Croajingolong National Park

Stretching along Victoria's pristine far-east coast, Croajingolong National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where ancient rainforest meets wild surf beaches and tranquil estuaries. This remote wilderness offers a true escape into nature, with dramatic granite headlands, shimmering lakes, and abundant wildlife including kangaroos, echidnas, and over 300 bird species. Whether you're kayaking the peaceful waters of the Mallacoota Inlet or hiking to hidden coves, Croajingolong rewards those who seek solitude and raw coastal beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Wilderness Coast Walk: A multi-day trek along the beach and through heathlands, passing the iconic 100-metre-high sand dunes at Point Hicks (where Captain Cook first sighted Australia's east coast).
• Mallacoota Inlet: Paddle or cruise this vast, serene waterway fringed by bushland – perfect for birdwatching, fishing, and spotting platypuses at dusk.
• Bastion Point: A dramatic granite headland offering panoramic views of the Southern Ocean and a chance to see migrating whales between May and October.
• Thurra River Dunes: Explore towering white sand dunes that spill into the river – a surreal landscape ideal for photography and sandboarding.
• Gabo Island: A short boat trip from the park reveals a lighthouse-keeper's cottage and a colony of little penguins; the island's pink granite boulders are a geological highlight.

Suggested Time to Spend

To experience Croajingolong's magic properly, allow at least three to four days. This gives you time to tackle a section of the Wilderness Coast Walk (2–3 days for the full 100 km), paddle the inlet, and explore the main beaches. If you're on a tighter schedule, a day trip from Mallacoota can cover Bastion Point and a short walk, but you'll want to linger longer. The park is best visited between October and May when the weather is mild and wildlife is most active.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mallacoota – The gateway town with cafes, accommodation, and boat hire for exploring the inlet.
• Nadgee Nature Reserve – Just north in NSW, a lesser-known coastal wilderness with great fishing and camping.
• Ben Boyd National Park – South of Eden, featuring the historic Davidson Whaling Station and the iconic Red and Green Pinnacles.
• Lakes Entrance – The bustling hub of the Gippsland Lakes, offering seafood, cruises, and the Ninety Mile Beach.
• Snowy River National Park – Inland from the coast, with dramatic gorges, river walks, and alpine forests – a stark contrast to Croajingolong's coastal vibe.

Please check official sources for current details.