Aireys Inlet - Lighthouse Discovery Trail
The Lighthouse Discovery Trail is the twelfth and final section of the 44-kilometre Surf Coast Walk. This easy coastal walk leads from Split Point Lighthouse at Aireys Inlet to Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club, passing lookouts, whale-watching locations and the Painkalac Creek estuary.
Distance: 2.1 km one-way or 4.2 km return
Time: 30-45 minutes one-way
Grade: 2
Terrain: Gentle hills
Track: Well-formed, narrow walking track
Start: Split Point Lighthouse, 13 Federal Street, Aireys Inlet
Finish: Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club, Cnr Great Ocean Road and Yarringa Road, Fairhaven
Begin at Split Point Lighthouse and explore the nearby viewing platforms, which offer expansive views over Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary and the coastline. Whales may be visible during their annual migration.
Follow the Surf Coast Walk signs west from the lighthouse. The route passes the public toilets near Reserve Road and Aireys Inlet Reserve before crossing Painkalac Creek beside the Great Ocean Road. Continue past several viewing platforms overlooking the creek, estuary, coast and surrounding hills before finishing at Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club.
Interpretive signs along the trail explore the natural and cultural heritage of Wadawurrung Country, including a traditional Aboriginal boundary. The route also provides views of the 34-metre-high Split Point Lighthouse, which was completed in 1891 and remains an operational lighthouse.
Highlights include:
- Split Point Lighthouse
- Split Point and coastal lookouts
- Views across Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary
- Seasonal whale-watching opportunities
- Painkalac Creek and estuary
- Several signed viewing platforms
- Natural and cultural heritage information
- Fairhaven Beach
- Public toilets near Reserve Road
- Toilets, picnic facilities, barbecues, playground and skate park at Aireys Inlet Reserve
- Seating and viewing platforms
- Parking near both ends of the walk
The generally well-formed track is suitable for most walkers and prams, although the narrow path and gentle hills may present difficulties for some wheelchair users.
Opening Hours:
The walking trail and outdoor lookouts are accessible at all times. Daylight visits are recommended.
Cost:
Free. Entry to the Split Point Lighthouse tower requires a separate paid tour.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs must be kept on a leash along township sections unless signs indicate that an area is designated for off-leash use. Dogs are not permitted within playgrounds. Seasonal restrictions may apply near Fairhaven Beach, so check signs before entering the beach.
Location:
The walk starts at Split Point Lighthouse, 13 Federal Street, Aireys Inlet, and finishes at Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club, Cnr Great Ocean Road and Yarringa Road, Fairhaven.
Location
13 Federal Street, Aireys Inlet 3231 View Map
Web Links
→ visitgreatoceanroad.org.au/things-to-do/get-active/surf-coast-walk/
