Cape Woolamai: Wind, Granite and the Pinnacles Walk That Rewards Every Step
A short, rugged coastal circuit on Phillip Island where wind, granite and penguins share the stage.
The first wind off Bass Strait slices like a promise. It arrives when you round the headland and the ocean opens—steel-blue, a scatter of white caps, and a coastline hewn into dramatic buttresses. At Cape Woolamai the air tastes of salt and granite; the trail narrows, the scrub leans downwind, and every turn hands you a new version of the island: pink granite cliffs, a wide firery beach, and the lichen-streaked spires known locally as the Pinnacles. This is a hike that asks for a steady rhythm, rewards plain-eyed attention, and keeps handing you views that make you stop and breathe slower.
Trail Wisdom
Start early or late
Morning light is calm and sweet; late afternoon pairs the walk with better photographic light and a smoother transition to Penguin Parade visits.
Layer for wind
A windproof jacket and a warm midlayer are useful even in summer; the headland shuttles temperature quickly when the sea breeze picks up.
Footwear matters
Choose supportive trail shoes with good grip—sand, compact dirt and short rocky scrambles all crop up on the circuit.
Respect restricted areas
Keep to marked paths and fenced dunes to protect nesting shorebirds and regenerating vegetation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Turn toward the small western bluff just before the main Pinnacles viewpoint for a quieter panorama.
- •Check the southern shore in the late afternoon for small groups of resting shearwaters and shorebirds.
Wildlife
short-beaked common dolphins (offshore sightings possible), Australian fur seals (visible from The Nobbies boardwalk)
Conservation Note
Phillip Island has active conservation programs protecting penguin colonies and coastal vegetation—stick to boardwalks and observe wildlife from designated viewing areas to minimize impact.
European settlers used Phillip Island for grazing and subsistence fishing; the island’s Indigenous and colonial histories intertwine around coastal resources and navigational landmarks.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower displays, Moderate temperatures, Birdwatching
Challenges: Stronger spring winds, Unpredictable showers
Spring brings blooming coastal heath and active birdlife—temperatures are pleasant but pack a wind layer and rain protection.
summer
Best for: Beach time, Long daylight hours, Combining with other tours
Challenges: Busy weekends, Hot midday sun, Strong afternoon winds
Summer offers long days and warm beach options; go early to beat crowds and avoid the hottest, windiest parts of the day.
fall
Best for: Golden light for photos, Cooler hiking conditions, Fewer tourists
Challenges: Variable weather, Chillier evenings
Autumn delivers crisp light and comfortable hiking temperatures—layers are useful as evenings cool quickly.
winter
Best for: Dramatic skies, Quiet trails, Seal and seabird viewing
Challenges: Cold, blustery conditions, Shorter daylight hours
Winter walks are atmospheric and quiet; bring heavier windproof layers and plan for shorter daylight when pairing with wildlife tours.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Supportive trail shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support are useful on sandy stretches, compact paths and short scrambles.
Windproof jacketEssential
A lightweight shell protects against the strong Bass Strait winds any time of year.
Water bottle (1–2 L)Essential
No reliable water along the route; keep hydrated, especially in warm months.
Camera with polarizer or phone with spare battery
Polarizer reduces glare on the ocean; extra battery helps for long golden-hour sessions.
Common Questions
How long is the Cape Woolamai walk?
The circuit is roughly 5.5–6 km depending on which access points you use; expect 1.5–3 hours at a relaxed pace.
Is the walk suitable for children?
Yes for active children who can handle sandy stretches and short rocky sections; supervise them near cliffs and keep to paths.
Can I combine Cape Woolamai with the Penguin Parade?
Absolutely—many day tours pair the walk with The Nobbies and the Penguin Parade, or you can do the walk in the afternoon and attend the parade later at Summerland Beach.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are restricted in many areas due to wildlife protection—check local signage and keep pets off sensitive dunes and penguin habitat.
Is there parking at the trailhead?
Paid parking and designated access points exist near Cape Woolamai; arrive early in peak season to secure a spot.
Do I need a guide?
No—routes are well marked for independent hikers, but guided tours add natural-history context and logistical ease if you're combining wildlife experiences.
What to Pack
Trail shoes for grip, windproof jacket for changing coastal weather, 1–2 L water to stay hydrated, sunscreen and hat to protect from sun and reflected glare.
Did You Know
Cape Woolamai’s Pinnacles are formed from coarse-grained pink granite that has been sculpted by wind and waves over millennia, producing the distinctive columnar shapes visible today.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds; 2) Combine the walk with The Nobbies or Penguin Parade for a full day; 3) Carry cash or card for paid parking and local cafes in Cowes; 4) Check tide and weather forecasts—wind changes plans quickly.
Local Flavor
Cowes offers relaxed cafes, local seafood and artisan shops—pair a walk with a late lunch in town and sample Phillip Island’s oysters or fresh fish for a true coastal finish.
Logistics Snapshot
Nearest town: Cowes (10–15 minute drive); trail length: ~5.5–6 km loop; difficulty: moderate; parking: paid at trailhead; best time: early morning or late afternoon.
Sustainability Note
Stay on designated paths, respect breeding seasons for shorebirds, and use refillable bottles to reduce single-use plastics on the island.