Holiday houses in Skenes Creek

The small coastal town of Skenes Creek is located in the Shire of Colac Otway in Victoria on the spectacular Great Ocean Road — one of the world’s most scenic routes and home to the famous Twelve Apostles. A 2.5-hour drive from Melbourne, Skenes Creek offers stunning ocean views, beautiful sunrises, and lush rainforest with a laid-back vibe. The Skenes Creek splits the township and is a popular fishing spot for King George whiting. There are wide, soft sand beaches with stellar surf breaks, drawing wave-riders and people who come to swim, play, and relax. Rocky outcrops frame the beach, perfect for nature lovers to explore secluded bays with crustaceans, sea anemones, and seashells.

A walk east from the main beach along Wild Dog Road ends with stunning views of Mariner’s Lookout. At the foothills of Cape Otway National Park, the town is an entryway to dense rainforest, rugged coastal cliff walks, and biking trails flanked by ferns and waterfalls. There’s no typical main street to stroll down for shops and cafes. However, a ten-minute drive east takes you to Apollo Bay, where you can find top-notch restaurants and boutique shopping, along with impeccable views.

Autumn is a great time to visit Skenes Creek, with comfortable temperatures and little rainfall, perfect for cheering on runners with a view to remember during the Great Ocean Road Marathon. Winter brings in colder days, chilly nights, and coastal winds, but watching the epic waves crash against the world-famous Twelve Apostles is worth braving the elements. Bushwalkers will enjoy the flowing waterfalls, blooming wildflowers, and warmer temperatures ushered in by the arrival of spring. December to February is the warmest time of year in Skenes Creek, making it an excellent time to enjoy the beaches and take a dip in the ocean. Make the hour’s drive to Lorne for the annual Falls Music and Arts Festival, a multi-day music festival over New Year’s Eve.

Erskine Falls

Erskine Falls is a popular waterfall plunging 30 meters into a lush fern gully within the Otway Ranges an hour’s drive from Skenes Creek. Take an easy walk from the car park to the first lookout platform, or try a more strenuous route down 230 steps for epic views of the falls. Looking for a challenge? Continue downstream on the 7.5-kilometre Erskine River Walk to Lorne.

Lorne

A popular surfing spot less than an hour’s drive from Skenes Creek, Lorne is a great day trip filled with nature, delicious food, and local art. Check out Teddy’s Lookout with views over St. George River or stroll along the scenic beaches. Across from the beach, Mountjoy Parade combines boutique gift shops, galleries, and great restaurants. Stop by Qdos ARTS and explore the gallery and sculptures in this well-known arts community.

Cape Otway Lightstation

Known as the Beacon of Hope, Cape Otway Lightstation is the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia. It sits 90 meters above the Bass Strait with stunning views of the pristine ocean. Wind your way through Great Otway National Park’s lush rainforest to the light station and learn about the local history. From the car park, you can make the short walk to the lookout or follow the Lighthouse Road Walking Track and explore waterfalls, fern gullies, and native fauna.