Occupying almost one fifth of the south-eastern side of Victoria, Gippsland has something on offer for every type of traveller.
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Guide to Wilsons Promontory: Camping, tracks and beaches
Whether you’re seeking respite in nature, activities in the great outdoors or to tick off one of Victoria’s most iconic landscapes, Wilsons Promontory is a must-see destination.
Wilsons Promontory, affectionately known as ‘The Prom’, is a pristine paradise at mainland Australia’s southernmost tip. Declared a national park in 1898, it wows visitors with its lush rainforests, pink granite mountains, abundant land and marine wildlife, and famously squeaky white-sand beaches.
Wilson Promontory is a place of deep significance, with thousands of years of history and cultural practices intertwined with the land and its care. It’s a significant place for the Boonwurrung, Bunurong and Gunaikurnai Traditional Owner groups, who all work closely with Parks Victoria to uphold the region’s heritage, traditions, and stories.
Wilson Promontory’s prominent coastal location also made it a critical navigational landmark for early explorers, including Captain James Cook, George Bass, and Matthew Flinders.
Now it's your turn to explore Wilsons Promontory. Use this handy guide to discover how to make the most of your time at the Prom.
RACV Members save on a range of activities and experiences in Gippsland.
Northern Lookout Rocks is a great pitstop for admiring the ocean. Image: Visit Victoria
Everything you need to know about Wilsons Promontory
What is Wilsons Promontory?
Covering an expanse of 50,000ha, Wilsons Promontory is a stunning nature reserve and one of Victoria’s first national parks. Across the park, discover temperate rainforests, coastal heathlands, rugged cliffs, and untouched beaches.
Alongside the Prom’s protected land, you'll also find Corner Inlet Marine National Park off the park’s northern coastline. With its clear waters, extensive seagrass meadows, and diverse marine life, it's a critical habitat for many species, including waterbirds.
Where is Wilsons Promontory and how can I get there?
The perfect city escape, Wilsons Promontory is in Victoria’s Gippsland region, about 220km southeast of Melbourne.
Allow around three hours to reach the Prom from Melbourne via the South Gippsland Highway, or about four hours from Ballarat or Geelong. You can break up the journey with a stay at RACV Inverloch Resort.
Wilsons Promontory is accessible by standard 2WD cars and campervans, caravans and RVs, making it a popular spot for camping. Once in the park, follow the well-maintained roads to Tidal River Visitor Centre, which is open daily from 9am to 4pm.
Alternatively, there is a V/Line bus service that runs between Southern Cross Station in Melbourne and Yarram, with a stop at Fish Creek, one of regional Victoria's coolest and quirkiest small towns. Fish Creek is 55km away from Tidal River, and you'll need to catch a taxi or use a private transport service to get there.
More: 10 best stops on a Melbourne to Sydney coastal road trip
Wilsons Promontory is around a three-hour drive from Melbourne. Image: Visit Victoria
What can I do at Wilsons Promontory?
Wilsons Promontory caters for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquillity.
Hiking is popular within this scenic Gippsland gem. There are ample trails, from easy boardwalks such as the Lilly Pilly Gully Circuit to challenging treks like the iconic overnight route to Wilsons Promontory Lightstation. For a moderately challenging sunset hike, head to Mount Oberon - the views are spectacular.
Snorkelling and sea kayaking are popular pastimes at the Prom, with tours available along the coastline and to the nearby islands.
If you’re seeking rejuvenation over action, sunbathe on the park's gorgeous beaches, such as the famed quartz-sand Squeaky Beach and family-friendly Norman Beach.
As Wilsons Promontory is far from light pollution, stargazing is spectacular. Time your trip to avoid a full moon, so that you get clear, uninterrupted views of the dazzling night sky.
More: The best locations for stargazing in Victoria
What wildlife will I see at Wilson Promontory?
The Prom is home to some of your favourite Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and echidnas. Around the campgrounds, you may even see an emu or two.
Cruising Wilsons Promontory is a fun way to spot the park’s marine residents. As you sail, look for dolphins, Australian and New Zealand fur seals, and more than 100 seabird species.
