Cape Liptrap Coastal Park

With its wild, windswept coastline and dramatic rock formations, Cape Liptrap Coastal Park is one of Victoria’s most untamed and rewarding coastal escapes. Stretching from the fishing village of Walkerville to the remote Cape Liptrap lighthouse, this park offers a raw encounter with the Southern Ocean — think jagged cliffs, secluded coves, and a sense of solitude that’s increasingly rare along the Great Ocean Road. It’s a place where the bush meets the sea, and where you can hike for hours without seeing another soul. Perfect for self-drive explorers, it’s an off-the-beaten-path detour that rewards with spectacular ocean views and a true wilderness vibe.

Highlights & What to See

• Cape Liptrap Lighthouse – A historic 1913 lighthouse perched on dramatic cliffs, offering sweeping views of the Bass Strait. The short walk here is a must for its rugged beauty and sense of isolation.
• Walkerville Foreshore – A sheltered, sandy beach ideal for a picnic or a swim in the calmer waters of the bay. It’s also a great spot for kayaking and fishing.
• Bushrangers Bay – A stunning, remote beach accessible via a 3km walking track through coastal heathland. The turquoise water and white sand feel like a hidden paradise.
• Waratah Bay – A long, sweeping beach perfect for long walks, birdwatching, and spotting dolphins. The shallow waters make it family-friendly.
• Coastal Walking Trails – The park has several interconnected trails, including the Cape Liptrap Coastal Walk, which offers multi-day hiking opportunities with beachside campsites.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a full day is enough to experience the park’s highlights — drive to the lighthouse, take a short coastal walk, and enjoy a beach stop at Walkerville or Waratah Bay. If you’re keen on hiking the longer trails or doing some serious birdwatching, plan for a two-day visit, with an overnight stay at one of the basic campgrounds. The park is best visited between October and April when the weather is milder; winter can be wild and wet, but the storm-watching is spectacular.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wilson Promontory National Park – Just 1.5 hours east, this iconic park offers even more dramatic coastal scenery, granite mountains, and abundant wildlife.
• Phillip Island – Famous for its penguin parade, seals, and surf beaches, it’s a 1.5-hour drive north and makes a great family-friendly addition.
• Venus Bay – A laid-back beach town known for its surf beaches and the chance to dig for pipis. It’s just 30 minutes north of Walkerville.
• Tarwin Lower – A small town on the Tarwin River, perfect for fishing, canoeing, and exploring the nearby wetlands.
• Inverloch – A popular coastal resort town with safe swimming beaches, a jetty, and good cafes. It’s about 45 minutes north.

Please check official sources for current details.