Are you looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature? Do you want to experience the beauty and diversity of Australia’s wildlife and landscapes? If yes, then you should visit Wilsons Promontory National Park, or The Prom, as it is affectionately known by the locals. The Prom is the southernmost point of mainland Australia, and one of the most stunning and popular national parks in the country.
It offers a range of activities and attractions for all types of travellers, from camping and hiking to beaches and wildlife. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to Wilsons Promontory National Park, including its history, features, and highlights.
We will also give you some tips and recommendations on how to plan your trip and make the most of your time at The Prom. Whether you are travelling solo, with your family, or with your friends, you will find something to suit your interests and preferences at The Prom. So, let’s get started!
Camping at The Prom
One of the best ways to experience The Prom is to stay overnight at one of its campsites. Camping at The Prom allows you to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the park, and to wake up to the sounds and sights of wildlife. There are two main campsites at The Prom: Tidal River and Stockyard. Tidal River is the largest and most popular campsite, located near the park’s main entrance and visitor centre. It has over 400 camping spots, including tents, cabins, huts, and group lodges. It also has facilities such as toilets, showers, picnic areas, barbecue pits, and a general store. Stockyard is a smaller and quieter campsite, located near the park’s northern entrance. It has 20 camping spots, suitable for tents and small campervans. It has basic facilities such as toilets and picnic tables.
If you are looking for a more adventurous and secluded camping experience, you can also choose from several smaller and more remote camping grounds, such as Sealers Cove, Refuge Cove, Little Waterloo Bay, and Roaring Meg. These camping grounds are only accessible by foot or boat, and require a permit and a booking. They have limited facilities, such as toilets and water tanks, and you will need to bring your own camping equipment and supplies. These camping grounds are ideal for overnight hikes, as they allow you to explore the park’s wilderness and coastline.
Camping at The Prom is very popular, especially during peak seasons and holidays, so you will need to book your spot well in advance. You can book online through the park’s official website, or by phone or email. You will also need to pay a camping fee, which varies depending on the type and location of your campsite. Some tips and recommendations for camping at The Prom are:
- The best time to visit The Prom is from September to May, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the flowers are in bloom. However, you can visit The Prom all year round, as it has a temperate climate and offers different attractions in different seasons.
- Pack essentials such as clothing, footwear, food, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, first aid kit, flashlight, and rubbish bags. You can also bring your own firewood, as fires are only allowed in designated areas and firewood is not provided.
- Follow the park rules and regulations, such as keeping your campsite clean, disposing of your rubbish properly, respecting other campers, and staying within the park boundaries. You can find more information about the park rules and regulations on the park’s official website, or at the visitor centre.
- Enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of The Prom, but do not disturb or harm them. Keep a safe distance from the animals, do not feed them, and do not litter. The Prom is home to many rare and endangered species, and it is your responsibility to protect and conserve them.
Hiking at The Prom
Another great way to experience The Prom is to hike along its trails. Hiking at The Prom allows you to see the park’s diverse and spectacular scenery, from mountains and forests to beaches and islands. There are over 30 hiking trails at The Prom, ranging from easy and short to challenging and long. You can choose a trail that suits your fitness level, time availability, and personal preference. Some of the most popular and rewarding hikes at The Prom are:
Mount Oberon:
This is one of the most iconic and scenic hikes at The Prom, as it takes you to the summit of Mount Oberon, the highest point in the park. The hike is about 6.8 km return, and takes about 2 hours. It is a steady climb along a gravel road, with some steep and rocky sections. The hike is worth the effort, as it rewards you with panoramic views of the park and the ocean. You can see the Tidal River, the Norman Bay, the Squeaky Beach, and the offshore islands. The hike is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset, when the sky is painted with vibrant colours. The trailhead is located near the Telegraph Saddle car park, and you will need to drive or take a shuttle bus to get there.
Tongue Point:
This is one of the most picturesque and diverse hikes at The Prom, as it takes you through coastal heathland, sandy beaches, and rocky headlands. The hike is about 9.5 km return, and takes about 3 hours. It is a moderate hike, with some flat and easy sections, and some steep and uneven sections. The hike starts from the Darby Saddle car park, and follows a well-marked track to Fairy Cove, a secluded and charming beach. From there, you can continue to Tongue Point, a narrow and jagged peninsula that juts out into the sea. Along the way, you can enjoy the views of the offshore islands, such as the Glennie Island, the Anser Island, and the Cleft Island. You can also spot some wildlife, such as wallabies, echidnas, and birds. The hike is best done on a clear and calm day, as the wind and the tide can make the trail difficult and dangerous.
