Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 340m
Min elevation: 5m
Total Ascent: 1827m
Hike overview
The Eastern Circuit of Wilsons Promontory is a stunning coastal hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Victoria, Australia. The 36.5km circuit explores secluded beaches, sheltered coves, and lush rainforests, all while offering breathtaking views of the Bass Strait.
The Eastern Circuit is a relatively challenging hike (due to its length) and is recommended for experienced hikers. The hike can be completed in 2-3 days, although 3 days is recommended to allow you to fully enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
Make sure you check the tide times before reaching the camp site at Sealers Cove at the end of day 1. The depth of the creek can vary between 200mm through to 1.5m deep at high tide.
Suggested sections for a thee day hike:
- Day 1. Telegraph Saddle to Sealers Cove: 9.5km
- Day 2. Sealers Cove to Little Waterloo Bay: 14.7km
- Day 3: Little Waterloo Bay to Telegraph Saddle: 12.3km
Or
- Day 1. Telegraph Saddle to Refuge Cove: 17.3km
- Day 2. Refuge Cove to Little Waterloo Bay: 6.9km
- Day 3: Little Waterloo Bay to Telegraph Saddle: 12.3km
Sealers Cove (9.5km from trailhead)
- Sealers Cove is a picturesque, circular cove boasting glassy turquoise water, golden sand and a shady campground.
- Sealers Cove is accessible via the Telegraph Saddle to Sealers Cove Track.
- Sealers Cove is also accessible as part of an extended Southern Prom Hike (refer to the Overnight Hikes park note in the Related Documents section below).
- There is a campground and toilets at Sealers Cove.
Refuge Cove (17.3km from trailhead)
- Refuge Cove is stunning, secluded beach situated on the east side of the Prom accessible via walking track from Sealers Cove to the north or Little Waterloo Bay to the south. The track between Sealers Cove and Refuge Cove offers many great views.
- Refuge Cove campsite, located at the southern end of the cove, is surrounded by lush vegetation and is within close proximity to the water.
Little Waterloo Bay (24.2km from trailhead)
- Little Waterloo Bay is only accessible by foot from the overnight hike track from Tidal River. When you get there you will be rewarded with a lovely white sand beach and crystal blue water. There is a camping area with basic facilities. Composting toilets are provided. Toilet paper is not supplied.
Tips
A camping permit is required for the Eastern Circuit. Permits can be obtained online or at the Tidal River Visitor Centre.
Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 340 m
Min elevation: 5 m
Total climbing: 1827 m
Total descent: -1826 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Wilsons Promontory National Park is about a three-hour drive from Melbourne. To reach the park, take the Monash Freeway (M1), then continue on the South Gippsland Freeway (M420/A440) to Meeniyan. From there, follow the Meeniyan-Promontory Road (C444) to the park entrance. Once inside the park, it’s a 30-minute drive to Tidal River. Be mindful of wildlife while driving, especially between dusk and dawn. The nearest fuel and electric vehicle charging station is located at Yanakie.
Closest towns to this walk: Fish Creek, Foster, Inverloch, Meeniyan, Port Albert, Port Welshpool, Sandy Point, Tarra Valley, Tarwin Lower, Tidal River, Yanakie
About the region
Discover the walking trails of Wilsons Promontory National Park. Wilsons Promontory National Park, located at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, offers a variety of walks, bushwalks, and hikes that showcase the area's stunning landscapes. Situated near the town of Foster in Victoria, Wilsons Prom is approximately three hours' drive from Melbourne, the state's capital city.
Visitors can explore remote coastal bushland trails and relax on pristine beaches, all while being surrounded by the park's signature granite tors. Whether you choose to camp at the family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite, encounters with the local wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, and emus, are common.
Norman Beach, just a short walk from the Tidal River Campground, is perfect for swimming or snorkelling, offering a unique view of Victoria's largest marine national park. Families can enjoy a comfortable stay at Tidal River, with options ranging from powered or unpowered campsites to roofed accommodation.
