The Cape Liptrap Coastal Walk is one of the most rewarding coastal walks in Victoria. The hike follows a narrow strip of coastline protected by the Cape Liptrap Coastal Park. The coastline is varied, having a mix of high black cliffs, golden beaches and banksia woodland. There are also hidden coves, sweeping sand dunes and unusual limestone cliffs.
Ensure you are well prepared with at least 3ltrs or water for this hike.
Do not start a walk in this area any earlier than two hours before a low tide and aim to finish a walk no later than two hours after low tide. Tide times are the same as for Port Phillip Heads.
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Total distance: 20594 m
Max elevation: 95 m
Min elevation: 1 m
Total climbing: 493 m
Total descent: -529 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Cape Liptrap.
Cape Liptrap Coastal Park is 4,175 ha in size and situated 160 kilometres south east of Melbourne. It is reached from the South Gippsland Highway at Leongatha or the Bass Highway from Inverloch.
Closest towns to this walk: Fish Creek, Foster, Sandy Point, Walkerville, Waratah Bay
About the region
Stretching along the coast from the sand barrier of Point Smythe to the sheltered waters of Waratah Bay and Venus Bay, Cape Liptrap Coastal Park has strikingly beautiful scenery. The coastal park transforms from being a peaceful coastal area to wild, windy and awe inspiring in stormy weather. Whatever the season, Cape Liptrap Coastal Park is worth exploring.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Cape Liptrap? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Wilsons Promontory National Park
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Wilsons Promontory National Park
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Wilsons Promontory National Park
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Wilsons Promontory National Park
Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
11 Reviews on “Cape Liptrap Coastal Walk (20.5km)”
Five Mile track is returning to nature and was under water when I attempted it recently. There is still a small parking area next to the main road opposite a house, but the track quickly degrades. I jumped the fence into a nearby paddock to try and bypass the worst of it, but that too turned into a lake. Perhaps a better plan would be continue hiking to No 1 beach at Venus bay. and exit there.
Great update Calvin. Thank you. It’s been a while since I did that hike and even then, that access track was in decline.
From what we could see this track is not available any more.
Oh. I’ll have to go back for another look. It’s not often used so it’s possible some sections are overgrown. If anyone lives down that way and is reading these comments, can you please confirm?
Helen MaxwellJenny Bradshaw a goal for when restrictions lift? ???
Hi Heidi. How long ago did you do this Trail? Was it well marked? Any tips?
Jason Lowery
Jenny Bradshaw oh c’mon!
Leesa Swanson I’m happy to book this in but it’s 3-3 1/2 hrs away and a 7hr hike, maybe a weekender? Go down fri night hike sat home sun? In March? 15th or 22nd? And camping or Airbnb? Fiona MacLennan did u want to join us?
Leesa Swanson it’s a date!
Line up a camping weekend? 🙂
Ooooo! Dominique De Rooij, Harm Ellens, Lisa Garnsworthy,
Patty Lamaro ?? That one is a bit too serious for me! Will see what happens ?
Max Bell
Oh my, a favorite. Just know the tide times!
Emmet 🙂
All I have to say is – watch the tide ??