Johanna Beach to Milanesia Beach

Johanna Beach to Milanesia Beach is a point-to-point Great Ocean Walk section of about 10.4 km (6.45 mi) one way. From Johanna Beach car park it climbs through coastal scrub to a ridge, then follows Old Coach Road and Melanesia Track to the beach. Allow about 3.5 hours on foot and arrange a return pickup; the two ends are separate. A shorter 4.5 km figure is also published for this named section, but it does not fit the full car-park-to-beach line mapped here. Plan around 10.4 km unless you confirm a shorter variant on the ground.

The first climb reaches a high point near 270 m and opens to a broad ocean view. From the ridge, look inland toward the Johanna River channel through farmland. A Great Ocean Walk hike-in campsite sits near the viewpoint; do not assume it provides day-hike food or water. Kangaroos have been reported on the nearby farmland, though sightings are not assured.

After the ridge, the route follows Old Coach Road and turns onto Melanesia Track, an unpaved access track that descends to the beach. This stretch spends substantial time away from the shoreline, so expect a road-and-track walk between the coastal viewpoints rather than a continuous beach path. At Milanesia, a cottage is visible from the public route; it is private property, so appreciate it from a distance.

The final beach section depends on tide and sea conditions. High water or rough surf can make beach walking impassable; check conditions before setting out and be prepared to wait or turn back. Carry food and drinking water for the full walk. Dogs are not permitted in the national park; assistance dogs follow park entry requirements. Confirm access at the Milanesia end before relying on a vehicle pickup.