Nestled at the southernmost tip of the Mornington Peninsula, Cape Schanck is a windswept paradise that separates the wild waves of the Bass Strait and the subdued waters of Western Port. Its dramatic cliffs, native bushland, and ocean views create a surreal backdrop that looks straight out of a painting. But beyond its striking scenery, there are plenty of things to do in Cape Schanck that make it more than just a sightseeing stop.

With fewer crowds than the more famous coasts on the Peninsula, Cape Schanck makes an ideal destination for a quick day trip or weekend getaway. And with its location just a 25 to 30-minute drive from Searoad Ferries Sorrento terminal, it’s surprisingly accessible while still feeling worlds away. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a whole weekend, here are the best things to do in Cape Schanck that should be in your itinerary.

Must-See Attractions

1

Climb Atop the Iconic Cape Schanck Lighthouse

The iconic white lighthouse stands as the symbol of Cape Schanck, rising proudly above the rugged cliffs since 1859. As one of the oldest working lighthouses in Victoria, it has long guided sailors passing through the treacherous waters of Bass Strait. Each night, its steady beam continues to sweep across the ocean. During the day, however, the Cape Schanck Lighthouse welcomes visitors from near and far to experience a step back in time and a view like no other. Guided tours run from 11 AM to 4 PM on select dates, so be sure to plan your visit during these hours to make the most of the experience.

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Climb the iconic spiral staircase and make your way to the top of the lighthouse for 360° views of sea, cliffs, and coastline

  • Explore the assistant lightkeeper’s quarters and the keeper’s cottages

  • Visit the museum in the Red Brick House for history talks and exhibits of lighthouse life
     

Address: 420 Cape Schanck Rd, Cape Schanck VIC 3939

2

Chase the First Light of Sunrise Over Pulpit Rock

At the bottom of the Cape Schanck boardwalk, Pulpit Rock is a dramatic volcanic formation carved by wind and waves. Watching dawn break over this wild ocean edge is an unforgettable experience, where light, sea, and shadow play out in vivid contrast. It’s a quieter, contemplative moment, far removed from the bustle of the busier towns on the Peninsula.

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Photograph dramatic silhouettes of the rock formation with the golden skies and blue waters as the backdrop

  • Walk around low-tide rock platforms to get closer to the rock formation, but only at low tide. Never turn your back on the ocean, as rogue waves are common.

  • Watch the sun as it rises above the Bass Strait coastline, especially during favourable weather in Cape Schanck, and in autumn when the skies become more vivid than ever

Location: Bass Strait, Cape Schanck VIC 3939

How to Get to Pulpit Rock: From the Cape Shanck Lighthouse Reserve car park, head down the trail/boardwalk that leads toward the beach platform. Continue down to the pebble beach and rock platform area. The walk is about 2 kilometres or around 45-60 minutes return. Be extremely cautious of the waves as the area is exposed to the ocean, and tides can be unpredictable.

Take the Scenic Route to the Mornington Peninsula with Searoad Ferries:
Skip the long drive and enjoy a leisurely 40-minute ferry ride between Queenscliff and Sorrento. With comfortable lounge areas, viewing decks, onboard cafés and bars, a children’s playground, and the chance to spot dolphins along the way, Searoad Ferries turns travel into part of the adventure.

Nature and Lookouts

3

Explore Mornington Peninsula National Park

Mornington Peninsula National Park stretches from Cape Schanck to both Flinders and Portsea and is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Bunurong People. This narrow strip of coast and bushland offers windswept cliffs, secluded beaches, rich native bushland, and historic scenery. In this area, every turn reveals new moods of sea, wind, flora and fauna.

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Spot native wildlife like kangaroos and wallabies grazing near trails

  • Pause at clifftop lookouts for dramatic views over Bass Strait

  • Venture down to secluded beaches, tidal rockpools, and coastal flora

Address: Cape Schanck Rd, Cape Schanck VIC 3939

 

4

Observe Native Flora and Fauna at Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve

The Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve is a pocket of coastal bush, dunes, and wildlife habitat. Home to the iconic white lighthouse, it is also a sanctuary for the native plants and animals that thrive in this rugged coastal environment. 

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Take a stroll through forested paths and dune-edge tracks in a quiet, contemplative setting

  • Walk quietly and you may catch glimpses of dolphins and seals offshore, as well as kangaroos, echidnas, and wallabies in the bushland.

