Seaford Foreshore Walking Trail
The Seaford Foreshore Walking Trail is a scenic 5 km one-way coastal walk through sand dunes and native vegetation behind Seaford Beach, stretching from Keast Park in the north to Mile Bridge in the south.
The trail passes through Seaford Foreshore Reserve, which protects approximately 50 hectares of remnant Coast Banksia woodland and coastal dune vegetation. This is one of the largest remaining areas of Coast Banksia woodland near Melbourne and provides an important habitat for native birds, reptiles and other wildlife.
The trail is mostly flat, with sandy, gravel and some paved sections. It winds through coastal vegetation between the dunes, with access paths leading to the beach at various points.
Walk Details:
- Distance: 5 km one way or approximately 10 km return
- Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes one way
- Difficulty: Easy
- Track Surface: Sandy paths, gravel and some paved sections
- Starting Point: Keast Park, 18 Nepean Highway, Seaford 3198
- Finishing Point: Mile Bridge, Nepean Highway, Seaford
Walk Description:
Starting at Keast Park, follow the walking track south through Seaford Foreshore Reserve towards Mile Bridge.
The track runs behind the beach through Coast Banksia woodland, coastal dune scrub and native grasses. Although the beach is close by, the dense vegetation creates a peaceful bushland atmosphere.
Highlights include:
- Coast Banksia Woodland: An extensive area of remnant coastal vegetation, with twisted Banksia trees and native shrubs
- Birdwatching: Opportunities to observe native birds in the trees and coastal vegetation
- Seaford Beach: Numerous tracks provide access to the sandy beach and views across Port Phillip Bay
- Seaford Pier: A historic pier near the centre of the foreshore, with views along the coastline
- Coastal Dunes: Well-preserved dunes supporting native vegetation and wildlife
- Keast Park: Playground, picnic facilities, barbecues, toilets and beach access at the northern end of the trail
Walkers can return along the same track, walk back along Seaford Beach, or use the nearby Kananook Creek Walking Trail to create a longer walk. The creek trail is on the opposite side of Nepean Highway, and care is required at road crossings.
Public Transport:
The 5 km Seaford Foreshore Walking Trail can be completed one way by using public transport to return to the starting point.
From Mile Bridge at the southern end, walk to Kananook Railway Station and catch a Frankston Line train towards Melbourne to Carrum Station, then walk south to Keast Park.
Alternatively, bus route 780 connects the Frankston, Seaford and Carrum areas, although additional walking is required at both ends.
Check Transport Victoria for current timetables and journey planning.
History:
Seaford Foreshore Reserve was first set aside for public use in 1873 and was re-reserved for conservation and recreation in 1987.
In 1909, a small pier was constructed to support a pipeline pumping seawater into Kananook Creek to help flush polluted water from the creek. The pipeline was dismantled in 1953, although the pier remains.
The Friends of Seaford Foreshore have undertaken extensive work regenerating native vegetation, removing environmental weeds and protecting this important coastal environment.
How to Get There:
There is a large car park at Keast Park, which makes it a convenient starting point for the walk. Parking restrictions and fees may apply. The trail can also be accessed from several points along Nepean Highway, allowing shorter walks.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are permitted on a lead within Seaford Foreshore Reserve but must remain on constructed pathways.
Dogs are generally prohibited from Seaford Beach between 9:30am and 7:30pm from 1 December to 31 March, except in designated off-leash areas such as the Keast Park dog beach.
Cats are prohibited from the reserve.
Important Information:
- Stay on the designated walking tracks to protect fragile coastal dune vegetation
- Some sections have sandy surfaces that may be difficult for wheelchairs and prams
- Carry drinking water, especially during warmer weather
- The trail can be walked in either direction
- Take care when crossing Nepean Highway to connect with Kananook Creek Reserve
Location
18 Nepean Highway, Seaford 3198 View Map
Web Links
→ www.frankston.vic.gov.au/Things-To-Do/Parks-and-Reserves/Seaford/Seaford-Foreshore-Reserve
→ hikeandexplore.com.au/walks/seaford-foreshore-walking-track
