Bridgewater Bay Blairgowrie for Water H2O Thursday

 

There has been scarcely any significant low tide in recent months along this stretch of coast. Thus, I seized a brief moment to capture a photograph from the stairway, looking down toward the shore. Nearby, one of the sand cliffs has given way, its collapse engulfing the entire shoreline beneath a shroud of earth and debris.

This took place at Bridgewater Bay, situated in Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsula, south of Melbourne. Renowned for its rugged coastal beauty, Bridgewater Bay features sweeping limestone cliffs, secluded rock pools, and crescent-shaped sands that are accessible only during favourable tides. In calmer times, its natural amphitheatre and tidal platforms attract walkers and beachcombers alike. Yet nature’s forces here are ever at play — carving, shaping, and at times overwhelming the very landscape they adorn.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Bay of Islands in Blairgowrie Mornington Peninsula for Water H2O Thursday

 

There exist three distinct locations bearing the name Bay of Islands within the state of Victoria, Australia. I have had the pleasure of visiting each of them. Of these, the one situated closest to Melbourne holds a particular charm for me. Nestled along the Mornington Peninsula, this coastal enclave offers a striking interplay of sea cliffs, hidden inlets, and crystalline waters—ideal for moments of quiet reflection or aerial exploration.

When my companion Joel and I are not preoccupied with the pursuit of sunset landscapes, we often retreat to this locale to fly our drone and capture sweeping views of the coastline. The rugged contours and tranquil hues lend themselves beautifully to this form of observation.

The second Bay of Islands lies within the famed Great Ocean Road region, west of Peterborough. This is perhaps the most well-known of the three, celebrated for its dramatic limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean—remnants of a landscape carved by centuries of wind and wave.

The third, more remote and lesser known, is found near the shores of Corner Inlet in Gippsland. Here, coastal serenity and the subtle presence of birdlife create a setting marked by calm rather than spectacle. Each Bay of Islands bears its own character, yet all share the same elemental spirit—where land meets sea in timeless conversation.

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Bridgewater Bay Blairgowrie for Skywatch Friday

 

Winter sunsets often display warmer and more vivid hues than those of summer. This is partly due to the sun being farther from the Earth during the winter months. I find particular enjoyment in photographing sunsets during this season, as Joel and I are then able to visit the local fish and chip shop afterwards, with the sun setting conveniently around five o'clock.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Skywatch Friday

Rabbit Rock, Blairgowrie for Water H2O Thursday

 

Rabbit Rock, located in Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsula near Melbourne, is a striking coastal formation renowned for its rugged beauty and natural charm. This rocky outcrop, shaped over time by the relentless force of the sea, offers a dramatic contrast to the surrounding sandy beaches and calm waters of Port Phillip Bay. At low tide, visitors can explore the exposed rock pools and fascinating marine life, while photographers are often drawn to its unique silhouette, especially at sunset when the light casts a warm glow across the coastline. A favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, Rabbit Rock embodies the raw, unspoiled allure of Victoria’s southern shores

Joel and I spent a pleasant weekend revisiting Rabbit Rock. Unfortunately, the tide was not sufficiently high, and as a result, we were unable to capture any foreground interest. The sunset, however, proved to be moderately satisfying.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Bridgewater Bay Long Exposure for Water H2O Thursday

 

Bridgewater Bay, located in Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsula near Melbourne, is a stunning coastal attraction known for its rugged beauty, striking rock formations, and picturesque ocean views. This secluded bay is a favorite among nature lovers, hikers, and photographers, offering a unique blend of natural splendor and adventure.

Natural Beauty and Geography

Bridgewater Bay is characterized by its dramatic limestone cliffs, rocky outcrops, and sandy coves. Unlike the more sheltered beaches on the bay side of the Mornington Peninsula, Bridgewater Bay faces the open ocean, resulting in powerful waves and a constantly changing landscape. The area is shaped by natural erosion, creating fascinating rock pools, sea caves, and arch formations that draw visitors seeking both exploration and relaxation.

Bridgewater Bay is part of the protected ecosystems within the Mornington Peninsula National Park. The region is home to unique flora and fauna, including coastal heathlands and bird species such as the Pacific gull. Conservation efforts ensure that the natural beauty of the bay is preserved while allowing visitors to appreciate its ecological importance.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Pirate Bay Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

Having captured this photograph, Joel and I found ourselves nearly swallowed by the encroaching darkness, standing upon the shallow seabed revealed by the lowest tide. We had ventured nearly a kilometre into the sea on this exposed platform. While capturing sunsets has become a customary practice for me, Joel's thoughts were fixed upon the prospect of indulging in the fried prawns at a nearby fish and chips establishment following our photographic endeavor.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Bridgewater Bay for Water H2O Thursday

 

More of puddles doing the composition.

Finally, weather is cooling down. My newly installed solar panel is finally receiving rebates from feed back to the grid. I am becoming happier for the bills.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Pearses Bay Blairgowrie for Water H2O Thursday

 

This is the spot Joel and I are determined to come back to in future. When the light is more subtle and more dramatic clouds, it would be a winning location for sunset.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Pirate Bay rising tide for Treasure Tuesday

Joel and I are doing the routine weekly nature photography. It is good for happiness as I read from the latest research. The smell of the ocean is just so soothing. 

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 maro

Linking Treasure Tuesday

 

Blairgowrie sunset in Melbourne for Skywatch Friday

 

No long exposure. Just a timed snap. 

Sony A7RV + FE 20-70mm f4 

Linking Skywatch Friday

The sea and a sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

Coastal weather at Blairgowrie Melbourne

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f2.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

Rabbit Rock Silhouette for Treasure Tuesday

 

I stood on this rock taking this shot. Then I was soaked wet by the sea waves. In a few minutes, where I stood was under the sea. It was wild.

This image is what I am after. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Treasure Tuesday