McCrae Beach Walk

McCrae Beach Walk created by Keeley

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Summary

Discover McCraes' raw beauty with a walk that mixes rustic foreshore greenery with steep inclines and declines, all whilst taking in the stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.

Description

This walk encompasses the very best that McCrae has to offer - and all it takes is 1 hour! Following the Bay Trail this walk begins at the McCrae Lighthouse - a Mornington Peninsula favourite. Right next to the lighthouse is a quaint little playground with a little lighthouse of its own, as well as a BBQ area. As you continue along the bushy trail, you will catch glimpses of the gorgeous McCrae beach (in my biased opinion – one of the best beaches on the Peninsula) as well as being one of the cleanest according to the EPA. McCrae beach boasts an array of colourful boast sheds and is very popular with swimmers and sunbakers (shown by it’s increasing population during holiday periods) as well as walkers and of course, dogs.

Crossing Point Nepean Road, you will find yourself at the bottom of the Eyrie steps, a very steep climb, but not to worry - there is a seat half way up where you can take in the lovely views of the bay. When you get to LaTrobe parade you will start a very steep climb down, passing the entrance to Heronswood - a local and tourist favourite alike, where you can stop in for a bite to eat in their restaurant or just to wander around their beautifully manicured gardens.

As you arrive at the LaTrobe Reserve Scenic Walkway and Link you are now at your halfway point (and also my favourite part of the walk). Beware of the rocky steps down to Anthonys Nose as they can sometimes become unstable (especially if your dog is pulling you down as mine does!), but not to worry there is a resting spot half way down. Enjoy the delightful views of the bay through the gaps in the trees as you make your way down. Once you get to the bottom and have crossed the road, feel free to take either the track or stroll down the beach (Please note that during day light savings dogs are not permitted on the beach between 7am-7pm. Outside these times, dogs are permitted on lead at any time of the day as well as in the leash free section at all times).

Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the peaceful sounds of the beach and don't forget to stop at the leash free area of the beach to let your dogs’ off for a swim (this is found where you cross a small road along the track that leads to a carpark on the beach – see POI for more information).

When you finish your walk, there are some beautiful cafes and coffee houses opposite the McCrae Park next to the lighthouse that offer cold drinks, snacks, lunch and an assortment of cakes. Alternatively, take advantage of the BBQ area at the park to cook yourself up some lunch which you can enjoy on the picturesque McCrae beach.

Notes:
This walk has multiple toilet blocks and drinking fountains for both yourself and your furry friends.
Please take note of dog restrictions on the beach during day light saving periods mentioned above.
Don’t worry if you think this walk may be a little hard for you, there are many resting spots along the way and the views will make it worth it!

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Points of Interest

1. McCrae Lighthouse

The McCrae lighthouse is a local icon, which performs a beautiful light display weekly.

2. McCrae Playground

The McCrae park consists of a gorgeous little lighthouse as well as a BBQ area, drinking fountains and a toilet block.

3. McCrae Trail

A glimpse of the gorgeous trail you will encounter on this walk

4. Leash Free Dog Beach

This is where you will find the small stretch of beach where your playful pooches are welcome to have a nice dip in the ocean (just like my dogs did!)

5. Eyrie Steps

A glimpse into the steep steps you will be encountering on your walk (if you're like me, your dog may pull you up)

6. Eyrie Steps

The stunning view from the seat half-way up the Eyrie steps.

7. Heronswood House

Heronswood consists of a restaurant and beautifully manicured gardens. Please note: Admission cost to view the gardens is $10 for adults (for further information, please visit the link attached).

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