Point Nepean National Park is a perfect day trip destination from Melbourne, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, military history, and outdoor activities.

This historic park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Covering an area of about 560 hectares, Point Nepean features rugged coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait.

One of the park’s main attractions is its extensive network of walking and cycling trails. Visitors can explore the scenic coastline, wander through native bushland, and discover hidden coves and beaches. The Bay Trail and Coles Track offer particularly spectacular vistas. The Pennington Narrows, where Port Phillip Bay meets Bass Strait, provides dramatic scenery and is a popular spot for watching ships navigate the treacherous waters known as “The Rip.”

If the walking trails aren’t for you, then you can indulge your senses at the:

  • Remnants of Aboriginal middens indicating thousands of years of Indigenous habitation.
  • Quarantine Station, established in the 1850s, is a major draw. Visitors can tour the preserved buildings and learn about the site’s role in protecting Australia from introduced diseases.
  • Quarantine Cemetery offers a poignant reminder of those who never made it past this point.
  • Fort Nepean area, which features gun emplacements and underground tunnels from both World Wars. The fort fired Australia’s first shots in both world wars, adding to its historical significance.

Nature lovers can spot a variety of wildlife, including echidnas, swamp wallabies, and numerous bird species.

The park’s diverse vegetation ranges from coastal scrubland to woodlands.

Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bicycle, or via the hop-on-hop-off shuttle bus service. Guided tours are available for those wanting deeper insights into the park’s history and ecology.

Facilities:

There are picnic areas, toilets, and a visitor centre with informative displays. However, there are no food outlets within the park, so you are advised to bring your own supplies. You could also retreat to the nearby town of Portsea offers additional amenities and attractions. Parks and GardensParks and GardensThe park’s visitor centre also provides informative displays and guided tours.

Getting there:

From Melbourne:  The 90 kilometre drive typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.