Located just a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne and easily accessible via Searoad Ferries, the Bellarine Peninsula rewards curious travellers who take the time to explore its wonders. Its historic seaside towns, wildlife-rich bushlands, colourful art and culture scene, and diverse culinary landscape cement its place as one of Victoria's travel-worthy destinations. And while it is not as busy as the neighbouring Mornington Peninsula, the Bellarine offers a more relaxed and laid-back alternative that you won’t find anywhere else. In this guide, we take you through the best things to do on the Bellarine Peninsula that showcase the region’s most unique charm.

Travellers rate us 4.5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor
Simple and enjoyable process
Really enjoyed taking the ferry. Not very busy, easy to get on and off with car and nice ship. Comfortable lounge and even had a sandwich. Really like the driving it saved us. Put us in great shape for starting the Great Ocean Road.
Enjoy the drive..Take The Ferry
Why would you bother driving through all that city traffic when you can just hop aboard the ferry to get from one side of the bay to the other?
Excellent way to cross the bay
We took the car over the bay. What an easy trip. No need to book. Boat is in excellent condition and crew were great. High recommended.

Signature Experiences on the Bellarine Peninsula

1

Take a Step Back in Time at Fort Queenscliff

One of the must-visit attractions in Queenscliff will take you back to the 19th century: Fort Queenscliff, one of Australia’s largest and best-preserved forts. Dating back to the 1860s, the Fort offers a glimpse of a 19th-century coastal artillery fort that once played a major role in defending Port Phillip Bay. It also makes a brilliant first stop if you are arriving via Searoad Ferries, with the Queenscliff terminal just down the road.

Note that you can only enter the fort via a guided tour, so make sure you have a pre-booked tour before visiting. Visit Fort Queenscliff’s official website for more information on the guided tours.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Walk through the fort with over 150 years of heritage on display.
  • Explore weapons and ammunition, military awards and decorations, and old photographs in the Fort Queenscliff Museum.
  • Take a closer look at one of the most historic lighthouses in Queenscliff, the Queenscliff Black Lighthouse.

Address: Cnr King & Gellibrand St, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia

2

Take a Scenic Cruise Across the Bay with Searoad Ferries

Searoad Ferries redefines what “travelling” means with its immersive bay crossing experience, turning a simple transfer between Bellarine (Queenscliff) and Mornington (Sorrento) Peninsulas into a memorable journey in its own right. As you sail across Port Phillip Bay, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Pope’s Eye, Queenscliff’s iconic black lighthouse, and maybe even a few playful dolphins along the way. It’s a hassle-free, fun start to your trip before ticking off your checklist of things to do on the Bellarine Peninsula.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Indulge in freshly prepared drinks and treats at the onboard café, which offers panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay.
  • Soak in the fresh sea breeze on the spacious outdoor decks, where you can use the binoculars to see which marvels of nature you can spot.
  • If you’re after a fun add-on, the High Tea on the High Seas (available every Sunday) treats you to a beautifully curated selection of sweet and savoury delights for a two-hour return sail across Port Phillip Bay.

Address: 1 Wharf St E, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia

3

Marvel at the Panoramic Coastal Views from Point Lonsdale Lighthouse

Point Lonsdale Lighthouse stands on the Bellarine Peninsula to guide ships through The Rip, a notoriously dangerous, narrow entrance to Port Phillip Bay. Built in 1902, the historic concrete tower rises above the rugged headland and continues to play a vital role in maritime navigation, watching over one of Australia’s most treacherous yet essential shipping channels.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Climb 120 steps to the lantern room and take in sweeping views over the Port Phillip Heads and along the coast to Ocean Grove and Cape Schanck
  • Learn about the history of Point Lonsdale’s lighthouses and shipwrecks.

Address: 9-13 Point Lonsdale Rd, Point Lonsdale VIC 3225, Australia

4

Bask in the Sun at the Ocean Grove Main Beach

If you’re the type of traveller who never misses out on beach visits, then Ocean Grove Main Beach should definitely be on your list of things to do on the Bellarine Peninsula. The 2-kilometre Ocean Grove Main Beach is a crowd favourite for good reason: it has the kind of surf beach energy that works for whatever “beach mood” you have: relaxed swims, long beach walks, family days out, or simply basking in the sun.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Take beginner surf lessons from the local beachside surf schools.
  • Enjoy a long stretch of sand ideal for walking, building sandcastles, or exploring rockpools at low tide.
  • Take a nature walk through the nearby Ocean Grove Nature Reserve.

Address: Surf Beach Rd, Ocean Grove VIC 3226, Australia

Indoor Attractions on the Bellarine Peninsula

5

Dive into Maritime History at the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum

If you love a destination that tells its own story, the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum is a great place to spend an hour or two. The museum is home to many artefacts that reveal the dangers, wrecks, rescues, and people who made Queenscliff’s history as a vital pilot station, fishing hub, and defence outpost since the 1850s.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Explore maritime displays that bring Queenscliff’s maritime history into focus.
  • Take a closer look at “Queenscliffe,” the lifeboat that has saved numerous people and ships for 50 years.
  • Check out old diving equipment and try the diving bell helmet for yourself.

