Top Things to do in Victoria
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Top 10 National Parks in Victoria, Australia
Discover the best top things to do in Victoria, Australia including Mount Buffalo National Park, The Lakes National Park, Port Campbell National Park, Croajingolong National Park, Ninety Mile Beach Marine National Park, Kinglake National Park, French Island Marine National Park, Grampians National Park, Cobboboonee National Park, Mornington Peninsula National Park.
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1. Mount Buffalo National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 112 reviews
Get closer to nature at Mount Buffalo National Park. This spectacular 'island in the sky' is home to plants found nowhere else on Earth. Sheer cliffs, granite tors, waterfalls and big views make Mount Buffalo a must-see alpine retreat. Hike through stunted Snow Gum forests, toboggan in Cresta Valley, camp at Lake Catani - and admire the view from the Horn. There's something to do in every season. Camp in the company of wombats on the shores of Lake Catani, an idyllic spot high in the Alps that's perfect for a swim. Follow the Lakeside Walk through twisted Snow Gum forests. Check out the view from The Horn, the highest point in Mount Buffalo National Park at 1,723m. Watch Australian Kestrels dive on Bogong Moths at sunset.
Reviewed By Oldjack - Greater Melbourne, Australia
Mount Buffalo has to be the most spectacular and interesting of the mountains in the Victorian Alps. Dotted with massive granite outcrops and spectacular views and open aras woth a lake, it has it all.
2. The Lakes National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
The Lakes National Park is a peaceful bushland retreat in the Gippsland Lakes, fringed by the waters of Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve. The park includes Sperm Whale Head peninsula and Rotamah and Little Rotamah islands. Rotamah Island, accessible only by boat, is a bushland delight. Surrounded by Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve to the north and the dunes of the Ninety Mile Beach to the south, the island has clearly defined tracks offering exceptional views and bird watching opportunities. Lake Reeve is an important feeding and roosting habitat for waterfowl, and is one of Victoria’s most important areas for wading birds. A short walk will lead you from the Lookout Tower carpark down through a range of habitats to the shores of Lake Reeve.
Reviewed By urbandrifter - Melbourne, Australia
From Lima to Loch Sport As I get older, time goes faster and that became clear on a warm summer day as I explored a stunning part of my home state of Victoria. I reminisced how 12 months ago I was in the bowels of the catacombs in Lima and now in the seaside rural community of Loch Sport. As someone who has travelled across the globe, I know that many of the best places are in fact, on our back door and although these two destinations are thousands of kilometres apart, each are unique for different reasons. Located 300kms east of Melbourne, the flat and somewhat straight road to Loch Sport from Sale is flanked by tea tree and banksias. At dawn or dusk the kangaroos, wallabies and even wild hog deer flank the way into town. Beyond the township at the most easterly point, I journeyed to the heritage listed, Lakes National Park and in particular Point Wilson which is a mere 16kms from the park entrance. This also encompasses Sperm Whale Head Peninsula which I could only appreciate how it was named after viewing an aerial map. The traditional owners Gunai/Jurnai people who still have a strong connection with area as well as other parks and reserves in this region jointly management the Park in conjunction with the State Government. Well signposted, the dirt road with few corrugations in early summer, meandered to the Point with glimpses of the lake teasing me along the way. The road is fringed with large coastal and silver banksia, tea-trees, manna gums, peppermint gums, wattle and heath. I’m sure if I’d visited a few months earlier during spring when the wildflowers are at their best, the array of colour would’ve been stunning and may have even spied some of the well-known native orchids. At the head of the point where Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve join is a sweet little picnic site known as Point Wilson Day Visitor Area with the Point Wilson Jetty nearby. Surrounded by salt water, the opportunity to fish and potentially catch bream, flathead, tailor, whiting, perch, eels and much more would be enticing to the most amateur angler. From this vantage point I could see Paynesville, Raymond Island and the Banksia Peninsula along with expansive views across the entire lakes region. No doubt during busy periods the waterways would be abundant with jet skis, boats and sailing. I took to the water for a swim with an audience of black swans, pelicans, cormorants and seagulls watching me cautiously. The day shelter is located on the original Banksia Homestead site where in 1903, Frederick and Sarah Barton moved with their family to farm the area with cattle, sheep and goats. Passed down through the generations, eventually the property was