Free things to do in nature near Melbourne
If you’re seeking an affordable way to connect with nature, you’re in luck. Here are some great free activities close to Melbourne that will have you enjoying nature without breaking the bank.
Tip: before you leave, connect deeper by finding out which Country you’ll be on. The Acknowledgement of Country map is a fantastic resource and easy to use.
1. Join a guided Park Walk at Yarra Bend
Did you know Parks Victoria offers free guided walks in our national parks and reserves? If you live in Melbourne, Yarra Bend Park Walk might be your closest event.
Yarra Bend Park on Wurundjeri Country is Melbourne's largest natural bushland park. It’s just a 20-minute drive from the CDB. On a Park Walk, you’ll learn from our friendly and knowledgeable volunteer guides about this urban oasis and the species that live here.
You can join this easy walk as a once-off to explore somewhere new, or as a regular part of your wellbeing or fitness routine. The walk takes approximately 1.5-2 hours on a dirt track with some small hills. Bookings are required. Find out more here.
Yarra Bend Park Walk
2. Go bird watching at Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary
Take a 20-minute drive from Melbourne, or the train to Cheltenham station and then a connecting bus to watch birds in the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere of Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary in Beaumaris, on Bunurong Country.
The sanctuary is home to birds including Australian Pelicans (Pelecanus conspicillatus), Superb Fairywrens (Malurus cyaneus) and Black Swans (Cygnus atratus). Try writing a list of your favourite birds before you go and check them off as you spot them.
If you’re there between June and August, keep your eyes peeled for Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)!
Ranger tip: Always respect wildlife – never feed animals and always take your rubbish with you.
Pelican on tidal flats at Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary
3. Try a beginner hike in Yarra Ranges National Park
Some of the best beginner hikes close to Melbourne are in Yarra Ranges National Park, on Wurundjeri and Taungurung Country. Enjoy hikes like the Rainforest Gallery Walk, Cambarville Circuit Walk, or Keppel Falls. Find more information in our guide: 5 Best Beginner Hikes in Yarra Ranges National Park.
Before heading out on a hike, tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Think about your fitness levels, stamina, and abilities. Always pack extra water and wear sturdy, enclosed shoes, and sun protection.
Ranger tip: Always stick to designated walking tracks to protect vegetation and wildlife habitats.
4. Enjoy at seaside stroll at Sorrento Back Beach
A 90-minute drive from Melbourne, or a 15-minute walk from the closest bus stop, Sorrento Back Beach, in Mornington Peninsula National Park on Bunurong Country, is a popular spot for relaxing, swimming, surfing and walking. There’s a large car park, picnic area and toilets. A café and kiosk are open year-round.
A short 500m circuit track from the lifesaving club to the lookout rotunda rewards with excellent views along the coast. The 4km one-way Coppins Track Walk also starts at Sorrento Back Beach and winds along the clifftop to Diamond Bay – there are several viewpoints along the way.
Ocean beaches can be dangerous for swimming. The beach is only patrolled by lifeguards on summer weekends and holidays – always swim between the flags and never swim alone if you are not a strong swimmer.
Ranger tip: Check the weather before you go and plan a visit on a day without strong winds. Safer and more comfortable, light winds also mean clearer and calmer water.
Sorrento Back Beach. Image: Visit Victoria
5. Try forest bathing
One way to enjoy the health benefits of nature no cost is by forest bathing. The Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, or forest bathing, is the act the act of immersing oneself in nature using all of one’s senses for its restorative effects on physical and mental health and wellbeing.
It’s a chance to slowly and mindfully connect with natural world – from the tiny flowers at your feet, to birds moving from tree to tree or the rustling of small animals in the bush.
There are many trails close to Melbourne suitable for forest bathing, including Sanatorium Lake Trail, Macedon Regional Park, Hardy Gully Walk, Dandenong Ranges National Park or Cambarville Circuit Walk, Yarra Ranges National Park.
6. Go camping for free from 1 December
Escape the everyday with a free trip away at one of Parks Victoria's 131 paid campgrounds from 1 December 2024 to 30 June 2025.
Victorians and other visitors can enjoy camping in the great outdoors for free this summer and beyond. Bookings are essential, even though there is no charge.
Facilities differ between campgrounds - from basic sites to those with added comforts like hot showers, shelters, and fireplaces - so be sure to check the details of the campground you're planning to visit. Rubbish bins are not provided at campgrounds, so be prepared to take all your rubbish home with you.
Find out more about free camping in Victoria's parks here.
Before leaving home, make sure you know how to safely enjoy a campfire. Rubbish bins are not provided at campground, so be prepared to take all your rubbish home with you to help protect the environment.
Ranger tip: If you’re new to camping, you might prefer the pre-pitched Discovery Tents at Point Nepean National Park. Hot showers, toilets and a fully equipped camp kitchen are provided. Prices start at $39.65pp, per night in a 4-person tent, or $57.70 for a 2-person tent.
7. Practice your photography at a local pier or jetty
Decades ago, the cost of camera equipment meant professional-grade photography was out of reach for many, but today all you need is a smartphone and some patience.
Visit one of the many piers and jetties of Port Phillip Bay close to Melbourne at sunrise or sunset to capture spectacular shots of the area and practice your photography skills.
Ranger tip: Never jump off piers – remember that climbing over or around barriers puts you at serious risk.
Seaford Pier
8. Enjoy a picnic in Werribee Park Gardens
There's no easier way to enjoy nature than with a picnic – and the Werribee Park Gardens are a fantastic place to do just that. You can set up a picnic in the beautiful formal gardens while you marvel at the expansive manicured landscape, historic Werribee Park Mansion and ornamental lake.
The Victoria State Rose Garden is a must-see on your Werribee Park Visit. It features historic roses from around the world which are at their most magnificent from November to April.
Entry to Werribee Park Gardens and Victoria State Rose Garden is free. Entry fees apply to the Werribee Park Mansion.
Werribee Park is 35 km west of Melbourne City. You can reach Werribee Park Gardens via public transport by taking the Werribee line train to Werribee Station, then bus route #439 to Werribee Park.
Remember to always leave no trace and take your rubbish with you.
Picnic at Werribee Park Gardens
Be prepared and stay safe
Check the latest conditions and park closures on the Parks Victoria website before you leave home. Use the search field to find the park you are looking for. If a park is closed or has safety issues, a red or orange tab will appear at the top of the park webpage. Click the tab to find out further details.
Visitor guides contain park summary information such as suggested activities, safety and regulations and a list of facilities available.
Download this handy day trip checklist (PDF).
Find park information in your language here.