Address: Maritime Museum, 2 Wharf St, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia

6

Visit Local Galleries and Explore Queenscliff’s Creative Scene

The vibrant creative scene is one of the many highlights of the Bellarine Peninsula. Things to do in this region extend well beyond its beaches, with Queenscliff standing out as a cultural hub where art and history come together.

Local Galleries You Can Visit:

  • Seaview Gallery
    Since its inception in 1988, Seaview Gallery has been a renowned gallery on the Bellarine Peninsula, known for its diverse collection of contemporary and traditional Australian paintings, studio glass, sculptures, and jewellery.
  • Salt Contemporary Art
    Housed in a former drapery store, Salt Contemporary Art showcases a dynamic range of artworks by established painters, printmakers, and sculptors. 
  • Queenscliff Gallery
    Queenscliff Gallery showcases paintings, sculptures, wood engravings, linocuts, and etchings that capture the cultural diversity of Australian art.

Nature and Wildlife on the Bellarine Peninsula

7

Spot Wallabies and Echidnas at the Ocean Grove Nature Reserve

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet or simply want to take a break from the crowded spots, the Ocean Grove Nature Reserve is worth a spot on your list of things to do on the Bellarine Peninsula. Located near the bustling town of Geelong, the reserve houses a unique habitat and an array of wildlife, making it popular with bushwalkers, birdwatchers, and nature photographers.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Stroll through a network of walking tracks within the reserve, ranging from short 500-metre trails to longer 3-kilometre tracks.
  • Watch out for swamp wallabies and echidnas along the trails.
  • Pack your binoculars for a chance to spot any of the 130 bird species that have been recorded in the reserve.

Address: Wallington, VIC 3221, Australia

8

Dive into the Underwater World at Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary

Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary is one of the best snorkelling spots near Melbourne, with an abundance of marine habitats within its shelter. And what makes the sanctuary even more special is that there is life everywhere, not just underwater. The colourful flora, as well as the various mammals and reptiles that call it home, create a rich ecosystem where land and sea feel seamlessly connected.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Enjoy beach walking and rockpool exploring around the Barwon Bluff.
  • Keep an eye out for feather stars, barnacles, sea slugs, rays, small sharks, sponges, ascidians, crabs and other crustaceans, Western Blue Groper, and more.
  • Don’t forget to also look over the surface for a chance to spot seabirds gliding above the shoreline

Local Tip: Check the local tide times before heading out if you’re snorkelling or rockpooling.

Address: Bluff Road, Barwon Heads, Victoria, 3227

Family-Friendly Activities on the Bellarine Peninsula

9

Hop Aboard the Bellarine Railway Steam Train

Wanna have that Hogwarts Express-style experience without leaving Victoria? The Bellarine Railway is pure old-school fun, and it is one of the easiest ways to give your Bellarine Peninsula trip some extra charm. The heritage train runs between Queenscliff and Drysdale, with scenic train rides, family events, and special experiences departing from both stations, depending on the service. 


What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Seaside Explorer: Depart from Drysdale Station for a 55-minute train journey through the rolling hills and forests on the way to the seaside. Explore Queenscliff for 2 hours over lunch before you board the train again for a scenic trip on the way back.
  • Swan Bay Express: Start your journey from the Queenscliff station and explore the rich industrial history of the Lakers Siding Station. It’s a quick 45-minute return trip, but a memorable experience nonetheless.

Address: 20 Symonds St, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia (Queenscliff Station), 2-10 Station St, Drysdale VIC 3222, Australia (Drysdale Station)

10

Turn Up the Water Fun at Adventure Park Geelong

For adrenaline junkies who can’t get enough of water fun, a full day out at Adventure Park Geelong is one of the best things to do on the Bellarine Peninsula. Hailed as Victoria’s biggest water theme park, it is packed with thrilling rides that will have your heart racing and your adrenaline pumping. It is one of the must-visit family-friendly attractions and a popular destination for day trips in Geelong, especially during the summer months. Check their website for more information on their season closures and opening times.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Explore over 21 epic and thrilling water rides and theme park rides.
  • Dare to defy gravity as the Thunder Falls sends you plunging through 105 metres of water twists and turns at approximately 35 kilometres per hour.
  • Test your thrill limits as you brave through the dark tunnels and swirling rips of Victoria’s only triple-funnel waterslide, the Tsunami.

Address: 1249 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington, Geelong VIC 3222

Eat & Drink

11

Go On a Culinary Adventure in Queenscliff

Queenscliff is one of the most diverse dining spots on the Bellarine Peninsula, making it an easy place to build a delicious day out around long lunches, relaxed café stops, and memorable waterfront meals. If you are hunting for the best restaurants and cafés in Queenscliff, this is where the list gets very exciting. It’s no surprise that food lovers consistently rank dining here among the top things to do on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Must-Try Restaurants in Queenscliff:

  • TARRA Queenscliff
    Book a beachfront table and enjoy a seasonal menu shaped by locally sourced and hand-foraged ingredients at this iconic coastal dining spot.
  • 360Q
    Head to Queenscliff Harbour for waterfront dining with sweeping views, whether you are after breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a special occasion meal.
  • The Salty Breeze Café
    Stop by this café in Princess Park for a relaxed bite close to the iconic Queenscliff pier.
  • Wharf Street Pantry
    Pull in for coffee, breakfast, lunch, or wine and try one of the café’s well-known scallop pies while soaking up its harbourside setting.
  • The Q Train
    Step aboard an award-winning dining train and savour seasonal Bellarine produce as you travel between Drysdale and Queenscliff in restored heritage carriages.

