The Prom Coast is home to an incredible variety of beaches, from calm, sheltered bays that are ideal for families to powerful surf beaches and secluded stretches of coastline. Whether you’re looking for somewhere safe to swim, a beach for the kids, a place to take the dog, a good fishing spot or somewhere to catch a wave, there’s a beach to suit.
Best Beaches for Swimming
Looking for somewhere to cool off? Discover the beaches with the calmest and most sheltered water, making them better suited to swimming. Sandy Point, Waratah Bay and some areas around Inverloch are popular choices for families and relaxed swimming, while conditions can vary depending on tides, wind and swell.
Best Family Beaches
For families with young children, look for beaches with calmer water, gentle shorelines, easy access and nearby facilities. Sandy Point and Waratah Bay are excellent options, with sheltered water and plenty of space for children to play, while Inverloch offers a range of family-friendly beaches and attractions.
Best Beaches for Surfing
The southern Gippsland coast is a great destination for surfers, with beaches ranging from beginner-friendly breaks to more exposed surf. Venus Bay, Inverloch and beaches around Wilsons Promontory offer some of the region’s best opportunities for surfing, although conditions can vary considerably from day to day.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
Travelling with your four-legged friend? Find beaches where dogs are permitted, including areas where they can run off-leash. We’ll highlight dog restrictions, seasonal rules and the best places for a beach walk with your dog, so you can choose the right beach before you visit.
Best Beaches for Fishing
The Prom Coast has excellent opportunities for beach and surf fishing. Venus Bay, Inverloch, Waratah Bay, Sandy Point and Walkerville all provide opportunities to cast a line, with different species and conditions depending on the location, season and tides.
Rock Pools & Exploring
Some of the coastline is perfect for exploring rather than swimming. Discover rock pools, rocky platforms, tidal pools and fascinating marine life, particularly around Walkerville and other rocky sections of the coast. These areas can be great for children to explore, but care should always be taken around slippery rocks and changing tides.
Wilsons Promontory Beaches
Wilsons Promontory has some of Victoria’s most spectacular beaches, from the famous Squeaky Beach and Norman Beach to quieter and more remote coastal locations. Some beaches are excellent for swimming in suitable conditions, while others are better suited to walking, sightseeing, photography and exploring.
Sandy Point & Waratah Bay
These neighbouring coastal towns are particularly popular with families because of their sheltered beaches, relatively calm water and wide sandy shorelines. They are ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, beach games and relaxed family days by the water.
Venus Bay
Venus Bay is one of the region’s best-known surf destinations, with several long ocean beaches and a variety of conditions. Some sections are popular with surfers, while sheltered areas and estuary surroundings provide other options for swimming, fishing and family activities.
Walkerville
Walkerville offers a very different coastal experience, with dramatic cliffs, rocky shoreline, secluded beaches and beautiful views across Bass Strait. It is particularly appealing for coastal walks, photography, exploring rock pools and fishing, rather than simply spending the day on a traditional swimming beach.
Inverloch
Inverloch has a variety of coastal environments, including sheltered water, family beaches, surf beaches, tidal areas and fishing spots. Its combination of calm and open-water beaches makes it one of the most versatile coastal destinations on the Prom Coast.
Conditions, opening hours and seasonal rules change — check with operators and Parks Victoria before you go.
