Things To Do
in Geelong
Geelong is a dynamic coastal city in Victoria, located on Corio Bay just southwest of Melbourne. It blends a thriving arts and cafe scene with a family-friendly waterfront and easy access to the Bellarine Peninsula. The city has a rich maritime heritage, green spaces, and a growing food scene centered around local produce and seafood.
With easy day trips to the Great Ocean Road, it’s a versatile base for both city and nature adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Geelong Gallery, where you can admire a diverse collection of Australian art. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around Johnstone Park, absorbing the beauty of its gardens and the iconic Geelong Botanic Gardens. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, savoring the fresh flavors of Geelong's coffee scene.
In the afternoon, explore the Geelong Waterfront, where you can walk along the scenic promenade and enjoy views of Corio Bay. Stop by the Geelong Carousel, an enchanting local attraction, and take a ride on this beautifully crafted wooden carousel. Finish your afternoon with a visit to the National Wool Museum, discovering the rich history of wool production in the region.
As evening approaches, dine at one of Geelong's waterfront restaurants, indulging in fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the bay. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the nightlife and the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bar or pub, where you can enjoy live music or a friendly chat with locals.
Kick off your day at Eastern Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters of Corio Bay. Grab a light breakfast at a beachside café while soaking up the views of the water and the beach-goers. After breakfast, rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak to explore the bay at your own pace.
In the afternoon, relax on the sandy shores of the beach, soaking in the sun or playing beach volleyball with friends. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at jet skiing or windsurfing, both popular activities in the area. Take a break for lunch at a nearby beachfront café, enjoying casual bites with a view of the ocean.
As night falls, head to the Geelong Waterfront for a delightful dinner at one of the many eateries offering a variety of cuisines. After dinner, take a sunset cruise on Corio Bay, enjoying the stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding landscapes. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a trendy bar along the waterfront.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥗Lunch or casual meal | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful waterfront and parks
- Close to nature and day trips (Bellarine, You Yangs, Great Ocean Road)
- Relaxed lifestyle and friendly locals
- Good value for a regional city with growing dining scene
- Less glittering nightlife compared with Melbourne
- Weather can be changeable and windy near the coast
- Certain attractions can be touristy in peak times
Places to Visit in Geelong
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic Art Deco seawater swimming enclosure with piers, ideal for sunrise seascapes and colorful day shots.
Long promenades, ships, and skyline views across Corio Bay, especially at golden hour.
Formal avenues, glasshouses, and seasonal blooms in a compact garden setting.
Urban green space with sculptures and a lively backdrop of historic architecture and street life.
Calm water, bridges, and reflections, excellent for landscape and macro shots.
Food in Geelong
Geelong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional pastry pie featuring scallops, a local specialty often found in coastal eateries around the Bellarine Peninsula.
Must-Try!
Simple, fresh seafood dishes common near the waterfront and river precincts.
Hearty Australian staple available in pubs around Geelong.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering local produce, artisanal foods, and street fare along the waterfront area.
Coastal market with seafood, produce, and prepared foods by local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always queue and wait your turn; Australians value fairness and politeness.
Be direct but courteous; small talk is common and appreciated in service settings.
Wear sunscreen and hats outdoors; respect beach flags and local regulations.
Safety
Tipping in Geelong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; rounding up or leaving a tip for good service in cafes and restaurants is appreciated but not expected.
Credit/Debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still used but less common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes; expect sunshine, pack sunscreen and water, and enjoy outdoor dining along the waterfront.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; a great time for strolls along the river and parks.
Cool and sometimes rainy; layered clothing and an umbrella are useful; coastal winds can be brisk.
Milder days with blooming gardens; ideal for outdoor activities and markets as the city comes alive.
Geelong at Night
Hiking in Geelong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Granite ridges with multiple loop trails and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Cliff-top and coastal paths between Geelong and Queenscliff with sea views and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Geelong by plane.
Located southwest of Geelong, a convenient option for domestic and some international flights; easy access by road.
Australasia’s second-largest airport; serves international and domestic flights; typically reached by train or car via the freeway from Geelong area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Geelong attracts many families with a mix of residential neighborhoods and schools.
A growing cohort drawn to the city’s dining, arts, and housing affordability compared with Melbourne.
Diverse residents contributing to a range of cuisines and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region strongly supports AFL; local clubs and the Geelong Cats are a major draw.
Seasonal sport with local clubs and matches around the Barwon region.
Active local leagues with several clubs; family-friendly communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Geelong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Geelong’s dining scene offers plenty of vegetarian options; look for markets and cafes with veggie mains, and ask for meat-free versions of local seafood dishes when in doubt.