Summer is on the horizon, and if you’re thinking of spending some time at the beach, why don’t you have some fun in the sun at one of the coastal towns around Victoria? Slap on the sunscreen, pack your bathers and embark on a tranquil seaside escape. Swim in the sea, explore the shore and treat yourself to some fish and chips at one of these idyllic beach towns. From a quick day trip from Melbourne to places further out, Victoria is full of inviting towns for your next coastal getaway. Which one will you try first?
1. Torquay
Surf’s up! This seaside town in Victoria marks the start of the Great Ocean Road, and is an easy 90 minute drive from Melbourne. At Torquay, you’ll find plenty of great beaches, including the famous Bells Beach, home of the Rip Curl Pro surfing competition. When you’re not on the water, check out the Australian National Surfing Museum, grab a drink at the Great Ocean Road Distillery and unwind at the RACV Torquay Resort.
2. Sorrento
Spend your day soaking in the sun at the seaside town of Sorrento. Drive 90 minutes away from Melbourne to this picturesque part of the Mornington Peninsula, or feel like you’re really on holiday by hopping on the ferry from Queenscliff. Stroll by the historic limestone buildings and pop into one of the many boutiques, galleries and eateries. Explore the nearby beaches and dip into the water to swim among dolphins. Feel all your troubles melt away with a visit to Aurora Spa & Bathhouse. Then, find something to eat or stay overnight at The Continental Sorrento.
3. Queenscliff
Wander along the Bellarine Peninsula to the seaside town of Queenscliff. You can take the 90 minute drive from Melbourne, or take a ferry from Sorrento. Meander down heritage streetscapes, then get an extra dose of history at the Fort Queenscliff Museum or the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum. Head to the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse nearby, or have a fun ride on The Bellarine Railway. Pop by during November for the annual Queenscliff Music Festival.
4. Lorne
Drive two hours away from Melbourne to the lovely coastal town of Lorne. This spot is perfect for outdoor adventures, as it’s located near Great Otway National Park. When you’re not on the beach, head into the bush in search of waterfalls, like Erskine Falls, and stunning walks. Treat yourself to a bite from one of the delicious eateries around town, including Totti’s.
5. Apollo Bay
Travel further along the Great Ocean Road to the popular beach town, Apollo Bay. About two and a half hours away from Melbourne, this charming spot is filled with possibilities for both beachgoers and land lovers. Play on the beach, go fishing and kayak in search of seals in the Marengo Marine Sanctuary. Apollo Bay is also home to plenty of fun seasonal events, like the Apollo Bay Seafood Festival in February and the Great Ocean Road Running Festival in May. When you’re not hanging out by the water, journey inland for forest walks, get closer to nature at the Wildlife Wonders sanctuary and explore the nearby Cape Otway Lightstation.
6. Cowes
Escape to the beloved Phillip Island and relax in the main area of Cowes. This coastal getaway is a great base for your island explorations. In the main town, you’ll find plenty to do with heaps of bustling restaurants and cafes. Wander along Cowes Jetty and hop on a boat to see wildlife like local seals. Nearby, you’ll also find the Koala Conservation Centre, A Maze’N Things and the Grand Prix Visitor Centre and Go Karts. Go a little further to see the famous Penguin Parade.
7. Inverloch
Nestled between Phillip Island and Wilsons Prom, you’ll find the popular seaside destination, Inverloch. Roughly two hours away from Melbourne, this coastal gem is packed with walking trails and beaches. If you don’t feel like swimming or surfing, go on an expedition to The Caves beach, and see the Dinosaur Dreaming dig site, where over 15,00 bones, teeth and fossils of small dinosaurs were discovered.
8. Warrnambool
There’s lots to do in the wonderful town of Warrnambool. Go for a walk or ride your bike through some stunning locations like the Botanical Gardens. Swim or go surfing at one of the many beaches, and look out for whales in winter at Logans Beach. Experience a bit of history at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, and stick around in the evening for their spectacular Sound and Light Show. If you need to unwind, you can’t go wrong with a blissful soak at Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs. This coastal town in Victoria is about three hours away from Melbourne.
9. Port Fairy
Not too far from Warrnambool, you’ll find the charming Port Fairy. One of the most historic coastal towns in Victoria, it has over 50 buildings classified by the National Trust. Amble along one of the walking trails and admire 19th century village streetscapes. When you’re not learning about the local maritime history, admire the boats on the waterfront, pop into one of the local galleries, explore Griffith’s Island and check out Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.
10. Lakes Entrance
Drive roughly four hours east of Melbourne to Lakes Entrance in Gippsland. Filled with an abundance of water-based activities, this holiday town is the perfect summertime destination. Hop on a cruise or hire your own boat to explore the waterways. Go fishing, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding and more. After checking out the waterways, cross the footbridge to hang out at the stunning Ninety Mile Beach. Walk along the waterfront and pop into one of the cafes and restaurants for your seafood fix. If you’re after some rest and relaxation, Metung Hot Springs is just a 25 minute drive away.
11. Mallacoota
If you’re keen for a lengthy coastal getaway, why don’t you drive out to the eastern corner of Victoria and visit the town of Mallacoota? A whopping six hours away from Melbourne, this is one of the last coastal towns you’ll see before crossing the border into New South Wales. Go surfing, fishing, kayaking and boating on the beaches and in the waterways around town. Then, feel lost in the picturesque wilderness of the nearby Croajingolong National Park.