You might have heard of the 12 Apostles, but there’s another famous stack of rocks not too far away…
Rock stacks are a common sight when you’re venturing around the Great Ocean Road!
If you’ve never been to the Bay of Islands before, then check out this gem along the Great Ocean Road. Often overshadowed by its distant cousin collection of islands the 12 Apostles, the Bay of Islands are a set of limestone stacks that are a part of a larger bay.
The Bay of Islands is in the Bay of Islands Coastal Park, which is just West of Port Campbell National Park. Not to be confused with the Bay of Islands in New Zealand, which is much bigger! This area stretches over a whopping 32 kilometres and goes all the way along the Victorian Coastline.
Sandstone stacks
These stacks are dotted among the likes of Peterborough and Warrnambool, offering some dramatic views across the ocean. With the horizon line in the background, these sandstone structures jut impressively out of the water.
The Bay of Islands look a little bit like a fleet of ships coming into the bay. You can walk along the beach next to the Bay of Islands at low tide. For wildlife and nature, the Bay of Islands is an interesting and unique location.
Rare species of orchids also grow here, and it’s the only place you’ll find marine cormorant nests. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, so if you’re into wildlife spotting then don’t forget your binoculars! If you’re lucky, you might even spot whales!
Visiting the Bay of Islands
Visiting the Bay of Islands is easy, and you’ll be able to explore the vast oceanic scenery from the main viewpoint. The viewing platform is just a short 120 metres away from the main car park. You’ll get some incredible views of the whole sea, and you’ll be able to soak up some amazing scenic sights of the whole ocean.
But this one is particularly impressive, thanks to its wild beach coves and numerous rock stacks that are positioned interestingly in the middle of the ocean, making for an awesome view!
While you’re in the Bay of Islands, don’t miss the Wild Dog Cove, the Bay of Martyrs, and the Falls of Halladale.
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia
Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.