12°C
Welcome to Cape Paterson
Home to magnificent beaches, tasty local cuisine and an unwavering community spirit…
Cape Paterson is a small seaside town located within a short drive from Wonthaggi, Inverloch and Phillip Island. Relax on golden beaches and explore the famous rock pool.
Ten minutes south-east of Bass Coast’s main business hub Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson is a haven for families in summer. The beaches come alive with sand castles, boogie boards and ball games during the hot summer months. Snorkelling at the bay beach allows you a glimpse into the underwater world. Also located at the bay beach is the popular ocean swimming pool (rock pool) originally built in the 1960’s.
Take a drive along the spectacular 14km Bunurong Coastal Drive, as it winds its way between the townships of Cape Paterson and Inverloch overlooking the rugged landscapes of the Bass Strait.
Travel Advice
Check for up to date advice on weather events at bom.gov.au/vic.
Plan and book ahead for an easy, breezy trip. Check open times and conditions before you go.
Please be patient as the people behind our tourism businesses return to doing what they love most. Keep in mind, to #travelkind.
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Explore Cape Paterson’s Icons
Cape Paterson is home to a number of famous icons. At Cape, you’ll find spectacular coastal tea tree walks, a historic man-made rock pool, family friendly golden beaches, delicious locally produced couisine, plus loads more right on your door step!
The Channel Beach
A rocky cove with a sheltered reef break and pretty consistent surf. Explore the rock pools, read on the sandstones, go for a
fish, or simply enjoy the view. For those keen on a more tranquil swimming beach, The Bay is just around the corner.
The Cape Tavern
The Cape Tavern is a 70 seat Bistro and Bar located in the heart of Cape Paterson, just a short drive from both Wonthaggi and Inverloch. The Cape Tavern has an attached bottleshop which specialises in wine from some of the local wineries.
Cape Ocean Pool
One of Victoria’s most famous saltwater gems is located at Cape Paterson’s family friendly Bay Beach. Originally built by coal miners back in the 1960s, this man-made rock pool is a popular spot for young families in the warmer months.
Surf Life Saving Club
Formed in 1960, the Cape Paterson SLSC provides a number of wonderful programmes throughout the year. The club also offers an events space plus food and drinks for all to enjoy.
Coastal Walks
Along the Cape Paterson Foreshore Track you’ll encounter a variety of spectacular scenic clifftop lookouts, and views of the coastline. Wander down to the beach and cool off in Cape Paterson’s iconic rock pools.
The Channel
Cape Tavern
Ocean Pool
Cape SLSC
Coastal Walks
Elephant Rock
Shop
From groceries and every day essentials, to boutique homewares and clothing – Cape Paterson’s Market Place precinct offers visitors a place to shop, eat, drink and unwind.
Eat
A delicious selection of dine-in or take-away meal options are available right on your door step in Cape Paterson, including the always popular Cape Tavern Bistro & Bar.
Stay
Whether you’re camping, caravanning, or booking a private holiday home – Cape Paterson has a range of accomodation options available for families, groups or even solo travellers!
Ten things to see and do on your next trip to Cape Paterson
Whether you’re visiting for a week, a weekend or even just for a day trip there’s plenty to see and do to make the most of your trip to Cape Paterson!
Cape Paterson Wine Trail
Take a short drive to Inverloch or spend the day meandering up the Bass Coast Highway and you’ll quickly discover why South Gippsland and the Bass coast has fast become one of Victoria’s finest food and wine destinations.
Cape Paterson Golf Trail
Cape Paterson boasts a wonderful selection of courses each located just a short drive from the town centre. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed round at the local or perhaps a more premium experience at a Top 100 ranked course – there’s a perfect venue to suit every players needs.
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Keep up to date with what’s happening in and around Cape Paterson
How’s the Surf?
Thanks to Surfline.com, you can now view the water in real time at both Channel and First Surf beaches!
Shop Prints
Collection #1 of Visit Cape Paterson’s prints are now available! Each of the works featured are available for purchase in a range of print formats including Art Prints, Canvas Prints, Framed Prints, Metal Prints, Photographic Prints & more.
Explore
The Surrounds
Wonthaggi
Delve deep into Victoria’s mining history, explore a range of above-ground heritage sites and embark on scenic walks at Wonthaggi, a town built on the industry of ‘black gold’ – coal.
State Coal Mine
The State Coal Mine offers a journey back in time to discover what life working in a coal mine was like in the 1900s. Venture underground through the dark network of tunnels to get hands-on at the coal face and learn how Victoria’s hard working men extracted the black gold.
Bass Coast Rail Trail
Enjoy panoramic views of Bass Strait as you meander through farmland, coastal bushland, historic coal mining reserves and rugged coastline. The Bass Coast Rail Trail also links to the George Bass Coastal Walk at Kilcunda.
Inverloch
Swimmers, water sports enthusiasts and surfers flock to the beaches during warmer months, while the surrounding walks and drives make the village a popular year-round destination.
Eagles Nest
Eagles Nest is a natural attraction found along the Bunurong Coastal Drive between Cape Paterson and Inverloch. This unusual rock is visible from afar and is one of the most photographed sights in the area.
The Cape
Australia’s first truly sustainable residential project: The Cape overlooks the spectacular Bunurong Coast and Bass Strait, residents can walk to beautiful unspoiled swimming and surfing beaches.
