3 Best Sights in Wilson Promontory National Park, Victoria

Walking on the beach in Wilsons Promontory National Park gives away the reason for this pristine strip of coastline; the fine, quartz sand squeaks beneath the feet. Surfers love the waves here, but with dangerous rips, swimmers should best avoid this unpatrolled beach. Hemmed on either side by granite boulders, its white sands and turquoise waters make it one of Victoria’s prettiest beaches, and draws the crowds in summer. Amenities: parking (no fee); toilets. Best for: picnicking; surfing; walking.

Victoria's most popular national park for bushwalking and camping is also one of the best places to see native animals in the wild. Kangaroos, emus, echidnas, and wombats all call the Prom home. If taking a trip out to the islands offshore, look for colonies of Australian fur seals and little penguins, as well as dolphins, seals, and whales, which can be spied on boat trips in the marine sanctuary, and its pristine waters are a diver's dream.

Take a dip in turquoise waters at a white-sand beach, or hike to a beauty spot—they are well signposted and linked by a single road that runs down the western side of the promontory. The rest of its panoramic viewpoints and even its lighthouse can be reached only by a network of walking trails dotted with campsites, or by sea on a boat cruise. For the best views, follow the trail up the granite Mt. Oberon or Mt. Bishop, or the Vereker Outlook.

The main hub for the national park, Tidal River has a small supermarket, hot and cold food, and visitor center stocked with maps. It is also the office for accommodation and issues hikers' permits. It's advisable to stock up on food and fuel in the towns before you arrive, as there is no fuel sold here. Tidal River is the trailhead for several popular bushland day walks, the pickup point for tours, and a ranger base. Norman Beach is the closest swimming beach.