Top 10 things to do in Victoria’s parks this summer
Summer's here and it's going to be a hot one!
Make the most of your time in nature this summer safely, whether it’s cooling off at the beach, escaping the heat wandering through shady, tall forests, or finally trying that activity you’ve always wanted to try.
Before you go, be sure to check out our seven tips for even better summer adventures.
Now, let’s dive into ten of the best summer experiences in Victoria's parks.
1. Swim at the best (and safest) beaches
Nothing says summer like a refreshing swim at the beach. But not all beaches are great for swimming, even if they look beautiful. The best beaches to visit this summer are those patrolled by Life Saving Victoria.
Beaches such as Sorrento Back Beach, Portsea Ocean Beach and Gunnamatta Ocean Beach in Mornington Peninsula National Park on Bunurong Country are all patrolled by Life Saving Victoria.
Alternatively, many beaches in Port Phillip Bay meet swimming standards on most days throughout the summer. Always check for signs of pollution before you swim.
Stay safe by swimming where there are lifeguards and by staying in between the red and yellow flags. Be aware of hazards such as rips, strong undertows and sudden changes in weather conditions. Learn more tips to stay safe in and around the water.

Sorrento Back Beach, Mornington Peninsula National Park (Image: Visit Victoria)

Surfers at Gunnamatta Beach, Mornington Peninsula National Park
2. Stay cool at Victoria’s waterfalls
The Great Ocean Road is known for its breathtaking coastal drives, but did you know it’s also home to some of Victoria’s best waterfalls?
Stay cool by visiting one of these picturesque waterfalls in Great Otway National Park on Wadawurrung and Eastern Maar Country. With multiple viewing platforms, each waterfall offers different perspectives of the falls, so take your time to fully appreciate their beauty.
Remember, while waterfalls are beautiful, they can also be dangerous. Swimming near or under them is unsafe. Barriers are there to protect you, so please don’t climb over them.
Read more: Two-day itinerary to visit the best waterfalls along the Great Ocean Road.

Erskine Falls, Great Otway National Park

Triplet Falls, Great Otway National Park
3. Walk along Victoria’s newest pier
The newly transformed St Kilda Pier on Bunurong Sea Country is now open after a major redevelopment.
Whether you enjoy boating, fishing, coastal walks, or soaking in the stunning views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline, this accessible pier is a welcoming space for everyone. It’s also a great pitstop for cyclists along the Bay Trail from Port Melbourne to Frankston.
This summer, relax on the terrace with tiered seating, perfect for soaking in the views, or grab a snack or lunch from the much-loved kiosk.
Stay safe around water. Never jump off piers and jetties. You can’t see what’s below the surface, and hidden objects or rocks can be dangerous.

Bird’s eye view of St Kilda Pier in the daytime

View of St Kilda Pier lit up at nighttime with city skyline in the background
4. Dive into marine national parks
Discover the underwater wonders beneath the waves by snorkeling or scuba diving in Victoria’s marine national parks. With 13 fully protected large marine national parks and 11 smaller marine sanctuaries, you’ll have the chance to meet some of Victoria’s unique marine life.
Feeling adventurous? Keep an eye out for 7 unexpected things found in marine national parks. What you find might surprise you!
Tip: if you’re new to snorkeling or diving, consider joining a tour with an expert licensed operator to guide you. It’s a great way to explore with confidence (check out more details in Tip 10 below!).

Snorkeling at Pope’s Eye, Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park

Marine life in Point Addis Marine National Park
5. Camp somewhere new
Many popular campgrounds fill up quickly during summer, but this summer’s free camping initiative is a great chance to explore further and try somewhere new. Victoria is home to countless campgrounds within national parks and state forests, perfect for making unforgettable family memories.
Find inspiration with our guide to the best alternatives to popular Victorian campgrounds and make new memories this summer.
If you’re still looking for something different, the pre-pitched Discovery Tents offer a unique opportunity to camp under canvas within the idyllic coastal Point Nepean National Park on Bunurong Country. Camping fees will continue to apply for Parks Victoria managed accommodation Discovery Tents at Point Nepean National Park.
Remember, to stay safe while camping. Book your campsite, follow campfire rules, take your rubbish home with you and cancel your booking if you can’t go.

