Crayfish Bay

Overview

Crayfish Bay is a tiny, tucked‑away inlet on the Cape Otway coast with two pocket beaches separated by reefs and low rock platforms. It feels wild and elemental—wave energy from the Southern Ocean is ever‑present—yet the coves can turn glassy on calmer days. There are no facilities here; it’s a simple, beautiful slice of coast.

What You'll See

Expect vegetated bluffs, reef‑fringed shallows and kelp swirling just offshore. Thick bull kelp is common around the low‑tide mark, with underwater beds of kelp and, in places along this coast, even mini “forests” of giant kelp. The reefs support magpie perch and blue‑throated wrasse; in crevices and on the seafloor, southern rock lobsters and even Port Jackson sharks may shelter. Keep an eye on nearby rock platforms for the occasional fur seal cruising past.

Geology in Plain English

This shoreline sits on Otway Group sediments—old sandstones and layered deposits now carved by one of Australia’s most energetic coasts. Cliffs, gorges and offshore stacks are constantly reshaped by swell, which also explains the bay’s mix of protective reefs and lurking hazards.

Getting There

• By car: Follow Lighthouse Road from the Great Ocean Road, then the Blanket Bay/Point Franklin turn‑off to the small, unsealed Crayfish Bay car park. The final track can be rough and the foot‑track down is short but steep.
• On foot: It’s a scenic pause on the Great Ocean Walk between Blanket Bay/Parker Inlet and Cape Otway Lightstation.

Activities: What Works Here

• Beach time and exploring rock platforms at lower tides.
• Snorkeling only when swell is low and winds are light; visibility can be lovely over the reefs, but hazards increase quickly with whitewater.
• Photography of rugged coast textures and kelp‑flecked shallows.

Surfing isn’t the draw—reefs and submerged rocks make it risky.

Safety First

This is an unpatrolled bay. Expect strong currents, surge around rocks, slippery algae‑coated platforms and occasional snakes in warmer months. If you see lots of whitewater, skip getting in. Wear sturdy shoes for the steep access and rock hopping, and keep well clear of edges during higher swell. Recent notes on the Great Ocean Walk mention increased echidna and bandicoot diggings beside tracks—easy to trip on in low light.

Rules and Restrictions

No dogs, no camping, no fires, no bicycles and no firearms. Pack in everything you need and pack out all waste.

Nearby Camping (not at the bay)

Parker Hill and Blanket Bay campgrounds are the go‑tos along this stretch if you want to base nearby.

Best Time to Visit

• Aim for low swell and light winds; early mornings are often calmer.
• Weekdays see fewer walkers passing through.
• Photographers get soft side‑light in the first and last hours of the day, and lower tides reveal more reef texture.
• Always check current park advisories before setting out.