St Georges Headland Circuit Trail

Overview

This is Booderee’s big coastal day out: a looping circuit from the Steamers Beach car park that strings together cliffs, secluded coves, and wide sandy paths. The core loop is 11.4 km total (about 7.1 miles); add signed side trails and it grows to 14–16+ km. Expect a solid workout, varied terrain, and far fewer people than you’d think for scenery this good.

Route and Terrain

Clockwise from the Steamers Beach car park, the track heads to Brooks Lookout for expansive coastline views, then rolls along the headland toward St Georges Head and rocky outcrops like Corangamite and Kittys Point. Beyond are spurs to Kittys Beach, Blacks Harbour, and Whiting Beach before the loop swings inland past Blacks Waterhole to close back at the car park. Sections include firm bush track, wide sandy stretches, and some steep stair work—especially on the access to Steamers Beach.

Highlights

• Lookouts and headlands: Brooks Lookout and St Georges Head deliver the drama—wave-cut cliffs, rocky points, and uninterrupted ocean.
• Beaches: Steamers Beach is spectacular but hazardous; the safer, more sheltered swims are at Kittys Beach and Whiting Beach. Blacks Harbour is a rugged, photogenic cove.
• Nature: You’ll move through tall eucalypt and tea-tree country. Keep an eye out for dolphins off Kittys Point, seasonal whales from high points, and black cockatoos in the trees. Backing Steamers Beach are steep, unusually colored dunes—a quirky geological highlight.

Difficulty and Time

For the 11.4 km core circuit, allow about 4 hours; adding side trips can push this into the 5–6+ hour range. The grade is moderate to difficult due to length, soft sand sections, and steep climbs from beaches.

Best Time to Hike

Any clear day works, but if whale watching is on your list, the main season runs mid-year into spring. This loop stays blissfully quiet most days. After heavy rain, some roads or tracks may close—check park alerts before you go.

Practical Notes

Carry plenty of water and food—there’s no water on track. All beaches here are unpatrolled; use extra caution in the water and supervise children. Do not swim at Steamers Beach due to strong currents and sharks; choose Kittys or Whiting Beach instead. The trail is well signposted, but stay on marked tracks to protect sensitive country. A park pass is required for vehicle entry (walkers and cyclists enter free). Pets are not permitted; assistance animal access should be confirmed with the Visitor Centre.