Point Lonsdale: Coast at Port Phillip Heads

Point Lonsdale combines a maritime connection with coastal routes and attractions for a range of interests. Specific places are important when planning your trip: the promenade along Lonsdale Bay, the lighthouse, the marine park and Lonsdale Links. Each offers a distinct focus, from a waterside walk to a golf course in the coastal dunes.

Marine Park and Water Conditions

The Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park protects a diverse marine environment that includes Point Lonsdale. The section of the park near Point Lonsdale lies between Queenscliff and the western side of the entrance to Port Phillip. Strong currents can occur at its outer boundaries when water flows in or out through the Heads. Check conditions before entering the water. There are also consistently strong surf currents at Point Lonsdale Back Beach, which can catch unwary swimmers by surprise.

The tidal reef at Point Lonsdale is suitable for snorkelling for both beginners and experienced snorkellers, as well as for divers. This gives the place a direct connection to the park’s marine environment. The current warnings should be considered separately: the reef’s suitability for these activities does not change conditions at the park’s outer boundaries or at Back Beach.

Promenade and Coastal Routes

The Point Lonsdale Promenade follows the shoreline of Lonsdale Bay and offers numerous beach access points along the way. Walkers, runners and cyclists of all ages and ability levels use it. At one end, the promenade connects to the Point Lonsdale Coastal Trail; at the other, to Lovers Walk and the Bellarine Rail Trail. These three names help you distinguish the promenade’s connections when planning your route.

The Point Lonsdale Coastal Trail is a walking track at 80 Point Lonsdale Road in Point Lonsdale. Together with the promenade connections, this named trail also makes the coastal area appealing to visitors who would rather spend their time walking than on the golf course. The promenade’s different uses—walking, running and cycling—are as much a part of its description as its route along the bay.

Lighthouse and Tours

The Point Lonsdale Lighthouse serves as a landfall light for ships approaching the Heads. Its function gives the structure a clear connection to the entrance to Port Phillip. The Queenscliffe Maritime Museum conducts public tours of the lighthouse. Tour highlights include exploring the lighthouse lantern and views across the entrance to Port Phillip Heads and along the coast to Ocean Grove and Cape Schanck.

Before visiting, check the latest dates and booking requirements: availability and booking conditions may change. Tour content may also change. This lets you plan the lighthouse as a guided experience without assuming it is an observation point available at all times.

Golf and Dining

Lonsdale Links is an 18-hole links golf course in the coastal dunes of Point Lonsdale, next to Lake Victoria. The course adds a distinct golfing focus to the coastal routes. The Point Lonsdale Clubhouse serves lunch, dinner, coffee, drinks and snacks to golfers and non-golfers alike. As the availability of food and drinks may change, it is a good idea to check before planning a visit.

Point Lonsdale’s specific attractions range from the tidal reef and protected marine environment to the promenade, lighthouse and links golf course. If you are looking for a hotel in Point Lonsdale, these local highlights can help you assess the destination based on the activities that matter to your trip.

Discover more destinations: Ocean Grove, Batesford, Anglesea, Queenscliff, Torquay, Portarlington.

For the broader travel overview: Geelong.