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.
During the summer months (December, January, and February), Wilsons Promontory National Park experiences high popularity, as many people take a couple of weeks off from their jobs. I suggest booking your accommodation early to avoid missing out. While it’s possible to do a day trip if you’re willing to leave early and return late after dinner, there are tours that leave from Melbourne, it’s worth noting that during summer, we have daylight savings, where we turn our clocks forward an hour, providing an extra hour of daylight. However, I would recommend staying as close to the park as possible to avoid excessive driving in a single day.
Experience sweeping vistas spanning Tidal River, the coastline, and distant islands. Be ready for potentially windy, cool, and cloudy conditions at the summit, even during summer. Exercise caution around exposed cliffs. The round trip for the 6.8 km hike typically takes about 2 hours. Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging.
We stayed in Sandy Point, 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.
There is a free Telegraphy Saddle shuttle bus that runs from the Visitor Centre carpark near the BBQ’s.
I recommend planning your meals for your stay and doing any major food shopping before getting close to Wilsons Prom, as there are no big supermarkets, just a general store at Tidal River and Yanakie which stock a lot of stuff but they don’t stock everything and one at Sandy Point if your accommodation is there.
Tidal River General Store & Take Away 2 Ring Rd, Wilsons Promontory VIC 3960, Hours: Friday to Thursday 9am to 3pm, Phone: (03) 5680 8520
Sandy Point General Store 107 Beach Parade, Sandy Point VIC 3959, Hours:Tuesday to Monday 8am to 6pm, Phone: (03) 5684 1362
Yanakie
This serves as the final spot to grab provisions from Foodworks, fuel up, charge your electric car, and use the restroom with picnic tables before entering Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Yanakie General Store 3640 Meeniyan-Promontory Rd, Yanakie VIC 3960, Hours: Tuesday to Monday 8am to 6pm, Phone: (03) 5687 1200
Nestled in Wilsons Promontory, Mt Oberon stands as a pinnacle for adventurers seeking breathtaking vistas. This majestic summit offers an exhilarating hike, leading to panoramic views that stretch across rugged coastlines and serene bushlands. As you ascend, immerse yourself in the natural beauty that unfolds—a mesmerizing landscape where land and sea harmoniously converge. The trek unveils an extraordinary tapestry of nature’s artistry, rewarding your efforts with an awe-inspiring spectacle that captures the essence of Wilsons Promontory. Get ready to explore and embrace the sheer magnificence atop Mt Oberon.
Trail Essentials
Remember to carry essentials like water, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear. Embrace sustainable practices, leaving no trace behind.
CAMPING AND ACCOMMODATION BOOKINGS
Last updated: 5:00 PM, September 6, 2023
Prepare for your upcoming nature adventure! Bookings for camping and accommodations throughout Victoria are now open until October 6, 2024.
Explore our updated guide on ‘How to Reserve Camping Online,’ featuring an easy-to-follow video tutorial.
For more details on making reservations: Upon completing your booking, expect a confirmation email within 24 hours.
Check the FAQs below for additional information, such as ‘minimum and maximum booking durations’ at specific campsites throughout the year.
For booking assistance, contact Parks Victoria at 13 1963. Stay updated and find fresh ways to explore nature by subscribing to the ‘Outdoor Inspiration’ e-newsletter.
Details for Campers at Wilsons Promontory National Park: No more ballot system for Tidal River Campground bookings.
Parks Victoria has upgraded the online booking system, eliminating the ballot process at Tidal River Campground in the Prom. Campers can now instantly reserve any available campground across Victoria – no more waiting to hear about ballot application outcomes. Refer to the ‘Bookings Release Dates’ section above for details regarding the Prom.
Website for more information: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/where-to-stay/booking-information
Embrace the Heights at Mt Oberon, Wilsons Promontory National Park
We began our hike to the summit of Mt Oberon on October 8, 2023, at 9:43 AM. The car park was relatively empty at that time, but upon our return, it was packed, with cars lining the street for several kilometers. The 6.8 km walk will take around 2 hours return. Grade: Moderate/hard.
Tucked away in the heart of Wilsons Promontory National Park lies an adventure waiting to unfold – Mt Oberon. This iconic summit promises an unforgettable journey for those seeking panoramic views and an exhilarating hike.
