Geelong & The Bellarine: Waterfront, Wineries and Trails

Set your compass for a sparkling bay city and a peninsula of vineyard views, coastal villages and easygoing adventure. Geelong and The Bellarine deliver waterfront promenades, cellar doors with postcard panoramas, and trails that trace everything from granite peaks to boardwalks beside the surf. It is an irresistible long weekend, a relaxing midweek escape or a full week of slow travel and big flavours.

Below you will find the best things to do on the Geelong waterfront, our favourite Bellarine wineries, the most scenic walks and rides, plus itineraries, events and practical tips to make planning effortless.

Why Geelong and The Bellarine should be your next coastal escape

• One hour from Melbourne by car or train, yet a world away in pace and perspective.
• A perfect mix of bay swimming, heritage streetscapes, modern galleries and family fun.
• An acclaimed cool-climate wine region with coastal breezes and long-lunch energy.
• Trails for everyone, from pram-friendly boardwalks to mountain bike loops and lighthouse walks.
• Ferry links that connect Melbourne Docklands to Geelong and Portarlington, and Queenscliff to the Mornington Peninsula.

Whether you come for a cellar-door safari, to stroll the art-filled waterfront, or to tick off a bucket-list dolphin swim, Geelong and The Bellarine make it easy to do a lot or very little, with a glass of something lovely in hand.

The Waterfront: Geelong’s glittering front yard

Geelong’s north-facing bay is a playground from sunrise to sundown. Cafes clink with morning coffee, swimmers glide through a heritage sea bath and children ride a hand-painted carousel. The esplanade is level and generous, perfect for wheelchairs, prams and sunset strolls.

Eastern Beach Reserve: Art Deco icon

Eastern Beach is the heart of the action. The sweeping lawns, palm trees and curved white balustrades frame an enclosed saltwater swimming area with pontoons and a historic diving tower. Lifeguards patrol in summer, the kids’ pool is shallow and safe, and the picnic spots come with million-dollar views across Corio Bay to the You Yangs.

What to do at Eastern Beach:

• Swim inside the protected enclosure
• Spread a picnic rug under a palm tree
• Let the kids loose on the playground and wading pool
• Walk the cliff-top path for wide bay vistas

The Bollard Trail and public art

Follow the famous Bollard Trail, where more than 100 whimsical, hand-painted wooden bollards by artist Jan Mitchell tell the story of Geelong’s people, from lifesavers and sailors to mill workers and musicians. It is outdoor storytelling and a treasure hunt rolled into one, with perfect photo stops along the way.

Other art moments:

• Geelong Carousel, lovingly restored and sheltered in a glass pavilion
• Ripples of contemporary sculpture and murals along Steampacket Quay
• Geelong Botanic Gardens, a short riverside walk away, with historic palms and a contemporary arid garden

Dining and drinks by the water

From family-friendly fish and chips to white-linen date nights, the waterfront has a table for every appetite.

Top picks by the bay:

• Cunningham Pier for sunset views and seafood
• Sailors’ Rest for brunch classics with a nautical twist
• Edge Geelong for cocktails and share plates beside the promenade
• Wharf-side gelaterias, perfect for a post-swim scoop

Waterfront fun for families

• Hire bikes or e-scooters and cruise the flat pathways
• Book a bay cruise departing from the marina
• Drop a line from a jetty or join a fishing charter
• Hit Adventure Park Geelong in summer for waterslides, a lazy river and splash zones

Wineries of The Bellarine: cool-climate charm in every glass

The Bellarine Peninsula is an easy drive from Geelong and is world-class when it comes to cool-climate wine. Expect elegant pinot noir and chardonnay, lively pinot gris and sauvignon blanc, and a growing reputation for shiraz. Sea breezes add freshness and a coastal energy that invites long lunches and late afternoons on sunny decks.

