Natural Attractions Around Port Campbell

Pounded by wild seas and fierce winds, the coast of the Port Campbell National Park has been sculpted over millions of years to become one of the most impressive natural sights in Australia. Towering rock stacks loom out of the ocean just off shore from sheer limestone cliffs. Arches, islands and blowholes have also been carved out of the soft cliffs by the wind and sea.

Limestone arch connected to the mainland until 1990 is another fine example of the erosion of the limestone cliffs of the mainland that formed caves which eventually became arches.

A small pool beneath and archway with crashing waves in the background.
680 metres return walk on boardwalk and paved areas.
Note: No beach access

On the outskirts of Peterborough (Warrnambool side) photographic/video opportunity from elevated platform. Marvel at the ancient limestone towers and spectacular coastal scenery. Descend the steps to long sandy beach which is  protected from easterly winds. A great place to stroll and appreciate this natural sculptured park.
Track at eastern end of carpark leads to the site where the ship Falls of Halladale (1886-1908) ran aground in 1908.

Stretching 32 kilometres from Peterborough towards Warrnambool. Provides spectacular views of the rugged coastline where many a ship met their demise including Schomberg in 1855, Young Australian in 1877, Newfield in 1892, Falls of Halladale in 1908 to name but a few. 4 main viewing areas with 1.8 metres of trails. Please Note: No Beach Access.

A tale of tragedy and heroism unfolded when the clipper Loch Ard struck the coast in 1878 with the loss of 52 lives only 2 survived Eva Carmichael and Tom Pearce who were swept into the gorge and later taken to Glenample Homestead to recuperate. Take the time to explore the cementary where many of the ill fated passengers of the clipper are buried. There are 4 walking tracks ranging from 900m to 3.2 kms.

10 minutes east of Port Campbell township. World famous off shore stacks, arguably the most photographed feature on the Australian coastline. 2 viewing areas, sealed path and boardwalk 600m walk return. No beach access.

Just before the 12 Apostles descend a 70 metre cliff face to the beach below.

* When exploring the National and Marine Park be mindful of the dangers such as unstable cliffs, tides, variable sea conditions and fragile cliff top and shoreline ecosystems.
* Keep to the tracks and trails and leave nothing behind.
* No pets (unless specified) fires, camping or sleeping overnight in vehicles.

The west coast of Victoria once inspired fear, sailors spoke of wild seas and dangerous rocks, of  reefs which lay beneath the surface of the water, of steep cliffs and heavy mists. Many ships had narrow escapes in this stretch of water, many were not so fortunate.
The area between Cape Otway and Port Fairy claimed over 80 ships in 40 years: ships which had traveled safely across half the world, to find disaster only miles from their destination.

A walk through picturesque sheoak groves brings you to a viewing platform on one of the highest headlands on the mainland, known as "The Gable" offering spectacular views of the coastline.
Marvel at the birdlife as you stroll the track. Visit the cemetery. Descend approx 300 steps to the beach (reasonable fitness required). Walk to the west and see the anchors from the shipwrecks Fuji and the Marie Gabrielle (see shipwrecks for more details on these ships). Gemstones and rockpools on the beach. Caution: Be aware of tide movement.