In 2021, the popular Sealers Cove Boardwalk in Wilsons Promontory National Park was badly damaged from multiple storms, making it unsafe for walkers. Now, after careful restoration, the track has reopened to the public. This 1.8km boardwalk is a vital link on the 10km Sealers Cove walking track, connecting Tidal River to Sealers Cove across an otherwise impassable swamp. With the restored boardwalk, hikers can now access the golden beach without having to take a 26km one way detour. If you’d like to check it out, your journey begins at the Telegraph Saddle car park, three hours away from Melbourne.
Sealers Cove Boardwalk
The Sealers Cove boardwalk was over 40 years old, and although some sections were repaired after flooding in 2011, the 2021 storms caused significant damage, requiring the whole thing to be replaced. Due to its remote location, this was a complex project. Crews had to stay onsite seven days a week, working in sometimes wet or unstable conditions. With no vehicle access, they had to rely on boats for transport, and helicopters to fly in construction material.
Connecting Tidal River to Sealers Cove via Telegraph Saddle, this boardwalk helps protect the park’s fragile environment, keeping hikers above the sensitive swamp. Sitting about 30cm higher than its predecessor, the new boardwalk was designed for tough conditions, including seasonal flooding and a wet coastal environment. It was made from fibre-reinforced plastic, the same material used for boardwalks at Lily Pilly Gully and Waterloo Bay. The material allows for a sturdy walking experience with fewer maintenance requirements.
The rebuild was made possible with $4.8 million from the Victorian government, in addition to the $23 million Wilsons Promontory Revitalisation Project, which is a broader investment into facility upgrades, trail upgrades, accommodation and conservation programs at the park.
Sealers Cove Walk
The walk to Sealers Cove is a challenging, 10km hike that takes about 3 hours one way. This day walk or overnight hike starts at Telegraph Saddle Carpark, and takes you through ancient rainforest and ferny gullies. At Sealers Cove, you’ll find a beautiful beach, sheltered from wind and filled with crystal-clear water.
Explore the beach, and stay overnight at the campground, which is surrounded by shady and lush vegetation. Booking in advance is required. Before your journey, do check the tides, as there is a deep water creek crossing to access the campground. Crossing this creek is recommended at low tide. Camping on the beach is prohibited. The campground does have toilets, and you will also need to treat any water before consumption. If you’re hiking overnight, you will also need to have a permit before you start your walk.
Whether you’re staying overnight, or doing a day visit, remember to allocate plenty of time for the hike back. With steep sections uphill, the return walk will take a bit longer.
If you’d like to avoid the hike, Sealers Cove can be reached by boat. There are some cruises that offer a stop at the beach.
As you are planning a trip out in nature, check the Parks Victoria website for any issues, updates or track closures. Bring plenty of water, carry a first aid kit, wear sturdy walking shoes and stay prepared for all kinds of weather conditions. Remember to leave no trace, and let someone know about your plans before you go. Dogs are not permitted to come along.
More things to do
While you’re in The Prom, you’ll find plenty of other cool hikes and beaches to keep you busy, such as the Prom Wildlife Walk, Three Bays Walk and Squeaky Beach. If you’d rather get off dry land, you can also hop on a whale watching cruise.