Signature varietals to look for

• Pinot noir with red cherry, spice and silky tannins
• Chardonnay that balances citrus, stone fruit and subtle French oak
• Pinot gris that is aromatic and gently textural
• Sauvignon blanc with zingy acidity and tropical lift
• Shiraz that is medium bodied with pepper, plum and finesse
• Sparkling whites and rosés that shine with the region’s bright acidity

Must-visit cellar doors with a view

You are spoiled for choice. Here are standout wineries where the experience is as memorable as the wine.

• Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Bellarine: Decks and lawns roll toward the bay, the skyline of Melbourne a faint shimmer on clear days. Tastings are relaxed, the restaurant is a star and the sunsets are pure theatre.
• Terindah Estate, Bellarine: Sleek architecture meets coastal farmland, with a big sky view of the You Yangs. Cellar door tastings pair beautifully with the onsite restaurant and glasshouse.
• Scotchmans Hill, Drysdale: One of the region’s pioneers, set on a historic estate with serious winemaking credentials. The range is extensive, the cellar door team is knowledgeable and the grounds are timeless.
• Oakdene Vineyards, Ocean Grove: Part cellar door, part art installation. Expect quirky sculptures, a whimsical garden and wines that deserve a slow, thoughtful tasting.
• Leura Park Estate, Curlewis: A lively cellar door, often with live music on weekends, wood-fired pizzas and a friendly, social vibe.
• Basil’s Farm, Swan Bay: Rustic charm and a kitchen garden ethos, with an outlook across Swan Bay toward Queenscliff. A dreamy spot for brunch and a platter.
• Banks Road Vineyard, Marcus Hill: Boutique and welcoming, with a focus on handcrafted wines and a peaceful rural setting.
• McGlashan’s Wallington Estate: Cool-climate classics and a modern cellar door wrapped in vines.

Tips for tastings:

• Book ahead on weekends and holidays, especially for groups
• Allow time for a lazy lunch, not just a quick flight
• Designate a driver or join a guided wine tour from Geelong or Portarlington ferry

Wine experiences beyond the tasting bench

• Degustation with a view: Several wineries run paired menus that evolve with the seasons.
• Vineyard picnics: Pre-order hampers to enjoy on the lawn.
• The Q Train: A unique progressive dinner aboard a restored heritage train that glides along the Bellarine Railway with coastal views between Drysdale and Queenscliff.
• Behind-the-scenes tours: Learn about the region’s geology, canopy management and barrel work in small-group tours.
• Winter by the fire: Cellar doors turn cosy in cooler months with crackling fireplaces and hearty share plates.

Cideries, breweries and distilleries worth a detour

Wine is the headline act, yet the craft scene is thriving too.

• Flying Brick Cider House, Wallington: Crisp, fruit-forward ciders, a broad menu and live music, set in a striking black-and-white venue.
• Valhalla Brewing & Taproom, Geelong West: Small-batch ales and seasonal releases in a relaxed taproom.
• Blackman’s Good Beer Bar, Geelong: Rotating taps from Blackman’s and guest breweries, right in the city.
• The Whiskery, Drysdale: The rustic home of Bellarine Distillery, known for award-winning gins and warming whisky, with a leafy garden for sunny afternoons.
• Queenscliff Distillery at the Brewhouse: Gin flights, cocktails and coastal botanicals in a heritage hotel setting.

Trails and nature: from bayside boardwalks to granite peaks

Lace up your shoes or clip into the pedals. This corner of Victoria delivers a trail for every energy level, with consistent sea breezes and bird-rich wetlands adding a nature soundtrack to your adventure.

Bellarine Rail Trail

The Bellarine Rail Trail runs about 32 kilometres between Geelong and Queenscliff along a former railway line. It is mostly off-road, generally flat and suitable for families and casual riders.

Highlights along the route:

• Start in Geelong near South Geelong Station or in Newcomb for an easier family section
• Detour to Curlewis for coffee or lunch at Leura Park Estate
• Drysdale Station, where heritage trains operate on select days, perfect for a nostalgia hit
• The final leg to Queenscliff, with coastal saltmarsh and glimpses of Swan Bay

Hire bikes in Geelong or Queenscliff, or bring your own. E-bikes make the return trip a breeze.

