Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the captivating Pinnacles Walk, a 4.5km return hike nestled in the Cape Woolamai Faunal Reserve. This moderate, Grade 3 trail takes about 2 hours, featuring stunning coastal views and the renowned Pinnacles rock formations. Start your adventure on a beach, scouring for seashells, before ascending cliffside for panoramic vistas. A must-do for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Phillip Island.

Length:

4.5km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 45m

Min elevation: 12m

Total Ascent: 87m

Start: Cape Woolamai Carpark

End: Cape Woolamai Carpark

Cape Woolamai Faunal Reserve

Victoria

Nearby town: Cape Woolamai

From state capital: 131km

Latitude: -38.54382302336116

Longitude: 145.34050050234484

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Hike overview

The Pinnacles Walk is a captivating 4.5-kilometer return hike through the Cape Woolamai Faunal Reserve. This moderate (grade 3) hike takes roughly 2 hours and is a must-do for its stunning coastal views, taking you to an overlook above the famous Pinnacles rock formations. Your adventure begins with a walk down a ramp onto the beach. Turn left and follow the sandy stretch for about 900 meters, keeping an eye out for seashells or coastal treasures. Ascend the stairs to leave the beach behind, and then follow the well-maintained cliffside trail for panoramic views of the rugged coastline. This section offers the most breathtaking views of the Pinnacles, a highlight of Phillip Island.

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Cape Woolamai Pinnacles Walk (4.5km)

Total distance: 4590 m
Max elevation: 45 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 87 m
Total descent: -87 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Cape Woolamai Faunal Reserve.

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.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Cape Woolamai, Cowes, Newhaven, Rhyll, San Remo, Sunderland Bay, Ventnor

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.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Cape Woolamai Faunal Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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

Reviews
Cape Woolamai Pinnacles Walk (4.5km)

7 Reviews on “Cape Woolamai Pinnacles Walk (4.5km)”

Overall rating

Grant Walker

Just hiked the Pinnacles Walk! 4.5km of stunning coastline and epic clifftop views. Highlight was definitely the lookout over the Pinnacles – those rock formations are incredible! Moderate hike, took about 2 hours – perfect for a morning adventure

23/04/2024, 19:27

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Cape Woolamai Pinnacles Walk (4.5km)