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
- Cleft Island (Skull Rock) is offshore and has no walk-up visitor route. The licensed Wanderer Adventures cruise departs from its Tidal River booking office and views the island from the boat; do not attempt to land or climb the exposed rock. Book ahead, arrive 30 minutes before departure, and expect cancellation or route changes in bad weather.
- Admission
- There is no separate land-entry ticket for the offshore rock. Wanderer Adventures currently lists its 2.5-hour Wilderness Cruise at A$175 adult, A$110 child (ages 3–16), or A$515 for a family (2 adults and 3 children). Confirm the current fare and departure when booking.
- Time needed
- Allow 2.5 hours for the Wilderness Cruise that approaches Skull Rock; this is the full cruise duration, not time on the island. Check-in is 30 minutes before departure.
- Best season
- The operator does not name a best season. Its Wilderness Cruise runs daily at 11:00 a.m., with an extra 2:00 p.m. departure November–April. Sea and weather conditions can change or cancel trips, so check the operator before travelling.
- Opening hours
- There are no independent visiting hours. The operator lists an 11:00 a.m. cruise daily and an additional 2:00 p.m. departure November–April. Trips may be changed or cancelled for conditions; check the live booking calendar.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-27
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-08
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