Bemm River Bungalows
Where fishing meets family time
Ph: 0414 985 227
Email: accommodation@bemmriverbungalows.com
9 Pearl Point Road, Bemm River VIC 3889
What we offer!
At Bemm River Bungalows we offer comfortable self-contained bungalows with fantastic views over Sydenham Inlet. All of our bungalows are provisioned with bedding, linen and a fully equipped kitchen; as well as air-conditioning, satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. With plenty of onsite parking and the convenience of a drive-through driveway, there is no need to even unhook your boat. Whether you here for fishing, 4WDing, birdwatching, a family getaway or just a quiet escape, we have a bungalow to suit your needs. Our on-site caretakers can offer assistance with local attractions and the best fishing spots.
Bungalow One: “Bellbird Abode” sleeps three guests and is a one-bedroom bungalow with three single beds, a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom. Perfect for friends or solo travellers. We offer one-night stays at the Bellbird Abode.
Bungalow Two: “Pelican Pad” sleeps three guests and is a versatile one-bedroom bungalow containing a double bed and single bed; a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom. This Bungalow has the option of hiring a second bedroom, joining from the entry porch, making it perfect for families or small groups.
Bungalow Two A: “Flathead Flat” sleeps three guests and joins to the side of Bungalow Two and has a double bed and single bed. Utilising the facilities within the Pelican Pad, it’s a perfect extra space for kids or snorers, who need to be close - but not too close! Flathead Flat can only be booked if also using Pelican Pad.
Bungalow Three: “Luderick Lodge” sleeps six guests and is our two-bedroom PET FRIENDLY bungalow with a master bedroom (double bed), a second bedroom with a double bed and two singles; plus a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom. Ideal for larger families or groups who want to have their furry friend secure in its own fully fenced yard (currently unavailable due to renovations).
Bungalow Four: “Blue Wren Retreat” sleeps five guests and is a comfortable choice for young families. Featuring a master bedroom (double bed) and a second bedroom with three single beds, along with a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom with a bathtub. Also, a comfortable choice for fishing mates.
Bungalow Five: “Deckhand’s Den” sleeps up to five guests and is a cozy one-bedroom bungalow containing a double bed, tri-bunk bed, a fully equipped kitchen and access to communal amenities. Deckhand’s Den is great for groups wanting extra space at great value.
Recreation Room: “Sailor’s Rest” is a welcoming retreat for families and fishermen alike. Relax on the couch, enjoy a board game at the table, watch TV or escape the elements in airconditioned comfort — the perfect spot to unwind after a day of fishing or exploring.
Laundry: Full laundry facilities are available free of charge. With washing machines, clothes lines and dryers, ironing board and iron, clothes baskets and laundry liquid provided, the only thing you need is the maid.
Communal amenities: With separate toilet and shower facilities for male and female guests, there is the privacy needed for all of our guests to feel comfortable using these facilities.
BBQ’s and firepits: At Bemm River Bungalows we have three BBQ’s available for our guests to access at any stage. Additionally we have three firepits that can be requested and available for use when fire restrictions permit. Stay tuned for the news of our new outdoor camp kitchen to be up and running.
Parking: At Bemm River Bungalows we provide drive-through boat parking and space for vehicles to be parked next to bungalows.
Additional camping: There is limited grassed area for fully self-contained caravans and tents. This facility can only be utilised by friends and family of our guests staying within our bungalows.
Whether you are here to reel in the big one, or simply unwind with those who matter most, your perfect escape starts with the Bemm River Bungalows.
For availability and booking information please contact using the form. Or,
Email: accommodation@bemmriverbungalows.com
Phone: 0414 985 227
Contact us
What Bemm River has to offer
Tucked away in East Gippsland, Bemm River is a hidden gem surrounded by natural beauty and adventure. Known as the Bream Capital of Australia, anglers from all over come here to chase its famous estuary bream, along with flathead, estuary perch, salmon, tailor, luderick and more. It truly is a fisherman’s paradise.
For those who love to explore beyond the water, Bemm River is a haven for 4WD enthusiasts, nature lovers and bird watchers alike. The area is crisscrossed with tracks that lead to breathtaking lookouts, peaceful streams, and remote bushland where the only sounds are birdsong and flowing water.
