The weather is heating up, and if you’re dreaming of a seaside getaway, you’re in luck. Victoria is packed with some stunning coastal attractions if you’re keen on a day by the beach. Head out into the sunshine and look out for some popular landmarks and must-do coastal attractions around Melbourne and Victoria. There’s so many to choose from, but here’s a quick list to get you started on your adventure.
1. Brighton Bathing Boxes
Feel like a tourist for a day and wander over to Brighton to check out their famous bathing boxes. There’s 82 uniformly-sized boxes in total, and they’re a colourful addition to the coastline. Built over a century ago, the Brighton Bathing Boxes were used as a way for beachgoers to privately change into their swimwear. Walk along Dendy Street Beach and see these bright boxes dotted along the foreshore. You could drive there, or hop on the Sandringham line, get off at one of the Brighton train stations and go for a stroll.
đź“ŤDendy Street and the Esplanade, Brighton VIC 3186
2. 12 Apostles
Drive roughly four and a half hours away from Melbourne and find one of the most famous coastal attractions in Victoria. Located along the Great Ocean Road, the world-famous 12 Apostles are a stunning natural formation. Made up of seven towering limestone rock stacks, they are particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Wander over to the viewing platforms and watch the waves crash against this majestic landmark. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, take a helicopter ride to see the 12 Apostles from above.
While you’re in this corner of Victoria, make sure you check out some other popular coastal attractions like Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, The Grotto and the Gog and Magog rock stacks at Gibson Steps.
đź“ŤGreat Ocean Rd, Princetown VIC 3269
3. Cape Schanck Lighthouse
The next time you’re travelling around the Mornington Peninsula, take a moment to see the Cape Schanck Lighthouse. Built in 1859, this lighthouse is located on the southernmost end of the peninsula, and standing tall on top of some seriously dramatic cliffs. Take a tour and climb up the 21-metre-high building. Enter the lamp room and see dreamy views of the ocean.
Around the precinct, you’ll also find a museum and the residence of the former lighthouse keeper. Stretch your legs and go on one of the walking tracks nearby for more scenic views. With panoramic views of the Bass Strait, this spot is also a great place to look out for aurora australis.
If you love a good lighthouse, journey west to Aireys Inlet on the Great Ocean Road, and check out the Split Point Lighthouse. If it looks familiar, it’s because this particular landmark was used in the nostalgic TV series, Round the Twist.
đź“Ť420 Cape Schanck Rd, Cape Schanck VIC 3939
4. Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Escape to Phillip Island and see the famous Penguin Parade. Watch them appear on Summerlands Beach at dusk, and waddle their way home to their burrows. Walk along the boardwalks or head to other viewing platforms, including one underground, to watch them on their journey home. Phillip Island is home to the largest little penguin colony in the world, and this wildlife experience by the sea is a must-do activity for any traveller in Victoria. Bookings are essential.
đź“Ť1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922
5. Skull Rock
Just off the coast of Wilsons Promontory National Park is a mysterious, granite island known as Skull Rock. This otherworldly island is 130 metres wide and 60 metres high. The rock is hollowed out by a deep and tall cave, causing it to resemble a skull. Around the island, you’ll find plenty of playful seals. You can see this remarkable formation by taking a boat tour with Wilsons Promontory Cruises or Wildlife Coast Cruises.
While you’re around the Prom, go camping at the popular Tidal River, or visit the delightfully-named Squeaky Beach.
đź“ŤWilsons Promontory VIC 3960