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Phillip Island — Coastal Walks

Cape Woolamai is Phillip Island’s highest point and a coastal loop you’ll want to linger on. Pink-granite cliffs, long beach stretches, and lookouts over thundering Bass Strait swells. Bring sturdy shoes, a camera, and time for detours to the Pinnacles and the Old Granite Quarry.

Aim for early or late. The light is kind, the wind is calmer, and the cliffs glow at golden hour.

Walk at a glance

Cape Woolamai sits on the southeastern tip of Phillip Island, Victoria. Trails start from Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club and fan out to the clifftops. The classic circuit is 8–10 km depending on side spurs, with sandy paths, stair sections, and rocky viewpoints. Allow 3–4 hours at an easy, photo-friendly pace.

Why a campervan helps here

  • Park up close to the trailhead and beat the crowds
  • Keep extra layers, snacks, and a thermos ready between lookouts
  • Rinse sand and reset after beach sections without rushing home
  • Flex to sunrise or sunset if the wind forecast shifts

Best time to go

Year-round is fine, but conditions change quickly on the cape. Summer has heat and little shade; winter brings dramatic swell and bracing winds. Spring and autumn are sweet spots. Pick mornings for calmer air and softer light, and check tides if you plan beach walking.

Route options

Cape Woolamai Circuit (8–10 km)

  • Start: Woolamai Beach car park → clifftop track
  • Highlights: The Pinnacles, Old Granite Quarry, Beacon, lookouts to San Remo
  • Notes: Mix of sand, steps, and exposed sections — take water and sun protection

Short on time? Walk straight to The Pinnacles lookout and back for a 90-120 minute out-and-back.

Lookout linkups (3–5 km)

  • Pinnacles Spur: Quick payoff with classic granite stacks
  • Old Granite Quarry: Coastal history plus wild ocean views
  • Beacon Lookout: Highest point on the island with sweeping panoramas

Clifftops are exposed — keep clear of edges and stick to marked paths.

Photo stops & wildlife

  • Pink-granite cliffs glowing at sunrise/sunset
  • Short-tailed shearwaters (seasonal), sea birds, and sometimes whales offshore in migration
  • Surf lines rolling across Woolamai Beach after strong swell

Safety & simple etiquette

  • Check wind forecasts; gusts can be strong on exposed headlands
  • Stay behind fences and barriers at lookouts
  • Carry water, hat, and sunscreen — shade is limited
  • Pack out all rubbish and keep to formed tracks

What to bring

  • Trail shoes with grip for sand and rock
  • Light shell for wind, even on warm days
  • Water (at least 1–1.5 L per person) and snacks
  • Camera or phone with spare battery, and a microfiber cloth for sea spray

Driving & overnight notes

  • Woolamai Beach car park fills on summer weekends — arrive early
  • Holiday parks and campgrounds nearby suit self-contained vans — book ahead in peak season
  • Respect local parking signs and avoid soft sand shoulders

Search Campervans — Live Availability

Make Cape Woolamai easy

A campervan gives you sunrise starts, unhurried lunch breaks, and a comfy reset after sandy shoes. Stay close, chase the best light, and pick your moment for the Pinnacles.

Event Campers shows live availability from trusted rental brands so you can compare layouts and prices in one place. Choose what fits and enjoy Phillip Island’s coastal edge.

JR

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