Skull Rock: Beauty and Controversy
Australia’s some of the most impressive sights are actually hiding out in the ocean, rather than on a shore. Further away from the coast of Wilsons Promontory, in the state of Victoria, you can explore the clear waters, birds, fish and an amazing island by boat. But, what you’re about to discover next, will take your breath away: literally, if you get too close!
Although the official name of the island is Cleft Island, it’s more commonly known as Skull Rock or Skull Cave. Surely enough, the island creates an outstanding view, that completes the bright sky colors and the small waves of the ocean. Once you begin to circumnavigate the island, though, you will most likely be amazed to discover that it’s actually not an island, but an impressively huge cave hiding all kinds of secrets. And the most fascinating part is that it’s all created by Mother Nature.
Trying to climb into the cave is not such a good idea, though. First of all, the entire island is surrounded by waves and tides, that can easily get to you if you move too close to them. Also, climbing the slippery rocks is such a challenging job, that only a handful of people actually got there (and came back) safely.
Even so, anyone, who comes in Victoria should definitely put this objective on their bucket list.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Cleft Island (Skull Rock), Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria, Australia
- Coordinates
- -39.15771, 146.29452
- Access
- Offshore natural landmark; there is no land-based walk-up. Current Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Cruise routes view Skull Rock from a boat departing at Tidal River. Book ahead and check conditions; the operator may cancel or vary trips. Do not attempt a hazardous landing or climb.
- Admission
- There is no separate land-entry ticket for the offshore rock. A current 2.5-hour Wilderness Cruise lists fares of A$175 adult, A$110 child (ages 3–16), and A$515 family; confirm the selected departure and fare when booking.
- Time needed
- About 2.5 hours for the operator’s Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Cruise that views Skull Rock; this is the full cruise duration, not time at the rock.
- Opening hours
- No independent visiting hours. Boat access is through scheduled cruises; the operator lists an 11 a.m. departure daily and an additional 2 p.m. departure November–April. Weather can alter or cancel trips.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-27
- Facts checked
- 2026-09-27
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