For those seeking more challenging hikes, the granite peaks of Mount Oberon provide breathtaking panoramic views over the sea, especially at sunset. Mount Bishop offers an excellent alternative, with a summit accessible from the Lilly Pilly car park or via the Lilly Pilly Circuit walk. The summit rewards hikers with views of the Prom's western coastline and offshore islands. For a broader perspective of the National Park, consider the lesser-known Vereker Outlook.
Adventure seekers can take on an overnight hike through The Prom, exploring the remote and rugged northern regions or heading south to visit the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove. For a more tranquil experience, enjoy the secluded beaches of Wilsons Prom, such as Cotters Beach, Whisky Bay, and Fairy Cove. Accessible options, including all-terrain wheelchairs, TrailRiders, and beach wheelchairs, are available to ensure everyone can enjoy the park's natural beauty.
When visiting the beaches and coastal areas, it's important to be aware of natural hazards. To ensure a safe and enjoyable day at Wilsons Promontory National Park, please follow the recommended water safety guidelines.
Want to find the best trails in Wilsons Promontory National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Wilsons Promontory National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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.
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
9 Reviews on “Wilsons Prom: Eastern Circuit Hike (36.5km)”
This walks looks amazing! Would it be ok in reverse?
Leesa Harris
Tilly Peppers
Louise Osborn Mojca Krusic Anna Carter we can do this one… ?
Karley Mac
This is a beautiful walk. If you can spare the time id suggest staying at refuge cove for two nights.
This looks like an amazing walk. I will have to lock that into my calendar!
Finished this hide today.
3 days in ‘reverse’ direction.
Telegraph Saddle to LWB. LWB to Sealer’s. Sealer’s to Telegraph saddle.
Love the beaches, and views.
Great pic Peta
Has anyone done this in 1 day? I’m thinking of a 6am start. Is it possible? Please and thankyou
Hey Trail Hiking team,
Quick question. I contacted Parks Vic for info about passes for camping in the Prom. They told me the Northern part of the Prom is for experienced hikers only. Would this hike be included in this? I’ve done a fair share of hiking but my partner not so much. I just want to be sure this circuit is well marked and easy to navigate?
Thanks!
Hi Gemma. No trouble at all doing this in reverse. In fact any of the prom hikes are OK to do in any direction.
I have done it in 2 and 3 days but never one. If you are a trail runner I guess it would not be a problem. If you want to attempt this as a ‘long’ day hike I would suggest waiting until we have more daylight hours. Even then you would be pushing it in my opinion.
Just completed this hike last week with Riley Beaton, great hike was very beautiful and a good one for an enjoyable walk without too much difficulty. would recommend maybe going in the warmer months as it makes the river crossing easier and also you can take advantage of the wonderful beaches!
Just completed this one over two days, Telegraph Saddle to Refuge Cove via Sealers, return via LWB. A great walk but probably more enjoyable if done over three days.
It is certainly possible over two days but they would be two long days of around 19km each.
I would suggest the following.
Day 1. Telegraph Saddle to Refuge Cove: 17.3km
Day 2. Refuge Cove to Little Waterloo Bay then to Telegraph Saddle: 6.9km + 12km
Re getting there from Foster. I am not aware of any bus service. Your best option would be to call the Tidal River Visitors Centre on (03) 5680 9555 and ask them for options.
Hello ! I would like to do this trip but only on 2 days.
like this:
Day 1. Telegraph saddle at Refuge Cove: 17.3 km
Day 2. Refuge Cove at Little Waterloo Bay then Telegraph Saddle: 6.9 km + 12 km.
Do you think it is possible to do this or it’s too hard ?
I saw this question had already done but with none answer about the difficulty.
Thank you for your help =)
Hi Camille. Yes that would certainly be possible. I have done that hike and they are long days but certainly achievable
It is spectacular.
Hi Ronja, no, the Eastern Circuit does not go near the Northern Section. The Eastern Circuit is on well formed trails for the entire distance. It is a big one to tackle though if you have not done many overnight hikes.