For walks like these, I rely on Merrell Moab hiking boots, available for both men and women. Explore them on Amazon
The Trail
The trail begins as a wide gravel track with occasional seating for resting. As you ascend towards the towers at the top, the path narrows into stone steps with handrails and wooden staircases. Being a popular route, it’s well-kept and relatively easy to walk. Plan for a couple of hours for the round trip, with extra time at the summit to soak in the breathtaking views.
It’s a must-have in my backpack! This North Face jacket ensures you stay dry while also feeling comfortably warm (unlike many others that can make you feel like you’re in a sauna). Find it here on… Amazon
In Australia, prolonged sun exposure can cause sunburn easily. Hence, I make sure to have a hat and sunscreen with me at all times. Find it here on Amazon hat, Amazon sunscreen.
I keep a reusable water bottle handy as I prefer not to purchase and discard plastic ones. There’s a water fountain located just outside the restrooms where you can easily refill your bottle. Find it here on Amazon
Breathtaking Views
We were fortunate to have the summit to ourselves, allowing us to enjoy the view undisturbed and linger for a while. On our descent, we encountered many people making their way up.
The panoramic views over Tidal River, the coast and offshore islands. Be prepared – even in summer months the summit can be windy, cool and clouded. Beware of unprotected cliffs.
I rely on this mosquito spray outdoors, especially near water, as mosquitoes are drawn to it. Perfect for deterring insects. Discover it on..Amazon
This backpack is ideal for walks to store water bottle, sunscreen and is lightweight. Check on Amazon
While I haven’t personally tested it, I’ve examined the specifications of the Sony DSC-HX99, and it appears to be an impressive compact camera choice if you’re in need of one. Check them out on Amazon
Adventure Awaits
Whether capturing scenic photographs or simply basking in nature’s grandeur, Mt Oberon provides an ideal spot to soak in the unparalleled beauty of Wilsons Promontory. It’s an adventure that rewards your efforts and leaves an indelible mark on your memory.
Day Walks
Embark on a variety of walks within Wilsons Promontory, hidden along diverse trails. As you traverse through heathland, eucalypt forests, and Victoria’s southernmost temperate rainforests, be on the lookout for wallabies and emus. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s a path suited to every preference.
Day visitors of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy a range of walking experiences, from pristine beaches to towering sand dunes and lookouts boasting breathtaking panoramic views. Make sure to plan your outings carefully to ensure you have ample daylight for these adventures.
Lilly Pilly Gully Nature Walk
Embark on a leisurely family stroll through heathland, transitioning into the realm of towering eucalyptus trees. Traverse the boardwalk through a serene rainforest, where you’ll encounter verdant ferns and a gentle stream. Keep a keen eye and tread softly to uncover diverse plant and animal life.
This 5.2 km nature walk typically lasts around an hour and a half for the round trip, ideal for families with children and individuals with limited mobility. The path mainly consists of compacted sand, offering a relatively flat and smooth journey, suitable even for strollers.
Lilly Pilly Gully Circuit Walk
Experience more of Lilly Pilly Gully on this picturesque loop trail. Meander through stringybark forest along the southern incline of Mt Bishop before descending into the verdant rainforest of Lilly Pilly Gully. Follow the nature trail back to the parking area. This 5.8 km circuit walk typically takes about two hours for the round trip.
Mount Bishop Walk
For those seeking adventure and ready for a tougher trek, embark on a hike from Lilly Pilly Gully to the rugged peak of Mt Bishop. Your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas of the western coastline of Wilsons Prom and the nearby offshore islands. This 7.4 km hike typically takes about two and a half hours for the round trip.
Lilly Pilly Link Walk
Take a leisurely walk along the Lilly Pilly Link Walk, a scenic trail linking Tidal River with Lilly Pilly Gully. As you traverse through coastal heath, marvel at panoramic vistas overlooking Norman Bay and Tidal River. The landscape is particularly enchanting during spring and summer, adorned with vibrant wildflowers. This 1 km walk typically takes around 20 minutes each way.