You Yangs Regional Park

A short drive north of Geelong, the You Yangs rise from the plains with granite boulders and sculptural eucalyptus. It is a magnet for:

• Summit walks and lookouts over Corio Bay and the Bellarine
• Mountain bike trails in the Kurrajong and Stockyards areas for beginners through to advanced riders
• Wildlife spotting, from wallabies to wedge-tailed eagles
• Rock climbing and bouldering on marked routes

Pack water and sun protection. The terrain is exposed and the views go on forever.

Coastal walks and boardwalks

• Point Lonsdale Boardwalk: Wander beneath the lighthouse with views toward the Heads as waves fold across the outer reef. Time it for golden hour.
• Barwon Heads River Walk: Gentle paths beside the Barwon River, ideal for prams, with pelicans, sandbars and the famous Barwon Heads bridge.
• Queenscliff Heritage Walk: A flat loop past grand hotels, Victorian villas, the pier and the marina with interpretive signs that bring the past to life.
• Portarlington Foreshore Trail: Wide views across Port Phillip, a long, calm beach for swims and a pier alive with fishing action.

On the water

• Sea All Dolphin Swims, Queenscliff: Seasonal tours to swim with wild seals and dolphins, or stay aboard and watch from the deck with a hot drink in hand.
• Snorkel at Pope’s Eye: Calm waters, schooling fish and kelp forests inside Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park.
• Kayak or paddleboard: Hire gear on the waterfront in Geelong or paddle the sheltered Barwon River at Barwon Heads.
• Sailing and charters: Join a twilight sail from Geelong or Queenscliff for the best sunset seats.

Wildlife and conservation

• Jirrahlinga Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary, Barwon Heads: Up-close encounters and a focus on rescue and rehabilitation.
• Serendip Sanctuary, Lara: Wetlands and grassy woodlands that are a haven for birdlife and eastern grey kangaroos.
• Swan Bay: A Ramsar-listed wetland beside Queenscliff, prized by birdwatchers and nature photographers. Respect seasonal closures and nesting areas.

Town by town: choose your Bellarine base

Each village has its own tempo. Pick one that suits your style or plan a loop that touches them all.

Geelong

The region’s vibrant hub blends maritime history with modern design. Stay by the water for sunrise swims and evening strolls, explore laneways and Little Malop Street for dining, and dive into culture at Geelong Gallery and the National Wool Museum. Kardinia Park roars on game day, and the Geelong Arts Centre hosts touring shows and local talent.

Queenscliff

Elegant and maritime, with grand hotels, a working lighthouse and a historic fort that offers guided tours. The modern marina brings fresh energy, with cafes and galleries at water level. This is also your jumping-off point for dolphin swims and the car ferry to Sorrento that opens up a scenic loop via the Mornington Peninsula.

Point Lonsdale

Laid-back beach town with a photogenic lighthouse, ocean views and family-friendly coves inside the bay. The clifftop path is a daily ritual for locals and a joy for visitors.

Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove

Barwon Heads is effortlessly cool, with boutique shopping, riverside dining and a bridge that frames the sunset. Ocean Grove, just across the river, offers surf schools, long sandy beaches and a bustling main street. Golfers make a beeline for 13th Beach Golf Links, host of the Vic Open.

Portarlington, St Leonards and Indented Head

These north-facing towns enjoy calm bay beaches and long views to the city skyline. Portarlington is famous for its mussels and the National Celtic Festival, and the daily passenger ferry from Melbourne’s Docklands makes it a dreamy car-free weekend. St Leonards and Indented Head are quiet, family friendly and great for boating.

Drysdale, Curlewis and Wallington

Rural heartland threaded with vineyards, farm gates and the Bellarine Railway. Stay in a farm cottage, cycle between cellar doors and slow the pace.

Eat and drink: farm gates, seafood and produce

The Bellarine Taste Trail maps a delicious circuit of growers, makers and kitchens. Build an itinerary around it or follow your nose.

