Last updated on October 5th, 2025
Trading the city noise for the sound of waves crashing on sandy beaches, a kind of place where you can breathe deeply and feel the world slow down, is pure bliss. That’s why Victoria’s coastline is calling. With its charming seaside towns, they make for the perfect weekend escapes.
Whether you’re a Melburnian itching for a break or just dreaming of a quick getaway, these coastal gems deliver. Think of fresh fish and chips, windswept cliffs, and views that make you pause mid-drive.
So, let’s hit the road and explore some of Victoria’s best coastal towns, starting with a historic charmer just a stone’s throw from Melbourne.
Queenscliff
Just a short drive from Melbourne, Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula feels like a journey to a bygone era with its Victorian charm and views over Port Phillip Bay.
This historic fishing port, once a bustling hub during the gold rush history of the 1800s, now draws visitors with its elegant architecture and relaxed pace. You can wander wide streets lined with heritage buildings preserved by the National Trust or hop on the Bellarine Railway for a scenic ride through the countryside.
For those wondering about things to do in Queenscliff, Victoria, don’t miss Fort Queenscliff, a 19th-century military site offering guided tours that dive into tales of Australian history and defense strategies. Stroll along the pier for 360-degree ocean vistas or dip your toes in the calm bay waters. It’s a perfect spot for families or couples seeking culture and calm.
From here, the coast beckons you toward the indulgent shores of the nearby Mornington Peninsula.
Mornington Peninsula
Jutting out like a narrow peninsula into the choppier ocean, the Mornington Peninsula is a haven for those who love beautiful beaches and gourmet getaways. Sorrento, one of its standout towns, sits at the tip with its spectacular beaches and upscale vibe. Start your day with a dolphin swim in Port Phillip Bay, then hike cliff-top trails for amazing ocean views.
The peninsula attracts around 7.9 million visitors annually, drawn to its blend of natural beauty and luxury. For a touch of indulgence, check into the InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula, where you can sip local wines overlooking Sorrento Front Beach. If adventure calls, explore hidden coves like Station Beach or wander the inland ports and walking paths.
The peninsula’s polished charm sets the stage for a shift to the raw energy of the Great Ocean Road, where Torquay awaits.
Torquay
No list of Victoria’s coastal towns would be complete without Torquay, the gateway to the Great Ocean Road and home to the legendary Bells Beach. This beach for surfing, a National Surfing Reserve, draws pros and amateurs with its crashing waves and dramatic cliffs. But make sure you have all the sunny essentials.
Visit the Australian National Surfing Museum to dive into the history of Australian surf beaches or watch the action from scenic lookouts. Bells Beach buzzes year-round, especially during the Rip Curl Pro event. The Great Ocean Road Drive, which sees over 6 million visitors annually, winds from here through lush landscapes, passing Erskine Falls and the Great Otway National Park, where rainforests meet the sea.
It’s a route that promises awe at every turn, leading you to the laid-back charm of Apollo Bay.
Apollo Bay
Apollo Bay embodies the spirit of Victoria’s coastal towns with its immaculate surf beaches and fresh seafood straight from the fishing ports. Spend your weekend hiking in the Great Otway National Park, chasing waterfalls like Hopetoun Falls, or lounging on wide sandy beaches.
For a real treat, drive to Cape Otway for the lighthouse and koala spotting in the Cape Otway National Park, ideal for rustic camping weekends amid eucalyptus groves. The town itself hums with cafes and galleries, making it a great base for exploring.
As the Great Ocean Road curves further, the scenery intensifies toward Port Campbell, where the Shipwreck Coast delivers drama and wonder.
Port Campbell
Tiny but mighty, Port Campbell is the gateway to one of Australia’s most iconic sights: the Twelve Apostles. These limestone stacks rise from the Southern Ocean, glowing at sunset and drawing over 2 million visitors annually.
Take a helicopter tour for panoramic views or walk the boardwalks for a closer look. Nearby, Johanna Beach offers a wilder, quieter escape for those seeking secret beaches. The broader Bass Coast region whispers tales of adventure and loss.
For a softer landing, head west to Port Fairy, where history and charm converge.
Port Fairy
Port Fairy, often called one of Victoria’s prettiest seaside towns, wraps you in a cozy embrace with its historic wharf and Port Fairy Lighthouse guiding ships into the harbor. This former whaling station, steeped in gold rush history, now thrives with charming cottages and a vibrant folk festival.
Stroll along the Moyne River, spot seals, or relax on East Beach for a peaceful swim. Tourism here contributes a massive percentage to the local economy annually, supporting boutique shops and eateries serving the freshest catches.
For an extended adventure, detour to Wilsons Promontory National Park, where Squeaky Beach’s singing sands and Norman Beach’s camping spots offer a pristine wilderness escape.
Conclusion
Victoria’s coastal towns are escapes that recharge the soul. From the polished shores of Sorrento to the wild Shipwreck Coast, each town offers a unique slice of the south-eastern Australian coast. Pack your bags, hit the Great Ocean Road, and let these seaside gems work their magic. You might just find your new favorite weekend hideaway.