Norman Beach, Tidal Overlook, Squeaky Beach, Picnic Bay, Whisky Bay
Embark on this breathtaking four-beach hike, offering a complete immersion in the stunning landscapes of Wilsons Promontory. The journey seamlessly transitions between track and beach sections, providing an opportunity to appreciate the allure of both land and sea. Covering a distance of 6 km, this walk typically takes approximately 3 hours one way, with a rating of easy to moderate in terms of difficulty.
Darby River to Tongue Point
Embark on this breathtaking four-beach hike, offering a complete immersion in the stunning landscapes of Wilsons Promontory. The journey seamlessly transitions between track and beach sections, providing an opportunity to appreciate the allure of both land and sea. Covering a distance of 6 km, this walk typically takes approximately 3 hours one way, with a rating of easy to moderate in terms of difficulty.
Darby Saddle to Tongue Point
The trail originating from Darby Saddle presents awe-inspiring coastal and woodland vistas as it ascends through stringybark and casuarina forests. Approximately 2.1 km into the journey, a detour of 300 meters leads to Sparkes Lookout, offering sweeping views encompassing Rodondo Island to the south and Shallow Inlet to the north.
Continuing from the turnoff, the primary path ascends sharply to Lookout Rocks, providing vistas overlooking Norman Island. Descending steeply through low heathland, the trail merges with the path from Darby River and proceeds to Tongue Point, a coastal headland adorned with weathered granite stacks and boulders. The trail concludes before reaching the adjacent island; it’s advised not to attempt crossing to it for safety reasons.
Covering a distance of 5.6 km, this hike typically requires approximately 2.5 hours one way, with a moderate to hard difficulty rating.
Darby River, Fairy Cove, Tongue Point, Darby Saddle
This trail offers visitors a complete immersion in the breathtaking Tongue Point coastal scenery. It can be traversed in either direction, but walkers will need to arrange for a car shuttle.
Covering a distance of 9.4 km, the hike typically requires approximately 3 to 3.5 hours one way, with a moderate to hard difficulty rating.
Sealers Cove
A favored trail at Wilsons Promontory, the Sealers track ascends gradually to Windy Saddle before descending through scenic forest to a boardwalk over Sealers Swamp leading to Sealers Cove.
This 9.5 km hike typically requires approximately 3 hours one way, with a moderate difficulty rating.
Note: Sealers Cove Walk is currently closed due to storm damage until 2024.
Great Prom Walk
Wilson Promontory Tours and Activities:
- Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Cruise from Tidal River
- Wilsons Promontory Day Trip from Melbourne
- Small Group – Wilsons Promontory Hiking Day Tour from Melbourne
- Wilson’s Promontory Small Group Eco Tour from Melbourne
- Private Wilsons Promontory Hiking Tour from Melbourne
- Wilson’s Promontory & Phillip Island – ‘Prom & Penguins’ Tour
- Wilsons Promontory Private 1 day tour
- 8 hours – Wilsons Prom Full Day Cruise – Departs Port Welshpool Jetty
- 6 hours – Wilsons Prom – Departs Port Welshpool Jetty
- Wilsons Promontory walk A guided 3 day Pack-Free walk
- Wilsons Promontory National Park Day Trip
- Wilsons Promontory National Park Tour (LM) Availability
- Wilsons Prom Day Tour with Hiking – Departs Melbourne
- Discover The Pristine Beauty Of Wilsons Promontory With Us!
