Cape Bridgewater, Great Ocean Road

Tucked away on the wild southern coast of Victoria, Cape Bridgewater is a secret gem on the Great Ocean Road. This seaside town is famous for its natural wonders, coastline and wildlife. From the windswept beaches to the towering limestone cliffs, Cape Bridgewater has adventure and tranquility in spades and is a must see for beach lovers and nature nuts.

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Cape Bridgewater’s coastline, with its limestone cliffs and ruggedness, is nature’s artistry. Visitors can walk on pristine sandy beaches, including the famous Bridgewater Bay Beach, with stunning ocean views and beachcombing opportunities. Coastal tracks wind through ferns and ancient rainforests and offer 360-degree views of the Southern Ocean and beyond.
Bridgewater Bay itself is a stunning stretch of coast where the light on the ocean and cliffs is a painter’s dream. Beyond the bay, you’ll find windswept beaches and cliffs that seem to touch the sky. These natural rock formations, carved over millions of years, are a window into the earth’s history, and Cape Bridgewater is a living museum of natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Cape Bridgewater depends on what you want to do. Summer is perfect for the beach and seaside town vibe and warm weather for swimming and surfing. But winter is a different kind of magic. This is the time for coastal storms, green hills and whales along the coast. If you want to hike and explore the natural wonders of the area, autumn is mild and quiet. Spring is alive with native wildlife and wildflowers, and the landscape is painted with colour. Every season in Cape Bridgewater is different, so you’ll have a great time no matter when you visit.

Your Guide to Getting Here

Cape Bridgewater is just a minute’s drive from Portland and about four hours from Melbourne. You can take the coastal route that passes through Port Campbell and Port Fairy or the inland route via Lavers Hill and Beech Forest, which is full of rock stacks, rainforests, and coastal views. If you’re coming from Melbourne you can stop off at the famous Bells Beach for world class surf or take a detour to the ancient rainforest near Kennett River. From Portland the drive is just as pretty, with coastal roads that wind and hugging the coast and the Southern Ocean.

Famous Landmarks

Cape Bridgewater is surrounded by famous landmarks that showcase the rugged beauty of Victoria’s south coast. Highlights include the cliffs of Discovery Bay, the limestone stacks of Port Campbell National Park and the rock formations of the Bay of Islands. These landmarks are best seen along the coastal tracks, which give you access to the most dramatic views in the area.

The Petrified Forest and Blowholes

The Petrified Forest is a natural rock formation that will transport you back in time with its ancient tree-like structures turned to stone. Next to it, the Cape Bridgewater Blowholes are a thrill of nature’s power as waves crash against the cliffs and send water shooting up in the air. Both are accessible via Blowholes Road and are a must see if you want to experience the coastline at its most dramatic.
The Petrified Forest’s landscape is surreal, like stepping back in time. Add the roar of the Blowholes, and it’s an experience like no other: visual beauty and the power of the ocean.

Seal Tours

Home to a large colony of Australian fur seals, Cape Bridgewater is the perfect place for seal tours. These guided tours allow you to see these playful creatures in their natural environment. With plenty of flora and stunning coastal views, it’s educational and fun.

Tours run regularly and get up close to the seals as they bask on the rocks or dive into the water. A Great Ocean Road private tour often includes these experiences, providing a more personalised way to explore the region. Tours often include commentary on the seals’ behaviour and the local marine environment, making them a great activity for families and wildlife lovers.

Whale Watching

In the cooler winter months, Cape Bridgewater is a whale-watching hot spot. Southern right whales and humpbacks can be seen migrating along the Southern Ocean. Viewing platforms give you the perfect view to see these gentle giants in action.
Whale watching is a peaceful and exhilarating experience as you see these giants breach and tail slap against the Cape Bridgewater coastline. If you’re lucky, you might even see a mother and calf as they travel along the coast.

Swan Lake

Swan Lake, Victoria’s only freshwater lake in sand dunes, is another of Cape Bridgewater’s natural treasures. A peaceful spot for bird watching with native wildlife frequenting the area. A great place for a quiet picnic or a leisurely walk.
The walking tracks around Swan Lake are a easy walk through beautiful scenery. The area is a bird watcher and photographer’s paradise with many species of birds. On a calm day the lake is like a mirror.

Freshwater Springs

Cape Bridgewater’s freshwater springs are nestled in the coastal cliffs and are a beautiful contrast to the salty surrounds. Walking tracks take you through this peaceful area and give you a different perspective on the many ecosystems of the region. The springs are a hidden treasure, a peaceful escape from the more rugged and dramatic landscapes. They’re a reminder of the delicate balance of ecosystems in this coastal haven where fresh and saltwater coexist.

Cape Bridgewater Café and B&Bs

After a day of exploring, relax at the Cape Bridgewater Café, famous for its beachside vibe and local produce. B&Bs and beachfront campsites offer stunning views and warm welcomes. Whether you love the beach or coastal drives, there’s something for everyone.
For longer stays, the B&Bs have rooms with all the comforts of home, often with breakfasts featuring local produce. Beach Backpackers also have budget options and a social atmosphere where you can meet other travellers.

Local Wineries and Produce

Being close to farmland, you can indulge in some of Victoria’s best wines and produce. Local wineries offer tastings of cool climate wines, and farmers’ markets feature gourmet goodies – artisanal cheeses, seasonal fruits and handcrafted treats. Food and wine lovers will love the area with wineries like those in Cape Nelson and the Apostles Coast offering wine tastings and vineyard tours. The green hills and coastal views are the perfect setting for a lazy afternoon of indulgence.