Photo: Dalysporter / CC BY-SA 3.0
The Bunurong Coastal Walk is a stunning 7 km coastal trail in Victoria's South Gippsland region, tracing the dramatic shoreline between the towns of Inverloch and Cape Paterson. Named after the traditional Bunurong people, the walk offers sweeping ocean views, unique rock formations, and abundant wildlife. It's a must-do for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful, immersive coastal experience away from the crowds.
Highlights & What to See
- Rock Pools and Marine Life: At low tide, explore the rock pools teeming with starfish, crabs, and anemones along the shoreline.
- Eagles Nest Lookout: A cliff-top vantage point offering panoramic views of the Bass Strait and the rugged coastline.
- Bunurong Memorial Park: A serene spot with interpretive signage about the area's Indigenous heritage and natural history.
- Fossil Cliffs: Keep an eye out for ancient marine fossils embedded in the sandstone cliffs, particularly near The Oaks area.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look for echidnas, wallabies, and a variety of seabirds including gannets and cormorants along the trail.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to complete the full one-way walk, plus extra time for photography and exploring rock pools. The trail is relatively flat but can be uneven in sections; pace yourself and plan to walk during low tide for the best beach access. Many visitors combine the walk with a picnic at one of the scenic viewpoints or a swim at Cape Paterson's surf beach.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Inverloch: A charming seaside town with cafes, a jetty, and the start point of the walk; great for a pre- or post-walk meal.
- Cape Paterson: Known for its surf beach and the iconic 'Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club'; a lovely spot to end the walk.
- Wilsons Promontory National Park: About an hour's drive away, this park offers more spectacular coastal hikes, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife.
- Phillip Island: Famous for the Penguin Parade and the Grand Prix circuit, it's a popular day trip from the Bunurong area.
- Koonwarra: A tiny village with a renowned café and art galleries, perfect for a relaxed stop on a self-drive itinerary.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Wilsons Promontory National Park — Taken by w:en:User:Cfitzart . / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Phillip Island — Phillipislandtourism / CC BY-SA 4.0