Things to do in Victoria, Australia: The Best Lighthouses

Just off the pristine coast of Croajingolong National Park, you'll discover Gabo Island. Wild and remote, this island is surrounded by magnificent views and offers a unique day trip or stay. Rich in cultural history, the island features the only operating island lighthouse in Victoria. Constructed from 1858 to 1862 using the distinctive pink granite found on the island, the 47 metre high Gabo Island Lighthouse is the second tallest lighthouse in Australia. Take a picnic lunch and walk around the island, taking in the ruins, the radar station, the monument to the ship 'Monumental City' and the old cemetery. Ramble over the islands pink granite shoreline and rock pools, discover the amazing underwater world in the clear waters of Santa Barbara Bay or relax on the sandy beach and take in the spectacular views and surrounding seascapes. A haven for plants and animals, the island supports highly significant colonies of seabirds. Keep a lookout for passing whales, dolphins and seals.

"The Rip", also known as "The Heads", is a dangerous stretch of water in Victoria, Australia, connecting Port Phillip and Bass Strait. It is the only entrance for shipping into Port Phillip and hence into Melbourne. Because of large tidal flows through the relatively narrow channel from the bay to the ocean, and a high rocky seabed, The Rip has claimed many ships and lives. Geographically, it is t

Located only ten minutes from Portland upon the rugged cliffs of Cape Nelson, the Cape Nelson Lighthouse precinct comprises the 35 meter tall lighthouse, the cosy Isabella's cafe, and two exquisitely renovated assistant lighthouse keeper's cottages available as accommodation.These historic buildings have been elegantly restored and now comprise two separate two-bedroom cottages.The cottages are ideal for a secluded couple's get away, families, or groups! The precinct is located within Cape Nelson State Park and is surrounded by spectacular views, excellent walking tracks, and tours of the historic lighthouse run daily.Isabella's cafe, located in the old stables, offers morning and afternoon tea and gourmet lunches daily.Each cottage includes two bedrooms with queen sized beds, a fully equipped kitchen, dining area and lounge room with TV, DVD and an open fire place. All properties include free Wi-Fi, reverse cycle air conditioning and breakfast of cereal, milk, eggs, bacon, toast and condiments, as well as tea and coffee. About the area:Cape Nelson is a well known whale spotting area - observe from the cliffs or climb to the top of the lighthouse to spot southern wright whales in the middle of the year and blue whales in summer months! Dolphins and seals are sometimes spotted in the water as well! As we are located on the Great South West Walk, we are surrounded by kilometers of walking tracks through bush, beaches and cliffs. The area is rich in native wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies, echidnas, koalas, and is close to Australia's only mainland Gannet breeding colony. The beaches around Portland are also well known for having great surf for all levels at any time of year, so make sure to bring boards and wetsuits!

The Split Point Lighthouse is a must-see attraction and stands as a stunning sentinel on the Shipwreck Coast. Take a trip through maritime history and be amazed by this wild and dangerous coastline where hundreds of ships have crashed. It is still a vital working lighthouse for vessels navigating the treacherous waters of Bass Strait and still operates every night. Today it is famous for its role in the TV series ‘Round the Twist’ and you might spot a pod of dolphins or whales from the top balcony. The lighthouse is open daily for a visit, weather permitting. Come on in for a climb to the top and enjoy marvellous 360-degree views of this stunning coastline!