The township itself may be small, but it’s full of character. With a local bait and tackle shop for your essentials, and one of the last true country pubs in Australia – complete with a pub dog and warm community feel – it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure.
Bemm River is ideally located between Cape Conran Coastal Park, Croajigalong National Park, and Errinundra National Park, making it the perfect base for exploring East Gippsland. Nearby highlights include the magnificent McKenzie River Rainforest Walk, the Buchan Caves, Cape Conran’s rugged coastline, Mt Bemm fire tower lookout, and Long Point on the Snowy River – one of the region’s last untouched treasures.
Whether you’re here to fish, 4WD, bushwalk, birdwatch, swim at our secluded beaches or simply soak up the serenity, Bemm River offers something truly special for everyone.
Bemm River Facilities
Bemm River Bungalows are an easy walk to the Bemm River Hotel, Bait & Tackle store, boat ramp, fishing platforms and playground. Boat hire is also available in Bemm River. Limited essential supplies are available in town so please come prepared as Orbost is the closest shopping town, approximately 40 minutes away.
Note - There is no fuel available in Bemm River and Telstra is the only carrier which has mobile reception. Bemm River Bungalows has Wi-Fi available for guests.
Come and visit all that Bemm River has to offer. Spend your days fishing by boat or from the water’s edge, birdwatching, bike riding, leisurely strolling around Bemm River to hear the beautiful sounds of nature. Take a short drive to explore the mesmerising beaches, local bush tracks and surrounding towns all in close proximity and make Bemm River Bungalows your new favourite place to stay.
The Perfect Escape
Bemm River offers a compelling escape from Melbourne, primarily because it's a true departure from city life, offering a unique combination of seclusion, natural beauty, and a specific, world-class recreational activity.
Here's a breakdown of why it's the perfect escape:
The Ultimate Fishing Mecca
For any angler, Bemm River is a pilgrimage site. It's often referred to as the "Bream Capital of Victoria" and is renowned for its trophy-sized bream and estuary perch. The vast Sydenham Inlet, where the Bemm River meets the sea, provides a variety of habitats—from shallow flats to deep channels—for all levels of fishermen. The fishing is so good that the town regularly hosts major fishing tournaments. For a keen angler from Melbourne, this isn't just a holiday; it's an opportunity to test their skills in one of the best fisheries in the country.
A Digital Detox in a Remote Wilderness
Bemm River is the opposite of a fast-paced city. It’s a small, quiet, and largely undeveloped town surrounded by state forests, national parks, and the vast inlet. The limited phone reception and a single general store encourage visitors to disconnect from their devices and reconnect with nature. It’s a place where the main events are the ebb and flow of the tide, the sunrise over the water, and the call of native birds.
Untouched Natural Beauty
The area is a feast for the eyes and a haven for ecotourism.
Unique Ecosystems: The Bemm River Scenic Reserve protects a pocket of warm temperate rainforest, which is a rare sight in Victoria. The easy-to-walk McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is a highlight, with its swing bridges offering canopy views.
Abundant Wildlife: The diverse landscapes—from rainforest to coastal heathland—are home to a wide array of wildlife. Birdwatching is a popular pastime, with sightings of lyrebirds, glossy black cockatoos, and even powerful owls. You might also spot platypus in the waterways.
Pristine Beaches: The nearby Cape Conran Coastal Park and Croajingolong National Park offer some of Victoria's most unspoiled beaches, like Pearl Point, which are perfect for a quiet day of walking and exploring.
Simple, Old-School Holiday Vibe
Bemm River has a charming, no-frills character. It’s a small community with a welcoming local pub, a general store, and the essentials for a relaxing holiday. There are no large resorts or bustling cafes. This simplicity is a huge part of its appeal. It’s a place where you can feel a sense of community, enjoy a quiet beer at the local hotel, and have a yarn with locals and other visitors.
Accessibility for a Weekend or Longer Trip
Despite its remote feel, Bemm River is a manageable drive from Melbourne, taking just under 5 hours. This makes it a viable destination for a long weekend away, allowing city dwellers to escape without losing too much time to travel. The drive itself, along the Princes Highway through East Gippsland, is scenic and adds to the sense of leaving the city behind.