- Wilson’s Promontory National Park Tour
- Wilsons Promontory & Penguin Parade – Private Tour
- Wilsons Prom Lightstation – 4 day walking holiday
- Wilsons Prom Whale Cruise
Places To Get Food
- Wilsons Prom Licensed Pizza restaurant
- Food Works
- Walkerville Kiosk
- Braidoss Takeaway
- Foster Take Away
- Long John Pickles
- Promontory Restaurant and Winery
- Port Welshpool General Store
- McDonald’s
- Toora Woodfired Pizza
- Tarwin Fuel Supplies – Roadhouse
- Evo’s Real Food Real Fast
- Moo’s at Meeniyan
- Agapi Fish & Chips
- Cavity
- Mighty Kebab
- The Bay Gourmet
- KFC Leongatha
- The Bayside Lady
- Invy Kebabs
- Inverloch Fish & Chips
- Trulli Cucina Povera
Accommodation
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
- Coastal View Cabins
- Wilderness Retreats at Wilsons Promontory National Park
- Black Cockatoo Cottages
- Limosa Rise
- Promhills Cabins
- Mt Singapore Villas
- The Vibe – Sandy Point
- The Yanakie House
- Wamoon Retreat
- Olivi bed and breakfast
- Buln Buln Cabins
- Long Jetty Caravan Park
- Tindoona Cottages
- Fish Creek Hotel
- Shallow Inlet Caravan Park
- Prom Gate Getaway
- Tidal Dreaming Seaview Cottages
- Tooralodge
- Wilsons Promontory Motel
- Waratah Bay Caravan Park
- Prom Country Lodge
- Fish Creek Adrift Accommodation
- The Church House Gourmet Retreat
- Prom Central Caravan Park
- Bear Gully Coastal Cottages
- Aashay Country Stay
- The Royal Standard Hotel
- Eagle Rock B & B
- Walkerville Foreshore Camping Reserve
- Toora Tourist Park
- One Tree Hill Accommodation
- Fish Creek Farmview Cottages
- Arnold House
- Benwerrin House
- Foster Exchange Hotel
- Arlyia
Packing suggestions for Mt Oberon
Sunscreen: With a potent SPF but without the oily sensation of other sunscreens, it’s a game-changer when you’re out in the sun, especially on those active, sunny days! Take a look here on… Amazon
A reliable Rain Jacket: North Face. It’s a must-have in our backpack! This North Face jacket ensures you stay dry while also feeling comfortably warm (unlike many others that can make you feel like you’re in a sauna). Find it here on… Amazon
Mosquitoes Spray: Ideal for repelling mosquitoes and other insects. Explore it on… Amazon
Day Pack: Osprey Talon 22: Ideal for walks to store water bottle, sunscreen and is lightweight. Check on Amazon
Hiking Boots: Merrell Moab: For men and women. Check them out on Amazon
Reusable water bottle: To steer clear of disposable plastic, take a look at them on… Amazon
Sunhat: Aqua Classic represents a technically refined, sun-protective swim fabric resistant to chlorine and saltwater, featuring a modest 4-way stretch. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, and exceptionally comfortable. Check them out on Amazon Amazon This one is waterproof and is for both women and men Amazon
Band Aid: I always carry a pack of band aid when walking for blisters and cuts. Check them out on Amazon
Nikon Coolpix P950 Camera: This camera is my go-to for capturing photos and shooting 4K videos of wildlife. Check them out on Amazon
Nikon Coolpix P950 Camera Bundle: This camera bundle includes Triple Battery + Deco Gear Backpack Bag Case + Filter Kit + Photo Video Software and Accessories, all with the same camera model. Check them out on Amazon
Compact Camera: The Sony DSC-HX99 is a versatile and powerful compact camera. With its 18.2 MP sensor and a remarkable 24-720mm zoom range, capturing both wide-angle landscapes and distant subjects is effortless. Its 4K video capability ensures stunning video quality, while the touchpad provides intuitive control. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a traveler seeking a compact yet feature-rich camera, the DSC-HX99 delivers exceptional performance for capturing high-resolution images and videos in various settings. Check them out on Amazon
Binoculars: The MIQXUAS Night Vision Binoculars offer impressive performance for various activities like stargazing, bird watching, concerts, sports events, sightseeing, and hunting. With a 60X60 magnification power and a range of up to 10,000 meters, these binoculars deliver excellent clarity and detailed visuals. The waterproof design ensures durability and reliability in various weather conditions.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, these binoculars provide a clear view even in low-light environments. However, while they offer night vision capabilities, the quality might not match higher-end specialized night vision devices. The included carrying bag adds convenience for portability.
Overall, these binoculars are a solid choice for multiple outdoor activities, offering good value for their price point. Check them out on Amazon
First Aid Kit: This tool is ideal for extended hikes and overnight stays in the wilderness, equipped with a torch, camping knife, fire starter, light stick, wire saw, and a Paracord bracelet featuring a fire scrapper, whistle, and compass. Check them out on Amazon
First Aid Kit: I opt for this one during short hikes, as it’s smaller and fits more comfortably in my backpack. Check them out on Amazon
If you find this article valuable, you’ll likely discover my other works equally enticing.
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