restaurant
- Walkerville Kiosk
- Foster Take Away
- Braidoss Takeaway
- FoodWorks
- Promontory Restaurant and Winery
- Latte Dah Cafe
- Tarwin Fuel Supplies
- Gibsons
- The Kitchen Table
- Toora Woodfired Pizza
- Little Oberon
- CoCo De Mer Cafe
- The Bird & The Wolf Cafe
- Foster Exchange Hotel
- Ando’s Bakery
- Churchill Chinese Restaurant
- McDonald’s
- Evo’s Real Food Real Fast
- Bk’s Takeaway
- Mighty Kebab Leongatha
- Papa’s Rich Noodles
- KFC Leongatha
- Cafe Escargot
- Pearl Inverloch
- The Bayside Lady
- Invy Kebabs
- Radius Restaurant
- Inverloch Fish & Chips
- Renzos on the Ridge
- MK Thai
- Agapi Fish & Chips
- Avonleigh Farm Fine Food
- Cavity
- Wakachi Sushi
- The Bay Gourmet
- 4shore Pizza & Pasta
- Mighty Cafe
- Trulli Pantry/Outdoors
- Lime and Co Cantina
- Trulli Cucina Povera
- The Chutney Bar
- The Local Inverloch
- Serafinos Blue Lounge Pizzeria
- Luscious Cafe
Accomodation:
This is the accommodation I selected for my stay, The hosts were very welcoming and shared valuable insights about local attractions and activities.
Prom Coast Apartments 73 The Blvd, Sandy Point VIC 3959,
- Prom Coast Holiday Lodge
- Wilsons Prom Holiday Park
- Sandy Point Beach Escape
- Tidal River Units
- Olivi
- Black Cockatoo Cottages
- Sandy point hideaway
- Limosa Rise
- Promhills Cabins
- Boutique Room – Wamoon Retreat
- The Vibe – Sandy Point
- Driftwood Villas
- Wamoon Retreat
- Prom Coast – Seabreeze
- Buln Buln Cabins
- Long Jetty Caravan Park
- Tindoona Cottages
- Fish Creek Hotel
- Black Taigh
- Prom Gate Getaway
- Tidal Dreaming Seaview Cottages
- 43 Oceanview Parade
- Sandy Star
- Prom Country Lodge
- Fish Creek Adrift Accommodation
- The Church House Gourmet Retreat
- Prom Central Caravan Park
- Bear Gully Coastal Cottages
- Aashay Country Stay
- Surfside 2, Sandy Point
- The Vibe Sandy Point
- Walkerville Foreshore Camping Reserve
- Toora Tourist Park
- The White House Sandy Point
- Anderson Ave, Sandy Point – 4 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, sleeps 8
- Sandy Point Log Cabin
- Benwerrin House
- The Sands – Fifth Avenue, Sandy Point
- 28 Ennisvale Avenue
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at a shallow inlet?
At the northern edge of Wilsons Promontory, you’ll find a tranquil and secluded tidal waterway. These waters are perfect for swimming, sailing, surfing, and sea kayaking—virtually any water activity you can imagine has been enjoyed here.
Can you fish at a shallow inlet?
Shallow Inlet is a small tidal waterway situated on the eastern side of Waratah Bay. Although much of the inlet dries up at low tide and the entrance depth fluctuates, it remains suitable for small recreational and fishing boats.
Is it more difficult to swim in shallow water?
Unless the water is so shallow that the swimmer’s chest occupies a significant portion of the total depth, the drag forces will be the same in both shallow and deep water. As a result, swimming will require the same amount of effort.
Is there fishing in the shallow inlet at Sandy Point?
Shallow Inlet is renowned for fishing, offering salmon, trevally, sizable flathead, and King George Whiting as the day’s catch. Visitors can find toilets and barbecue facilities at the inlet. Additionally, the firm, compacted sand allows vehicles to drive directly onto the beach, providing enhanced access to the water.
What is Sandy Point known for?
Situated along the breathtaking coastline of Waratah Bay, Sandy Point is a quaint coastal village. Its population surges during the summer months due to its renown as a wind-surfing paradise. The town is nestled behind undulating sand dunes, with coastal trails leading down to the sandy shores.
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Sandy Point: Exploring the Tranquil Beauty of Waratah Bay and Shallow Inlet Coastal Reserve
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