Port Fairy to Warrnambool - Belfast Coastal Reserve

Fringing the coast from Warrnambool to Port Fairy, this reserve offers surprises at every turn – rocky reefs, sandy beaches, coastal dunes, salt marshes, estuaries and rare creatures such as the Orange-bellied Parrot. Wander and keep watch for wild things thriving here: on the beach, Victoria’s largest population of Hooded Plovers, and in the ocean, southern right whales and dolphins.

Belfast Coastal Reserve extends for approximately 20 kilometres between Port Fairy and Warrnambool. The diverse coastline is popular for walking, birdwatching, fishing, surfing, swimming and exploring rockpools.

Features include:

Sandy beaches and grassy coastal dunes
Freshwater wetlands, salt marshes and estuaries
Rocky outcrops, reefs and rockpools
Habitat for threatened shorebirds
Seasonal opportunities to see southern right whales

Opening Hours:

The reserve is accessible throughout the year. Check the official Parks Victoria page for current conditions, restrictions and closures.

Access for Dogs:

Dogs must be kept on a leash and under control. Dogs are permitted on designated beaches and access tracks but are prohibited in dunes, within five metres of dunes, in Hooded Plover nesting areas and throughout designated Conservation Zones. Check the official dog-walking information and recreation map before visiting.