Sweeping views into the blue are one of many sights to be embraced this summer, with Seaford offering walks that are perfect for a stroll by the beach, creek or wetlands.
Nestled behind the dunes is 50ha of coastal vegetation, discoverable via the 4.6km Seaford Foreshore Walking Trail not far from the Keast Park carpark or the Nepean Highway. Heading south, many of the off-shooting tracks lead to secluded sections of the bay beach; otherwise, upon reaching the Seaford Life Saving Club, you can walk along the recently rebuilt pier. Barbecue facilities are perfect for a packed picnic, but don’t forget to walk beneath The Hermitage, a Jacki Staude installation paying homage to an enigmatic hermit dying in 1917.
The Kananook Creek Trail is an alternative starting point when venturing to the foreshore, which when leaving Eel Race Rd only adds a kilometre as you take in the meandering Kananook Creek and, if fortunate, the sounds of vibrant rainbow lorikeets.
Swans, spoonbills, sandpipers and other soaring seabirds can be spied from Seaford Wetlands’ Austin Rd lookout, which is one sight of the Peninsula Link Trail that avid runners are taking in their stride. Heading 2.5km north is saddle-maker Harry Downs’ heritage homestead off Old Wells Rd, where a community farm is also springing to life thanks to Frankston City Council approval.
Frankston Mayor Kris Bolam said Seaford’s attractions were no longer a well-kept local secret. “Everyone is catching on to what locals have known for a long time – Seaford is one of the most beautiful coastal suburbs in Australia,” Cr Bolam said. “Its incredible beach, wetlands, walks, shops and restaurants provide endless opportunities to take in the scenery, get close to nature and relax. Council has worked closely with the community to restore the Downs Estate historical farmstead, which will provide another terrific option for residents and visitors to the area.”
CAMERON HOWE