sold to the then National Parks Authority in 1958. The day shelter has two barbeques, fresh water, seating and toilets nearby. Although camping isn’t allowed here, it’s well worth a day visit whether by car, boat or even bike. It’s known that the eastern grey kangaroos like to frequent the grassy lawn but on this day, there were none. However, I saw plenty in other areas of the park including wallabies, an echidna and an emu. Note: please don’t feed the wildlife. Over time I’ve become something of a ‘twitcher’ finding birdwatching and identifying enjoyable. Here in the park there are over 190 different species with my first sighting being five yellow tailed black cockatoos. A nature trail and lookout tower were also helpful to spot a variety of other birds who feed and roost on Lake Reeve. Even in Loch Sport I would see black swans, cormorants, pelicans, seagulls, eastern spinebills, blue wrens, wattlebirds, magpies, rainbow lorikeets, eastern rosellas, crimson rosellas, kookaburras, currawongs, ravens and the ever bossy king parrot. In summer the peninsula is popular with day visitors and holidaymakers. The Emu Bight campground attracts dedicated campers as facilities are basic. Permits to camp are essential and bookings can be made through the Parks office on 131963. Certainly the mobile network is limited which is the perfect opportunity for people to disconnect from technology and reconnect with family, friends and nature. There are plenty of walking tracks and although I wandered only a few, they each had something special to offer. There is a 4wd only track and could easily gauge that without a 4wd you’d be in strife quickly. Note: there are seasonal road closures along these tracks from June to November. To finish off the day, I drove back to Loch Sport via the surf beach only a few kilometres from the park entrance. Crossing the causeway along a straight stretch of road, is the Stockyard Hill carpark. Down a typical beach track, the 90 mile beach opened up in front of me, its sheer vastness took my breath away. Apart from myself, there was a lone couple fishing from the shore with the obligatory deck chair and esky nearby. With the potential of catching salmon, gummy shark, flathead, snapper and more, I can see the attraction. On this clear day, I could spot one of the oil /gas platforms named Seahorse that is around 14kms from the shoreline. Later that night, I came back to see the twinkling lights of other platforms offshore. Don’t be fooled by the stunning blue water and consistent surf sets. It can be treacherous with plenty of rips and undertows. Note: this is an unpatrolled beach. Later that day, as I watched a few dolphins gamboling on Lake Victoria, I pondered where I would be at the end of 2019. Overseas, interstate or somewhere local. Whether it’s Lisbon or the Little Desert – it doesn’t really matter as long as we keep exploring.
3. Port Campbell National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,067 reviews
The wild Southern Ocean has carved the Port Campbell National Park coastline into formations that are famous the world over - and earned it the nickname of the Shipwreck Coast. Drive the Great Ocean Road and see London Bridge, The Grotto, Loch Ard Gorge and the unmissable Twelve Apostles. The best way to see Port Campbell National Park is to take the Great Ocean Road. This is one of the world's most celebrated scenic drives – and its undoubted highlight is the Twelve Apostles, which tower 45 metres above the Southern Ocean. On a coastline renowned for its spectacular coastal formations it’s easy to overlook London Bridge and The Grotto, which are both as awesome in their own way as the more famous Twelve Apostles.
Reviewed By NicholasC50 - Montreal, Canada
This a fairly-weather dependent attraction - in bad weather it will be hard to see effectively, though it may well be less crowded out of season. The scenery is spectacular all along the coast, and there are lots of places to stop and take a look. Taking a look often involves climbing up and down flights of steps from the clifftops to sea level, so bear in mind if you are unfit or have small children. It is best to be there morning or evening, it seems to me, as there are lots of day trip buses from Melbourne in the middle of the day, so staying overnight in the area is probably a good idea. Well worth a visit if you are in the Melbourne area.
4. Croajingolong National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 9 reviews
Croajingolong National Park follows the remote coast of far-east Victoria and is home to ancient forests, pristine inlets, giant sand dunes and abundant wildlife. Canoe, kayak or boat to explore Tamboon, Mallacoota and Wingan Inlet. Basic but picturesque campgrounds are scattered along the many inlets of the coast along this part of Victoria. These sheltered water bodies are also perfect for fishing. Explore the diverse nature of Croajingolong and set out on one of the shorter walks within the park or experienced hikers might fancy the ultimate challenge of the Wilderness Coast Walk. Near Thurra River, you can see the historic lighthouse of Point Hicks. Take in ocean views and see whales on their annual migration from October to May.