From late August to late October, migrating humpback and southern right whales give you another excuse to head to the Prom. See them for the shoreline or join a whale-watching cruise to get closer to their majestic presence.
There's a good chance you'll spot a wombat at Wilsons Promontory. Image: Visit Victoria
How long do I need at Wilsons Promontory?
Day-tripping to the Prom from Melbourne is doable, although you’ll want to start early. However, it’s a destination worthy of a weekend if time permits, allowing for hikes, time in and on the water, and wildlife spotting.
Extended stays allow for multi-day hikes and more immersive experiences within Wilsons Promontory.
Is Wilsons Promontory suitable for children?
Absolutely. The Prom is very family-friendly with protected beaches, ample wildlife, and more than 20 child-suitable short trails.
Tidal River has camping and cabin accommodation options, and it’s only a short walk to the calm waters of Norman Beach and Tidal River.
Can I take my dog to Wilsons Promontory?
As Wilsons Promontory is a national park, its protected status means pets are not permitted. This safeguards the native wildlife and the region’s delicate ecosystem.
More: Best dog friendly hikes and walks in Melbourne and Victoria
The Squeaky Beach walking track is particularly scenic. Image: Visit Victoria
Where can I stay at Wilsons Promontory and what facilities are there?
There’s a range of accommodation available at the Prom, including cabins, units, huts, group lodges, and campgrounds.
Tidal River is the park’s main campground, with close to 500 camping and caravan sites (powered and unpowered). Sealers Cove, Refuge Cove, and Roaring Meg are some of the hike-in tent-only campgrounds located throughout the park. Hikers willing to trek six hours to their accommodation can also stay at the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation.
RACV Inverloch Resort, located just under an hour's drive from Wilsons Promontory, is a great place to stay for a bit of luxury. Along with your choice of hotel-style rooms, cabins, villas, or a caravan park, there are two on-site dining options plus a pool, gym, tennis courts, a playground, games room and walking trails.
More: Things to see, eat and do around Inverloch
How accessible is Wilsons Promontory?
Parks Victoria has a commitment to accessible nature-based tourism and Wilsons Promontory delivers with wheelchair-friendly trails like the Tidal River Track and Loo-Errn path. More rugged trails, however, may pose challenges for those with mobility limitations.
At the Tidal River Visitor Centre, borrow their free-to-use beach and all-terrain wheelchairs (book ahead).
Tidal River Campground has two accessible cabins, discovery tents, toilets, and barbeques, plus special equipment to improve accessible stays.
What interesting stops are there on the way to Wilsons Promontory?
If you’re doing more than a day trip and keen to break up your journey to Wilsons Promontory, there are a few great places to stop en route.
Buy farm-fresh goods for your campground meals from the seasonal roadside stalls in Australia’s asparagus capital, Koo Wee Rup, then discover the best things to do and see on Phillip Island.
Alternatively, take the A440 inland and visit the charming villages of Loch, which has cosy cafes, antique stores and galleries, and Korumburra, where it feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Leongatha is great for coffee and artisanal cheese, and don't miss the legendary Fish Creek Hotel for a hearty meal before submitting to the basics of camp cooking at Tidal River.
Don't miss a boat tour out to view Skull Rock near Wilsons Promontory. Image: Visit Victoria
Tips for making the most of Wilsons Promontory
Once you’re ready to head to Wilsons Promontory to switch off, reconnect with nature, and immerse yourself in one of Victoria’s most treasured gems, use these handy suggestions to enhance your stay:
- Plan ahead and book the campground or accommodation early, especially during peak seasons.
- Visit off-season if you’re seeking a more tranquil stay.
- Pack wisely including layers, sturdy footwear, and bring a reusable water bottle.
- Check your car before you leave and your emergency car kit.
- If you're hiking, take a first aid kit, and include compression bandages for venomous bites or stings.
- Respect nature and help the Prom stay pristine. Stick to marked trails, leave a safe distance between you and any wildlife, and leave no trace by carrying out all your rubbish.
With its enchanting beauty, thrilling outdoor activities, and proximity to Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory affords a rejuvenating retreat for mind, body, and soul.
