We’re well into whale watching season, and if you’d like to combine your search with a lovely coastal walk, why don’t you escape to Phillip Island and go on the clifftop walk between Pyramid Rock and Berrys Beach? This moderate trail will take you along the island’s southern coastline to a secluded beach, and as you go, you can keep a sharp eye on the horizon for the migrating giants. It’s about a 5km return journey, and should take around two hours to complete. You can start this trail at either the Pyramid Rock or Berrys Beach carpark. You’ll have a splendid time either way.
Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach on Phillip Island
Assuming you’re starting at Pyramid Rock, take a moment to look at this striking natural feature, which was formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. There’s two lookouts available, just a short stroll away from the car park, and one of them is wheelchair accessible. When you’re not checking out the basalt outcrop, scan the ocean waters to spot the telltale blows and tail slaps of humpback or southern right whales. From late September, this spot on the island is also home to short-tailed shearwaters.
Once you’ve had your fill of the sights, get moving along the clifftop track. Feel the wind in your face, and keep to the path, in order to protect the fragile environment. If you’re lucky, you might see all sorts of wildlife, not just whales! Wallabies have been frequently spotted grazing nearby, and echidnas have been known to shuffle about in the undergrowth.
On your way to Berrys Beach, you will pass Storm Bay lookout and Red Bluff lookout. Pause and admire the crashing waves from these two vantage points.
When you arrive at Berrys Beach, you will be rewarded with dramatic views. Waves here reach an average height of 1.5 metres, so you might see experienced surfers weaving their way through the water. At low tide, this secluded beach is filled with cool rockpools. This beach is unpatrolled, and not suitable for swimming. After taking in the sights, return back the way you came.
Things to know
The trail is a mixture of gravel, grass and boardwalks with steps. As a result, this walk is unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs or prams. Dogs are not allowed to come along for this adventure. Remember to wear sturdy shoes — this track can get quite slippery after rain!
There are toilets available at both the Pyramid Rock and Berrys Beach car parks.
You can find more details about the trail, including a map, here.
Whales around Phillip Island
Whales can be seen around the coastline of Phillip Island and the Bass Coast from late May to September. It’s easier to see their movements, such as the spray from a blowhole, on a calm day. When the water is choppy, the splashes from their slaps or breaches blend in with the surrounding waves. Often there might be a flock of birds hanging around in a group hovering about the whales or other marine life following close by, such as dolphins.
Bring some binoculars along to level up your game, and stay updated with whale sightings via the Wildlife Whales App.
If you can’t get enough, stick around in the area and embark on the Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail, or go on a whale watching cruise instead.
