Venus Bay Beach No. 1
Kilometres of open surf beach backed by dunes. Known for pipi collecting at low tide, so check the current rules before you dig.
Tarwin Lower
Tarwin Lower is a peaceful riverside township in South Gippsland, situated along the scenic Tarwin River and surrounded by lush farmland and coastal countryside. Its relaxed country atmosphere and proximity to Venus Bay and Wilsons Promontory make it a popular base for exploring the Prom Coast.
- 2 hr 5 from Melbourne
- 1 hr to Tidal River
- Riverside fishing, quiet stays
Tarwin Lower is a peaceful riverside village nestled on the banks of the beautiful Tarwin River in South Gippsland. Surrounded by green farmland, wetlands and coastal bushland, the village has a relaxed country atmosphere and is particularly well known for fishing, boating and enjoying the river. Just 10 minutes from the beaches of Venus Bay and within easy reach of Cape Liptrap, Walkerville and the wider South Gippsland coast, Tarwin Lower is ideally located for discovering this spectacular part of Victoria. The Tarwin River is the heart of the community, winding through the landscape before reaching Anderson Inlet, creating a tranquil setting where country and coast come together.
Life at Tarwin Lower
Life in Tarwin Lower revolves around the river and the surrounding natural landscape. Fishing is particularly popular, with fishing platforms and quiet riverbanks providing plenty of opportunities to cast a line, while the river itself is ideal for kayaking and enjoying the peaceful scenery. One of the area's highlights is the 5-kilometre shared pathway connecting Tarwin Lower with Venus Bay, following the winding Tarwin River through wetlands and coastal vegetation and providing an easy route for walking and cycling. The village also has a relaxed collection of local shops, cafés and country businesses, including The Bird & The Wolf Cafe, while the famous long picnic table beside the river is a wonderfully simple place to stop and enjoy the surroundings. From Tarwin Lower, visitors can easily explore Venus Bay's beaches, the wild coastline of Cape Liptrap and Walkerville, or take the scenic Tarwin Valley Drive through the surrounding countryside. For those looking for a quiet coastal-country escape away from the larger holiday towns, Tarwin Lower offers a genuine sense of peace, space and connection with nature.
Things to do in Tarwin Lower
- Explore the Tarwin RiverEnjoy the peaceful river environment with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and boating.
- Visit the Tarwin Lower BridgeThe historic bridge is one of the area's landmarks and provides beautiful views along the river.
- FishingFish along the Tarwin River or head towards Anderson Inlet for estuary and coastal fishing.
- Kayaking and paddleboardingThe calm sections of the river and nearby inlet are ideal for exploring by kayak or SUP.
- Visit Venus BayJust a few minutes away, Venus Bay offers five beautiful beaches, swimming, surfing and coastal walks.
- Explore Anderson InletEnjoy the extensive waterways, sand flats and wetlands, which are excellent for birdwatching and fishing.
- Visit the Tarwin Lower Community MarketBrowse local produce, handmade goods, crafts and food when the market is operating.
- Birdwatching and wildlifeThe river, wetlands and coastal environment provide excellent opportunities to see native birds and wildlife.
- Take a scenic drive through South GippslandExplore the surrounding dairy farms, rolling hills and coastal countryside.
- Enjoy local cafés and foodStop in Tarwin Lower or nearby Venus Bay for coffee, lunch and locally produced food.
Close to Tarwin Lower
Beaches, walks and good food within a short drive.
The Caves and dinosaur dig
Sea caves and rock platforms where some of Australia's most important dinosaur fossils have been found.
Eagles Nest
A tall sandstone stack on the Bunurong coast. Stop at the lookout, then walk down to the rock platforms at low tide.
Inverloch Surf Beach
Surf on one side, the calm water of Anderson Inlet on the other. Easy to pair with a coffee on the main street.
Inverloch cafés and markets
Coffee, bakeries and seafood a few minutes from the beach, plus a regular farmers market on the foreshore.
Koonwarra village store
A tiny village famous for its café and local produce, right on the Great Southern Rail Trail.
Neighbouring towns
Easy to combine in one trip.
