Bay of Islands Coastal Park protects a stretch of the Shipwreck Coast west of Peterborough, where limestone stacks rise from the Southern Ocean along a long line of cliffs and beaches. It is the same geology as the Twelve Apostles, but the viewpoints here are reached by a short drive from the Great Ocean Road and are usually far quieter. The park includes lookouts over the Bay of Islands and the Bay of Martyrs, walking tracks along the clifftops and access to beaches that are best admired from above because of strong currents. Entry is free, and the park is run by the coast and parks authority for the region. It is the best answer to the question of where to go if the Apostles feel too busy, and it gives you a feel for how much more coast there is beyond the famous stop.
Seeing it well
Park at the lookout car parks, walk the short paths to the fenced viewing platforms and take your time, because the colour of the water and the rock changes with the light. Late afternoon gives warm tones on the cliffs, while early morning is the quietest. Allow an hour or so for the main lookouts and longer if you want to walk the clifftop tracks. The park is exposed to the wind and weather, so bring a windproof jacket and sturdy shoes.
Safety
The cliffs are unstable and the sea is rough, so stay behind the fences and on the marked paths, and never climb down onto rock platforms. The beaches have dangerous currents and large waves, and swimming is not recommended. Facilities are basic, so bring water and snacks, and fill the fuel tank in Port Campbell or Peterborough before you set off. Mobile coverage can be patchy, so check your route before you leave.
Getting there and who it suits
The park is on the western end of the Great Ocean Road, around 30 to 40 minutes beyond Port Campbell by car, so it works best as a half-day extension for people staying on that part of the coast. It suits independent travellers with a car, photographers and anyone who prefers quiet lookouts to crowds.
Most coach tours do not reach it, which is part of its charm. If you are short of time, stay with the main Apostles precinct, Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge, and treat Bay of Islands as an extra for a longer trip or a second day.
What to expect
The experience
Self-guided visits to clifftop lookouts and short walking tracks over sea stacks, cliffs and beaches.
Best time
Late afternoon gives warm light on the cliffs, and early morning is the quietest.
How long
One to two hours for the main lookouts, longer if you walk the clifftop tracks.
Tips
Bring a windproof jacket, water and fuel, stay behind the fences and do not swim at the beaches.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Self-drivers who want sea stacks and cliffs without the crowds of the Twelve Apostles.
- Families
- The lookouts are short walks, but keep children close to the fences because the cliffs are unstable.
- Couples
- A quiet, scenic stop that suits a late afternoon visit and a drive back to Port Campbell.
- Pair with
- Pair it with the Twelve Apostles precinct and Loch Ard Gorge on a longer coast day.
- Time needed
- Allow one to two hours, plus 30 to 40 minutes of driving each way from Port Campbell.
Good questions
Is Bay of Islands Coastal Park free?+
Yes. Entry to the park and its lookouts is free, though check the park page for any changes before you travel.
How is it different from the Twelve Apostles?+
It has similar limestone stacks and cliffs but far fewer visitors, and the lookouts are reached by a short drive and short walks.
Can I swim at the beaches?+
Swimming is not recommended. The currents and waves are dangerous, so enjoy the beaches from the lookouts.
How far is it from Port Campbell?+
Roughly 30 to 40 minutes by car, so it suits a half-day extension for visitors staying on the western end of the coast.
What facilities are there?+
Facilities are basic, so bring water and snacks and fill your fuel tank in a nearby town first.