Fishing in Bemm
Bemm River, with its expansive Sydenham Inlet, is a true angler's paradise in Victoria. It's not just a fishing spot; it's a world-class destination renowned for its trophy-sized bream and a variety of other estuary species. This guide will walk you through the essentials of fishing this magnificent system.
The Bemm River & Sydenham Inlet System
The system can be broken down into three main sections, each offering different opportunities:
The River: The Bemm River itself is a beautiful, winding waterway that flows into the inlet. This section is known for its structure, including submerged trees and snags, which are prime habitat for fish, especially estuary perch.
The Inlet (or "The Lake"): This is a vast, shallow estuary that stretches out towards the ocean. The inlet features extensive weed beds, sandy flats, and deeper channels. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bream and flathead.
The Entrance ("The Channel"): This is the narrow, deeper channel where the inlet meets the ocean. Whether the entrance is open or closed to Bass Strait significantly affects the system's tides, water clarity, and fishing. When the entrance is open, the fishing in the channel can be phenomenal for bream, flathead, and tailor.
What You'll Catch
While Bemm River is famous for its bream, the system is home to a diverse range of fish. The main target species include:
Bream: Both Southern Black Bream and Yellowfin Bream are abundant. Bemm River is known for producing large, hard-fighting bream, with catches of 40+ fish in a single session not uncommon.
Estuary Perch: This species is a major draw for anglers. They are aggressive fighters, especially on light gear, and are often found in the upper reaches of the river, around snags and structure.
Dusky Flathead: These ambush predators are plentiful, particularly on the sandy flats and drop-offs in the inlet.
Other Species: You can also encounter trevally, luderick, tailor, and mullet throughout the system.
When and Where to Fish
Fishing is productive year-round in Bemm River, but certain conditions can make a big difference.
Seasons: Autumn and winter are considered prime seasons for bream, as they tend to school up in deeper sections of the inlet. Estuary perch fishing can be excellent in warmer months, particularly on calm, balmy evenings when they are actively feeding on the surface.
Time of Day: The best times to fish are generally early mornings and late afternoons, as the low light conditions make the fish less cautious.
Location:
The Main River: Fish along the snags and fallen trees with lures or bait to target estuary perch and bream. The jetties and fishing platforms around town, like those at Dolly's Garden, are good land-based options.
The Inlet: Target the vast weed beds and sandy patches. Look for drop-offs from the weed beds into deeper, muddy bottoms. Areas like Bobs Bay, the Mahoganys, and the channel leading to the entrance are known hot spots.
The Channel: When the entrance is open, this area can be a goldmine. Fish the deeper sections and look for currents and eddies.
Gear and Techniques
Bemm River fishing is all about finesse and light tackle.
Rod & Reel Setup
Light Spin Outfit: A 7-foot rod in a 1-3 kg or 2-4 kg class is a perfect all-rounder.
Reel: A 1000, 2000, or 2500 size spinning reel spooled with 4-8 lb braid.
Leader: Use a fluorocarbon leader of 4-10 lb. The clearer the water, the lighter your leader should be.
Lures
Lure fishing is extremely popular and effective in Bemm River.
Soft Plastics: These are a staple. Pack a variety of sizes and colours, particularly in the 2.5-3 inch range. Grub and paddle tail styles are excellent, and rigging them on light jig heads (1/12 oz to 1/40 oz) is key to a slow, natural sink.
Hard-Body Lures: Shallow-diving cranks and jerkbaits that imitate prawns or small minnows work exceptionally well, especially when worked over weed beds or around structure.
Surface Lures: Fishing with surface lures, such as bent minnows or poppers, is incredibly exciting, especially for bream and estuary perch. It's a great technique for working over very shallow weed beds where other lures would snag.
Bait
If you prefer to fish with bait, these are your best options:
Prawns and Yabbies: These are the go-to baits for bream and flathead in East Gippsland.
Sandworms: A classic and highly effective bait for bream.
Rigs: A simple running sinker rig or a light paternoster rig with a small sinker will work best. The key is to use as little weight as possible to let your bait drift naturally.
