Hugging the stunning shores of the Victorian coastline, Apollo Bay is one of the most appealing destinations in the state.
The idyllic seaside town boasts a captivating blend of coastal charm and awe-inspiring natural beauty that draws visitors in their droves. From its pristine beaches and lush rainforests to adventurous outdoor pursuits and a thriving culinary scene, a visit to Apollo Bay promises an unforgettable journey.
This comprehensive guide will explore the heart of Apollo Bay, uncovering the sites, attractions, activities and culture that make it such an inviting place. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a harmonious blend of both, our guide will equip you with all the information you need to make the most of your time in this coastal paradise.
Where is Apollo Bay?
Located within the southwestern region of Victoria, Apollo Bay is a picturesque coastal town where lush landscapes meet the pristine waters of the Southern Ocean. It resides on the renowned Great Ocean Road, about 190 kilometres southwest of Melbourne.
The charming town is framed by the lush greenery of the Great Otway National Park to its north and the vast expanse of the ocean to its south, creating a setting that offers the best of both worlds – access to stunning natural wonders and the serenity of coastal living. Subsequently, it is a popular destination for city dwellers seeking a tranquil escape and tourists exploring the iconic coastal route.
How to get to Apollo Bay?
Getting to the serene coastal town of Apollo Bay in Victoria is a delightful experience that involves traversing scenic routes filled with captivating landscapes.
For those travelling from Melbourne, the most popular way to reach Apollo Bay is by driving along the iconic Great Ocean Road. This drive provides stunning ocean views while allowing you to visit charming towns and breathtaking natural wonders. It takes about 3 to 3.5 hours to complete. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate attractions like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
Alternatively, travellers can take the inland route, which takes about 2.5 hours to complete and offers a different perspective of the region’s beauty. Buses and guided tours are also available, offering convenient transportation options that allow visitors to sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views as they make their way to Apollo Bay.
Whether you travel along the coastal road or an alternative route, the journey to Apollo Bay is a prelude to the region’s intoxicating seaside charm and natural beauty.
Things To Do in Apollo Bay
While getting to Apollo Bay is a highlight, visitors can enjoy a wide range of sites, attractions and activities when they get there.
Below is a selection of some of the main things to see and do during your visit.
Explore the Great Otway National Park
Going to Great Otway National Park should be on everyone’s radar when visiting Apollo Bay. This sprawling sanctuary encompasses dense rainforests, tranquil waterfalls, and rugged coastlines, offering a remarkable tapestry of nature’s beauty.
Wander through ancient forests where towering trees create a cathedral-like canopy, or find solace in the mesmerising cascade of waterfalls punctuating the lush terrain. As you explore, watch for native wildlife, from the enchanting Lyrebird to the iconic koalas.
From the treetop adventures that reveal panoramic views to the coastal trails that unveil breathtaking ocean vistas, the Great Otway National Park promises an immersive experience that celebrates the natural wonders of Australia.
Discover the Great Ocean Road
Apollo Bay is a terrific base for discovering the Great Ocean Road. The winding coastal route winds through some of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes. So take the time to explore it.
As you traverse this picturesque stretch, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring Southern Ocean vistas stretching beyond the horizon. Marvel at the sheer grandeur of the Twelve Apostles, towering limestone stacks that rise majestically from the waves, and be enchanted by the dramatic beauty of the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches that line the route.
Each curve of the road reveals a new panoramic delight, from the intriguing formations of Loch Ard Gorge to the serene beauty of Gibson Steps. Whether driving leisurely or stopping frequently to capture the perfect photograph, the Great Ocean Road promises an unforgettable journey through nature’s masterpiece.
Relax on Pristine Beaches
Apollo Bay has some incredible beaches, so why not take the opportunity to sink your toes into the soft sands and let your worries ebb away?
With golden stretches meeting the azure waters of the Southern Ocean, the beaches around Apollo Bay offer the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Bask in the warm sunlight, listen to the rhythmic symphony of the waves, and watch as seagulls dance in the breeze.
If you’re seeking solitude or quality time with loved ones, the beaches of Apollo Bay provide an idyllic backdrop. Feel the stress melt away as you take leisurely walks along the shoreline, build sandcastles with the little ones, or lose yourself in a good book under the shade of an umbrella.
From sunrise strolls to sunset reflections, these beaches offer moments of serenity that invite you to
unwind and savour the beauty of coastal living.
Visit the Apollo Bay Harbour
Apollo Bay Harbour is a bustling hub with a captivating blend of fishing traditions and contemporary seaside ambience. It is a terrific place to watch the fishing boats bob gently on the water, their colourful hulls reflecting the sun’s golden rays.
Whilst there, the rhythmic sounds of seagulls and the distant hum of activity create a symphony that resonates with the heart of this coastal community. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, soaking in the panoramic views of the harbour and its vibrant surroundings. You may even catch sight of seals basking on the rocks or local fishermen preparing their catch of the day.
Overall, a visit to the Apollo Bay Harbour encapsulates the spirit of a coastal town, inviting visitors to connect with its maritime heritage while savouring the sights and sounds of the sea.
Engage in Water Activities
Apollo Bay offers excellent water activities for those seeking an adrenaline rush and a deeper connection with its coastal beauty.
