For those seeking a wild and untamed coastal escape, the Gunna-Wai Beach Camp Area (often referred to as Gunna or Gunnai) in Cape Conran Coastal Park is a truly spectacular destination. This remote, self-sufficient campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience, set amongst coastal scrub just behind the dunes of a magnificent and often deserted stretch of the Ninety Mile Beach. This is a place for the adventurous spirit; a spot to be truly immersed in the rugged beauty of the East Gippsland coast, with the sound of the crashing surf as your constant companion. The campground itself is rustic and unpowered, with a small number of designated sites that are perfect for tents and off-road camper trailers.
The main attraction is, without a doubt, the stunning beach. A short walk through the dunes brings you to an expansive shoreline, perfect for long walks, beachcombing, and some of the best surf fishing in the state. The powerful ocean swells also attract experienced surfers looking for uncrowded waves. This is a self-sufficient camper’s paradise, meaning you must bring everything you need for your stay, including all drinking water and firewood for the designated communal fire pits. There are no bins, so a strict ‘carry-in, carry-out’ policy applies to preserve the pristine environment. The access via unsealed tracks means it retains a quiet, off-the-beaten-path feel, even in peak season. For a genuine coastal wilderness experience where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature, Gunna-Wai Beach is an unforgettable choice.
Gunnai Beach Camp Area – VIC Location Map
Gunna-Wai Beach Camp Area
- Address: Pearl Point Track, Cape Conran Coastal Park, Bemm River VIC 3889
- Website: Parks Victoria – Cape Conran Coastal Park
- GPS Coordinates: -37.78091, 148.91589
Site Information
- Location: Cape Conran Coastal Park, East Gippsland.
- Site suitable for: Tents, off-road camper trailers, small off-road caravans.
- Road access: Unsealed park roads. 2WD accessible with caution in dry weather, but 4WD is recommended.
- Site surface: Sand, dirt, and natural vegetation.
- Camping permitted: Yes, bookings and fees are essential via the Parks Victoria website.
- Maximum overnight stays: Check Parks Victoria booking information.
- Number of un-powered sites: 10 unpowered sites.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, shared fire pits.
- Picnic tables: No.
- Potable water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile phone coverage: None to very limited.
- TV reception: None.
- Onsite public toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets.
- Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open fires: Permitted in designated communal fireplaces only, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator use: Not permitted.
- Number of sites available: 10 sites.
Essentials to Bring
- All drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish bags to carry out all waste.
- Your own firewood (check local collection rules).
- A well-stocked first-aid kit.
- Surf fishing gear and a VIC Recreational Fishing Licence.
Activities
- Pet friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the park.
- Fishing: Excellent surf fishing from the beach.
- Short walks: Explore the vast coastline and nearby heathland tracks.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Marlo Hotel, Marlo (~30 km)
- Bemm River Hotel, Bemm River (~25 km)
- A wide selection of pubs in Orbost (~45 km)
- Places to Eat:
- Marlo Hotel and Marlo General Store (~30 km)
- Various cafes, bakeries, and pubs in Orbost (~45 km)
- Local Attractions:
- East Cape and Salmon Rocks (in Cape Conran Park)
- Snowy River estuary at Marlo (~30 km)
- The town of Bemm River, famous for bream fishing (~25 km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Cape Conran – Banksia Bluff Campground (main park campground)
- Marlo Ocean Views Caravan & Camping Park (~30 km)
- Next Free Camps:
- Numerous informal camps in nearby state forests (check regulations).
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Orbost Caravan Park (~45 km)
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Marlo (~30 km – may have limited hours)
- Multiple service stations in Orbost (~45 km)
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Orbost Visitor Information Centre (~45 km)
- Public Toilets:
- Onsite. The next closest are in Marlo (~30 km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast: East Gippsland Coast
- Summer (December – February): Warm to hot days, perfect for beach activities, with mild evenings. Can be windy. Average temperatures from 15°C to 26°C.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild, clear, and often calm days, ideal for fishing and walking. Temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C.
- Winter (June – August): Cool and often wet or windy. Can be bracing and beautiful for storm watching. Temperatures range from 6°C to 15°C.
- Spring (September – November): Mild but can be windy and changeable. Wildflowers are in bloom in the heathlands. Temperatures range from 9°C to 20°C.