Lilly Pilly Gully:
This is one of the most accessible and enjoyable hikes at The Prom, as it takes you through a loop of diverse vegetation and wildlife. The hike is about 5.8 km return, and takes about 2 hours. It is an easy hike, with a mostly flat and smooth track. The hike starts from the Lilly Pilly Gully car park, and follows a boardwalk through a wetland, a forest, and a heathland. You can see various plants, such as ferns, eucalyptus, banksia, and orchids. You can also see various animals, such as kangaroos, wombats, possums, and birds. The hike is suitable for all ages and abilities, and has a picnic area and a toilet along the way. The hike is particularly beautiful in spring, when the flowers are in bloom.
Some tips and recommendations for hiking at The Prom are:
- Choose a trail that matches your fitness level, time availability, and personal preference. You can find more information about the trails on the park’s official website, or at the visitor centre. You can also get a map and a brochure of the trails at the visitor centre, or download them online.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, such as comfortable and sturdy shoes, layers, hat, and sunglasses. The weather at The Prom can change quickly and unexpectedly, so be prepared for rain, wind, and sun. You can check the weather forecast on the park’s official website, or at the visitor centre.
- Bring enough food and water, as there are no shops or cafes along the trails. You can also bring a snack, such as a granola bar, a fruit, or a chocolate, to boost your energy and morale. You can refill your water bottle at the campsites, the visitor centre, or the water tanks along some trails.
- Stay safe and alert, as the trails can be slippery, rocky, steep, or exposed. Follow the signs and markers, and do not stray from the track. Do not hike alone, and let someone know your plans and expected return time. Carry a mobile phone, a whistle, and a first aid kit, in case of emergency. You can also register your hike at the visitor centre, and check in and out when you finish.
Beaches at The Prom
If you are looking for some relaxation and recreation, you can visit one of the beaches at The Prom. The beaches at The Prom are stunning and pristine, and offer a variety of activities and attractions. You can swim, surf, snorkel, or sunbathe, or simply admire the views of the sand, the sea, and the rocks. There are over 10 beaches at The Prom, each with its own character and charm. Some of the most beautiful and accessible beaches are:
Squeaky Beach:
This is one of the most famous and fun beaches at The Prom, as it is known for its squeaky sound when you walk on its sand. The sand is made of quartz, which rubs together when you step on it, creating a squeaking noise. The beach is also known for its white and smooth sand, its turquoise and clear water, and its large and round granite boulders. The beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling, as it has gentle waves and colourful marine life. You can also explore the rocks and caves, or climb up to the lookout point for a stunning view. The beach is about 1 km long, and is located near the Tidal River
Norman Beach:
This is one of the most convenient and family-friendly beaches at The Prom, as it is located near the Tidal River campsite and visitor centre. It has easy access, ample parking, and facilities such as toilets, showers, picnic areas, and barbecue pits. The beach is also known for its long and wide sand, its calm and shallow water, and its views of the Mount Oberon and the Norman Point. The beach is ideal for swimming, paddling, and fishing, as it has gentle currents and abundant fish. You can also walk along the beach, or cross the river to the Norman Bay Track, which leads to the Squeaky Beach. The beach is about 2 km long, and is one of the most popular and crowded beaches at The Prom.
Whisky Bay:
This is one of the most secluded and romantic beaches at The Prom, as it is hidden by a forest and a hill. It has a small car park, and a short and steep track that leads to the beach. The beach is known for its golden and fine sand, its clear and blue water, and its dramatic and rugged rocks. The beach is ideal for snorkeling, surfing, and sunbathing, as it has moderate waves and diverse marine life. You can also explore the rocks and caves, or climb up to the lookout point for a breathtaking view. The beach is about 500 m long, and is one of the most quiet and peaceful beaches at The Prom.
Picnic Bay:
This is one of the most adventurous and exciting beaches at The Prom, as it is located at the southern end of the park, and offers a challenge and a reward for the visitors. It has a large car park, and a long and rough track that leads to the beach. The beach is known for its dark and coarse sand, its deep and cold water, and its impressive and steep cliffs. The beach is ideal for fishing, diving, and boating, as it has strong currents and rich marine life. You can also walk along the beach, or follow the Picnic Bay Track, which connects to the Whisky Bay and the Squeaky Beach. The beach is about 1.5 km long, and is one of the most remote and wild beaches at The Prom.
