Why should you visit Wilsons Promontory?
Wilsons Promontory, also called Wilsons Prom or The Prom by Australian locals, is a gorgeous national park located on a peninsula in Victoria. It is only about 2-3 hours from Melbourne. It is known for its secluded beaches, huge range of Australian wildlife, hiking, and great camping options.
What you will find here
This post will tell you all about my personal experience visiting Wilsons Promontory in Australia. I have visited Wilsons Prom during both Spring and Summer and I have so much to share!
What is there to do at Wilsons Prom?
Visit the Prom Wildlife Walk
If you do anything at Wilsons Prom, this is it! This is a walk located a short drive from Tidal River Campground. It is a flat, dirt path that loops from the carpark. The best time to go is at dawn or dusk as that is when most of the animals will be coming out to feast and chat. I went here both times I came to Wilsons Promontory and I have seen lots of wombats (including baby ones!), emu, kangaroos, and wallabies.
Visit Fairy Cove
This spot is all over instagram as being the best beach. To get to it you’ll need to complete a short hike (about 45 mins) from Darby River Car Park. Be warned, like most spots in Wilsons Prom the car park gets full by 10am. It is not a white, sandy beach that most Australians love, but it is usually very quiet. Is Fairy Cove the best beach in Wilsons Prom? No way, but it is a great spot to visit if you have time and have hit the other beaches.
Visit Squeaky Beach
Squeaky Beach is popular for a reason – and that is because it has been voted the best beach in all of Australia. The carpark is very small so it is hard to find a spot even by 9am as surfers hit the beach for an early morning swim. It is only a short walk down to the beach and you’ll notice the beautiful, white sand squeaks under your feet. The water is crystal clear which makes this place very popular during summer.
Camp at Tidal River Campground
Tidal River Campground is the most accessible campground in Wilsons Promontory National Park. There are many car park spots as well as camping plots, cabins, and even shops. You must book in advance through Parks Victoria to camp here and the grounds get booked far in advance, especially during the summer months. There are rangers who patrol the national park to ensure everyone has the proper booking to stay.
The campground is exceptional, with plenty of electric barbeques, laundry facilities, toilet stalls, and hot showers.There is a shop that sells souvenirs, groceries, and hot takeaway meals.
Tidal River Campground is located right by Norman Beach, a massive, breathtaking golden sand beach. Although it is the most popular beach as it is so easily accessible, because of the vastness of Norman Beach, you’ll easily find a spot all to yourself.
Mt Oberon Summit
Mt Oberon offers views of Wilsons Prom and beyond. It takes about 45 minutes to walk and it is mostly a slight incline. To get here, you’ll take the shuttle bus from Tidal River Campground to Telegraph Saddle Car park during the summer months. During the off-season months (and after 6pm when the shuttle finishes), you are able to drive up to the car park yourself. Just like Fairy Cove, I would only recommend doing this if you’ve checked off the other important things from your list.
What are the best vegan eats at Wilsons Prom?
There are no dedicated restaurants in Wilsons Prom, however the grocery store does have some vegan options. I found pre-packaged icecreams, soy milk, and fries.
When is the best time to visit The Prom Victoria?
The best time to visit Wilsons Promontory is during the summer months. It is far too cold to swim in the water during any other time. Even during the summer months, the water is still quite cold (but the hot sun will convince you to get in). I highly suggest you stay at least one night at Tidal River Campground so that you are able to wake up early and get to Squeaky Beach and see the animals come out during the evening.
How do you get to Wilsons Promontory?
The only way to get to The Prom is by car. There is no bus that goes all the way to Wilsons Prom. If you don’t have a car, you could hire a private driver/shuttle/taxi however it will cost you far more than renting a car. You can rent a car here.
VERDICT
Is Wilsons Prom worth visiting?
This is by far one of the best road trips you can do in Victoria – maybe even all of Australia! It is an easy drive from Melbourne and you’ll be able to experience everything Australia has to offer: easily accessible beautiful sandy beaches and getting up close with nature and wildlife.
Did this article speak to you?
I’d love to hear your thoughts! If you’re on Instagram, you can find me over here: @apicturesquelife so feel free to reach out or use #apicturesquelife and I’d be happy to connect!