12

Go for a Pub Crawl in Geelong

If you are staying on the city side of the region, exploring Geelong’s pub scene is easily one of the most enjoyable things to do near the Bellarine Peninsula, especially once the sun goes down. From heritage-listed local pubs to rooftop hangouts and lively sports bars, this is where you can wind down after a day of coastal exploring or turn the night into a full-on pub crawl depending on your mood. It is the perfect way to wrap up a laid-back coastal escape from Melbourne.


Must-Try Pubs in Geelong:

  • The Great Western Hotel
    Settle into a heritage pub atmosphere and enjoy hearty meals and live music at one of Geelong’s longest-running favourites.
  • Sawyers Arms Tavern
    Grab a table and choose between classic pub fare, a bistro meal, or a relaxed drink across multiple dining spaces.
  • Sailors’ Rest
    Known as one of the best restaurants in Geelong, you can feast on locally sourced seafood in the dining room or go for bayside al fresco seating with the waterfront views.
  • Murphy’s
    Choose a space wherever your mood takes you, from the buzzing front bar to the rooftop and skygarden, for a dynamic night out.
  • The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill Geelong
    Catch live sports on the big screens while digging into pub classics and game-day favourites.

Accommodation Options on the Bellarine Peninsula

13

Bring the Whole Family for a Staycation at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon

Whether you’re planning a staycation or just looking for a base for your Bellarine Peninsula adventures, BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon can make family getaways effortless, fun, and packed with activities for all ages. Conveniently located near the beach and just minutes from both Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale, the park offers a comfortable mix of modern cabins, villas, and caravan sites.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Choose from a diverse range of accommodation options, perfect for families, couples, and groups of all sizes, including villas and apartments, beach houses, and powered camping sites.
  • Make the most of resort-style facilities, including indoor heated pool areas, playgrounds, and open spaces for kids to play.
  • Enjoy easy access to Queenscliff Beach, town attractions, and the Searoad Ferries terminal, just a few minutes’ drive away.

Address: 78 Bellarine Hwy, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia

14

Reconnect with Nature at Lon Retreat & Spa

If you are looking for slower-paced things to do on the Bellarine Peninsula, Lon Retreat & Spa in Point Lonsdale delivers a peaceful escape that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle. Set across rolling coastal landscape, this boutique retreat blends luxury accommodation with mineral spa experiences designed for deep relaxation. It is also a favourite choice for a romantic getaway in Victoria, especially for couples seeking privacy and comfort.

What You Should Look Forward To:

  • Unwind in mineral-rich spa pools and wellness facilities designed to relax body and mind.
  • Retreat to private, beautifully styled suites with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Reconnect with nature through peaceful walking areas and a quiet coastal setting near Point Lonsdale.

Address: 25 Gill Rd, Point Lonsdale VIC 3225, Australia

Kick Off Your Bellarine Peninsula Adventure with Searoad Ferries

The sheer variety of things to do on the Bellarine Peninsula makes the trip here so rewarding.  You can slow things right down with beach walks and lighthouse views, dive into nature reserves and wildlife encounters, or keep things lively with great food and family attractions, all without having to travel far between stops.

And the best part is how easy it all is to access. Getting here via Searoad Ferries adds to the experience rather than just getting you from A to B. The scenic, hassle-free crossing between the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas feels like a natural extension of the trip itself, offering open-water views and a relaxed start (or finish) to your coastal adventure. It’s a simple, memorable way to connect two of Victoria’s most beautiful regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Bellarine Peninsula known for?

The Bellarine Peninsula is known for its mix of beautiful beaches, historic seaside villages, award-winning wineries, and a huge range of outdoor activities. Travellers come here for everything from surf beaches and calm bay beaches to fishing, diving, heritage attractions, galleries, and relaxed coastal towns like Queenscliff and Ocean Grove.

2. When is the best time to visit the Bellarine Peninsula?

There is something worthwhile to do here year-round, but summer is ideal for beach days, swimming, and coastal fun, while spring is especially appealing for outdoor exploring and seasonal colour. Cooler months can also be a great time to visit if you prefer relaxed coastal walks, gentler crowds, and a slower-paced getaway.

3. Are there good options for food and wine experiences?

The Bellarine Peninsula is one of Victoria’s best food-and-drink regions, and the Bellarine Taste Trail is the easiest way to explore it, bringing together more than 40 wineries, farmgates, provedores, cafés, and restaurants across the peninsula. You will also find cellar doors, breweries, cideries, and distilleries, making it very easy to build a full day, or whole weekend, around eating and tasting your way through the region.