10 Top Beaches - Cape Otway and Bimbi Park

Surfing for all ages and skill levels

10 Top Beaches - Cape Otway and Bimbi Park

Discover hidden marine treasures while exploring Cape Otway’s stunning rock pools

 

10 Top Beaches - Cape Otway and Bimbi Park

Fishing at it’s Best, Surf, Reef or River

 

10 Top Beaches – Cape Otway

Cape Otway, is a dream destination for beach lovers. With its untouched sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and captivating coastal scenery, this region is home to some of Australia’s most stunning beaches. Whether you’re keen on relaxing by the sea, catching waves, fishing, snorkeling, or exploring the diverse marine life in the rock pools, Cape Otway’s beaches offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top 10 beaches in and around Bimbi Park in Cape Otway, each with its own unique charm and beauty.

1. Crayfish Bay – The Fotinas Family Favourite

Description: Crayfish Bay has crystal-clear waters, making it one our and Bimbi Park guest’s favourite spots for swimming, snorkelling and diving. There are lots of crayfish to see but most are undersized. The rocky reefs protect the bay, there is a gut way to the left and right of the bay that goes out into the ocean, so keep away from those. It is rich with marine life, creating an underwater paradise for explorers. Even if you’re not snorkelling, the bay’s serene atmosphere and natural beauty make it a must-visit.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: The main bay beach is moderately safe close inshore at low tide. There are, however, reefs and currents further offshore.
  • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
  • Best For: Swimming, Snorkelling, Diving, Relaxing.
  • Facilities: None, so bring your own equipment.
  • Shade: Very little
  • Accessibility: Requires a short walk to reach the beach. Park at the Point Franklin car park, walk towards the sea and you’ll see a track to the right that has signage to crayfish bay, follow the signs in. I like the cliff-top walk, but the beach walk on low tide is fine too.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer, for the clearest waters – Low tide is better. Winter swimming for the insane.

Beaches in Cape Otway - Crayfish Bay

Crayfish Bay from above – It’s amazing

Cray Fish Bay Rock Formation

Dimitri and Emmanuele climbing the rock formations on the edge of the bay.

2. Blanket Bay – What a beauty (a local favourite so don’t tell them I told you)

Description:  Blanket Bay is sheltered by an intertidal reef, making it ideal for swimming a few hours on either side of high tide, and when the swell is low. This small beach, facing east of Cape Otway, has forested slopes to the west bordered by rocks and reefs to the east. Discover the unique marine life within these intertidal rock pools. Bring a snorkel for a closer look—crayfish and abalone can be found here, but please follow the regulations. [LINK TO FISHERIES]. Blanket Bay is a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: The main bay beach is moderately safe close inshore at low tide. There are, however, reefs and currents further offshore.
  • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
  • Best For: Swimming, Snorkelling, Diving, Relaxing.
  • Facilities: Picnic areas, toilets.
  • Shade: Very little.
  • Accessibility:  Easy access by car, park in the day park and walk down the short path to the beach.
  • Best Time to Visit: Great for sunrise. Summer and early autumn a few hours either way of low tide for swimming. Great to visit in winter and spring but not for swimming just sight-seeing. Winter swimming for the truly fearless.

 

Cape Otway Beaches - Blanket Bay

 The steps walking down to the beach

Cape Otway Beaches - Blanket Bay

Rockpools on the edges

3. Parker Inlet – Nature at its Best

Description: Yes there are 300 steps and 90 meters down (what goes down has to come up) and you’ll come to a secluded beach at the Parker River mouth. Look around you’ll be gobsmacked at how natural and beautiful it is. Explore the sheltered cove and fossick in the rockpools. Swimming at this beach can be risky due to strong currents, but splashing around in the shallows and at the river mouth is a lot of fun and much safer.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: Swimming is NOT VERY SAFE as this beach, there are strong currents but splashing in the shallow and in the river mouth is great.
  • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
  • Best For: Sightseeing, splashing in the river mouth and the shallows.
  • Facilities: None, so bring your own equipment.
  • Shade: Very little.
  • Accessibility: You need to drive to Parker Hill, Follow the track towards the sea, and turn left down to the stairs. Yes, there are 300 steps and 90 meters down (what goes down has to come up). Take water and do it slowly.
  • Best Time to Visit: All year round, a favorite for the local fishermen but beware of the large waves that can crash on the rocks. Winter swimming for the daring souls.

