Melbourne Off-the-Beaten-Path | Skull Rock near Melbourne - its impact is truly understood only when seen firsthand
Two hours' drive south of Melbourne, there's a small island in the sea off Wilsons Promontory National Park. From afar, it looks like a skull resting on the water.
It's called Cleft Island, but people more commonly know it as Skull Rock. This island is a granite formation gradually carved out by wind and waves, with a massive cave hollowed out inside, spanning 130 meters wide, 60 meters high, and 60 meters deep. It's said to have even been used as a target practice range for artillery shells in the past. National Geographic rated it as one of "Australia's most incredible natural beauties," and I think that's no exaggeration.
If you want to see it up close, you can take a boat tour with Pennicott. It's best to book tickets in advance, as they often sell out during peak season.
Wilsons Promontory is more enjoyable to explore than I imagined.
Wilsons Promontory National Park, where Skull Rock is located, is well worth staying for several days. Granite mountains, ancient forests, rainforests, and beaches – all these diverse landscapes come together, making every walk a unique experience.
However, the place that left the deepest impression on me in the entire park was Squeaky Beach. This beach has topped lists for "best beaches," with water as clear as glass and a brilliant emerald green, framed by huge granite boulders on the shore. Any photo you take there looks like a wallpaper. The "Squeaky" in its name comes from the incredibly fine sand – ultra-fine quartz sand that squeaks underfoot, making a sound with every step, which is incredibly satisfying. Wild animals are often seen on the beach, but please remember to just observe them and not feed them.
Also, Squeaky Beach is not very suitable for swimming due to strong currents and no lifeguards. If you really want to swim, head to nearby Norman Beach, which has lifeguards patrolling during peak season and is much safer. Norman Beach itself is also quite beautiful and undeveloped, perfect for walks, surfing, or simply sitting and daydreaming.
The nearby Tidal River section is very shallow, with campsites and caravan parks along its banks. If you stay there, you can see wild kangaroos and emus wandering on the grass morning and evening, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.
Sand Dunes Hidden Behind the Forest
Wilsons Promontory also has a place many people don't know about – Big Drift. It's hidden inland behind Squeaky Beach, requiring a short walk through a patch of scrubland to reach. When the view suddenly opens up, you'll truly be stunned: the ground is no longer forest, but a vast expanse of rolling sand dunes, as if you've instantly been transported to a desert.
These sand dunes were formed over thousands of years by the sea breeze blowing quartz sand inland, accumulating bit by bit. The highest points are twenty to thirty meters tall, with smooth, wind-carved arcs on their surface. After climbing one dune, another appears before you, seemingly endless. Walking on them, every step sinks, and the surroundings are so quiet that only the sound of the wind and your own breathing remain.
Many people bring sandboards to slide down from the top, which is addictive for both adults and children. However, there is no shade on the dunes, so if you go in summer, the ground temperature will be very high. It's best to choose early morning or late afternoon, bring plenty of water, and ensure adequate sun protection.
Don't Miss Whale Watching Season
If you visit between May and October, you'll catch the whale watching season. You can join Wildlife Coast Cruises for an ocean trip, heading deep into the Southern Ocean to find these magnificent creatures.
Finally, some practical tips
If you're going to Squeaky Beach, wear comfortable walking shoes. Although you'll be barefoot on the beach, there's a walk to get to it. Coastal weather can change quickly, so it's best to bring both sun protection and a windbreaker.
Wilsons Promontory is a bit rushed for a day trip. If you have ample time, staying overnight at Tidal River, listening to the waves at night, and exploring leisurely during the day is the proper way to experience this wild coastline.
Skull Rock, Squeaky Beach, and Big Drift – these three places together truly showcase the wild character of Wilsons Promontory: the eerie wonder of sea erosion, the pristine nature of the beach, and the vastness of the sand dunes, each leaving a profound impression.
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