Some tips and recommendations for enjoying the beaches at The Prom are:
- Check the tide and the surf conditions before you visit the beaches, as they can affect the access, the safety, and the activities of the beaches. You can check the tide and the surf conditions on the park’s official website, or at the visitor centre.
- Bring your own equipment and supplies, such as swimwear, towel, sunscreen, snorkel, surfboard, fishing rod, and picnic basket. There are no shops or cafes at the beaches, and you will need to bring your own food and water. You can also bring your own firewood, as fires are only allowed in designated areas and firewood is not provided.
- Respect the environment and the wildlife of the beaches, and do not disturb or harm them. Do not litter, and dispose of your rubbish properly. Do not collect or damage the shells, the rocks, or the plants. Do not feed or touch the animals, and keep a safe distance from them. The beaches are home to many rare and endangered species, and it is your responsibility to protect and conserve them.
Wildlife at The Prom
If you are a wildlife lover, you will be amazed by the variety and abundance of animals at The Prom. The Prom is home to over 700 native species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. You can see them in their natural habitats, and observe their behaviour and interactions. Some of the most common and iconic animals at The Prom are:
Kangaroos:
These are the largest and most recognizable marsupials in Australia, and they can be found in many areas of The Prom. They have long and powerful legs, which they use to hop and jump. They also have long and muscular tails, which they use to balance and steer. They have thick and coarse fur, which can be grey, brown, or red. They are herbivorous, and they feed on grasses, leaves, and flowers. They are social, and they live in groups called mobs. They are active during the day, and they rest in the shade during the heat. You can see them grazing in the open fields, or hopping along the roads and tracks. You can also see their tracks and droppings, which are oval and fibrous.
Emus:
These are the second-largest and the tallest living birds in the world, and they are native to Australia. They can be found in the northern and eastern parts of The Prom. They have long and slender necks, and small and pointed heads. They have brown and black feathers, which cover their bodies and wings. They have long and strong legs, which they use to run and kick. They can run up to 50 km/h, and they are the fastest birds on land. They are omnivorous, and they feed on seeds, fruits, insects, and small animals. They are curious, and they often approach humans and vehicles. They are active during the day, and they rest in the shade during the heat. You can see them walking in the grasslands, or running across the roads and tracks. You can also hear their calls, which are low and booming.
Wombats:
These are the largest and the heaviest burrowing mammals in the world, and they are endemic to Australia. They can be found in the southern and western parts of The Prom. They have short and stocky bodies, and large and round heads. They have brown and grey fur, which is thick and coarse. They have short and sturdy legs, which they use to dig and walk. They have strong and sharp claws, which they use to excavate and defend. They are herbivorous, and they feed on grasses, roots, and fungi. They are solitary, and they live in burrows called warrens. They are nocturnal, and they sleep during the day and forage during the night. You can see them emerging from their burrows at dusk, or returning to their burrows at dawn. You can also see their tracks and droppings, which are cubic and dry.
Echidnas:
These are the smallest and the cutest monotremes in the world, and they are one of the only two egg-laying mammals, along with the platypus. They can be found in most parts of The Prom. They have small and round bodies, and long and slender snouts. They have brown and black spines, which cover their backs and sides. They have short and clawed legs, which they use to dig and walk. They have sticky and long tongues, which they use to catch and eat ants and termites. They are shy, and they curl up into a ball when they feel threatened. They are active during the day and the night, depending on the season and the temperature. You can see them foraging in the woodlands, or hiding in the logs and rocks. You can also see their tracks and diggings, which are shallow and conical.
Birds:
These are the most diverse and abundant animals at The Prom, and they can be seen and heard everywhere. There are over 200 species of birds at The Prom, including parrots, cockatoos, honeyeaters, robins, wrens, eagles, and penguins. They have different shapes, sizes, colours, and sounds, and they add life and beauty to the park. They are omnivorous, and they feed on seeds, fruits, nectar, insects, and fish. They are social, and they live in flocks, pairs, or alone. They are active during the day and the night, depending on the species and the season. You can see them flying in the sky, perching on the trees, or nesting on the cliffs. You can also hear their calls, which are melodious, harsh, or funny.
Some tips and recommendations for respecting and protecting the wildlife at The Prom are:
- Do not disturb or harm the animals, and keep a safe distance from them. Do not feed them, and do not litter. Feeding and littering can cause health problems, dependency, and aggression in the animals, and can also attract pests and predators. The animals are wild, and they can bite, scratch, or kick if they feel threatened or annoyed.
