Plan your visit
Plan Your Wilsons Promontory Trip
Use this guide to organize your transport, pack the right gear, and plan your hiking or cruising itinerary.
Wilsons Promontory National Park Wilderness Cruises and Day Tours
Tidal River Visitor Centre, Wilsons Promontory National Park, VIC 3960
GPS -39.03056, 146.32139
Open directionsGetting there
Drive directly to Tidal River or join a tour bus from Melbourne.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive from Melbourne via the Monash Freeway (M1) and South Gippsland Highway (M420/A440), then take C444 to the park entrance and Tidal River. | 2.5 - 3 hours | Free park entry; fuel costs apply | Drive carefully, especially between dusk and dawn, due to abundant wildlife on the roads. The nearest fuel is in Yanakie. |
| Tour: Join a guided small-group bus tour departing from central Melbourne. | 12 hours (full day) | $130 - $325 AUD | Many tours include hotel pickups, guided park hikes, wildlife spotting, and optional amphibious boat cruise tickets. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
Summer (December to February) brings warm weather for swimming. Winter and spring are ideal for whale watching. Ocean winds can be freezing year-round, so pack layers.
What to bring
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Check in 30 minutes before your cruise.
The booking office is located at Tidal River.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules based on how you travel.
Arrive at Tidal River for a cruise and a short hike.
- Arrive at Tidal River
Park and walk to the Wanderer Adventures booking office to check in.
- Wilderness Cruise
Board the amphibious boat at Norman Beach for a 2.5-hour tour.
- Lunch
Eat a packed lunch or grab food at the general store.
- Squeaky Beach Walk
Hike from Tidal River to Squeaky Beach to hear the quartz sand.
A 12-hour guided itinerary covering top land sights.
- Depart Melbourne
Board your air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Arrive at National Park
Enter the park and begin scenic stops.
- Hike Lilly Pilly Gully
Enjoy a 2-hour walk through the temperate rainforest track.
- Squeaky Beach
Visit the famous white sand beach.
- Return to Melbourne
Arrive back in the city after a full day.
Packing for your trip
Ocean winds in Bass Strait are strong. Pack warm layers, like fleece or thermal tops, even in summer. Cruise operators provide waterproof and windproof jackets. What to Wear
Bring comfortable walking shoes for park trails. Food options at Tidal River are limited. Pack a lunch, snacks, and a reusable water bottle.
Easiest way to do it
Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Cruise from Tidal River
2 h 30 min 4.9 (509)
- Waterproof and windproof jackets are provided but we encourage you to dress warmly and in layers.
From$118per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How long is the drive from Melbourne to Tidal River?
The drive takes 2.5 to 3 hours. Take the Monash Freeway (M1) to the South Gippsland Highway, then follow the C444.
What should I wear on a wilderness cruise?
Wear warm, layered clothing. Ocean winds are cold. The cruise provides waterproof and windproof jackets. Wear flat, secure shoes.
Is there food available to buy at Tidal River?
Yes, there is a general store at Tidal River. However, options are limited. Bringing your own packed lunch and snacks is highly recommended.