Our Gippsland Getaway Highlight: The Prom

Looking for a perfect getaway, but short on time or funds? You don't have to travel far or spend big to find picturesque beaches, several hikes and an abundance of wildlife.

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Beyond the hustle and bustle of the city and past a string of quaint, artsy townships sits a breathtaking paradise rich with lush vegetation, pristine beaches and a wealth of wildlife all year round.  

Wilsons Promontory National Park, or The Prom, really is a Gippsland gem.

The Prom is a great destination for everyone- whether you’re after a family escape, a romantic weekend, a solo adventure, a girls or guys getaway or even a team building trip.

Located at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, its Victoria’s largest coastal wilderness area comprising of 50,000 hectares and a gorgeous coastline.  

There are several camping options, heaps of hiking trails and plenty to see for people of all ages and abilities. It’s the perfect place to spot kangaroos, wallabies, emus, wombats, kookaburras and several other native animals.

Free and paid campgrounds offer different overnight options including camp facilities, powered and unpowered sites, cabins and lodges.

Fitness fanatics and hiking enthusiasts will love the array of walking and hiking trails including the Lilly Pilly Circuit Walk, or the climb to Mount Bishop or Vereker Outlook which offer stunning views of the National Park. Mount Oberon is also a popular hike for those who want birds’ eye panoramic views (and aren’t afraid of heights!)

There are also several overnight hiking options at The Prom with beautiful sights to see, including the infamous Wilsons Promontory Lighthouse.

Built in 1859 from local granite, the Lighthouse and its historic residences are the southernmost settlement on the Australian mainland and is only accessible by foot, along the Southern Prom Circuit Hikes.

There are also five overnight hiking campsites (with no facilities) in the wildlife zone within the northern part of The Prom.

Those wanting to skip the sweat and prefer to get wet can splash around at Norman Beach. It’s the go-to spot for swimming or snorkelling and is only a quick walk from the Tidal River Campground. Fairy Cove, Whisky Bay and Cotters Beach are secluded beaches perfect for a quiet dip.  

Adventures can jump onboard the world’s first amphibious boat, across sand and sea, and get up close to dolphins, seals, birdlife and the iconic Skull Rock formation.

People of all abilities are able to explore The Prom by booking a free all-terrain wheelchair, TrailRider or beach wheelchair.  

Wilsons Promontory National Park is approximately a three-hour drive from Melbourne.
Tidal River Visitor Centre is 30km south of the park entrance.
There is no fuel at Tidal River and the closest fuel outlet is at Yanakie.

Visit Parks Victoria for information about trail closures, weather warnings or advice prior to your arrival. 

 

Fast Facts

  • The Prom is home to more than 700 native plant species and 30 kinds of mammals.
  • Agnes Falls is a 59metre waterfall at The Prom, hidden within the Strzelecki Ranges, a short drive from Toora or Welshpool. Watch the falls from the viewing area, 200m from the carpark, and some lunch while birdwatching from the grassy picnic area.  
  • It was made a national park in 1905.
  • Squeaky Beach- known for its squeaky white sand and turquoise +water-  is the most photographed beach at Wilsons Prom.
  • There are 42 beach trails in Wilsons Promontory National Park.
  • During winter, whales migrate not The Prom. Jump on a wildlife cruise to see them up close!
  • The Prom is an Aboriginal cultural landscape and a significant place for the Boonwurrung, Bunurong and Gunaikurnai Traditional Owners groups.

 

Photo by Ryan Jubber on Unsplash