- Do not collect or damage the eggs, the nests, or the burrows of the animals, and do not touch or handle the young ones. These actions can endanger the survival and reproduction of the animals, and can also expose you to diseases and parasites. The animals are protected, and it is illegal to interfere with them or their habitats.
- Enjoy the wildlife, but do not chase, catch, or pet them. Observe and appreciate them from a distance, and use binoculars, cameras, or guides to enhance your experience. You can also join a wildlife tour, or visit a wildlife centre, to learn more about the animals and their conservation. The wildlife is one of the main attractions and assets of The Prom, and it is your responsibility to preserve and respect them.
Other Attractions at The Prom
Besides camping, hiking, beaches, and wildlife, there are many other attractions and activities at The Prom that you can enjoy and explore. These attractions and activities showcase the history, culture, and conservation of the park, and offer a different and unique perspective of The Prom. Some of the other attractions and activities at The Prom are:
Wilsons Promontory Lighthouse:
This is one of the oldest and most remote lighthouses in Australia, and it is located at the southern tip of The Prom. It was built in 1859, and it is still operational today. It stands at 19 metres high, and it flashes a white light every 7.5 seconds. It can be seen from up to 25 km away, and it guides the ships and boats in the Bass Strait. The lighthouse is only accessible by foot or boat, and it requires a permit and a booking. It also offers accommodation, such as cottages and bunkhouses, for visitors who want to stay overnight. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the park and the ocean, and it is a great place to learn about the history and the stories of The Prom.
Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park:
This is one of the largest and most diverse marine parks in Victoria, and it surrounds the coast of The Prom. It covers an area of 15,550 hectares, and it protects a variety of marine habitats and species. It features coral reefs, sponge gardens, kelp forests, seagrass meadows, and rocky shores. It also hosts over 1000 species of marine life, such as fish, crustaceans, molluscs, echinoderms, and mammals. The marine park is a paradise for snorkeling, diving, boating, and fishing, as it offers clear and calm water, and colourful and abundant marine life. You can also explore the granite cliffs, the offshore islands, and the shipwrecks that dot the park.
Wilsons Promontory Cruises:
These are the best way to experience the marine park and the coastline of The Prom, as they take you on a scenic and exciting journey around the park. The cruises are operated by a local company, and they use a custom-built boat that can accommodate up to 60 passengers. The cruises last for about 4 hours, and they include a commentary, a lunch, and a snorkeling session. The cruises depart from the Tidal River jetty, and they visit various places, such as the Sealers Cove, the Refuge Cove, the Skull Rock, and the Kanowna Island. Along the way, you can see the spectacular scenery and wildlife of The Prom, such as the granite mountains, the sandy beaches, the rocky islands, and the marine animals. You can also spot some whales, dolphins, seals, and penguins, depending on the season and the luck.
Wilsons Promontory Outdoor Cinema:
This is one of the most fun and unique attractions at The Prom, as it allows you to watch a movie under the stars and surrounded by nature. The outdoor cinema is located at the Tidal River campsite, and it operates from December to April, on selected nights. It shows a variety of movies, from classics to blockbusters, and from comedies to dramas. The movies are suitable for all ages and tastes, and they are free of charge. The outdoor cinema has a large screen, a projector, and a sound system, and it can accommodate up to 200 people. It also provides bean bags, blankets, and snacks, or you can bring your own. The outdoor cinema is a great way to relax and enjoy the night at The Prom, and to share the experience with your family and friends.
We hope that this article has given you a comprehensive and informative guide to Wilsons Promontory National Park, and has inspired you to plan your trip and visit this amazing place. The Prom is one of the most beautiful and popular national parks in Australia, and it offers something for everyone. Whether you want to camp, hike, swim, snorkel, or watch wildlife, you will find plenty of activities and attractions to suit your interests and preferences. You will also discover the history, culture, and conservation of the park, and learn more about its unique and diverse features. The Prom is a place where you can connect with nature, and create unforgettable memories with your family and friends.
If you want to find out more about The Prom, or book your campsite, hike, or cruise, you can visit the park’s official website, or contact the visitor centre. You can also check out some of the related articles below, which provide more tips and insights on The Prom and its surroundings.
Thank you for reading this article, and we hope that you have a wonderful time at The Prom. Please feel free to share your feedback and comments with us, and let us know how your trip went. Happy travels!
