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Water Sports

With water in virtually every direction, the region is a terrific destination for water sport enthusiasts.

The gentle bay beaches of Geelong and the Northern Bellarine are perfect for families to paddle, swimming, canoeing, sea kayaking, jetskiing, boating and fishing.  There are boat ramps and associated facilities at regular intervals along the coast.

Queenscliff Harbour is a base for a number of water activities that take place in Port Phillip Bay and beyond including fishing charters, diving, pleasure cruises and swimming with seals and dolphins.

West of Point Lonsdale, the ocean beaches offer surf of varying levels - sheltered areas suitable for learners or beginners through to pounding surf at Bells Beach which hosts annual international surf events.

Inland, the freshwater creeks, rivers and lakes are great for fishing and boating sports.  The Barwon River, running through the Otway National Park and Geelong before pouring into the ocean at Barwon Heads has something for anglers, rowers, water-skiers, canoers and boating enthusiasts.

Highlights

Portarlington Beach

Point Richards is a large accumulation of sand that forms the northern tip of the Bellarine Peninsula. The point is still growing slowly to the west, while in the east it is attached to the bedrock at Portarlington. There are three beaches along this 2.5 km section of coast. The first is a 300 m long, low energy section west of the point, which grades into tidal flats. Between the point and the Portarlington Jetty is a 2 km long, north facing beach, backed by a large reserve and a caravan park. The third beach runs for 200 m east of the jetty to the bluffs. All three beaches have good access, with a large car park on the point servicing a boat ramp, and a second boat ramp on Portarlington Beach. Swimming These are three relatively safe beaches, with usually calm to low wave conditions. Due to the extensive sand flats, bathing is best at mid to high tide. However, watch the boat traffic near the boat ramps and jetty. Surfing None. Fishing The jetty is the most popular location. General A very popular section of coast, particularly during the summer holidays when the backing caravan park is full. Carpark Type: Formal parking area Surface: Sealed Spaces: 200 SLSA provides this information as a guide only. Surf conditions are variable and therefore this information should not be relied upon as a substitute for observation of local conditions and an understanding of your abilities in the surf. SLSA reminds you to always swim between the red and yellow flags and never swim at unpatrolled beaches. SLSA takes all care and responsibility for any translation but it cannot guarentee that all translations will be accurate. General Beach Hazard Rating: 1 Least hazardous: 1-3 Moderately hazardous: 4-6 Highly hazardous: 7-8 Extremely hazardous: 9-10 Hazard rating refers to physical beach and surf conditions ONLY and does not include potentially dangerous marine life.

Boating in Portarlington

There are several places to launch a boat in Portarlington and surrounding areas. The Point Richards boat ramp, just west of town, has just been upgraded. It is now a safer facility with two lanes, able to take larger scale boats and is close to King George Whiting and snapper grounds. Other nearby boat ramps include those at St Leonards, Indented Head and Clifton Springs.

Portarlington Pier

The Pier, a working harbour, houses the town’s mussel fleet, so it’s not unusual to see crews setting out for or returning from harvesting Blue Mussels grown in farms just offshore in Port Phillip Bay. Portarlington has become famous for its mussels, and you can buy them direct from the farmer in town, often on the pier straight from the boat.

St Leonards Beach

At Indented Head, the coast turns and runs due south for 3 km down to the low bluffs at St Leonards. The Esplanade runs right behind the beach and low foredune. There are two picnic areas behind the main beach, with a camping reserve toward St Leonards, and a foreshore reserve with numerous facilities backing the bluffs and St Leonards Pier Beach. Toward the southern end of St Leonards Beach, there are several wooden groynes, as well as the breakwater and pier, that form the boundary with the 300 m long St Leonards Pier Beach. This beach terminates at a low, rocky point and reef flats. Both beaches are low and narrow and fronted by shallow, 100 to 200 m wide sand flats, containing low amplitude bars and runnels. The flats are exposed at low tide. Swimming Two relatively safe beaches fronted by shallow sand flats and low bars. Bathing is better at mid to high tide when the flats are covered. Surfing None. Fishing The rocks on the south side of Indented Head and the St Leonards Pier are the two best places to reach deeper water. General A long, relatively natural beach, with good access and numerous facilities, plus the small town of St Leonards at the southern end. Carpark Type: Formal parking area Surface: Sealed Spaces: 100 SLSA provides this information as a guide only. Surf conditions are variable and therefore this information should not be relied upon as a substitute for observation of local conditions and an understanding of your abilities in the surf. SLSA reminds you to always swim between the red and yellow flags and never swim at unpatrolled beaches. SLSA takes all care and responsibility for any translation but it cannot guarantee that all translations will be accurate. General Beach Hazard Rating: 2 Least hazardous: 1-3 Moderately hazardous: 4-6 Highly hazardous: 7-8 Extremely hazardous: 9-10 Hazard rating refers to physical beach and surf conditions ONLY and does not include potentially dangerous marine life.

ex HMAS Canberra

The ex HMAS Canberra dive site is the first artificial reef specifically created for diving in Victoria. It lies in approximately 28 metres of water, with the top of the mast about 5 metres below the surface at low tide. The site provides opportunities for divers with varying levels of experience and certification, from open water level certificates to advanced wreck divers, to enjoy this site. When the ship as prepared for scuttling many of the original working features were retained so divers still get a sense of being on board a working ship. Dive charter operators based at Queenscliff Harbour can lead trips to dive the ex HMAS Canberra.

