forget great ocean road — u MUST DO this road trip

If you’re planning a road trip from Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory, here are some insider tips to make the most of your visit. First, be sure to allocate enough time at Big Drift, a stunning area with vast sand dunes. The mostly flat 1-hour walk from the car park lets you explore this unique landscape, but you might want to spend even more time just wandering and taking photos. It’s truly like nowhere else. For wildlife enthusiasts, the 45-minute Prom Wildlife Walk offers a great chance to see native animals up close. I was lucky to get really close to a wallaby, and it felt incredible to spot wombats, emus, and kangaroos in their natural habitat. Just stay alert on the roads too—wild koalas sometimes wander near traffic! Don’t miss Squeaky Beach, recently voted Australia’s best beach in 2024. It’s famous for the sand that actually squeaks under your feet—a surprising and delightful experience. Hiking Mount Oberon is a must if you enjoy challenging yourself. The 3-hour climb involves a steady incline and can get very windy and cold at the summit, so dress appropriately. The sunset view from the top ranks among the most beautiful I’ve ever seen in Australia. If you're feeling adventurous, the 10-hour hike to South Point, the southernmost point of mainland Australia, offers spectacular scenery, though it’s quite demanding. I had blisters and sore legs afterward, so I’d recommend this only for the very fit. Overall, Wilsons Promontory is a hidden gem close to Melbourne, perfect for a weekend escape. It’s less crowded than popular spots like the Great Ocean Road and offers diverse landscapes, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.