For years, it was Melbourne's best-kept secret: a serene slice of coastline less than two hours from the city, with cliffs perfect for diving into cool, clear water.
Unfortunately, adventure-seekers and swimmers will have to look elsewhere, as the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council announced plans this morning to install fencing around the foreshore for a "temporary trial period" of two years.
It comes as a result of a spike in visitation to the Pillars, which, arguably, was caused by the popularity of the area on Instagram. Recently, 800 visitors made their way to the area on a hot day.
The Mornington Peninsula Shire reported that the increased visitation has led to "environmental erosion", "unsafe and illegal parking" and "increased litter". While the majority of visitors were enjoying the Pillars without the intention of damaging the area, local residents began to complain, with some setting up a petition to protecting the Pillars as a conservation area. As it stands, the Pillars falls within the Aboriginal Heritage Act of 2006; and the local council intends to consult with Aboriginal Affairs Victoria in creating long-term plans to protect the Aboriginal middens and artefacts in the area.
For now, even if you've visited the Pillars with the best intentions in the past, it's best to find a new day trip destination.