Hike to Gunnamatta Beach

This day hike is right outside of Melbourne on the southern portion of the Mornington Peninsula (around 1.5 hours from the CBD).

Before you set out, try to time this hike so that the tide is heading out when you're heading back (this way, you can finish your hike back along the beach, where there are magnificent rock formations). If you are starting your hike when the tide is out, I've included alternate instructions below so that you have the opportunity to see these!

Also make sure to bring lots of water and sunscreen on this hike, as there is no where to fill up and you will be very exposed all day!

Park your car at the Cape Schanck Lighthouse carpark and take some time to look around at the lighthouse itself and the tracks around it. There are some smaller walks here that offer some stunning views (these don't take you to the walking track you'll later be going on).

From the car park, walk back the way you came up the road (Cape Schanck Road) for 600m, past the roundabout until you see the Gunnamatta Beach walking track to your left into the forest. Follow this track for 6.7km until you reach Gunnamatta Beach, where you can walk along to the end of the beach, taking in the sunshine and watch the waves.

On the way back, you have the option if it is not high tide to, rather than follow the track back the way you came, follow the beach back. If possible, I highly recommend this route, as there are amazing rock formations and secluded, untouched coves along the way. If you go this route, please make sure you have enough time to get back before high tide, as the water comes up quickly! 

Look out on the beach for some expert surfers off of the beach enjoying the waves.

From here, follow the track back to the carpark at the Cape Schanck Lighthouse.

Alternatively, if you are starting the hike around low tide, you can take the beach route via the stairs around 3km into the hike, following the beach until you get to Gunnamatta Beach. When you wish to return, look for signs to Cape Schanck Lighthouse near the beginning of the beach, which head up a sand dune before heading into the forest.