The Best Places To See The Southern Lights In Victoria

You probably have the northern lights on your bucket list, but did you know there are impressive aurora light shows in Victoria?

While tourists flock in the thousands to see the northern lights, the southern lights are a little more elusive – possibly because of their remote locations, and hence difficulty for travellers to access. The good news is that solar activity is expected to peak in 2024/2025, and seeing the aurora australis in Victoria is even more likely.

Here’s everything you need to know for your best chance at spotting the southern lights (aurora australis) in Victoria.

What are the southern lights?

Auroras occur when fully charged particles burst from the sun, creating a solar wind that slams into the Earth’s magnetic field and rushes towards the North and South Poles. As the solar particles collide with atoms of nitrogen and oxygen in our atmosphere, their electrons charge, leaving ions that radiate energy in wavelengths and producing a spectacular natural dancing rainbow.

Where to see the southern lights in Victoria

There’s an element of magic to any aurora – no matter how perfectly you plan, a viewing is never guaranteed. Adding to the mystery, there’s no peak time or season to see an aurora, and no one really knows until right before it happens. They could glow for minutes or hours at any time of the night.

But for your best shot at catching the magic in Victoria, you’ll want to head far south. Point Lonsdale, the south side of Phillip Island, Aireys Inlet, Anglesea and Cape Liptrap Coastal Park are all good options. But Wilsons Promontory National Park is a standout for its pitch-black skies and southerly location.

Wilsons Promontory National Park

A three-hour drive from Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory National Park offers verdant views and nature adventures by day, a serene starscape by night and, if you’re really lucky, an aurora light show. You can camp beneath the stars at Tidal River Campground or check into one of the local cabins or wilderness retreats.

Point Lonsdale

Ninety minutes south-west of Melbourne on the Bellarine Peninsula, Point Lonsdale is known for its scenic lookouts and iconic lighthouse. Head to Point Lonsdale Lighthouse for spectacular photos of the lights and tower. Staying the night? Opt for one of the seven luxury suites at Lon Retreat & Spa which are perched on a hill – perfect for stargazing.

Phillip Island

90 minutes south-east of Melbourne, Phillip Island stretches out into the Bass Strait and is brimming with wildlife, hiking trails, and idyllic beaches. There are a plethora of camping and glamping spots on the island that will provide darkness and uninterrupted southern lights viewing opportunities. Alternatively, treat yourself to a night in one of the luxury bed and breakfast “pods" at The Nest.

Aireys Inlet

Located between Melbourne and the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, Aireys Inlet is home to another iconic lighthouse which was featured in the popular TV show Round The Twist. Split Point Lighthouse provides a great vantage point for capturing the lights and rugged coastline.

Anglesea

Another Great Ocean Road hotspot is Anglesea. This coastal town is renowned for its patrolled surf and swimming beaches and nature conservation areas, the latter of which makes it perfect for aurora watching.

Cape Schanck Lighthouse

It’s not as far south as other spots, but Cape Schanck Lighthouse on the southernmost tip of the Mornington Peninsula is a favourite location for southern lights photographers. Base yourself at the freshly finished Cape Schanck Resort before heading out to catch the lights.

When to see the southern lights in Victoria

Auroras can be seen year-round, but no one knows until right before it happens. They could glow for minutes or hours at any time of the night. While the southern lights aren’t as affected by seasonal light change as the northern lights your best bet at witnessing the phenomena is still in the winter months.

To further your chances of successful aurora hunting, look up the space weather forecast on the Australian Bureau of Meteorology which will show you when solar activity is predicted. You can also follow the Aurora Hunter Victoria page on Facebook where members chat about active aurora nights.

Southern lights in Victoria, Australia — High ISO was used to capture the colour and night sky in this dazzling photo. (Image: Getty Images/dannogan)

Find tips for photographing the aurora australis in our southern lights guide.

This article was originally written by Jessica Humphries.

No matter your interests, you’re bound to find a unique and utterly memorable experience along the mighty Murray River.

Along the Murray River lies a network of towns that are at once intertwined and wildly diverse. Linked by the legendary waterway yet strikingly distinct, each has its own personality, pace and collection of experiences you won’t soon forget.

1. On the river

fishermen on Lake Mulwala — Get out onto the pretty Lake Mulwala. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

A visit to the region wouldn’t be complete without a jaunt on the iconic river. If you’re something of an adventurer, Lake Mulwala – an inlet on the Murray – is perennially popular for all kinds of watersports. Glide among ghost gums on a kayak or stand up paddleboard, or pick up the pace by waterskiing or windsurfing.

For a more relaxed (but no less immersive) river experience, hop on board one of the famed paddle steamers. Departing from Echuca Moama, Swan Hill and Yarrawonga Mulwala, these historic boats provide a nostalgic view of the Murray.

2. First Nations culture

Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk, murray river — Wander the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk.

The river is a meeting place of ancient cultures, home to over 50 First Nations clans and an integral part of their communities, storytelling and way of life.