4. Aire River – Hidden Gem

Description: Swimming at Aire River is one of the hidden gems near Bimbi Park, offering swimming and great fishing. Park at the bridge and walk about 100m towards the ocean and there is a little sandy bay, great for swimming or fishing, there is a current sometimes so keep the children close until you work it out. If you keep going on that track (with a 4wd it’s ok most of the time) there is another sandy beach, it’s awesome, you think you’re in a Sir David Attenborough film. Past the mouth of the river is not safe for swimming but a good surfing spot if you a seasoned surfer. The river’s calm, it’s a peaceful spot where you can truly unwind. Whether you’re going for a dip, splashing around with the kids or fishing for bream, Aire River provides a perfect break from the coastal surf.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: There is some times current and there are some snags, but a great place to swim.
  • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
  • Best For: Swimming, Fishing and Relaxing.
  • Facilities: A drop loo on either side of the river, bring everything else.
  • Shade: Some.
  • Accessibility: Requires a short walk to reach the 1st swimming area or 4wd and park next to swimming spots.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming, all year round for fishing. Winter swimming for the brave-hearted.

Parket Inlet - Cape Otway Beach

The Parker River mouth

Parket Inlet - Cape Otway Beaches

Worth the 300 steps down

 

Aire River Bridge

The Aire River bridge

Aire River 2nd beach Fishing with my mate Nathan at the second sandy spot.

5. Station Beach – Where the Rugged West Coast Begins

Description: Station Beach marks the beginning of the wild west coast, known for its powerful winds and waves. This 2.8-kilometer stretch of beach faces southwest, directly into the elements.

Waves at Station Beach often exceed 1.5 meters, and during the huge winter tides, they can reach up to 10 meters—a spectacular sight. The beach features a wide surf zone with a detached sandbar and strong rip currents every 350 meters, especially near Point Flinders and the rocky sections. Due to its strong undercurrents, underwater reefs, and formidable waves, swimming at Station Beach is highly dangerous and not recommended.

Please help keep this magnificent place pristine by picking up any rubbish you may find and bringing it back to Bimbi Park.

Getting There: Reaching it requires a bit of a hike—the nearest access point is a 2.5-kilometer walk from Bimbi Park. Start your walk between Cabins 4 and 5, located behind the Bimbi Park camp kitchen. The hike to Station Beach takes about 45 minutes one way, mostly downhill, so expect a tougher return trip up the sand dunes. Make sure to take water, wear hats, and cover-up, as it can get hot in the dunes.

Follow the track to our cyclone fence spring, staying on the path until you reach a timber walkway. Continue over a sand dune, and as you crest the dune, Station Beach will reveal itself, a place where you’ll feel both the power of nature and your own insignificance.

If the swell is small, you can turn left and walk approximately 1 kilometer to Rainbow Falls. This waterfall, fed by an underground spring, has been flowing for thousands of years. The active part of the waterfall is covered in moss, while the inactive part appears grey. It is one of the few places where fresh water meets the sea and holds deep indigenous significance, having been a source of water and seafood for thousands of years.

Rainbow Falls is home to Crayfish, Abalone and lots of fish, but these can only be safely dived for during a strong northerly wind when the ocean is calm; at other times, it is too dangerous. The area around the waterfall is also slippery, so take care. Though the hike is challenging, it is truly worth the effort and one of the Fotinas’ favourites.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: Do Not Swim.
  • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
  • Best For: Sightseeing, Surf Fishing, Surfing for very competent surfers. Do not surf here unless you have years of experience.
  • Facilities: None, so bring your own equipment.
  • Shade: Very little on the beach but some during your walk.
  • Accessibility: 2.5km walk from Bimbi Park plus 1km to Rainbow falls one way. As described above.
  • Best Time to Visit: Great sunset. All year round, different weather makes this place transform. Winter swimming for the bold and bold only.

