Massacre Bay (Bay of Islands Coastal Park)

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Massacre Bay (Bay of Islands Coastal Park)

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Massacre Bay (Bay of Islands Coastal Park)

Need to know

Massacre Bay (Bay of Islands Coastal Park)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

Accessibility

Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however, in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

No dogs allowed
No horses
No fires permitted
No camping
No drones without a permit
No firearms allowed

Warnings

Water hazards
Rough Surf

Strong currents

Deep water
Terrain hazards
Unstable cliffs
Other warnings
Unpatrolled area

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

Coastal Hazard Alert: Great Otway, Port Campbell National Parks

Advisory for visitors to Great Otway National Park, Port Campbell National Park, and the Great Ocean Walk:

A significant weather system is expected to bring hazardous coastal conditions from late Tuesday (24 June 2025) through Wednesday (25 June 2025).

Abnormally high tides and damaging surf are forecast, posing risks to coastal trails, beaches, and visitor sites along the Great Ocean Road. A Coastal Hazard Warning for high tides is anticipated within 36 hours, with damaging surf conditions closely monitored.

⚠️ Key Risks for the Great Ocean Walk and Coastal Sites

Abnormally High Tides: Tides will exceed the Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) during peak periods:

Tuesday–Wednesday: Peak tides 0.4m–0.7m above HAT, highest during early morning/afternoon high tides.

Critical Areas: Low-lying beaches, trail sections near waterways (e.g., Station Beach, Johanna Beach, Wreck Beach), and coastal infrastructure.

Damaging Surf: Wave Heights: 7–8m along western coasts (Tuesday evening); 5–6m along central coasts (overnight Wednesday).

Rogue Wave Risk: Sudden surges may inundate beaches and cliff bases, especially at Wreck Beach and Station Beach.

🚧 Great Ocean Walk-Specific Advisory

High-Tide Alternatives: Use designated high-tide bypass routes at Station Beach and Wreck Beach. Avoid beach walks during high tide.

Wreck Beach anchors: Do not approach unless at confirmed low tide and conditions are visibly safe.

Trail Safety: Stay ≥10m from the water’s edge due to unpredictable surges.

🛑 General Precautions for Coastal Sites

Park Access: Trails and sites may close with short notice.

Check Parks Victoria for real-time updates.

Do not drive through flooded roads or cross inundated trails.

Stay Updated

Check Parks Victoria> BOM > Vic Emergency for real-time alerts and closures.

Postpone non-essential coastal visits until conditions improve.