Located on Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road, Point Addis Marine National Park is a beauty that combines natural wonder with cultural significance. 4600 hectares of sandy beaches and rocky platforms with views of Bass Strait. Protected by Parks Victoria, this National Park attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique landscapes and thriving marine ecosystem, limestone reefs and sandstone cliffs. Whether you’re a beach bum, wildlife lover or adventurous traveller, Point Addis has it all on the Surf Coast.
Nature’s Grand Design
Point Addis has nature’s grand design – limestone cliffs, rocky reefs and intense wave action that shapes the coast. This marine environment is teeming with marine life – fish species, algae species, coloured sponge gardens and rhodolith beds. The landscape has the best of beaches, cliffs and clifftop views, it’s a real showstopper on the Great Ocean Road and a great place to explore the coast.
History
Point Addis has cultural significance for the Aboriginal people, specifically the Wadawurrung Nation, whose ancestral lands and cultural heritage is protected within the park. For thousands of years this has been a place of connection and cultural significance for the Indigenous people. As part of the larger network of Marine National Parks managed by Parks Victoria, Point Addis is committed to protecting natural and cultural history so visitors can connect with Australia’s past and appreciate its biodiversity.
Natural Features
Point Addis Marine National Park is a sandy beach, rocky platform and underwater treasure trove. The scenery is sandstone cliffs and limestone reefs along the shore, a beautiful contrast to the blue water. The intertidal zones have marine creatures and algae species that live in this unique coastal environment, a great place for geology and marine biology enthusiasts.
Top Attractions and Activities
Point Addis Marine National Park has something for everyone. Snorkelling and diving are the top activities for visitors to experience underwater landscapes and marine life. Picnicking, wildlife photography and beachcombing on the sandy beaches are also popular.
Wildlife Watching
One of the best things about Point Addis Marine National Park is the wildlife watching. Dolphins, seals and a variety of seabirds can be seen in the coastal waters. Whales migrate past the coastline in winter and birdwatchers can see native species such as hooded plover, peregrine falcon and sea eagle nesting in the sandstone cliffs. In winter you get a front row seat to the whale migration and it’s an amazing experience. The combination of marine and bird life makes Point Addis a photographers and wildlife enthusiasts paradise.
Marine Life
Point Addis Marine National Park is a marine life haven. Snorkelers and divers can get up close and personal with the underwater world of limestone reefs, coloured sponge gardens and fish. The rock platforms are especially biodiverse, and even at low tide, you can see into the underwater ecosystem. You can also explore the offshore reefs and see the hidden wonders of Victoria’s marine life.
Beaches and Surfing
The beaches and surf in the park are perfect for the adventurous surfer. The surrounding area is part of Australia’s famous Surf Coast, with spots like Bells Beach & Southside and Addiscot Beach attracting surfers all year round. For those who prefer to chill out, the beaches of Point Addis and Anglesea Surf Beach are great places to relax and take in the coastal views.
Walks, Trails and Lookouts
Walking trails and lookouts such as the Point Addis Lookout and clifftop views offer stunning views of the coastline and ocean. Trails are of varying fitness levels and have information signs about local history and ecology. The Ironbark Nature Trail, a 1km loop trail starting near Point Addis Road, highlights native plants and has panoramic views, so it’s a must for walkers.
Best Times to Visit
Each season offers unique experiences at Point Addis Marine National Park:
- Summer: Warm weather makes summer the perfect time for beach activities, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Winter: Winter brings fewer crowds and is the prime season for whale watching as migrating whales pass by the coastline.
- Spring and Autumn: These transitional seasons provide mild weather ideal for walking trails, wildlife watching, and beach exploration.
How to Get There
Point Addis Marine National Park is along the Great Ocean Road, 100 km southwest of Melbourne. It is best to get here by car, with plenty of parking near the main entry points. The drive from Melbourne is beautiful, so the journey is part of the fun. If you’re coming from nearby Anglesea or Torquay Beach you can also drive here, it’s only a short trip from these popular beach towns.
Accommodation near National Park
If you want to stay nearby, there are plenty of options in Anglesea and Torquay. Anglesea Family Caravan Park and local B&Bs offer family-friendly accommodation, while Torquay Beach has more upscale hotels. Both towns have a great dining and shopping scene so you can have a full-on holiday. Staying near Point Addis gives you easy access to the park and the beautiful beaches of the Surf Coast.
FAQ
What to do at Point Addis Marine National Park?
Snorkelling, diving, wildlife watching, walking on the trails, surfing at Bells Beach.
When should you visit Point Addis Marine National Park?
Summer for beach activities, winter for a quiet time and whale watching, spring and autumn for mild weather to walk and wildlife watching.
Is there an entry fee?
No, there is no entry fee.
Can I see marine life without snorkelling or diving?
Yes, at low tide the rock platforms are exposed and you can see shellfish and sea stars. A family friendly activity.
Are there accommodation options near Point Addis Marine National Park?
Yes, nearby Anglesea and Torquay have a range of accommodation, from family caravan parks to beachside hotels so you can get to the park and the beaches easily.
