South Point marks the southernmost tip of mainland Australie. Located in Wilsons Promontory National Park, in the state of Victoria, this rugged rocky headland buffeted by the Tasman Sea can only be reached on foot: 15.7 km of trail one way, approximately 7 hours 30 minutes of walking from the last car park accessible by vehicle.

Why hike to South Point?

The majority of Wilsons Promontory visitors stop at the southeastern lighthouse or the beaches near Tidal River. South Point, meanwhile, remains apart. No spectacular signage, no infrastructure: just a discreet marker indicating the southernmost tip of the continent, facing the Tasman Sea. It is precisely this understated quality that makes it a sought-after hiking objective for those who wish to reach a specific geographical point rather than a developed site.

The route traverses a succession of landscapes representative of the park: eucalyptus forests, shaded valleys of pines, open ridges, then sparse vegetation as you approach the coastline. The headland itself offers views over the Southern Ocean and surrounding islands, without any tourist infrastructure.

The trail to South Point: what you need to know

The departure begins from Telegraph Saddle Car Park, the park's last road access point. The track initially descends toward Halfway Hut, a shelter located midway and useful for taking a sheltered break. Beyond this, the trail passes Roaring Meg, where the park's southernmost campground is located, then becomes wilder and less frequented.

On the final section, vegetation thins out and trail markings may become less obvious: it is important to remain alert to the markers. Arrival at South Point comes at a rocky headland, with a sign marking the continent's southernmost tip.

The hike requires good fitness. Most walkers choose to complete it over two days, with one night at Roaring Meg campground.

Alternative without hiking

For visitors who do not wish to or cannot walk to the headland, the Wilsons Prom cruise allows observation of South Point from the sea. No landing is possible.

What to see around South Point in Wilsons Promontory

The national park merits several days of exploration in addition to the walk to South Point.

Peaks and viewpoints

• Mount Oberon: panoramic views over the coast and islands.
• Mount Bishop: accessible from Lilly Pilly Gully.
• Vereker Lookout: expansive views over the northern section of the park.

Beaches

• Squeaky Beach: white sand and recognised among Australie's best beaches in 2023.
• Norman Beach: suited to swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Whisky Bay, Fairy Cove, Cotters Beach: more secluded coves, low visitor numbers.

Wildlife

Wilsons Promontory is one of Victoria's finest sites for observing wild wombats, particularly at dawn and dusk around Tidal River. Kangaroos, wallabies and emus are also visible along the trails.

How to get to South Point

Wilsons Promontory is located approximately three hours' drive southeast of Melbourne. The main visitor hub is Tidal River, around 30 minutes from the park entrance. This is the logistical base for most visitors: visitor centre, developed campground, access to principal trails.

The park has no fuel station. The nearest one is at Yanakie, approximately 35 km from Tidal River: you must refuel before entering.

To reach the start of the trail to South Point, you must continue by car to Telegraph Saddle Car Park. No vehicle, car or bicycle, can approach any closer to the headland.

Accommodation and practical information

Two main options for sleeping before or during the hike:

• Tidal River campground: equipped (toilets, potable water), suited to families and vehicle-based stays.
• Roaring Meg campground: the park's southernmost site, accessible on foot only. Dry toilets, untreated water drawn from the stream (purification mandatory), limited sites.

Reservation for both campgrounds is made via Parks Victoria, in advance during high season. As wombats are known to damage tents in search of food, you must always store provisions in sealed containers kept outside tents.

Bring: hiking boots, rain clothing, sufficient water supply, purification system, provisions for the duration of your stay, headlamp, first aid kit.

When to visit Wilsons Promontory

Australian summer (December to February) offers the most favourable temperatures for hiking and swimming, but also the highest visitor numbers and increased risk of bushfires: conditions should be verified before departure.

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are often considered the best seasons for long-distance walking: moderate temperatures, less frequented trails. Winter (June-August) remains feasible, but days are short and weather more unstable, complicating multi-day hikes.

See elsewhere in Australie

If you are exploring national parks and the southern coast of Australie, several sites extend this type of experience:

• The Cradle Mountain National Park in Tasmania for mountain hiking.
• Sarah Island, a former Tasmanian penal settlement.
• The Salamanca Market in Hobart for an urban stopover.
• Rhyll, a coastal village on Phillip Island.

Frequently asked questions

To incorporate South Point and Wilsons Promontory into a broader itinerary, consult our suggestions for travel in Australie.