BOATING
Boating on the Bemm River and Sydenham Inlet offers a spectacular experience, allowing you to explore a vast and pristine estuarine system. However, its remote location and unique characteristics require careful preparation and adherence to safety guidelines.
Here is a guide to boating in the Bemm River and Sydenham Inlet system:
1. Boat Ramps and Access
Bemm River Park Boat Ramp: This is the main and most popular boat ramp, located at Luderick Point in the heart of the town. It features a two-lane concrete ramp with a floating pontoon, making it suitable for a wide range of vessels. There is ample parking for vehicles and boat trailers, as well as amenities like toilets, barbecue facilities, and fish cleaning stations.
Bemm River Bridge: Another boat ramp is located on the south side of the bridge, providing access to the upper reaches of the river. This is a good option for smaller boats and kayaks.
Kayaks and Canoes: Several access points are suitable for paddle craft, including Dolly's Garden and the riverbanks near the bridge.
2. Navigating the Waterway
Sydenham Inlet is a large but often shallow body of water. Navigation requires attention to local conditions.
Shallow Water: The inlet is known for its extensive sand and mud flats. Stay aware of the water depth, especially when the tide is out.
Tidal Influence: Bemm River and Sydenham Inlet are tidal, but the degree of tidal flow is highly dependent on whether the entrance to the ocean is open or closed. When the entrance is open, the tides are more pronounced, and the water level can change significantly.
The Entrance: The entrance to Bass Strait is notoriously unpredictable and is often closed off by a sandbar. It is considered extremely dangerous and should never be attempted by inexperienced boaters. Local advice is to "if in doubt, don't go out."
Obstacles: Be aware of submerged logs and snags in the river section, as they can damage propellers and hulls.
Waterway Management: The Bemm River waterway is managed by East Gippsland Shire, while the Sydenham Inlet waterway is managed by Gippsland Ports. It's a good idea to check with local authorities or accommodation providers for the latest conditions and advisories.
3. Safety and Regulations
Boating in Bemm River and Sydenham Inlet is governed by Victorian maritime safety regulations. It is crucial to be compliant to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
Marine License and Vessel Registration: A marine license is required to operate a powered recreational vessel in Victoria. Your boat must also be registered.
Life Jackets (PFDs): All vessels must carry the required safety equipment. You are required to wear a life jacket in certain situations, such as when operating an open boat under 4.8m in length or during periods of "heightened risk" (e.g., poor weather, rough conditions).
Speed Limits: A 5-knot speed limit applies to all vessels within:
50 meters of another vessel.
50 meters of a person in the water (e.g., a swimmer).
50 meters of the water's edge on inland waters.
50 meters of a fixed or floating structure in the water (including jetties, wharves, or boat ramps).
Essential Safety Equipment: Ensure your boat is equipped with all the required safety gear, which may include flares, a fire extinguisher, a bailer, and a registered EPIRB (especially if venturing further offshore or into the remote sections of the system).
Weather and Forecasts: Always check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions on the inlet can change quickly. Sydenham Inlet can "chop up" and become rough on windy days.
Fuel: Bemm River does not have a fuel station. You must bring enough fuel for your entire trip.
4. Boating Etiquette
Respect Anglers: Be mindful of other people on the water, especially anglers fishing from the shore or other boats. Give them a wide berth to avoid disturbing their lines or casting a large wake.
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from other vessels, kayaks, and swimmers.
Slow Down: Operating at a safe speed is critical for preventing accidents and protecting the sensitive estuary environment.
Bird Watching
Bemm River and its surrounding areas are a paradise for bird watchers, with a remarkable diversity of habitats that attract an incredible array of bird species. From rainforest birds and forest dwellers to coastal and water birds, there's something for every kind of "twitcher."
Here are the best places for bird watching around Bemm River:
1. Bemm River Scenic Reserve (McKenzie River Rainforest Walk)
This is the number one spot for a truly unique bird-watching experience. The Bemm River Scenic Reserve protects a rare pocket of warm temperate rainforest.
Habitat: Rainforest, eucalypt forest, and riverine environments.