• Portarlington mussels: Plump, sweet and served every way, from classic marinara to chilli and tomato. Buy fresh at the pier or order harbour-side.
• Cheeses and dairy: Look for local soft cheeses and farmhouse specials at provedores and markets.
• Berries, olives and honey: Seasonal farm gates stock punnets, pressed oils and jars of gold.
• Bakeries and cafes: From sourdough loaves to pastry counters, you will have no trouble finding breakfast.
• Fine dining: Winery restaurants elevate local produce with bay and vineyard views. Book well ahead on weekends.

Markets to browse:

• Geelong Waterfront Makers and Growers Market, seasonal weekends
• Queenscliff Community Market, spring to autumn
• Torquay Farmers Market, a short drive if you are exploring the Surf Coast loop

Art, culture and heritage

Geelong and The Bellarine balance contemporary creativity with deep history.

• Geelong Gallery: A respected regional gallery with a strong Australian collection and smart touring shows.
• National Wool Museum: Explore the story of wool, textile innovation and design in a handsome bluestone building.
• Geelong Arts Centre: A fresh, architecturally striking home for theatre, dance, music and community creativity.
• Queenscliff Fort and museums: Guided tours reveal military history, panoramic views and the vital role the Heads have played in maritime navigation.
• Lighthouses: Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale lighthouses are photogenic anchors for any coastal walk.
• Heritage trains: The Bellarine Railway runs steam and diesel services on select dates, with themed events that families love.

Cultural respect:

• The region is the traditional Country of the Wadawurrung People. Many tours, galleries and public spaces acknowledge and share stories connected to land and sea. Learn a little before you arrive and tread lightly.

Events you will want to plan around

• Festival of Sails, Geelong, January: Australia’s biggest keelboat regatta fills the bay with colour and brings live music, markets and fireworks to the waterfront.
• Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, January: A world-class cycling festival that starts and finishes in Geelong and rolls through the region.
• Pako Festa, February: A joyful celebration of multicultural Geelong along Pakington Street.
• National Celtic Festival, Portarlington, June long weekend: Music, dance, storytelling and craic by the bay.
• Pinot Affair at the Cellar Door, May: Wine Geelong’s celebration of pinot noir across the region’s cellar doors.
• Winter Shiraz Weekend, July: Taste your way through fireside releases and slow-cooked menus.
• Queenscliff Music Festival, November: A seaside favourite with big names, rising stars and a family-friendly vibe.
• Portarlington Mussel Festival, summer: Street stalls, cooking demos and a big appetite for seafood.

Dates can shift year to year. Check official websites before you book.

Itineraries: two or three perfect days

Make the most of short breaks with smart planning that balances highlights and downtime.

Two days: a bite-sized coastal escape

Day 1: Geelong waterfront and culture

1. Morning swim at Eastern Beach, coffee on the promenade.
2. Stroll the Bollard Trail to the Carousel and Botanic Gardens.
3. Lunch on the pier with bay views.
4. Afternoon at Geelong Gallery or the National Wool Museum.
5. Sundowners at a waterfront bar, dinner on Little Malop Street.

Day 2: Bellarine wineries and coast

1. Drive or join a tour to Jack Rabbit or Terindah for late-morning tastings.
2. Long lunch at a winery with a deck and lawn for lingering.
3. Roll to Queenscliff for an afternoon walk along the pier and marina.
4. Golden hour at Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, then fish and chips by the sea.

Three days: trails, tastes and time to exhale

Day 1: As above for Geelong.

Day 2: Wine and produce trail

• Start at Oakdene for artful wines and a whimsical garden stroll.
• Cider tasting and lunch at Flying Brick Cider House.
• A late-afternoon gin flight at The Whiskery, then a relaxed dinner in Barwon Heads.

Day 3: Trails and wildlife

• Ride a family-friendly section of the Bellarine Rail Trail, or hike the You Yangs for big views.
• Alternative: Dolphin swim or snorkel at Pope’s Eye from Queenscliff.
• Finish with a casual platter at Basil’s Farm overlooking Swan Bay.