From kayaking along the serene waters to stand-up paddleboarding over gentle waves, these activities provide a unique perspective of the town’s picturesque coastline.
If fishing is your passion, try casting a line and immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean’s bounty. Adventure seekers can catch the wind in their sails while windsurfing or exploring the underwater wonders through snorkelling and scuba diving. The ocean becomes your playground as you surf the waves, glide across the water’s surface, or venture beneath it.
Attend Local Festivals and Events
Throughout the year, Apollo Bay comes alive with various local festivals and events that celebrate the heart and soul of this coastal town. These gatherings offer a chance to immerse yourself in the community’s rich culture, culinary delights, and artistic expressions throughout the year.
The Apollo Bay Seafood Festival, a highlight on the calendar, showcases the town’s deep connection to the ocean with an abundance of freshly caught seafood prepared by talented local chefs. Music festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural showcases provide opportunities to connect with the town’s creative spirit and engage with its welcoming residents.
From lively street fairs to intimate gatherings, these events offer a window into the life and passions of Apollo Bay, allowing visitors to form lasting memories while becoming part of the town’s story.
Scenic Flights and Helicopter Tours
One of the best ways to experience Apollo Bay’s breathtaking beauty is on a scenic flight or helicopter tour.
As you ascend the skies, the town’s picturesque landscapes unfold beneath you, revealing the
stunning coastline, lush forests and iconic landmarks. From the comfort of your aerial vantage point, you’ll witness the sheer magnitude of the Twelve Apostles, the intricate patterns of the Great Ocean Road and the untouched wilderness of the surrounding national parks.
The sensation of flight adds a touch of exhilaration to the awe-inspiring views, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic outing, a thrilling adventure, or simply a unique way to appreciate the natural wonders of Apollo Bay, these aerial tours offer a bird’s-eye view that will leave you in awe of the coastal splendour.
Where To Eat in Apollo Bay
When it comes to satisfying your taste buds in Apollo Bay, several options are available. We recommend dining at the following places:
Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant & Villas: Nestled atop a hill at 280 Skenes Creek Road, Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant & Villas offers delectable cuisine and sweeping panoramic views of the coastline. Known for its sophisticated ambience, the restaurant specialises in modern Australian dishes, emphasising locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in the flavours of dishes like the crispy skin barramundi with saffron-infused seafood broth or the slow-cooked lamb shoulder served with rosemary and red wine jus.
La Bimba: This stylish restaurant captures the essence of coastal dining with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean vistas. This eatery specialises in gourmet wood-fired pizzas and offers creative toppings like smoked chicken, avocado, and brie. Apart from pizzas, guests can enjoy dishes such as prawn and scallop linguine and a delectable tiramisu for dessert.
La Bácaro: Situated at 125 Great Ocean Road, La Bácaro brings a touch of Italy to Apollo Bay. This Italian-inspired restaurant is known for its intimate setting and extensive wine list. Patrons can enjoy dishes like house-made gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce or grilled eye fillet steak served with truffle mash. Pair your meal with a carefully selected wine to enhance the dining experience.
Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op: The Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op offers a taste of the town’s maritime heritage. It is a casual and friendly spot, perfect for seafood enthusiasts. Enjoy classic fish and chips made with freshly caught fish, or opt for seafood platters featuring a variety of local delicacies like oysters, prawns, and calamari.
Where to Stay in Apollo Bay
Whether you’re seeking a quaint bed and breakfast, a self-contained cottage with ocean views, or budget-friendly hostel accommodations, Apollo Bay offers a variety of options to suit your preferences.
These venues provide comfort and convenience and place you close to Apollo Bay’s stunning beaches, charming town centre, and the natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road.
Here are our recommendations for some good places to stay at Apollo Bay:
Captains at the Bay: Captains – as the locals call it – offer cosy and luxurious accommodations just a short stroll away from the beach. This charming bed and breakfast features individually styled rooms
with modern amenities. Its proximity to the beach and the Apollo Bay Harbour makes it an ideal base
for exploring the coastline and enjoying waterside activities.
Seafarers Getaway: Fancy staying at self-contained cottages perched atop a cliff with breathtaking ocean views? Then consider Seafarers Getaway. With private decks and direct access to the beach, guests can relax to the sound of crashing waves. The property’s proximity to the Great Ocean Road and attractions like the Twelve Apostles ensures convenient exploration of the region’s iconic landmarks.
Marengo Holiday Park: Marengo Holiday Park offers a range of accommodation options, including cabins and campsites nestled amidst coastal vegetation. Overlooking the beach and Marengo Marine Sanctuary, the park provides a tranquil atmosphere for families and nature lovers. The nearby Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary offers snorkelling opportunities and a chance to witness colourful marine life.
Apollo Bay Eco YHA: Apollo Bay Eco YHA offers budget-friendly accommodations with an environmentally-conscious focus. This youth hostel features a communal kitchen, comfortable lounges, and a rooftop deck with ocean views. Its central location lets guests easily access Apollo Bay’s dining, shopping, and beachfront attractions.
Beachcomber Motel & Apartments: This venue offers comfortable and well-equipped rooms with the convenience of a central location. Guests can take a short walk to the beach, explore the nearby Apollo Bay Golf Club, or embark on a scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road to visit attractions like the Cape Otway Lightstation.