Wonthaggi

Explore

Wonthaggi

Explore the ocean beaches and native heathlands around Wonthaggi. Surf the Southern Ocean swells, snorkel near Harmers Haven or immerse yourself in the local history.

The Bass Coast Rail Trail (15km one way) forms an important link between Kilcunda and Wonthaggi and passes through sections of the Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park. This trail leads pedestrians across the iconic heritage-listed Kilcunda Trestle Railway Bridge, before heading inland to Wonthaggi and the State Coal Mine Historic Area. This is a mixed-use path popular with cyclists, walkers and horse riders.

Williamsons Beach is popular for surfing and fishing, but please be aware this beach is not patrolled. Patrolled beaches can be found at Cape Woolamai, Cape Paterson and Inverloch. As beaches and coasts are natural environments, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice  to make sure your day out is a safe and enjoyable one.

Ocean beaches in the park are home to the charismatic Hooded Plover, a highly vulnerable little shorebird. You may see their tiny chicks on the sand during the summer months. Please tread carefully and follow all regulations when walking your dog along the beaches to help protect this special little species.

Discover the underwater world of the park at Harmers Haven by snorkelling and diving or exploring the rockpools along the shoreline. Close by is Wreck Beach, named for the three masted barque the Artisan, which foundered here in 1901. Artefacts of the ship are occasionally exposed on the beach and within the subtidal reef area.

Experience the unique coastal ecosystems that lie just beyond the beaches, following tracks through to Baxter’s Wetland or the Wonthaggi Heathlands. Explore the heathlands on foot and see one of the last remaining pockets of coastal heathlands in the area. During spring, the heathlands host a spectacular display of wildflowers, including the endangered Eastern Spider Orchid. With the help of local friends’ groups, Parks Victoria has restored parts of the Heathlands from pine plantations and grazing land to a thriving native heathland. The diverse vegetation is now teeming with wildlife, from echidnas and Swamp Wallabies to the endangered Swamp Antechinus and Southern Brown Bandicoot, as well as over 80 bird species.

Things to do in the area

 
A group of children on a tour in the State Coal Mine.

State Coal Mine

Offering an inexpensive day trip for the whole family, the State Coal Mine is an historic Gippsland attraction that fosters an understanding of Australia's cultural heritage with an authentic underground experience. Entry to the site is free above ground where you can follow the heritage walk among historic buildings.
Three people ride horses along Powlett River in Yallock Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park

Horse riding in Yallock-Bulluk

The mixed-use Bass Coast Rail Trail is popular for horse riders. With a recreational permit, explore the Powlett River on horseback.
View of the beach and dunes at The Oaks, Yallock Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park

Beach activities at Yallock-Bulluk

Swim at the patrolled beaches at Cape Paterson and Inverloch, dive or snorkel around the reefs, enjoy some family-friendly fun in the rock pools or relax with a beach picnic.
A man sits on a chair while fishing at Powlett River

Fishing and Boating at Yallock-Bulluk

Set out in a kayak or motorboat to explore the spectacular coastline by sea. Try your luck at line fishing in various parts of the park, both onshore and by boat. Fishing is not permitted in the Bunurong Marine National Park.
A picture of an Orchid taken in the Wonthaggi section of Yallock Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park

Yallock-Bulluk Unique Coastal Landscapes and Species

Try to spot some of our beloved whales during migration seasons, keep an eye out for seals and dolphins and explore the unique geology of this coastline where important dinosaur fossils have been discovered.
A woman walking her dog along the beach at Undertow Bay in Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park

Dog walking in Yallock-Bulluk

Bring your furry friend along to the designated dog-friendly tracks and beaches in the park.

How to get there

Wonthaggi

Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park stretches from San Remo in the west to Inverloch in the east along the Bass Coast. The Bass Coast is situated 130 kilometres (90 minutes’ drive) south-east of Melbourne via the South Gippsland and Bass Highways.

Wonthaggi is 140km south-east of Melbourne. Exit the South Gippsland Highway and follow the Bass Highway into Wonthaggi. Once in Wonthaggi, follow signs to key visitor attractions heading south-west towards the coast..

When to go

Make the most of beachside and water activities. Swim or snorkel to discover the unique marine life, go surfing or try your luck fishing.

Birdwatchers, this is the time to see the charismatic Hooded Plover. Tread lightly from August to April as they nest above the high-tide mark on ocean beaches and among dunes.

Need to know

Wonthaggi

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