Marg and Robs’ Blog – A bit old but still current apart from the horse riding that is no longer available

Station Beach

Emm and Frank going for a stroll

Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls – A must See

Surf Station Beach

World class swell on a Good Day

Wild Station Beach

Photos By: Walk 91 – Local GOW tour company and a Bimbi Park Partner and friend since 2010

6. Point Franklin – Rock Pools Galore

Description: Point Franklin is a rugged and exciting coastal spot, its fascinating rock pools make it a great place to explore marine life up close, from colorful sea creatures to unique formations carved by the ocean. Point Franklin has crayfish and abalone, only on low tide and low swell, it is dangerous spot for the unexperienced diver as the weather and swell can change quickly. The surf here is also good but not many surfers use it.

While it’s an ideal spot for diving and surfing, swimming in the open water can be dangerous due to strong currents and unpredictable conditions. It’s best to swim at Cray Fish Bay. Always take care and be mindful of changing tides if you plan to visit this stunning coastal area.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: Swimming is not recommended, strong currents, reefs and unpredictable swell.
  • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
  • Best For: Rock Pool exploring, snorkeling for the experienced diver and surfing for the seasoned surfer.
  • Facilities: None, so bring your own equipment.
  • Shade: Very little
  • Accessibility: Requires a short walk to reach the beach. Park at the Point Franklin car park, walk towards the sea and and go straight, when you get to the water explore the whole area, Point Franklin is to the left, Crayfish bay to the right around the far tip you can see. Low tide is best.
  • Best Time to Visit: All year round – Low tide is better. Winter swimming for the bold and crazy.

Point Franklin Rock Pools

Spend Hours exporing the rockpools

Point Franlin Rock pools

My boys on the rocks

7. Johanna Beach – A Surfing Hotspot

Description: No good for swimming but the swell for surfing is second none. Johanna Beach, is breathtaking, known for its dramatic landscapes and world-class surf breaks. When there is no swell at the Rip Curl Bells Surf Comp they come here.  Swimming here is unsafe due to strong rips and unpredictable surf conditions. However, for those wanting to enjoy the water, dipping your feet in at the river mouth crossing is a refreshing experience.

The beach is also a fantastic spot for sightseeing. Whether you’re watching surfers tackle the waves or exploring the nearby walking trails, this beach delivers an unforgettable experience.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: No swimming and surfing only for seasoned surfers.
  • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
  • Best For: Sightseeing, Surf Fishing and surfing for the seasoned surfer.
  • Facilities: Toilet at the first carpark.
  • Shade: Very little.
  • Accessibility: Park in the car park and walk down a short track to the beach.
  • Best Time to Visit: All year round, it changes with the seasons but watch the swell at high tide. Winter swimming for the cold-defying crowd.

Gow Johanna

Part of the Great Ocean Walk

Johanna Beachg

View from the Veiwing Platform

8. Castle Cove – A Surfers Dream

Description: Castle Cove is the first beach you come to from Marengo. For 30km it is all native bush. No good for swimming but the swell for surfing is great. When the swell is pumping here there is no work done in the area, the car park is full of tradies vans.

Walk up the Great Ocean Walk track to explore the coastal rock formations, watch the surfers, and enjoy watching the power of the swell. Pacck a picnic and have it on the sand.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: No swimming and surfing only for seasoned surfers.
  • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
  • Best For: Sightseeing and surfing for the seasoned surfer.
  • Facilities: None
  • Shade: Very little
  • Accessibility: Park in the car park and walk down a short track to the beach.
  • Best Time to Visit: All year round, it changes with the seasons but watch the swell at high tide.

Castle Cove Look Out

From the Castle Cove lookout

Castle Cove Rock Formations

Rock formations from the GOW track

9. Marengo – Australian Fur Seal paradise

Description: Marengo Beach is one of my go-to spots. The stretch of sand is gorgeous, and the rocky outcrops add a rugged charm. Offshore, you’ve got the Marengo Reefs a Marine Sanctuary, where you can spot a colony of Australian fur seals lounging around and playing in the water. It’s such a cool experience when you see them—always makes my day. There are guided kayak tours by Apollo Bay Surf and Kayak to the colony, I’ve done the tour, it’s fantastic.

