Pros & cons
PROS
- Two-level design with a lower fishing platform
- Fish-cleaning tap and sink on site
- Wide Bass Strait views and great sunsets
CONS
- Often windy on the exposed headland
- Restrooms are a short walk away on the foreshore
Overview
Set on Point Grey at the edge of town, Lorne Pier is where locals fish and visitors wander out over open Bass Strait. The spot blends easygoing seaside vibes with a bit of history: the original pier opened in 1879 and, after long service, a modern structure was built alongside it in 2007.
What You'll See
Expect big horizons, crashing swell on rough days, and soft, pastel skies at sunset. The adjacent boat ramp keeps the scene lively, and the long, straight deck makes for a classic ocean-stroll photo op.
Fishing Notes
Anglers favor the lower platform near the seaward end, and there’s a tap and sink for cleaning your catch. Australian salmon are a common target, with dawn and dusk often producing best. Check current Victorian regulations—an RFL may be required.
Facilities & Nearby Amenities
On-pier facilities are basic. There’s no restroom on the pier; use the foreshore toilet blocks along Mountjoy Parade in town. A precinct upgrade is planned for Point Grey, with new public toilets included in the design.
Getting There & Parking
It’s about a 2–2.5 hour coastal drive from Melbourne. V/Line buses reach Lorne, and from town it’s an easy walk to the pier. Parking is available along the foreshore, but weekends and holiday afternoons fill quickly—arrive early.
Photography Tips
Use the pier as a leading line and shoot back toward town for layered headland views, or face west for sunset color. A light tripod helps in low light; wide and tele lenses both work. Fly drones only if permitted and conditions are calm.
Safety
This is an exposed, windy spot—watch swell, wet surfaces, and active fishing lines. Save night visits for clear, calm conditions and stick to daylight if the sea is up.
Best Time to Visit
Sunrise for calm air and space; sunset for color. Winter mornings are dramatic and quieter; summer afternoons are the busiest. The pier is open 24/7, but daylight hours are safest when seas are lively.
Where it is
-38.5479, 143.9867Tips for Lorne Pier
- 01For fishing, try dawn or dusk from the lower platform near the end.
- 02Restrooms are on Mountjoy Parade foreshore blocks, not on the pier.
- 03Bring a windbreaker—gusts are common even on sunny days.
- 04Arrive early on weekends and holidays as foreshore parking fills fast.
- 05Check Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence requirements before casting.
Amenities
Near Lorne Pier
All places →All trails →
0.6 mi awayTeddy's LookoutQuick, sweeping view of St George River and Great Ocean RoadParking · Scenic Viewpoint
0.6 mi awayLorne Main BeachFamily-friendly surf beach with foreshore perks and cafes steps awayParking · Restroom
1 mi awayLorne Visitor Information CentreBest first stop with free Great Ocean Road history exhibitVisitor Center · Exhibit
1 mi awayThe Great Ocean Road StoryFree exhibit telling how this epic coastal road was builtRestroom · Exhibit
2.4 mi awayLower Kalimna Falls TrackFerny stroll to a walk-behind waterfall with a cave-like alcoveModerate · 5.1 mi · 2.3 hr
2.4 mi awayPhantom Falls and Henderson Falls via The CanyonTwo rainforest waterfalls and a narrow canyon in one moderate loop.Moderate · 5.9 mi · 3 hr
2.4 mi awaySheoak Falls via Castle RockWaterfall and lookout loop with ocean views and a swallow-filled caveModerate · 6 mi · 3.5 hr
2.4 mi awayHenderson Falls TrackShady fern gully stroll to a graceful 8–10 m waterfall.Easy · 2.2 mi · 1 hr