Buchan Caves Campground, Buchan Caves Reserve

Budj Bim Campground, Budj Bim National Park
6. Escape the summer heat
Looking to beat the summer crowds and escape the heat?
Start your day early and step into the shade of Victoria’s tall forests. Morning visits mean cooler temperatures, fewer visitors and active wildlife.
Discover serene spots like Tarra-Bulga National Park on Brataualung Country, Kinglake National Park on Taungurung and Wurundjeri Country or Dandenong Ranges National Park on Wurundjeri Country.
Look up in awe at the towering giants of the forest, their canopies providing cool shelter from the summer heat. Spot wombats and lyrebirds as they quietly go about their day in the undergrowth. Whether you’re enjoying a short walk or settling in for a picnic with friends, these parks offer the perfect escape. Just remember to take your rubbish home, as there are no bins in national parks.
Read more: Top places to escape the summer crowds.

Tarra-Bulga National Park

Kinglake National Park
7. Hit the road
Road trips are a perfect way to see new places and create lasting summer memories. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or have time to explore further, there’s an adventure for everyone.
Before you hit the road, make sure to plan ahead and check the latest park conditions for your destination.
Day trips
One of the best parts about living in Melbourne is how close nature is. You don’t need to travel far to explore the great outdoors.
- Parks less than an hour's drive from Melbourne
- Day trips within two hours' drive from Melbourne
- Get into nature at one of Melbourne’s urban parks
Longer getaways
Have you thought about extending your weekend escape or traveling midweek to avoid the crowds? Spending more time in nature can leave you feeling refreshed, more energised, and relaxed. Take a few extra days to go further, explore regional Victoria, and truly immerse yourself in everything the destinations have to offer.
- Spend one longer weekend in Buchan
- Budj Bim National Park 3-day itinerary
- Travel around East Gippsland in a week
- Longer drives in Victoria
Trips by public transport
No car? No problem! Many parks and trails are accessible by public transport, making it easier than ever to plan a day of exploring.

Greater Bendigo National Park

French Island National Park
8. Go birdwatching
Summer is known to be one of the best times of year for birdwatching. Birds are at their most active, making it easier to observe their behaviours, songs, and unique habits.
Pack your binoculars, camera and get ready to spot some of your favourite native birds. With more than 4 million hectares of coastal, wetland, forest, alpine, desert and marine parks, Victoria is renowned as one of the best destinations in the world for birdwatching.
While you’re out there, can you become a citizen scientist? It’s as easy as downloading the iNaturalist app, the capture photos or recordings of the animal or plant you observe. Find out more about becoming a citizen scientist.
Before you head out, find out where the top places for great birdwatching in Victoria are and discover the six big health benefits of birdwatching and why this peaceful activity is so good for your mind, body, and soul.

Yellow Spoonbill at Morang Wetlands, Plenty Gorge Parklands

Singing Honeyeater at Bay of Islands Coastal Park
9. Picnic in a park
Nothing beats a relaxing picnic in nature, especially during summer when the weather is perfect for outdoor dining. Pack your basket, find a shady spot and unwind in one of Victoria’s beautiful parks.
Popular picnic areas in Mornington Peninsula National Park on Bunurong Country include the historic Cape Schanck lighthouse precinct, the ocean beaches of Sorrento and Portsea, the rugged Flinders coastline, and walking tracks through the wildlife haven Greens Bush.
If you’re looking for something closer to Melbourne, consider Albert Park on Bunurong Country. There are several designated picnic areas where you can enjoy the outdoors and the parks serene surroundings.
Remember, to ensure the health and wellbeing of parks and wildlife, dispose of your rubbish responsibly or take it home with you if there are no bins on site.

Picnic at Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve, Mornington Peninsula National Park

Picnic at Albert Park Lake which is wheelchair accessible
10. Try something new
Arranging a day trip with a licensed tour operator (LTO) is one of the best ways to experience something new in nature, from diving and surfing, to cycling and bushwalking.
Licensed tour operators offer more than 50 different types of in-park experiences, ensuring you have an enjoyable – and, most importantly, safe – experience.
You can search for an LTO by selecting your preferred park, activity or operator.

Surf instructor tour operator at the beach

Bushwalking tour group following the path in the park
This summer, expect hotter, drier conditions when exploring parks.
Be safe and remember to Pack Your Summer Smarts when visiting parks. Everyone wants to be able to come home safe to their friends and family after spending time in nature. This summer is no different.