Trail Fast Facts
Cape Woolamai Beacon Walk is an 7.5km, grade 3 circuit hike in Cape Woolamai Faunal Reserve, Victoria. This hike typically takes 3.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Cape Woolamai Beacon Walk is a 7.5-kilometer loop trail offering unparalleled panoramic vistas. This moderate (grade 3) hike, taking roughly 3.5 hours, takes you beyond the iconic Pinnacles to Phillip Island's highest point - a 112-meter peak with a historic beacon. Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views encompassing the entire island, stretching towards San Remo and even Wilsons Promontory on clear days.
Your adventure begins with a descent onto the beach, followed by a leftward hike for 900 meters. Ascend the stairs and follow the cliffside trail, leading you past the Pinnacles and onward to the Cape Woolamai Beacon. The trail then weaves through a banksia woodland, offering a change of scenery before looping back to the car park, completing your coastal journey.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 95 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 213 m
Total descent: -213 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
From Melbourne, take M1 east for approximately 30 kilometers to the exit for South Gippsland Freeway (M420) and drive south for 97 kilometers on M420 following signs for Phillip Island. Bear right onto Phillip Island Road (B420) to cross the bridge onto Phillip Island. Now continue another 3 kilometers to a intersection with Woolamai Beach Road and turn left. Drive 3 kilometers south to the car park at the end of the road.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Established in 1968, Cape Woolamai is a 308-hectare reserve protecting Phillip Island's southeastern tip, including its highest point – a 112-meter crest offering stunning panoramic views. While the summit itself isn't a challenging climb, the true beauty lies in the reserve's diverse landscape. Imagine vast stretches of sandy beaches contrasting with dramatic granite cliffs, creating a captivating scene for hikers of all levels.
Cape Woolamai boasts a network of trails catering to various preferences. Explore shorter options like the 1.6-kilometer route, perfect for a leisurely stroll, or challenge yourself with the 8.5-kilometer circuit encompassing the entire reserve.
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Weather
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.
1 Review on “Cape Woolamai Beacon Walk (7.5km)”
Just finished the Cape Woolamai Beacon Walk! 7.5km of coastal beauty with epic views from the island’s highest point. Pinnacles were unreal, and the 360-degree panorama from the beacon is unforgettable. Definitely a moderate challenge, but worth every step