Discovering Geelong’s Waterfront

One of Victoria’s top waterside destinations, Geelong’s Waterfront combines tranquil beaches with waterside dining, historic piers, and waterfront art trails. Just over an hour from Melbourne, and a gateway to the Great Ocean Drive and the Bellarine Peninsula, this is the region’s cultural heart. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or planning a longer coastal adventure, Geelong’s Waterfront offers the perfect place to stop and relax.

One of the best ways to enjoy Geelong Waterfront’s charms is by following the colourful Geelong Baywalk Bollards. With more than 100 colourful, life-sized bollards, you’ll not only get to know the Geelong foreshore - you’ll also follow the story of the region, from local indigenous culture to explorers, 19th-century sailors,  lifesavers and famous local personalities. 

The trail runs from Limeburners Point in the east through to Eastern Beach and the Botanic Gardens, and along the way you can take in some stunning bayside views. From here you can also explore the Victorian-era Geelong Botanic Gardens. Established more than 150 years ago, this is a place to wander amongst exotic trees and shaded gardens.

If you’re ready to dive right in, Eastern Beach is an historic swimming area with an enclosed sea pool, sea bath and iconic diving tower. Encompassed by an art-deco styled boardwalk, this popular spot is a hit with locals and visitors, and has been providing some seriously essential Geelong waterfront activities since the 1930s. 

Neighbouring Eastern Beach Reserve has plenty of picnic and barbecue facilities. The reserve is watched over by a group of swimmer bollards that illustrate the changing styles of swimming costumes from the 1890s to the 1950s. Local surveyor Ian Macdonald designed the baths in 1936 - and today still surveys the Eastern Beach Geelong site in bollard form.

Another towering icon of the Geelong Waterfront is the Giant Sky Wheel. One of the largest Ferris wheels in the Southern Hemisphere, a ride on the wheel’s gondolas will reward you with  panoramic views of Corio Bay and beyond. At night the wheel is illuminated with over 24 different light patterns at play, making it one of the top things to do in Geelong with kids.

For an extra touch of old-world charm, the Geelong Carousel is a piece of hand-carved history. Built around 1892, this portable steam driven, wooden carousel is one of only 200 in operation around the world. Now restored to its former glory, the century-old wooden carousel features hand-painted dane horses, two chariots and an original 1892 steam engine.

Dining by the bay? There are plenty of Geelong foreshore restaurants where you can savour the flavours of. Built on an historic barge, Geelong Boat House offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy fresh seafood (including crispy fish and golden chips) while enjoying stunning views of Corio Bay and the historic Cunningham Pier. A quintessential Aussie experience.

Another beauty for bayside views with lunch or dinner - and perhaps a cocktail or beer - is Sailor’s Rest. Sit back and enjoy a share plate or platter al fresco in the beer garden, on the second-floor lounge or on the rooftop bar with views across Corio Bay. You’ll find everything from kids meals to house cocktails, award-winning wines, beer and cider.

If you’re looking for a bite or drink near Eastern Beach, Edge Geelong is an easy-going and airy hangout which serves seasonal dishes - from summer concoctions to the warm refreshers - for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Drop in on a Saturday for a Cocktail Club (or a ‘Bottomless Cocktail Evening’), and treat yourself to a Watermelon Margarita or a Spicy Marg. This venue also offers regular meal deals.

Royal Geelong Yacht Club

Home to the Festival of Sails in January and the Victorian Wooden Boat Festival in March, the Royal Geelong Yacht Club has been a community institution since 1859. It’s a great place to sit back and enjoy a meal while overlooking the marina - the Yot Cafe will take care of you with everything from calamari to parmigiana, dumplings and tacos. The club is also well known for its one-day sailing courses. 

Established in 1896 Geelong Gallery is one of Australia’s oldest regional galleries, but with a contemporary edge that keeps it fresh and dynamic. Home to an huge collection of over 6,000 Australian and European artworks, including iconic works by Eugene von Guérard and Arthur Streeton, the gallery is renowned for exhibitions that celebrate local and national artists.

Geelong Waterfront Makers & Growers' Market 

Held on the first Sunday of each month in Steampacket Gardens, the Geelong Waterfront Makers & Growers' Market is a great place to find local gourmet treats, fresh produce and local art. With plenty of local live music and hot food to match, this market has now been a community fixture for over 25 years.

Where to stay 

Your ideal base for exploring the foreshore with easy access to things to do in Geelong is Quality Hotel Bayside Geelong. This great Geelong accommodation is situated right on the Esplanade, and within easy reach of all of the waterfront attractions. This offers complimentary bicycle hire to guests - another great way to explore the waterfront!

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