Wilsons Promontory Refuge Cove is a 34.5km, grade 4 hike located in Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 2-3 days to complete.
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.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 340 m
Min elevation: 6 m
Total climbing: 2082 m
Total descent: -2082 m
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.
Trail location
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Getting there
Wilsons Promontory National Park is approximately three hours drive from Melbourne. Follow the Monash Freeway (M1) to join the South Gippsland Freeway (M420/A440) to Meeniyan. Take the Meeniyan- Promontory Road (C444) to the Wilsons Promontory Entrance. Tidal River Visitor Centre is 30km south of the park entrance. There is no fuel at Tidal River. The closest fuel outlet is at Yanakie.
About the region
Welcome to Wilsons Prom, the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Walk remote coastal bushland trails and swim at pristine beaches dominated by granite tors. Camp in comfort at family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite. Either way, the local wombats, kangaroos and emus are waiting to meet you.
Swim at Norman Beach - just a few minutes' walk from Tidal River Campground, or go snorkelling for a unique underwater view of Victoria's largest marine national park. Bring the family and camp in comfort at Tidal River. Choose from powered or unpowered sites or stay in roofed accommodation.
Scale the granite peaks of Mount Bishop or Mount Oberon for panoramic views, or enjoy an overnight hike in The Prom. In the north there's a remote and rugged wilderness to explore, while the south is home to the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove.
Feel the sand between your toes at some of the more secluded beaches of Wilsons Prom, from Cotters Beach to Whisky Bay and Fairy Cove. Check out Big Drift, an impressive inland sand dune system, one of the Prom's well kept secrets. You can book a free all-terrain wheelchair, TrailRider or beach wheelchair to explore the great outdoors at Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Similar trails nearby
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
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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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.
3 Reviews on “Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)”
Refuge Cove is indeed a fantastic and beautiful place to camp. B
One of my favourite hikes! We were there just this week. Refuge Cove was gorgeous last (hot) Monday. The water tho was freezing!!
Matthew Cooper
This is such a beautiful hike. I’d highly recommend hiking in, staying two nights and hiking out.
Keely Hannagan
Paul Dickman second time lucky? ?
Nick Rush
Gold Coast Mid Week Walking Group
Ginnia Parry
Warwick etc
Carly Jones
Zoe Aylen
Michelle Hannah
Jodi Taylor Aylen try this one
Dan Whitehorn
Deena Ryan should book it in to the schedule…
Great camping spots in the Prom
Angelo Garlitos Linda Nguyen Jonathan Looi
Bryan Sinnott
Haylie Corin
I did a uni hike there in 1st semester. Gorgeous place and definitely well worth the visit.
when we going back Barry Stone?
Dan Thomson Sean Roche yes!