Key Species: The star of the show is the Superb Lyrebird, known for its incredible ability to mimic a wide range of sounds. You might spot one scratching in the leaf litter. Keep your ears open for the distinctive "whipcrack" call of the Eastern Whipbird, a sound that is the hallmark of the forest. Other species to look for include tiny wrens, flycatchers, and various honeyeaters. The Powerful Owl and Tawny Frogmouth can also be spotted at dusk or night.
Access: The McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is an easy, well-maintained 1 km loop with swing bridges that put you at canopy level, offering a unique perspective for viewing birds.
2. Sydenham Inlet
The vast, shallow estuary of Sydenham Inlet is a magnet for water birds and coastal species.
Habitat: Estuary, saltmarsh, mudflats, and sandbars.
Key Species: You'll see large flocks of Black Swans and Australian Pelicans. The inlet is also a great place to spot various cormorants, herons, and egrets. Look for Caspian Terns, Crested Terns, and different species of gulls. White-bellied Sea-Eagles are a common sight, often seen soaring high or perched on dead trees, scanning the water for fish.
Access: The best way to explore the inlet is by boat or kayak, which allows you to get close to the birds without disturbing them. You can also bird-watch from the shoreline around town, particularly from the boat ramps and fishing platforms.
3. Cape Conran Coastal Park
Located just a short drive from Bemm River, this coastal park provides a completely different set of habitats and bird species.
Habitat: Coastal heathland, banksia woodlands, and sandy beaches.
Key Species: The heathlands are excellent for spotting nectar-feeding birds like New Holland Honeyeaters. The park is also a key habitat for the threatened Ground Parrot. Along the beaches and rocky shores, you can find various waders and shorebirds, including Pied and Sooty Oystercatchers, and if you're lucky, the endangered Hooded Plover.
Access: The Cape Conran Nature Trail offers walks through the coastal habitats, and the beach at Pearl Point provides access to areas where you can see a variety of seabirds.
4. Croajingolong National Park
Bemm River sits on the border of this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, which is home to over 250 bird species.
Habitat: This vast park contains a huge variety of habitats, from dense forests to heathlands and coastal environments.
Key Species: The park is known for its Glossy Black-Cockatoos, Pilotbirds, and Topknot Pigeons. You can also find Eastern Bristlebirds, Beautiful Firetails, and a variety of honeyeaters. White-bellied Sea-Eagles are a common sight here as well.
Access: While the park is massive, you can access it via various tracks from the Bemm River area. Driving to Thurra River or Point Hicks will open up more opportunities for birding in this spectacular wilderness.
5. Dolly's Garden and Surrounds
This short walk, located within the town of Bemm River itself, offers a surprisingly rich bird-watching experience.
Habitat: Riverine forest and fishing platforms.
Key Species: You can often spot smaller bush birds and a variety of honeyeaters. The water tank art at Dolly's Garden features local birdlife, including the Azure Kingfisher, which can sometimes be seen darting along the water's edge. At dusk, listen for the calls of Nightjars and Powerful Owls.
Access: This is a convenient spot for a casual stroll or a short birding session when you're not out on the water.
Hiking
Bemm River's remote location means that the top walks and hikes are a mix of local trails and those in the nearby national parks. Here are five of the best walks and hikes you can do from a base in Bemm River:
McKenzie River Rainforest Walk: This is a must-do and the most well-known walk in the immediate area. It's a short, easy 1km loop that takes you through a beautiful pocket of warm temperate rainforest. The highlight is the two swing bridges that cross the picturesque McKenzie River, allowing you to walk among the canopy of ferns and trees. It's a peaceful and very scenic walk that's perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Cape Conran Nature Trail: Located in the nearby Cape Conran Coastal Park, this trail offers a completely different landscape. The trail is approximately 6.4km return (3.2km one way) and takes you along a stunning section of coastline. You'll walk on sandy beaches, over rocky outcrops, and through coastal heathland and banksia woodlands. It's an excellent way to experience the wild beauty of East Gippsland's coast and is rich in Aboriginal heritage, with interpretive signs along the way.
The Wilderness Coast Walk: This is a serious hike for experienced walkers, but sections can be done as day trips. The full trail stretches for hundreds of kilometers, but a popular section is the walk from the Thurra River to Bemm River. This is mainly a beach walk and requires careful planning, as you may have to cross the entrances of Sydenham and Tamboon Inlets if they are open to the sea. It offers a truly remote and untouched coastal experience.