Surf fishing good here too. On the right day, you stand a decent chance of catching something good. Surfers also love it when the conditions are right, and while it’s not as intense as some nearby breaks, it’s still fun to paddle out and catch a few waves.

Swimming is nice, but you’ve got to be careful. There can be some strong rips and a few hidden rocks, so it’s best to stick closer to shore where it’s safer. Always check the conditions before heading in, especially if the water looks rough. Overall, Marengo Beach is a great spot whether you’re into fishing, surfing, or just relaxing by the sea.

Quick Facts:

  • Quick Facts:
    • Safety: Swimming here can be safe, but it’s essential to be cautious as there are rips and reefs.
    • Patrolled: No, the closest patrolled beach is Apollo Bay.
    • Best For: Swimming, Surfing, Surf Fishing and Seal watching.
    • Facilities: None.
    • Shade: Very little.
    • Accessibility: Park in the car park and the end of the beach the opposite side of Apollo Bay and walk onto the beach.
    • Best Time to Visit: All year round, it changes with the seasons. Winter swimming for the wild at heart.

Surf MarengoThe Fellas Catchin A Wave

Surf MarengoThe Kids Being Cheeky

Apollo Bay Surf Kayak

Kayak To See The Seals – It’s Awesome

10. Apollo Bay

Description: Apollo Bay Beach is one of those places I keep coming back to. The long, curved stretch of sand is perfect for just about everything—whether I’m in the mood for a swim, a walk, or just kicking back and enjoying the view. The water is usually pretty calm, which makes it great for families, and it’s easily one of the safest beaches around for a swim.

It’s a great spot for paddleboarding or kayaking, and if you’re new to surfing, the waves here are mellow enough to give it a go without too much drama. What I love most is how close the beach is to the town. You can grab a coffee, fish and chips or a pie and head straight back to the sand—it’s super convenient.

The view here is amazing too. With the Otway Ranges as a backdrop, you get that perfect mix of ocean and mountains. Apollo Bay Beach just has this laid-back vibe that makes it easy to spend the whole day here, whether you’re looking to relax or get out on the water.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: Safe but if the conditions are wild it’s not.
  • Patrolled: Yes, between the flags in front of the life saving club.
  • Best For: Swimming, Snorkelling, Boogie Boarding, Relaxing.
  • Facilities: Fully serviced, toilets in a few spots and showers.
  • Shade: Very little.
  • Accessibility: Eas, from the town just across the road.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming but all year round for sightseeing. Winter swimming for the mad.

Apollo Bay Beach

Apollo Bay Beach

Marengo Beach

11. Apollo Bay Habour – I know it’s top 10 beaches but I couldn’t leave this one out.

Description: The beach at Apollo Bay Harbour has this really chilled-out vibe, especially compared to the main beach. It’s tucked in the habour, so the water is super calm—perfect if you just want a quiet swim or have kids with you. It’s also a great spot for paddleboarding or just floating around without getting knocked about by surf.

What I love most is how peaceful it feels, even though you’re right near the town and marina. You can watch the fishing boats come and go, which adds to that classic coastal atmosphere. If you’re into fishing, the jetty nearby is a good spot to cast a line.

Even if you’re not swimming, it’s a nice place to hang out, watch the boats bob in the harbour, and take in the view of the hills surrounding Apollo Bay. It’s like this little pocket of calm that’s just steps away from everything.

Quick Facts:

  • Safety: Safe.
  • Patrolled: No Apollo Bay Main Beach is.
  • Best For: Swimming, Pabble Boarding, Relaxing.
  • Facilities: Toilets
  • Shade: Very little
  • Accessibility: From Apollo Bay drive past the golf course (Nelson St) , then at the T intersection turn left and quick right onto Breakwater Road past the fish co- op and just past the boat ramp you’ll see it on the right. Park and enjoy.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming but all year round for sightseeing. Winter swimming for the brave.

