The Bass Coast is known for golden beaches and dramatic coastline, and Cape Paterson is no exception.

This small seaside town is a favourite for beach goers, surfers and divers, and a fishing hot spot.

Cape Paterson Bay Beach is best known for its large rock pool, a tranquil place where protected turquoise waters lap gently.

Cape Paterson Beach child standing amongst rockpools holding shell with dunes in background

Cape Paterson Beach children climbing over rocks with ocean in background

Things to do in Cape Paterson

Goshen Country Farm Gate Cape Paterson couple walking in out front with basket of produce

Laze on Cape Paterson Bay Beach by the giant rock pool or on the golden sand.
Experienced swimmers and surfers can head to First Surf and Second Surf Beaches to the west, offering larger swells.
Launch your boat off the ramp for a day of fishing from the water.
Master the waves with a surfing lesson by Offshore Surf School, who operate out of Cape Paterson.
Pop into the beautiful farm gate at Goshen Country (Sun, Mon, Thu) to stock up on organically grown fruit and veg, free range eggs, local bread and honey. It’s all about chemical free food, seasonal variety and if you’re visiting in summer months, you’re in for a treat with heritage plums and apples.

Cape Paterson foreshore beach with surf life saving flags

Cape Paterson Bay Beach

A favourite for families with young children, Cape Paterson Bay Beach is best known for its large rock pool and relatively gentle swells. To the west are the surf beaches (First Surf and Second Surf Beaches). A sandy path takes you from the car park…

Learn more

Cape Paterson rock pool

One of Cape Paterson Bay Beach’s standout features is its rock pool - a calm, sheltered slice of ocean perfect for families to swim and splash about. Built in the 1960s, this man-made haven remains just as beloved today, with sunseekers flocking to its welcoming rocks when the temperature rises.

Cape Paterson Beach couple standing on edge of bright blue rockpool

Accessibility

There is a disabled toilet in the toilet block at the Surf Beach Car Park, with concrete paths leading directly to the door.

There is designated accessible parking on all three sealed car parks off Surf Beach Road.

Cape Paterson Foreshore Walk is suitable for wheelchair users for the kilometre stretch between Surf Beach Rd and the main track, as well as between the boat ramp and the surf beach car park.