Skull Rock, officially known as Cleft Island, is a striking granite island situated off the coast of Wilsons Promontory in Victoria, Australia. Resembling a giant skull, the island features a large cave that appears as the “eye socket” of the skull, adding to its eerie and dramatic appearance. The island is part of Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park, which is home to a rich diversity of marine life, including seals, dolphins, and various seabirds. Visitors can view Skull Rock from various lookout points within Wilsons Promontory or join boat tours and cruises that offer a closer look at the island and its surrounding marine environment.
The best way to access Skull Rock (Cleft Island) is by joining a boat tour or cruise from Wilsons Promontory. There are several tour operators offering trips to Skull Rock and other nearby islands, providing visitors with a close-up view of the island and its surrounding marine environment. These tours typically depart from Tidal River or Port Welshpool, and some may include wildlife watching, commentary on the area’s history, and geology. Keep in mind that landing on Skull Rock itself is not allowed, as it is part of the Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park and access is restricted to protect the island’s unique environment and wildlife.
Skull Rock has a long geological history, formed over millions of years through the process of weathering and erosion. It is part of the Wilsons Promontory area, which is the southernmost point of the Australian mainland. The region has been inhabited by Indigenous Australians for thousands of years, with the local Gunai-Kurnai and Boon Wurrung people maintaining a deep connection to the land and sea. In more recent history, Skull Rock has served as a navigational marker for sailors and fishermen, as well as a point of interest for tourists drawn to the area’s natural beauty and unique geological formations. The island has been part of the Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park since its establishment in 2002, helping to protect the area’s diverse marine life and habitats.