Situated on Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road, Eagles Nest is a natural wonder, famous for its rock formations and ocean views. Near Inverloch this natural beauty is a must see destination that attracts visitors from all over Australia and the world. A must-stop on any Great Ocean Road tour; you can experience coastal views, beaches, and landscapes of eucalyptus trees and coastal forests.
Whether you’re in Apollo Bay, Port Campbell or Cape Otway, Eagles Nest is the perfect addition to your trip. Surrounded by famous attractions like the Split Point Lighthouse, Bells Beach and London Bridge this is a great stop for photography, sightseeing and beach time.
Scenic Beauty
Eagles Nest will mesmerise you with its coastal scenery, a landscape shaped by centuries of wind and waves. Cliffs, rock formations and beaches make Eagles Nest the perfect spot to take in the beauty of the Australian south coast. As you walk the trails, you’ll be rewarded with ocean views framed by gum trees and native vegetation.
This area is full of natural wonders, including the famous Cape Otway Lightstation, Erskine Falls and Wreck Beach. The nearby Port Campbell National Park is home to more impressive rock formations like London Bridge and The Arch. The coastal forests along the Great Ocean Road are home to unique flora and fauna like the Hooded Plover, a small bird found only on the Australian coast. The rocky cliffs have multiple viewing platforms where you can take in the ocean views.
Discover the Allure of Nest
Eagles Nest is more than just scenic views; it’s a doorway to some of the Great Ocean Road’s most beautiful landscapes. Its seclusion and views make it a nature lover, photographers and those looking for a quiet escape paradise. The white sand beaches around Eagles Nest are a peaceful place to beach comb or sit by the water.
Nearby Johanna Beach and Station Beach have vast beaches perfect for a leisurely walk or beachside picnic. Further along the coast, you’ll find Aireys Inlet, another beautiful beach famous for its rock formations and views. Eagles Nest is also the starting point for exploring the nearby attractions of the Cape Otway Lighthouse, Split Point Lighthouse and Bay of Islands. If you’re looking for a place to relax, the seaside towns of Port Fairy and Anglesea have plenty of comfortable accommodation, dining options and entertainment.
Things to Do Around
Eagles Nest is part of a bigger picture of natural wonders along the Great Ocean Road. Here’s what to do while you’re in the area:
Photography and Sightseeing
- Eagles Nest is a photographer’s favourite because of the rock formations and views. The cliffs and ocean make a great backdrop, especially at sunrise and sunset. Nearby lookouts have views of the coastline so you can get some great shots of the surrounding landscape.
- If you love coastal photography, make sure to drive along London Bridge Drive, which takes you past more iconic formations like The Arch and London Bridge, as well as Castle Cove Drive and Apollo Bay Drive, all with lookouts.
Beach and Nature Walks
- The area around Eagles Nest has beautiful beaches and coastal walks, perfect for a day of wandering. Visit Blanket Bay, Johanna Beach, and Castle Cove, where you can relax, explore the rocky shoreline, and enjoy the views of the ocean. Along the walks, you’ll see native plants and animals, including the coastal forest canopy.
- The Kennett River Koala Walk near Kennett River is also a must do, where you can see koalas in the wild among the eucalyptus trees.
Hiking and Waterfalls
- Eagles Nest is close to several walking trails and waterfalls. For a more in depth experience head to Otway National Park where you’ll find forest canopies, tree to tree trails and waterfalls like Erskine Falls and Sheoak Falls. These are great spots for picnics and outdoor activities and have walking trails for all fitness levels.
- Another nearby spot is Anglesea River which has great views and birdlife or head to Childers Cove and Crayfish Bay for more secret coastal spots.
Nearby Attractions
- The Great Ocean Road has many famous attractions, and Eagles Nest is close to most of them. Visit the Cape Otway Lightstation, one of Australia’s oldest lighthouses, or drive along Johanna Beach Drive. Other nearby landmarks are Aire River, Wye River, and Phillip Island, which are famous for their wildlife and views.
Dining and Accommodation
- After a day of wandering, stay in one of the many accommodation options along the Great Ocean Road. Bimbi Park and Johanna Beach Castle Cove are popular choices with views of the beaches and forests.
- There are many dining options in the nearby towns, from cafes to seafood restaurants. For a special experience, Kafe Koala, where you can eat local food while watching koalas in the wild.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit Eagles Nest is in the late afternoon or early evening when the light is soft and the views are at their best. Sunset with lunch or two course dinner is popular with visitors, with a picture perfect setting and ocean views. Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons to visit with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures for hiking and beach activities.
Winter is cool but still a great time for whale watching as the Southern Right Whales pass through on their annual migration. The direct route along the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne is a scenic drive with hilltop views, forested areas and plenty of lookouts along the way.
Tips to Visit Safely
When visiting Eagles Nest and its surrounds, keep these tips in mind:
- Respect the Wildlife and Environment: Help preserve this natural wonder by staying on the tracks, respecting wildlife and minimising litter. The coastal forests around Eagles Nest are fragile ecosystems that need protection.
- Safety First on the Cliffs and Beaches: The cliffs around Eagles Nest are slippery after rain. Stay on marked tracks, and don’t stand too close to the edge. Wreck Beach and Station Beach are beautiful, but be careful of the waves and tides.
- Bookings: The Great Ocean Road is a busy tourist route so book your accommodations and dining in advance especially during peak season and holidays.
FAQ
What’s the best time to visit Eagles Nest for views and weather?
Spring and autumn are the best times when it’s mild and less crowded. These seasons are also perfect for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Can I drive from Melbourne to Eagles Nest?
Yes, Eagles Nest is a 1.5-2 hour drive from Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road. There are plenty of stops along the way at Bells Beach, Split Point Lighthouse and Apollo Bay.
Are there places to stay nearby?
There are many accommodation options along the Great Ocean Road, including Bimbi Park, holiday parks and cosy inns in towns like Port Fairy and Apollo Bay. Many of these have stunning coastal views and are close to attractions.
What wildlife can I see at Eagles Nest?
The area has native wildlife including Hooded Plover, koalas and even Southern Right Whales during migration season. The Kennett River Koala Walk is a great place to see koalas.
What else is nearby?
Cape Otway Lightstation, Aireys Inlet, Port Campbell National Park, Erskine Falls, Sheoak Falls, Johanna Beach and Blanket Bay.