If the northern lights are on your bucket list, you might be surprised to learn about the stunning aurora light displays in Victoria!

While countless visitors come to witness the northern lights, the southern lights tend to be more elusive—likely due to their remote locations, making travel more challenging. The good news is solar activity is anticipated to peak in 2024/2025, enhancing the likelihood of spotting aurora australis in Victoria.

Here’s all you need to know to maximize your chances of seeing the southern lights (aurora australis) in Victoria.

What are the southern lights?

Auroras are created when charged particles from the sun erupt, producing a solar wind that crashes into Earth’s magnetic field, moving toward the North and South Poles. When these solar particles collide with nitrogen and oxygen atoms in our atmosphere, they excite electrons, creating ions that emit energy in various wavelengths—resulting in a stunning natural light display.

Increased solar activity has enabled sightings of the southern lights in Blind Bight, Melbourne. (Image: Getty Images/ FiledIMAGE)

Where to see the southern lights in Victoria

There’s something magical about any aurora—no matter how well you plan, a sighting is never guaranteed. Adding to the allure, there’s no fixed time or season for auroras; they can shine for minutes or hours, at any hour of the night.

For the best chance at experiencing this magic in Victoria, travel far south. Areas like Point Lonsdale, the south side of Phillip Island, Aireys Inlet, Anglesea, and Cape Liptrap Coastal Park are excellent choices. However, the standout destination is Wilsons Promontory National Park, renowned for its dark skies and southerly positioning.

Wilsons Promontory National Park

About a three-hour drive from Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory National Park delivers lush landscapes and outdoor adventures by day, a tranquil star-filled sky by night, and, if luck is on your side, an aurora display. You can camp under the stars at Tidal River Campground or book a stay at one of the nearby cabins or wilderness retreats.

Point Lonsdale

Located 90 minutes southwest of Melbourne on the Bellarine Peninsula, Point Lonsdale is known for its stunning lookouts and iconic lighthouse. Visit the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the lights and the tower. If you’re planning to stay overnight, consider one of the seven luxury suites at Lon Retreat & Spa, which offer ideal stargazing spots.

Phillip Island

Just 90 minutes southeast of Melbourne, Phillip Island extends into the Bass Strait, teeming with wildlife, hiking trails, and beautiful beaches. It hosts numerous camping and glamping options that provide an ideal dark backdrop for viewing the southern lights. Alternatively, indulge in a luxurious stay in one of the “pods” at The Nest.

To enhance your chances of witnessing the southern lights, head far south. (Image: Getty Images/dannogan)

Aireys Inlet

Situated between Melbourne and the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, Aireys Inlet features another famous lighthouse showcased in the beloved TV series Round The Twist. The Split Point Lighthouse offers excellent vantage points for capturing the lights along the rugged coastline.

Anglesea

Another jewel on the Great Ocean Road, Anglesea is well-known for its monitored surf and pristine swimming beaches along with nature conservation areas, making it an excellent spot for aurora viewing.

Cape Schanck Lighthouse

Although not as far south as other locations, Cape Schanck Lighthouse on the southernmost tip of the Mornington Peninsula is a preferred destination for southern lights photographers. Stay at the newly renovated Cape Schanck Resort before heading out to capture the lights.

When to see the southern lights in Victoria

Auroras can be viewed throughout the year, but their exact timings remain unpredictable. They may shine briefly or last for hours, at various times during the night. Although southern lights are less influenced by seasonal light changes compared to northern ones, the winter months still present the best opportunity to witness this phenomenon.

To increase your chances of successful aurora sightings, check the space weather forecast available on the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, which indicates when solar activity is predicted. You can also join the Aurora Hunter Victoria group on Facebook, where members discuss active aurora nights.

A high ISO setting was utilized to capture the vibrant colors and night sky in this stunning image. (Image: Getty Images/dannogan)

For tips on photographing the aurora australis, check out our southern lights guide.

This article was originally authored by Jessica Humphries.