5. Ninety Mile Beach Marine National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By royv647 - Traralgon, Australia
We recently took family from California to spend a day on the Ninety Mile beach at Seaspray We all had a great day, went for a nice walk along the beach and spent plenty of time swimming in the ocean, a bit cool when we first went in but after a bit of frolicking around we soon warmed up . We just about had it all to ourselves, lovely . There was a nice breeze blowing and the sun was out , perfect. The Water was soo clean as was the beach, we took chairs and a ground blanket onto the sand and made ourselves very comfortable. Our visitors from America were quite impressed and thoroughly enjoyed our great beach
6. Kinglake National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 10 reviews
Kinglake National Park lies on the slopes of the Great Dividing Range, a short drive from Melbourne. Keep an eye out for native birds as you enjoy scenic walks, thrilling mountain bike trails and picnics against the backdrop of panoramic views. Go mountain biking on the diverse and technical downhill trail at Bowden Spur or drive up to Mount Sugarloaf for panoramas over Melbourne’s skyline. Enjoy a picnic or barbecue in the surrounds of tall eucalypts before embarking on a short walk to Masons Falls. See water cascading over the sheer mudstone walls, which are fossilised sea beds. The Gums Camping area is nestled among tall eucalyptus forest and by a tranquil mountain stream. Camp or bring your caravan or camper for a comfortable stay.
Reviewed By RachelG310
Took a day trip to Kingslake on the last day of my trip to Melbourne, just sad we didn’t go sooner. A fantastic place for a picnic and to have a relaxing day with brilliant nature walks. All of the pathways are well maintained as are the toilets, bbq and picnic facilities. I mainly enjoyed the walk to the platform took around 45 minutes return journey but was well worth it. The scenery on the way and way back was extraordinary and once on the platform it was just breath taking to see so much greenery and nature, not to mention the star of the show, a beautiful waterfall. To anyone who wants a less busy and relaxing day surrounded by Australia nature…. Go here! Also couldn’t remember the name but there was a little café/bakery at the end of the access road, pop in here if you have the chance. Food was lovely.
7. French Island Marine National Park
8. Grampians National Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 265 reviews
Heritage-listed for its animal and plant life, Aboriginal heritage and stunning natural beauty, the Grampians National Park is one of Australia's most recognisable places. Explore the natural beauty of the Grampians from its world-famous hiking trails or by taking a scenic drive. Discover majestic waterfalls, dazzling spring wildflower displays and awe-inspiring mountain panoramas. Cross paths with kangaroos, wallabies, emus and native birds. Traditionally known as Gariwerd, this region is home to the largest number of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia. A visit to Brambuk – The National Park & Cultural Centre will help you get the most of your trip to these rock shelters.
Reviewed By karatekidskye - Kyle of Lochalsh, United Kingdom
Wow the Grampians are just stunning the views are to die for and the drive there was good we booked a motorhome and to see Oz it’s def the way to go... we went up to Boroka view point and it’s a lookout that never disappoints just beautiful we will be back next year without a doubt
9. Cobboboonee National Park
10. Mornington Peninsula National Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 74 reviews
Mornington Peninsula National Park is a favourite of Melburnians looking to escape the nearby city. Experienced surfers flock to Gunamatta Beach, while rockpools at Sorrento Ocean Beach, close to town, are perfect for families. Dip into the excellent surf beaches of the Mornington Peninsula National Park. Tackle the waves of Gunnamatta, Flinders, Portsea and Rye ocean beaches. Step out on The Coastal Walk for spectacular coastal views. The two-day walk meanders along high clifftops, through coastal vegetation and past stunning ocean beaches. A haven for native wildlife such as kangaroos, Greens Bush is the largest fragment of native bushland remaining on the Mornington Peninsula.
Reviewed By ET3121 - Greater Melbourne, Australia
A great spot at the southern tip of the mornington peninsula area. From the beaches of Sorrento/Portsea to the pretty cape schanck area with its lighthouse it has a bit of everything. add in wildlife areas such as Greens Bush with its abundant wallabies and kangaroos or the beaches of fingal/gunnamatta or flinders, you will find reasons to return time and time again. So many spots to visit that you will want to return more than once
