Princetown Beach

Princetown Beach is a wild and unspoilt ocean beach at the mouth of the Gellibrand River, where the river meets the Southern Ocean. Surrounded by coastal dunes and the Great Otway National Park, the beach offers a remote coastal experience and is popular with anglers, birdwatchers and walkers seeking a quieter alternative to the nearby Twelve Apostles.

A short walk from the car park leads through low coastal vegetation and across the dunes to the expansive sandy beach. At low tide, visitors can explore the river mouth, watch for shorebirds and enjoy sweeping views along the rugged Shipwreck Coast. The nearby estuary also attracts a variety of waterbirds and is a peaceful spot for nature photography.

Princetown Beach is exposed to the full force of the Southern Ocean and should not be considered a swimming beach. Strong waves, powerful rip currents and shifting river-mouth channels create hazardous conditions throughout the year.

Surf Safety
Princetown Beach is not a safe swimming beach. The combination of powerful surf, strong rip currents and the changing Gellibrand River entrance creates hazardous conditions.