Point Lonsdale - Port Phillip Heads Marine NP (Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park)

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Point Lonsdale - Port Phillip Heads Marine NP (Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park)

Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park protects a diverse marine environment comprising Swan Bay, Mud Islands, Popes Eye, Point Lonsdale, Point Nepean and Portsea Hole. The Point Lonsdale section of the park is located between Queenscliff and the western side of the Port Phillip entrance.

The intertidal reef is a great place for beginner and advanced snorkellers, as well as divers, to explore and experience a diverse array of Victoria’s marine life. Snorkelling around Point Lonsdale jetty and nearby reef is very popular in summer.

The popular dive site, Lonsdale Wall, is composed of a series of ledges which mark the edge of the historical course of the Yarra River.

Lonsdale Reef near Point Lonsdale has four visible and recognisable shipwrecks - the iron sailing barques George Roper, Holy head and Gang, and the gold rush steamer Conside.

The outer limits of the park at Point Lonsdale can be subject to strong currents when water is moving in and out of The Heads.

How to get there

Point Lonsdale - Port Phillip Heads Marine NP (Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park)

Need to know

Point Lonsdale - Port Phillip Heads Marine NP (Port Phillip Heads Marine National 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

Boating zones apply
No fishing

Warnings

Water hazards
Deep water

Rough Surf

Shallow water

Strong currents

Submerged obstacles
Animals and pests
Sharks

Stingers

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.

Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park Visitor Guide

Download the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park Visitor Guide for a map and more information about the park

Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park identification booklet

Download the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park Identification Booklet (revised edition May 2020) (PDF 16.3 MB) by the Friends of Beware Reef group.

Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park divers guide

Download the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park Divers Guide (PDF 7.72 MB) by the Friends of Beware Reef group.