Whatever the time of year, the Shipwreck Coast offers visitors unforgettable experiences. Spectacular coastal and hinterland scenery, fascinating museums and discovery centres, wonderful beaches, and towns with unique character and charm.
Here is a quick sample of just some of the Coast's attractions - much, much more awaits your visit to the Shipwreck Coast!
The Great Ocean Road
Drive along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and marvel at the wind- and wave-carved rock formations, including the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Arch; feel the ground tremble as massive waves thunder into the rocky cliffs.
Shipwreck sites
Explore some of the shipwreck sites that have given the coast its name. Learn the fascinating and often tragic history of these wrecks. Divers can explore some wreck sites (with appropriate permissions).
Wave to a whale
Visit Warrnambool's whale nursery between June and late September for the chance to see Southern Right Whales mothering their newborn calves. Sometimes the whales just drift lazily along the shoreline, at other times they put on spectacular displays for spectators.
Museums, Discovery Centres & Galleries
Learn of the district's seafaring past at Flagstaff Hill -- a museum that shipwrecks its visitors! Explore the history of one of Victoria's earliest settlements, or peruse galleries displaying exceptional local and international artworks.
Beaches and pools
Surf, swim, dive, fish, play in the sand or just relax at the coast's many superb beaches, or take a salt-free dip in a swimming pool or aquatic centre.
Take a stroll
Enjoy a brisk walk, invigorating jog or just a leisurely stroll? Try the Warrnambool Promenade, which curves around the perimeter of Lady Bay. Take one of the many walking trails along the coast for a close look at the natural beauties of the area.
Tower Hill
Wander through an ancient volcano that once exploded with the force of an atom bomb, but is now a peaceful home to emus and koalas. Explore other volcanic features that have helped shape the district and the coastline itself.
Forests and Bushland
Explore lush, ancient rainforests, or picnic in typical Australian bushland. Visit reserves to see native animals and birds, or take bushwalks along coast and hinterland trails.
Hinterland
Drive through lush farmlands that produce beef, wool, potatoes, grains and dairy products for Australia and the world. See cows being milked, alpacas grazing alongside sheep, and buffalos being raised for cheese production. Further inland, explore more extinct volcanoes that have shaped the landscape with craters, lakes, ragged, wavelike lava flows and vast basalt plains.
Rivers
Wide river estuaries are perfect opportunities for swimming, boating and fishing, as well as providing many relaxing scenic views.
