Day 5 – Prion Beach to Granite Beach
Prion Beach to Granite Beach (click to enlarge).
From Prion Beach the track heads inland across the first of the South Cape Range headlands, passing through Eucalypt forests to Surprise Bay and eventually on to Granite Beach where camp will be made.
After some short climbs, the track from Prion Beach reaches the top of the headland. From here amazing views stretch along the coastline in both directions. Continuing on, the track undulates through the forest and muddy plains before finally descending to Surprise Bay. Surprise Bay is awe inspiring with huge rocky outcrops greeting you as you arrive at the beach. After a short stroll across the beach the track passes Surprise Rivulet and climbs up the coastal cliff to the elevated Surprise Bay camping area. From here the trail heads inland again through scrub to Granite Beach 3km away at end of Shoemaker Bay.
Granite Beach is a mix of sand and large stones and careful footing is necessary as you make your way up the far end of the beach towards the campsite. At the end of the beach just below the camp a fantastic waterfall running off the cliffs edge is climbed to finish the days hike.
Looking back over the coast we have covered so far.
Climbing up the cliff from Surprise Bay.
Surprise Bay from the campsite area.
Walking along Granite Beach.
The spectacular waterfall falling onto Granite Beach. The campsite is just above it.