  • Observe coastal plant communities that have adapted to wind, salt spray, and sand
     

Address: Cape Schanck Rd, Cape Schanck VIC 3939

Walks & Outdoor Adventures

5

Follow Nature’s Path Through the Two Bays Walking Trail

The Two Bays Walking Track is a 26-kilometre hike from Dromana to Cape Schanck. The walk passes through the diverse yet scenic landscapes of the Mornington Peninsula coast, Arthurs Seat State Park, and Mornington Peninsula National Park. It is divided into four trail sections:

Trail Sections:

  • Dromana Foreshore - Bunurong Track to Waterfall Gully Road (5.8km)

  • Waterfall Gully Road to Greens Bush (5.2km)

  • Greens Bush to Boneo Road (9.9km)

  • Boneo Road to Cape Schanck (5.2km)
     

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Choose a trail section you want to explore for a shorter walk

  • If you’re up for a challenge, take on the full 26-kilometre hike

  • For those aiming for a two-day hike, pack your camping gear, head to the Lightwood Creek Camping Area (within the Greens Bush to Boneo Road trail section), and rest under the stars. Camping areas are on a first-come, first-served basis.

6

Explore the Hidden Rock Pool of Bushrangers Bay

Bushrangers Bay is known for having some of the best rockpools on the Mornington Peninsula. Its sandy beach and towering cliffs frame the rockpools that feel like private tidal baths. “Hidden” as they are, reaching the rockpools feels like a reward after a relatively long walk. It takes approximately 2.5km from the Boneo Road car park to reach them, but once you finally do, the reward is unforgettable. Be sure to time your visit with low tide and bring sturdy shoes, as some of the descent involves steep steps and narrow track sections.

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Discover rockpools teeming with small sea life at low tide.

  • Walk out (with caution) to panoramic cliff-edge vantage points.

  • Admire the rockpools at low tide. Swimming is not recommended due to strong rips and sudden waves.
     

Address: Bushrangers Bay Walking Track, Cape Schanck VIC 3939

7

Saddle Up for an Outdoor Family Adventure at The Ranch

If you’re looking for things to do in Cape Schanck that don’t involve hiking, The Ranch is a fantastic place to go. Just a 4-minute drive from Cape Schanck and you’ll find yourself in the middle of 200 acres of adventure park, where adventure and family fun take centre stage. Horse riding is the signature experience at The Ranch, with beginner-friendly lessons and scenic trail rides for those eager to explore the countryside on horseback.

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Try mountainboarding, climbing and other adventure-style activities

  • Go on guided horse rides through bushland trails

  • Let kids explore while catching scenic moments from less trodden terrain

Address: 810 Boneo Rd, Boneo VIC 3939

Drink and Dine

8

Indulge in Gourmet Dining at Cape Restaurant

At the heart of RACV Cape Schanck Resort lies one of the few restaurants in Cape Schanck that offers a refined dining experience. Cape Restaurant presents a European-inspired menu that echoes the spirit (and flavours) of Mornington Peninsula.

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Try their 3- or 5-course menu for a true taste of the region, with each dish carefully curated to highlight the Peninsula’s finest produce

  • Spend an intimate dinner, with the restaurant’s moody lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows showing panoramic vistas that set the perfect mood for a romantic evening.

  • Pair your dish with wine sourced from Mornington Peninsula wineries

Address: Trent Jones Dr, Cape Schanck VIC 3939

9

Savour Seasonal Flavours at Barragunda Dining

Barragunda Dining is a boutique, 40-seat restaurant built around the concept of a farm-to-table culinary experience. The restaurant is part of the spacious, 1,000-acre Barragunda Estate, which includes a market garden, orchard, organic grains and vegetables, orchard fruits, and herds of Angus cattle (and hogget) reared on-site. 

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Explore various dishes with seasonal ingredients harvested from the nearby farm

  • Combine your dinner experience with a nearby wine tasting, or simply stroll around the gardens for a quiet, romantic evening

  • Indulge in a 4-course share-style vegetable-forward menu complemented by Estate-reared hogget and Black Angus beef, and seafood
     

Address: 113 Cape Schanck Rd, Cape Schanck VIC 3939

Stays and Accommodation

10

Experience a Holiday Like a VIP at RACV Cape Schanck Resort

When it comes to Cape Schanck accommodation, RACV Cape Schanck Resort is the crown jewel. Perched on the cliffs between Bass Strait and Port Phillip Bay, the 5-star resort blends luxury with nature and is a gateway to all the surrounding attractions.

