The rock formations are composed of volcanic basalt, formed through ancient cooling lava flows.
The cliffs reach heights of up to 10 meters, making them a hub for high-risk recreational jumping.
The area is officially classified as a non-patrolled swimming zone with no surf lifesaving services.
The site lacks formal walking tracks or stairs, requiring visitors to traverse unmaintained coastal scrub and rock faces.
The Pillars in Mount Martha is a prominent coastal rock formation featuring high basalt cliffs that descend directly into Port Phillip Bay. The site is a popular destination for cliff jumping, characterized by deep, clear water and rugged, uneven terrain. Access to the water requires navigating steep, rocky paths that lack formal infrastructure. The area is managed by the Mornington Peninsula Shire, which enforces strict safety guidelines due to the risk of injury from jumping. In recent years, local councils have increased safety messaging and management to discourage dangerous behavior. The site does not provide amenities such as toilets, bins, or lifeguards. It is an unprotected coastal zone subject to unpredictable tidal conditions and swell.
From the clifftop looking north toward the Melbourne skyline on a clear day.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear to navigate the rocky and slippery coastal paths safely.
Pack out all your rubbish as there are no waste disposal facilities on-site.
Check local tide and weather forecasts, as the water can become turbulent and dangerous during strong winds.
Attempting to jump from the cliffs, which is the leading cause of emergency rescues at this location.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; jumping from cliffs is discouraged by local authorities due to severe injury risks.