 

 

 

 

Apollo Bay Habour

Dimitri and Jac going for a walk at the Apollo Bay Habour Beach

More Things To See and Do – Lots for the Kids as well

At Bimbi Park, you can do as much or as little as you like. Relax by the fire with a book, or dive into adventure with ziplining, helicopter rides, whiskey tastings, and plenty more. There’s also lots for the kids, including playground, splash park, and exploring the wildlife around the park. Whether you’re unwinding in nature or seeking thrills, Bimbi Park offers the perfect mix of tranquillity and excitement.

 

Here are some more of our things to see and do pages.

Tourist Attractions

There is just so much to do.

Click For Tourist Atractions

Waterfalls

Over 200, and Bimbi Park is the perfect base to explore them.

Click for Waterfalls

Adventure

From Ziplining to Helicopters and Bimbi Park is the perfect base to explore.

Click for Adventures

Rain Forest

Bimbi Park is the perfect base to explore them.

Click for Rainforests

12 Apostles Area

Lovely day trip from Bimbi Park. A bucket list day.

Click for 12 Apostles

Bimbi Park is a great starting point for beach walks

Bimbi Park, nestled in Cape Otway at the heart of the Great Ocean Road and Great Ocean Walk, boasts stunning forests, beaches, secluded bays, and coastline. Tucked away amidst towering manna gums, it offers a tranquil escape from urban noise and traffic.

Book Direct and Save

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What Our Wonderful Guests Have To Say

Thank you for your wonderful reviews and kind words. We’re truly grateful to be here, and it’s a joy to share this place with amazing people like you.

Bimbi Park
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08:47 29 Aug 24
we saw lots of koalas! we saw lots of koalas! we saw lots of koalas!we had the double room en-suite cabin— super luxurious! staff were extremely welcoming and the grounds overall were very well... kept. the goats are also super friendly!read more
Ruth KimptonRuth Kimpton
04:01 26 Aug 24
This is the most wonderful camping ground and caravan park! Different types of accommodation to suit everyone. I stayed in an old style caravan. I stayed in an old style caravan. It was such a... delight, clean, super comfortable bed with donna and hotel style linen, nice and warm everything you needed in the kitchen. The toilet block was immaculately clean. The wildlife was wonderful and so was the service. I highly recommend this magical place.read more
Jill SelbyJill Selby
04:01 17 Aug 24
Beautiful bush type camp. No concrete jungle here. Loved our stay
Geoff WoodcockGeoff Woodcock
09:51 16 Aug 24
Michele EgartnerMichele Egartner
06:09 13 Aug 24
Fantastic location and my family all enjoyed the accommodation , mini golf and the facilities at Bimbi. It's our second time at Bimbi Park and definitely will come back again!
Bruce BarkerBruce Barker
11:17 04 Aug 24
We used a powered site. The amenities are modern and clean. The manager is both friendly and a great source of ideas for activities. We spent four nights there and that was barely time to explore... this beautiful area. Highly recommended. PS We could see the self contained units and they looked terrific.read more
Christian EbaughChristian Ebaugh
01:38 10 Jul 24
Well, some other parks may have more facilities or larger campground. This park was so much more natural and beautiful. Additionally, all of the facilities were clean and bright and usable. To top... that off, doing the koala hunt every day was the highlight of our entire journey. we managed to find Koalas and we checked on half of them Multiple times every day to see how they were doing. I would recommend this park to everyone!read more
We've stayed here twice now and loved it. Quiet spot away from the busy-ness of the Great Ocean Road. Spotted 14 Koalas too! A relaxing spot with easy day trips to waterfalls and not far from Apollo... Bay.read more
Vijay YadavVijay Yadav
01:09 17 Jun 24
We recently enjoyed a delightful visit to Bimbi Park with our family. The park is impeccably maintained, seamlessly blending the beauty of nature with comfort. Our accommodations were clean and cozy,... making us feel at home. The area was both tranquil and secure, perfect for family activities. The bushwalking trails were a highlight, featuring breathtaking views and being easily navigable for children. Additionally, the staff was exceptionally friendly and supportive. We faced a car issue during our stay, and the staff went above and beyond to assist us, using their vehicle to charge our car's battery. They ensured our problem was resolved before leaving, which we greatly appreciated. We highly recommend Bimbi Park for a family retreat that offers both relaxation and adventure in a peaceful environment.read more
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