To learn more about the Traditional Owners, take yourself on a guided stroll through the Wagirra Trail. Situated in Albury/Wiradjuri country, the trail passes through red gum forest, riverside wetlands and the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk.

Alternatively, visit the Dharnya Centre in the heart of Barmah National Park on Yorta Yorta country. The centre tells the history and stories of the Yorta Yorta people, offering guided walking tours and cruises.

3. Delicious eats

the Mildura Boat House — Savour a relaxed riverside meal at Mildura Boat House.

For a representative taste of the Murray’s epicurean highlights, a few destinations are well worth your time (and appetite).

Opa in Echuca is a local staple, serving up authentic and bold Greek dishes in lively surrounds. Greek not your thing? The twin towns of Echuca Moama have numerous top-notch drinking and dining spots to choose from and an ever-evolving food scene.

In Albury, the River Deck Cafe is perched right on the river, delivering scenic vistas and a vibrant daytime menu. Expect lemon meringue waffles or Green Goddess smashed avo for breakfast, or a zippy duck salad with Southeast Asian flavours for lunch. For more waterfront dining options, head to Mildura Boathouse . Enjoy iconic views and a modern Australian menu focused on local producers and wines.

4. Hiking and biking trails

two people on bikes at Lake Boga — Discover the Murray Region on two wheels. (Credit: Ewen Bell)

The best ways to experience the Murray’s surrounding landscapes are on foot or by bike. Luckily, plenty of well-marked trails take you through the diverse scenery.

The Mildura Riverfront has a shared path for both walkers and cyclists, connecting the town centre with a string of parks and lookouts. The path lets you take in the entire town and its distinctive terrain at a leisurely pace, and is relatively flat throughout.

For a more challenging experience, head to the Huon Hill Parklands or Nail Can Hill Reserve in Albury Wodonga. Both feature a varied network of bushwalking and mountain biking trails through undulating terrain.

5. Best views along The Murray

swan at wonga wetlands in the murray — Spot the birdlife at Wonga Wetlands. (Credit: Visit Albury Wodonga)

The Murray region is perhaps unsurprisingly a prime destination for epic vistas. The Wonga Wetlands just outside Albury are an aquatic feast for the eyes, a winding web of billabongs and lagoons. Take a stroll through the tranquil landscape and see if you can spot one of the more than 170 bird species living within.

Stop by Moama Beach at sunset to catch the dazzling display. Vivid hues of pink, amber and gold flare against a backdrop of river red gum trees and are reflected in the river’s glassy waters.

Head away from the Murray itself, 15 mins from Albury Wodonga, for stunning mountain views at Lake Hume. Or head to Gunbower National Park, a picturesque place boasting a diverse wonderland of waterbirds, wildlife and aquatic plants.

6. Art and culture

People viewing art at Murray Art Museum. — Immerse yourself in art at the MAMA, Albury. (Tourism Australia)

The region’s diverse mix of galleries, museums and cultural hubs provides a window into its past and present.

One of the most prominent is Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA), which has a rotating roster of contemporary exhibitions. The Burrajara Gallery is another Albury gem, with a powerful collection of works from local First Nations artists.

There are several smaller museums and galleries scattered across Echuca Moama and Mildura reflecting the artistic depth of the Murray. Popular picks include The Foundry Arts Space and Customs House Gallery in Echuca Moama, and the Arts Centre, Riverfront Gallery and NAP Contemporary in Mildura.

7. Murray Region Events

band on stage at Riverboats Music Festival — Time your trip around one fo the regions live music events. (Credit: Riverboats Music Festival)

Each year, the Murray hosts events as unique and characterful as the region itself.

The Massive Murray Paddle takes place every November, a 415-kilometre, five-day river paddle raising money for local charities. Whether you take part in a canoe, kayak, stand up paddleboard or boat, or watch from the riverbanks, you’ll be in for a memorable experience.

If you’re a music lover, you’re in luck throughout the year. In summer, plan a trip for Riverboats Music Festival . And in the cooler months, head to the Echuca Moama Winter Blues Festival for four days of performances across different venues.

8. Best stays along The Murray

the Cozy Dome at Charm Lodge accommodation — Find unique stays by the river or in the countryside.

Throughout your busy few days of exploring, you’ll need a comfortable spot to rest.

Echuca Moama Riverside Holiday Park is right on the river and has gorgeous views. Pick from riverfront and pet-friendly lagoon cabins, or set up camp at one of the powered sites set among native bush. Or head into the countryside to stay in the quaint glamping or lodge options of Charm Lodge .

Alternatively, treat yourself to a night or two at The Sebel Yarrawonga Silverwoods , which has stylish modern rooms and luxe amenities. There’s a heated infinity pool, day spa and an on-site restaurant doing elevated fare with local produce.

For a quintessential Murray experience, hire a houseboat from one of the many operators in Mildura. Available for weekend and week-long adventures, these well-appointed boats immerse you in the leisurely rhythm and quiet beauty of the Murray River.

Discover what’s new on The Murray at visitthemurray.com.au

The best places to see the southern lights in Victoria