Victoria’s Best Pre-Wedding Photo Locations – 6 Hidden Gems
Looking for a Pre-wedding photoshoot location around Melbourne Australia?
Whether you’re a local keen to capture some stunning engagement photos or a couple coming from overseas to experience Australia’s incredible landscapes, I’m here to help make this part of your journey a breeze. Choosing the perfect spot for your pre-wedding photoshoot in Victoria is one of the most exciting steps, and I’m thrilled to guide you through it.
Here are a few of my absolute favorite spots, each offering something unique. From epic ocean views with rugged cliffs to lush forests with cascading waterfalls, sandy deserts, and the vibrant cityscapes of Melbourne—these six locations are real gems to consider for your pre-wedding shoot.
I’ve also noted the travel time from Melbourne CBD (by car) to help with your planning. If you’re traveling to Australia from overseas, I’d be more than happy to assist with any transport arrangements.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect pre-wedding location that matches your vision.
Great Otway National Park
Discover the stunning Great Otway National Park, an ideal retreat from the city where you can fully immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
Spanning over 100,000 hectares, the Great Otway National Park features a diverse array of landscapes. You’ll encounter lush rainforests with ancient ferns and towering eucalyptus trees, along with grassy meadows where kangaroos and wallabies graze. The park is also home to vibrant native birds that bring color to the treetops.
Explore impressive waterfalls and hidden gorges shaped by centuries of flowing rivers, all surrounded by lush greenery.
The varied scenery of the Otways makes it easy to find a unique spot for pre-wedding photos that truly capture your vision. The park is about a 2-hour and 40-minute drive from Melbourne CBD, so consider booking an Airbnb nearby to make the most of your visit.
Wilsons Promontory
For those with an adventurous spirit, Wilsons Promontory offers a wealth of experiences. Hike up Mount Oberon for breathtaking panoramic views that showcase the natural beauty of this untamed wonderland. As you follow the trails through the wilderness, you’ll discover secluded coves and hidden beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Wilsons Prom is home to pristine beaches, rocky headlands, and lush rainforests teeming with wildlife. It’s a place where the landscapes and wildlife create an unforgettable escape into Australia’s wilderness.
One of my favorite spots at Wilsons Prom is ‘The Big Drift,’ an expansive stretch of sand dunes that seems to go on forever. Catching the sunrise on Squeaky Beach is another highlight and a perfect location for pre-wedding photos.
Not for the faint-hearted, Wilsons Prom is a 4hr drive from Melbourne CBD. For accommodation, there is a caravan park with cabins in the National Park itself. Otherwise, finding an Airbnb close by is also a great idea.
The Great Ocean Road
Take an epic coastal road trip along the Great Ocean Road, a world-renowned scenic drive that winds through some of the most breathtaking shores. You’ll be captivated by dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and iconic rock formations like the Twelve Apostles. As you navigate the winding roads, soak in the panoramic ocean views and marvel at the rugged beauty of the coastline.
The Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list experience, offering awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable memories. It’s also a location close to my heart, as it’s where I grew up!
With so many hidden gems along the way, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your pre-wedding photos. Whether you’re after beaches, towering cliffs, or lush forests, this area has it all.
The location pictured below is about a 3-hour drive west of Melbourne’s CBD. When considering your accommodation, a cozy Airbnb is definitely the way to go.
Cairns Beach
Cairns Beach is one of Melbourne’s closest hidden gems for pre-wedding photos. Just a 1-hour and 30-minute drive from the CBD, it’s easy to find accommodation in the city and make a quick road trip to the coast.
After a short stroll from the car park, you’ll be greeted by stunning ocean views. With towering cliffs stretching to the horizon and the untamed ocean crashing against the shore, it’s the perfect spot for incredible sunset photos that won’t disappoint.
It’s no surprise that Cairns Beach is growing in popularity—you’ll often see maternity or family sessions happening here. But with plenty of space, it’s easy to find your own secluded spot.
If you’re looking for epic coastal images close to the CBD, this is the place for you.
Dandenong Ranges
The Dandenong Ranges are the perfect backdrop for pre-wedding photos, just a 1-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. With lush forests, fern gullies, and cascading waterfalls, it’s a romantic setting that feels like a fairy tale.
The Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens offer blooming flowers and peaceful lakes, while the towering trees in Sherbrooke Forest create an enchanting atmosphere. The Dandenong Ranges provide an ideal setting for magical pre-wedding photos, making it a great option to consider.
Melbourne CBD
Discover Melbourne’s iconic CBD, where bustling streets and striking architecture create a fantastic backdrop for pre-wedding photos.
Check out hidden gems like rooftop car parks with stunning city skyline views. Explore the vibrant Hosier Lane for its colorful street art, or stroll through charming laneways with cozy cafes and boutiques.
Melbourne CBD offers a variety of locations, ensuring your pre-wedding photos capture the city’s dynamic essence. It’s one of my top spots for finding something unique every time.
Victoria offers incredible diversity for pre-wedding photos, with landscapes that can perfectly reflect your unique love story and style.
Dream big and explore the many possibilities this beautiful region has to offer. Victoria’s charm provides the perfect backdrop for capturing your most cherished pre-wedding memories.
For more details, check out my blog on Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Pre-Wedding Shoot in Melbourne.
Feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment on the blog or connect with me on Instagram.
Looking forward to chatting with you!
Morgan x