7 Weekend Destinations Near Portarlington
One of the countless benefits of living in Portarlington is the town’s proximity to several other wonderful seaside and tree-side destinations. With such convenient accessibility to these beautiful locations, weekend getaways will become a staple in your new lifestyle. From outdoor adventures to world-class dining and shopping, the Bellarine Region boasts it all. Here are seven top spots to visit:
1. Geelong
29-minute drive
As Victoria’s second largest city and one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, Geelong is an up-and-coming hotspot. Geelong is a stone’s throw to the Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast, and world-famous Great Ocean Road. The waterfront city offers many shops, restaurants, and bars amongst a mix of historic and modern buildings.
2. Queenscliff
19-minute drive
Located near the entrance of Port Philip Bay, Queenscliff is surrounded by water on three sides of the town. Long stretches of sandy beaches featuring rocky outcrops, cliffs and piers are some of the beauties that make up the magnificent coastline. Two unique lighthouses serve as popular tourist attractions. The Queenscliff White Lighthouse stands at over 150 years old, built in 1862. Further north along the coast sits the unique Black Lighthouse, constructed from bluestone, it’s the only black lighthouse in Australia.
3. Point Lonsdale
22-minute drive
The unique location of Point Lonsdale makes for two holidays in one. Being at the tip of the Bellarine Peninsula, one side of the town is surrounded by the Port Philip Bay, while the other side meets the Bass Strait. The Bay is perfect for those who like to bask in the sun and relish in the crystal blue water to their hearts content. On the other side of town, the Bass Strait offers wide stretches of ocean beaches perfect for surfers and adventure-seekers.
4. St Leonards
12-minute drive
St Leonards is a beach-front town located southeast of Portarlington. The town centre features the iconic St Leonards Hotel, renowned for its beer garden overlooking the bay. Fishing off the St Leonards Pier is a popular pastime for locals and tourists. And why not take advantage of the barbeque facilities at the nearby Harvey Park to cook your fresh catch?
5. Ocean Grove
21-minute drive
Popular with surfers, Ocean Grove is surrounded by pristine beaches, a flourishing nature reserve and plenty of shops. New to surfing? That’s no problem – you can take surfing and bodyboarding lessons at the local beach. Experienced locals who have been surfing since they could walk will have you riding waves like a pro in no time.
6. Barwon Heads
28-minute drive
A golfer’s dream – Barwon Heads is home to three of Australia’s top 50 public access golf courses. Take in the picturesque ocean views and sea air while you tee-off on one of the five-star courses. When it’s time to take a break from golfing, Barwon Heads offers unbeatable snorkelling experiences. Discover the fascinating and colourful underwater world at the Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary.
7. You Yangs
54-minute drive
The You Yangs are a series of granite ridges rising to 319 metres above the Werribee Plain. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery on a bushwalk, mountain bike trail or picnic spot. Listen to the melodic birdlife as you climb Flinders Peak where you’ll be rewarded with uninterrupted views of Melbourne and Geelong. A trip to the You Yangs is ideal for the winter months when it’s too cold for the beach.
Drive times according to Google