What You Can Look Forward To:

  • Experience a VIP coastal retreat with their luxury spa, fitness centre, golf course, tennis courts, playgrounds, indoor pool, and games room

  • Walk to nearby trails and coastal lookout points to make the most of your Cape Schanck experience

  • Wake up to the panoramic view of Cape Schanck at the self-contained villas or rooms with private balconies or floor-to-ceiling windows

Address: Trent Jones Dr, Cape Schanck VIC 3939

Tips for Visiting Cape Schanck

Cape Schanck is a laidback coastal town, but some planning will help you make the most of your time. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your getaway and discover the best things to do in Cape Schanck:

 

1

Plan Ahead for Summer or School Holiday Crowds

Cape Schanck and much of the Mornington Peninsula are highly popular in summer and school holidays, so beaches, foreshore facilities, and local attractions can fill quickly. Arrive early in the day to secure parking spots or picnic areas.

2

Book Accommodation Early

The more popular accommodations, like the RACV Cape Schanck Resort, often book out months in advance, particularly for long weekends and school holidays. Book your accommodations early or consider staying just outside the busiest strip (but with good local transport access) for better rates.

3

Wear Study Footwear for Trail Walks

Cape Schanck is known for its rugged cliffs, rocky paths, and coastal boardwalks, making sturdy footwear an absolute must. Sneakers or light hiking boots will keep you comfortable and safe, especially on the longer Cape Schanck walk routes like the Two Bays Trail.

4

Bring Binoculars for Spotting Wildlife

Cape Schanck is a haven for wildlife lovers. Bring your binoculars, especially when you’re visiting the Lighthouse Reserve or Mornington Peninsula National Park. You might spot seabirds wheeling above the cliffs or kangaroos grazing in the bushland.

5

Don’t Skip the Nearby Attractions

While Cape Schanck is stunning in its own right, nearby coastal gems add even more depth to your trip. Swim or explore tide pools at Bridgewater Bay or admire dramatic clifftop views at Diamond Bay. For those seeking a quieter escape, Montforts Beach offers a secluded stretch of sand perfect for a peaceful stroll.

6

Plan Your Transport in Advance

Cape Schanck is best reached by car, and while parking is available at key sites, it can fill quickly during weekends and peak holiday periods. If you’re coming from Melbourne, allow about 90 minutes for the drive, but factor in extra time if you plan to stop at wineries or lookouts along the way.

Sail Into Your Next Adventure with Searoad Ferries

After the sightseeing and long hikes at Cape Schanck, why not make your journey relaxing by adding a coastal voyage to your itinerary? A trip with Searoad Ferries from Sorrento offers a seamless way to cross Port Phillip Bay and opens the door to discoveries on the Bellarine Peninsula. It’s the perfect way to balance Cape Schanck’s rugged cliffs and walks with a laid-back cruise across the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do people go to Cape Schanck?

Cape Schanck attracts visitors because of its wild, dramatic coastline, historic lighthouse, and walking trails. It offers a quieter, more rugged contrast to more crowded beach spots on the Mornington Peninsula. Photographers, bushwalkers, and wildlife enthusiasts are Cape Schanck’s biggest admirers, drawn by its raw natural beauty and untamed coastal character.

2. Can you swim at Cape Schanck?

Swimming at Cape Schanck is not recommended because of strong rips, large waves, and unpatrolled beaches in the area. Some sections of the coastline are dangerous and should be approached with extreme caution.

3. Can you see whales at Cape Schanck?

Yes, Cape Schanck is a good vantage point for land-based whale watching, especially during the southern whale migration period (best viewed May to October, with peaks in winter). From cliff edges, you may spot humpback or southern right whales passing by in Bass Strait.

4. How do I get to Cape Schanck?

  • From Bellarine Peninsula: Hop aboard Searoad Ferries from Queenscliff, which will take you on a 40-minute ferry ride to Sorrento. From there, you can drive along B110, Browns Road, or Boneo Road to reach Cape Schanck. The drive from the Sorrento terminal to Cape Schanck will take around 25-30 minutes.

  • From Melbourne: The most direct driving route from Melbourne is via the Mornington Peninsula Freeway/Peninsula Link, turning onto Boneo Road toward Cape Schanck. This route takes more than an hour, depending on your starting point.

Travellers rate us 4.5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor
Simple and enjoyable process
Really enjoyed taking the ferry. Not very busy, easy to get on and off with car and nice ship. Comfortable lounge and even had a sandwich. Really like the driving it saved us. Put us in great shape for starting the Great Ocean Road.
Enjoy the drive..Take The Ferry
Why would you bother driving through all that city traffic when you can just hop aboard the ferry to get from one side of the bay to the other?
Excellent way to cross the bay
We took the car over the bay. What an easy trip. No need to book. Boat is in excellent condition and crew were great. High recommended.