Place · 0.1 mi away
Overview
This is Stage 3 of the Great Ocean Walk: a 9.53 km (5.92 mi) one-way coastal ramble from Blanket Bay to the Cape Otway Lightstation. Expect an intermediate outing—well‑formed track, a beach/inlet crossing, and one punchy stair climb. It’s a popular day section for good reason: wildlife, shifting bush-to-clifftop scenery, and a finish at an historic lighthouse precinct. Note: the Great Ocean Walk is designed to be walked east to west.
Route, Scenery, and Wildlife
From the Blanket Bay campground car park (drop toilet and boot‑clean station), the track weaves through coastal bushland—prime koala and bird‑spotting—before dropping to Parker Inlet. Cross the inlet (easiest near low tide) or use the signed high‑tide alternative, then brush and clean boots at the hygiene station to protect local grass trees. From the beach, tackle the day’s crux: roughly 300 stone steps up Parker Hill. Beyond Seal Point toward Crayfish Bay, the clifftop views pop—ocean blues against the greens and ochres of native flora—before the first glimpses of Cape Otway’s lighthouse lead you in.
Logistics You’ll Care About
- Distance/time: 9.53 km one way; most walkers take about 2.5–3 hours (families or frequent photo stops can push it closer to 4).
- Facilities: Toilets at Blanket Bay and at/near the Lightstation precinct; none in between. No drinking water or food on the track. The Lightstation precinct has a small shop/kiosk—handy, but don’t bank on it for a full resupply.
- Lighthouse access: Entering the grounds and lighthouse is paid. Last reported hours were roughly 10:00–16:00 with ticketed entry (adult and child prices listed in recent guides); you can view the lighthouse externally from nearby tracks without paying.
- Transport/parking: It’s a true one‑way stage. Park at Blanket Bay or the Lightstation precinct and arrange a car shuffle, pickup, or private shuttle.
- Pets: Dogs are not permitted on the Great Ocean Walk.
Best Time to Hike
Time your day around the tide at Parker Inlet—aim to hit it near low tide for the simplest crossing. A morning start works well: cooler temperatures, softer light on the cliffs, and good odds of koala sightings leaving Blanket Bay. If you plan to go inside the Lightstation, arrive before the precinct’s afternoon closing window. Weather on this coast changes quickly; carry sun, wind, and rain layers year‑round. In warmer months, expect more insects and be snake‑aware.
Trail Tips
- Footwear: Bring shoes or sandals you don’t mind getting wet for the Parker Inlet crossing.
- Stairs strategy: Pace the “300 steps” after the inlet—short breaks make it friendly for mixed‑ability groups.
- Stewardship: Use the boot‑clean stations; they help stop the spread of plant disease.
- Navigation: Follow Great Ocean Walk wayfinding closely after Parker Inlet—there are occasional junctions near Seal Point/Crayfish Bay.
- Carrying: Pack 2–3 L of water per person, snacks, sun protection, a light rain layer, and insect repellent.
Pros
- Frequent koala spotting in the eucalypts near Blanket Bay.
- Finish at a historic lighthouse precinct with big-sky coastal views.
- Short detours to Seal Point and Crayfish Bay add quieter lookouts.
Cons
- Parker Inlet can require a wet crossing or high‑tide detour.
- About 300 stone steps after the inlet—tough on tired knees.
- No water or toilets between endpoints; plan your stops.
Parking
Park at Blanket Bay campground car park (east end) or at the Cape Otway Lightstation precinct (west end); most walkers arrange a car shuffle, pickup, or shuttle.
Caution
Plan around tides at Parker Inlet; there’s no pedestrian bridge and conditions can be unsafe in high surf or heavy rain. Expect roughly 300 steps up Parker Hill after the inlet. Use hygiene stations to prevent plant disease. No toilets or water on the track. Dogs are not permitted. The Great Ocean Walk is walked east to west, and Lightstation entry requires a paid ticket if you want to go inside.
