A sensational seafood festival is taking over the seaside village of San Remo. Located less than two hours away from Melbourne, you’re invited to flock to this coastal spot, and soak in the sights and sounds. Look forward to seafood stalls, sea shanties, wildlife cruises and more. TIDAL Seafood Festival will kick off with a multi-course dinner on Friday, September 18. It will then run until Sunday, September 20.
TIDAL Seafood Festival in San Remo
Set on the lands of the Bunurong people, this village has a long history of fishing, with the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op forming in 1948. In 1978, the San Remo Fishing Festival was born, and has transformed over the years to become the TIDAL Seafood Festival.
If you’re keen for a weekend getaway, book yourself in for the Taste of Tidal Seafood Dinner on Friday night. This dinner will be packed with local produce and fresh seafood, such as oysters, scallops and a seafood paella. This experience includes a drink on arrival, as well as some local cheese and dessert. The meal will take place in a marquee on the San Remo Foreshore, and tickets are still available.
Otherwise, show up on either Saturday or Sunday to see the rest of the festival. On Saturday, witness the Blessing of the Fleet. This centuries-old maritime tradition was introduced to San Remo in the 1960s. Watch as local fishermen gather at San Remo Jetty for their boats to be blessed, ensuring a safe and bountiful season.
Explore the festival and check out the seafood stalls and food trucks. Vendors on the line-up include San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op, Ocean Reach Brewing, The Flying Calamari Bros, Those Little Poffertjes and more.
While you’re there, browse through the market stalls, and find all sorts of goods from makers like Gippy Penguins, Clay & Co Phillip Island, Busted Paws and Aura Fragrances Candles.
There’s also plenty of entertainment to look forward to, such as cooking demonstrations, live performances, family-friendly activities and good old sea shanties. On Sunday, head to the kids marquee for pirate shows and more.
On Saturday and Sunday, Wildlife Coast Cruises will be departing from San Remo to Cape Woolamai. Marvel at granite cliffs and sea caves, and look out for local wildlife and birds. Discounts are available for festival ticket holders.
What else can you do?
At 12pm each day, the San Remo Fishermen’s Co-op feeds the pelicans near San Remo Jetty. While the happy pelicans gobble up their snacks, listen to trained feeders share educational stories about these local birds. This free event happens every day, not just during the festival. After seeing the pelicans, swing by the co-op’s Fish and Chips shop for your own lunch.
Explore the rest of San Remo, where you’ll find eateries like Beachside Bakehouse, Westernport Hotel and San Remo Hotel. Keep the coastal vibes going with a walk along the beach, or pop across the bridge to hang out at Phillip Island and Churchill Island. On Phillip Island, you’ll find plenty to do, with cliffside trails, beaches, a bathhouse, and of course, the famous penguins.
Or, stay on the mainland and stretch your legs along the George Bass Coastal Walk.
Festival details:
đź“…September 18 to 20
đź•’9am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday
🎫Festival entry is $7.50 for those aged 16 and up. Other things, like the cruise or the dinner, are an additional cost.
đź“ŤSan Remo Foreshore, San Remo VIC 3925
Learn more about the festival here.
