Waratah Bay
VIC 3959 • Victoria
About Waratah Bay
Waratah Bay is a small coastal town in the South Gippsland region of Victoria, situated on the shore of Waratah Bay approximately 180 kilometres southeast of Melbourne. With only 56 permanent residents at the 2016 census (swelling to around 300 with holiday visitors), it is a tiny seaside settlement within the South Gippsland Shire. The town is named after the bay, which itself was named after a ship called the Waratah that anchored there for repairs.
Waratah Bay is a peaceful holiday hamlet offering stunning coastal scenery near the gateway to Wilsons Promontory National Park, one of Victoria's most iconic natural attractions. The town's beach provides safe swimming, rock-pool exploring, and excellent fishing, with views across to the dramatic Cape Liptrap coastal reserve. There are minimal local facilities — Foster (25 km) and Leongatha (45 km) provide the nearest shops and services. The area draws holiday-makers, surfers, fishers, and nature lovers seeking a quiet coastal escape.
Waratah Bay falls under postcode 3959 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Gippsland South (Eastern Victoria) electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- V/Line coach (limited) — Foster / Leongatha / Melbourne 45 min to Foster, 3+ hours to Melbourne
Commute to Melbourne CBD
🛣️ A holiday/lifestyle destination, not a commuter town. Foster (25 km) is the nearest service centre.
A tiny coastal hamlet with no local shops or services. A car is essential for all needs.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Hoddle Road