Errinundra Saddle Rainforest Walk: Located in Errinundra National Park, this is a longer drive from Bemm River but is well worth the effort. The park is known for its spectacular old-growth forests and ancient trees. The Errinundra Saddle walk is an easy 1km return loop on a boardwalk that winds through cool temperate rainforest. It's a great opportunity to see massive shining gums, plum pines, and a variety of ferns and fungi. The park is often only accessible during the drier months due to road conditions.
Local Walks in Bemm River: While not long, multi-day hikes, there are a few short walks right in town that are great for a quick stroll. You can walk along the riverbanks, especially in areas like Dolly's Garden, which has a fishing platform. These are more for a leisurely walk or to get a feel for the local area and are perfect for a pre- or post-fishing leg stretch. The "Mini Rainforest Walk" also offers a short, peaceful meander through a small forest patch near the creek.
4WDing
Four-wheel driving around Bemm River is a fantastic way to explore the remote and rugged beauty of East Gippsland. It's an opportunity to access pristine beaches, dense forests, and hidden fishing spots that are inaccessible to conventional vehicles. The main attractions for 4WD enthusiasts are the tracks leading to the coast and the network of forestry roads in the surrounding national parks.
Here’s a guide to 4WDriving around Bemm River:
Key 4WDriving Areas
Croajingolong National Park: Bemm River sits on the western edge of this massive UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The park has an extensive network of tracks, many of which are only suitable for 4WDs. These tracks can lead you to remote campgrounds and stunning coastal lookouts.
Cape Conran Coastal Park: This park, located west of Bemm River, offers tracks that take you through coastal heathlands, banksia woodlands, and to secluded beaches.
The Heritage Bemm River 4WD Track: This is a designated 113km trail that runs from Mt Raymond to the Bemm River Scenic Reserve. It's graded as "easy" and is a great way to experience the unique rainforest and forests of the area.
Popular 4WD Tracks & Destinations
Pearl Point Track (Bemm River to the Ocean Beaches): This is the most common 4WD trip from Bemm River. The track starts just past the town and heads east towards the ocean. It is a poorly maintained gravel road, with corrugations, potholes, and at times, boggy sections. It's a bone-jarring ride, but it's worth it for the access it provides to the surf beaches.
Highlights: Access to a series of pristine surf beaches, including Ocean Beach, Gunnai, and Binn beaches. These spots are popular for surf fishing and remote camping.
Important: Phone reception is virtually non-existent on this track. Drive with caution, and be prepared for sand driving on the tracks that lead down to the beaches.
Point Hicks and Thurra River: This area is part of Croajingolong National Park and is accessible from a separate main road. While the main road is often gravel and well-maintained, there are several challenging 4WD tracks in the area, such as the Cicada Track.
Highlights: Exploring the historic Point Hicks Lightstation, remote beach access, and exploring coastal wilderness.
Challenges: The Cicada Track, for example, is for experienced drivers only. It crosses the Mueller River, which can be quite deep after rain, and the track can be boggy and slippery.
Wingan Inlet and Mueller Inlet: These areas are further east in Croajingolong National Park and are also only accessible via unsealed roads and 4WD tracks.
Highlights: Access to stunning, remote estuaries for fishing, kayaking, and camping. The Wingan Mallacoota Scenic Four Wheel Drive is a popular route through this area, offering a beautiful alternative to the Princes Highway.
Essential Tips for 4WDriving
Check Road Conditions: Many roads and tracks in East Gippsland are closed during the wetter months (usually June to November) to prevent damage. Always check with Parks Victoria for the latest road and track conditions before you head out.
Be Self-Sufficient: This is a remote area. Pack a full spare tire, a snatch strap, a shovel, and a basic recovery kit.
Plan Your Fuel: There is no fuel in Bemm River. Ensure you have enough fuel for your entire trip, including exploring the tracks, before you leave the Princes Highway.
Maps and Navigation: Phone reception is unreliable or non-existent in many areas. Do not rely on your phone for navigation. Bring a printed map of the area or a dedicated GPS device.
Travel in Groups: When tackling more difficult or remote tracks, it is always safer to travel with another vehicle.