Practical travel guide

Getting there and around

• By car: About 1 hour from Melbourne via the Princes Freeway to Geelong. From Geelong, the Bellarine towns are 15 to 40 minutes away.
• By train: Regular V/Line services run from Southern Cross Station to Geelong and South Geelong. Connect to local buses for the Bellarine.
• By ferry: Port Phillip Ferries runs fast passenger services from Docklands to both Geelong and Portarlington. Searoad Ferries links Queenscliff and Sorrento with vehicles and foot passengers.
• By bike: The Bellarine Rail Trail is a safe spine for two-wheeled exploring. Many roads have shoulders, yet always ride defensively.
• Tours and transfers: Wine tour operators offer pick-ups from Geelong, Portarlington ferry and Queenscliff. Rideshare services operate in Geelong and major towns.

Best time to visit

• Summer: Beach days, twilight dining and festival season. Book early.
• Autumn: Crisp mornings, warm afternoons and vintage season at the wineries.
• Winter: Fireside tastings, moody ocean walks and fewer crowds.
• Spring: Wildflowers on the trails, longer days and fresh menus in the kitchens.

Where to stay

• Waterfront hotels in Geelong: Walk to swims, bars and galleries. Options range from contemporary apartments to full-service hotels.
• Boutique retreats: Lon Retreat & Spa in Point Lonsdale is a serene, mineral-spring-fed hideaway with dune and ocean views.
• Resort and holiday parks: Family-friendly cabins and sites in Queenscliff, Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads, often with pools and play areas.
• Farm stays and vineyard cottages: Wake to magpies and vines in Drysdale and Wallington.

Accessibility

• Geelong waterfront paths are wide and flat, with accessible toilets and beach matting in summer.
• Eastern Beach has ramps and graded access to the lawn and enclosure.
• Many cellar doors have level entries and accessible parking. Call ahead to confirm.
• The Bellarine Rail Trail has compacted gravel and gentle gradients. Choose sections that suit mobility needs.

Responsible travel tips

• Book tastings and tours to avoid queues and enjoy a more personal experience.
• Use a designated driver, take a tour or plan around the Portarlington ferry.
• Respect trails and wildlife. Stay on marked paths and give nesting birds space.
• Bring a refillable bottle. Many venues offer water stations.
• Support local makers by buying direct at farm gates and markets.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I need in Geelong and The Bellarine?

A weekend gives you the waterfront, a couple of wineries and a coastal walk. Three to four days lets you add a trail ride, a dolphin swim or a loop to the You Yangs. A week allows for true slow travel, with time to settle into each town’s rhythm.

Can I visit the wineries without a car?

Yes. Take the Port Phillip Ferry to Portarlington and join a wine tour, or base yourself in Geelong and book a guided day out. Some cellar doors are linked by safe cycling routes, yet distances can be longer than they look. Plan conservatively.

Are the wineries child friendly?

Many are. Look for venues with lawns, outdoor seating and casual menus. Bring sunhats, snacks and a ball. Always supervise near dams and vines.

Is the region pet friendly?

Leashed dogs are welcome on many trails and some outdoor dining areas. Seasonal beach restrictions apply, especially in summer. Check individual accommodation and venue policies.

Where can I surf?

Ocean Grove’s main beach is patrolled in summer and is a great place for lessons. Barwon Heads has river and ocean options, though outer reefs can be for experienced surfers only. Always check conditions and follow lifeguard advice.

Your coastal story starts here

Geelong and The Bellarine deliver the trifecta you crave on a coastal escape. A waterfront where holidays start the moment you step out the door. Wineries where the glass mirrors the landscape and lunch lingers into afternoon. Trails that lead from lighthouses to granite peaks, with seabirds and salty breezes for company.

Book a bay-view room, lock in a cellar-door lunch and leave space for serendipity. The water will sparkle. The wine will sing. The trails will lead you someplace beautiful. And you will wonder why you waited so long to plan your Geelong and Bellarine getaway.