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Prom Coast — South Gippsland, Victoria
Fishing boats reflected in calm water at Port Franklin

Corner Inlet

Port Franklin

Port Franklin is a peaceful fishing village on the coast of South Gippsland, surrounded by tidal waterways, wetlands and beautiful rural landscapes. Known for its fishing heritage and relaxed coastal atmosphere, it is a charming gateway to exploring the Prom Coast.

Corner Inlet

Welcome to Port Franklin

Port Franklin is a tiny, peaceful fishing village nestled on the banks of the Franklin River in South Gippsland, between Foster and Toora. Set on the sheltered waters of Corner Inlet, with the mountains of Wilsons Promontory providing a spectacular backdrop, the village has a distinctly maritime character. Small fishing boats line the river and the surrounding wetlands, while the quiet streets and natural landscape create an atmosphere that feels a world away from the busier coastal towns. Port Franklin remains home to a small community of commercial fishing families who continue the area's long connection with the waters of Corner Inlet.

The best way to experience Port Franklin is simply to slow down and enjoy its peaceful waterfront setting. The short Port Franklin Boardwalk winds through the wetlands beside the Franklin River, offering views of the fishing boats, tidal waterways and abundant birdlife. The village has a fascinating maritime history stretching back to the early days of European settlement, with whaling, timber and fishing all playing important roles in its development. Today, fishing remains an important part of the community, and the waters of Corner Inlet are renowned for their seafood and recreational boating and fishing. The nearby Corner Inlet wetlands are also internationally significant, providing habitat for a remarkable variety of marine and birdlife. With Foster, Toora, Port Welshpool and Wilsons Promontory all within easy reach, Port Franklin is an ideal destination for visitors looking for genuine coastal country life, beautiful scenery and a quiet escape from the crowds.

Top things to do

Things to do in Port Franklin

  1. 01

    Explore the fishing village

    Wander around the waterfront and see the working fishing boats and local maritime activity.

  2. 02

    Walk along the Port Franklin foreshore

    Enjoy peaceful views across the inlet, particularly around sunrise and sunset.

  3. 03

    Fishing

    Port Franklin is well known for recreational and commercial fishing, with the inlet offering opportunities for anglers.

  4. 04

    Boating and kayaking

    Explore the sheltered waters of the Franklin River and Corner Inlet by kayak, canoe or small boat.

  5. 05

    Birdwatching

    The surrounding wetlands and mudflats attract a wide variety of coastal and wetland birds.

  6. 06

    Visit the Port Franklin Jetty

    A popular spot for fishing, photography and enjoying the views across the water.

  7. 07

    Explore Corner Inlet

    Discover the extensive waterways, mudflats and coastal landscapes surrounding the village.

  8. 08

    Explore Port Welshpool

    Visit the nearby historic port and long jetty, with excellent views across Corner Inlet.

  9. 09

    Enjoy the quiet coastal atmosphere

    Port Franklin is ideal for visitors wanting to slow down and experience a traditional Gippsland fishing village.

Places to stay

Stay in & around Port Franklin

The front of Prom Coast Residence, with a timber deck, steps and garden beds
Featured stay · Book direct

Fish Creek · Country house · Sleeps 7

Prom Coast Residence

A relaxed three-bedroom country home among open farmland, nine minutes' drive from the beaches of Sandy Point and Waratah Bay, with Shallow Inlet views from the balcony.

  • 3 bedrooms
  • 9 min to Sandy Point
  • Near Wilsons Prom

About 22 min drive from Port Franklin

Rates direct from the host · 2-night minimum · Cleaning fee waived for direct online bookings

Other accommodation · via Booking.com

More places to stay near Port Franklin

Search other stays
  • Panorama of green hills above Toora
    Sample listing

    Foster · B&B

    Bed & breakfast, Foster

    The last major town before the Prom, with galleries and cafés.

    Sleeps 2 1 bedroom

    Live rates appear once connected

  • Tents pitched beneath the mountains of Wilsons Promontory
    Sample listing

    Yanakie · Cabin

    Cabin near Wilsons Prom, Yanakie

    The closest town to the park entrance — an early start for Mount Oberon.

    Sleeps 4 2 bedrooms

    Live rates appear once connected

  • Evening light over farmland near Tarwin Lower
    Sample listing

    Fish Creek · Retreat

    Country retreat, Fish Creek

    Rolling hills, galleries and the rail trail on the doorstep.

    Sleeps 2 1 bedroom

    Live rates appear once connected

Lichen-covered granite rocks on the Prom coast at dusk

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