Sitting pretty between the beaches and sand dunes of Anderson Inlet and the rugged sea cliffs of the Bass Coast, Inverloch might just be the perfect coastal getaway. Head to the gentle waters of the Inverloch Foreshore to swim, fish, and sail; go surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing at Venus Bay or Inverloch Surf Beach; then take in the views as you hike along the Bunurong coast. Accommodation options for campers range from family-friendly holiday parks and glamping sites to rural Hipcamps. Or, check in to the Inverloch Foreshore Camping Reserve, which has powered and unpowered sites right by the beach.
East of Inverloch, the wild beaches and windswept sea cliffs of Wilsons Promontory National Park afford plenty of ways to escape the crowds. Hike to the viewpoints of Mount Oberon and Mount Bishop, explore the Big Drift sand dunes, or pitch a tent in the wilderness. There’s also a camping area with BBQs, an amenities block, and a camp kitchen at Tidal River.
The 12-km coastal drive from Inverloch to Cape Paterson serves up some of South Gippsland’s most dramatic ocean views, hugging the sea cliffs of the Bunurong Marine National Park. Hop out to admire natural wonders such as the Eagles Nest, Flat Rocks, and The Caves, and park your motorhome at a rural Hipcamp along the way. Further west, dive into Victoria’s coal mining history at Wonthaggi, go bird-watching around the Wonthaggi Wetlands Reserve, or hike the George Bass Coastal Walk from Kilcunda.
Dangling off the southwestern tip of Gippsland, Phillip Island is best known for its colonies of Little Penguins and draws a steady stream of day-trippers from Melbourne. The best way to witness the sunset Penguin Parade is by staying the night, so snag a spot at one of the island’s holiday parks, Hipcamps, or glampsites. With extra time on the island, you can also stop at Seal Rocks, hike the Cape Woolamai Walk, and visit the Koala Conservation Centre.
It’s warm enough for swimming and water sports at Gippsland’s beaches from late spring through early autumn, but avoid the peak summer months (Dec-Jan) if you don’t like crowds. March is an ideal compromise and also sees the town host its annual Inverloch Jazz Festival. Winter weather can be wet and cold, although it rarely dips below freezing, and this is the time to spot migrating whales along the coast.