Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the stunning beauty of Wilsons Promontory on a 34.5km Refuge Cove hike, graded as moderately challenging (Grade 4). This unique trail offers diverse landscapes, breath-taking coastal views, and ends at a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters. Remember to book your campsite in advance if you plan an overnight stay. Close to the main town, this hike is perfect for bushwalkers seeking an exciting challenge amidst lush vegetation and exquisite seaside vistas.

Length:

34.5km

Duration:

2-3 days

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 340m

Min elevation: 6m

Total Ascent: 2082m

Start: Telegraph Saddle

End: Telegraph Saddle

Wilsons Promontory National Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Yanakie

From state capital: 225km

Latitude: -39.03261942

Longitude: 146.35566830635074

Overview

Map

Gallery

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Region

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Hike overview

This Wilsons Promontory Refuge Cove hike visits a stunning, secluded beach situated on the eastern 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.

The Refuge Cove hike in Wilsons Promontory is a stunning hike that takes you through diverse landscapes, from dry eucalypt forest to wet gullies and coastal cliffs. The hike offers breathtaking views of the coastline, including Five Mile Beach and Norman Island, and ends at a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand.

The hike is rated as a Grade 4 hike, which means it is moderately challenging and requires a good level of fitness. There are some steep rocky sections and uneven surfaces, so you will need to be sure-footed.

If you are planning to camp overnight, you will need to book a campsite in advance. There are also basic camping facilities available at Sealers Cove and Refuge Cove, including water supply and toilets.

With a little planning and preparation, the Refuge Cove hike is a great way to experience the stunning beauty of Wilsons Promontory National Park.

Tips

Advanced booking is required for hikers and recreational boat users staying in camping areas.
The Cove is a safe anchorage for vessels.
Help protect this unique place by not tying stern lines to vegetation.
Untreated creek water is available, please treat before consuming.
Toilets are provided in the camping area.

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)

Total distance: 34453 m
Max elevation: 340 m
Min elevation: 6 m
Total climbing: 2082 m
Total descent: -2082 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Fish Creek, Foster, Inverloch, Meeniyan, Port Albert, Port Welshpool, Sandy Point, Tarra Valley, Tarwin Lower, Tidal River, Yanakie

Getting to the trailhead in 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.

Get there with Google Maps

Access conditions

2WD Access
4WD Access
Campfire Pit

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 trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Wilsons Promontory National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar 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

Reviews

Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)

6 Reviews on “Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)”

Overall rating

Bernadine Mynott

Refuge Cove is indeed a fantastic and beautiful place to camp. B

24/03/2022, 05:17

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Paula Trood

One of my favourite hikes! We were there just this week. Refuge Cove was gorgeous last (hot) Monday. The water tho was freezing!!

24/03/2022, 05:17

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Luke Ognibene

Matthew Cooper

24/03/2022, 05:17

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Darren Edwards

This is such a beautiful hike. I’d highly recommend hiking in, staying two nights and hiking out.

24/03/2022, 05:17

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Haydn Thomas

Keely Hannagan

09/10/2019, 03:22

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Rachel Dickman

Paul Dickman second time lucky? ?

09/09/2019, 08:30

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Acknowledgement of Country

Wilsons prom: refuge cove hike (34. 5km)

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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)