Searoad Ferries

Searoad Ferries connects the Great Ocean Road and the Bellarine to the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island, the 40 minute crossing is a stress free alternative to driving through the city, saving you time and kilometres. With two specially designed all weather 60 metre ferries departing from both destinations on the hour, every hour, 7am to 6pm daily. Enjoy easy drive on/drive off facilities, spacious comfortable lounges with full length windows, a tempting cafe and plenty of deck space. There are ever changing sights, watch out for dolphins, whales in winter and enormous ships as you breathe incredibly fresh air. Arriving at Sorrento, you will have a perfect view of multi-million dollar mansions sitting atop cliffs, tiny coves filled with boats, the beautiful foreshore and old limestone buildings. Whether you are going home, or on a journey far away, there's no better way to see the bay than with Searoad Ferries. Operating Times The all weather ferries leave every hour on the hour, 7pm to 6pm, 365 days of the year. A 7pm departure operates in peak times please visit the website for more details. Passengers with vehicles are advised to arrive at the terminals at least 30 minutes prior to departure. The ferries depart from Queenscliff Harbour, Queenscliff and the Sorrento Pier, Sorrento. Special Features On the 40 minute journey, unparalleled views of historic lighthouses, the Point Nepean fortifications, navigational features, seals and dolphins are available from the comfortable lounge areas, cafe style seating or numerous observation decks. Both vessels are fully equipped to cater for passengers with disabilities, including an internal lift from the vehicle deck to the passenger lounge. Coaches may be booked ahead. Seven days notice is advisable to secure passage.

Freedom Bay Cruises

Families, visitors and locals can enjoy a relaxing cruise around Corio Bay on board Freedom Bay Cruises. Freedom is a 14 and a half metre catamaran with upper and lower decks and viewing areas on the bow and stern. There are options to be outside or under cover. The one hour cruise is a great introduction to Geelong's award winning waterfront and history. During the cruise you will see yachts under sail and ship movements in the port. Dolphins and jellyfish are a highlight for everyone and the kids can have their photo taken in the captain's chair at the helm. A commentary and slide show enhances the cruise experience. Cruises depart from Steampacket Quay, near Cunningham Pier, Geelong at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Tickets can be purchased at the boat. Cruises operate on weekends from September to May and bookings are recommended on the day. A licensed bar and kiosk is open during the cruise to purchase drinks, chips and souvenirs. Access to the vessel is via a gangway and four steps and there is ample seating for up to 60 passengers. The cruise is suitable for all ages with room for prams and wheelie frames. Freedom also operates group cruise Monday to Friday offering morning and afternoon teas and lunches. Private parties can be booked for up to 60 passengers seven days a week.

Bells Beach

With an international reputation as one of Australia’s best surf beaches, Bells Beach is amazing spot – either in the water or out. There isn’t much ‘beach’ at Bells, it’s mostly a glorious cliff-face, and views from the cliff-top car park are spectacular – a great spot to watch local surfers out in the water. There are several quality surfing spots in the precinct from Southside to Steps Reef. Every Easter Bells Beach hosts the international professional surfing community for the Rip Curl Pro event. To get to Bells Beach, travel along the Great Ocean Road past Jan Juc – turn left into Bells Boulevard and follow the signs. General Beach Hazard Rating: 6 Least hazardous: 1-3 Moderately hazardous: 4-6 Highly hazardous: 7-8 Extremely hazardous: 9-10 Hazard rating refers to physical beach and surf conditions ONLY and does not include potentially dangerous marine life. SURFING Bells is a world class right when above 1.5 m. When smaller, the waves break close in to the headland and produce a right called Rincon. Further around the head are two more reef breaks which work below 2 m, called Centre Side (a right) and Southside (a left). FISHING The water is deep right off the beach, while at low tide you can fish from the reefs at each end. GENERAL One of the meccas of surfing and well worth a visit, if only to view the beach and surf from the bluffs. CARPARK Type: Formal parking area Surface: Sealed Spaces: 200 We provide this information as a guide only. Surf conditions are variable and therefore this information should not be relied upon as a substitute for observation of local conditions and an understanding of your abilities in the surf. We remind you to always swim between the red and yellow flags and never swim at unpatrolled beaches.

Learn to Surf

What better place to learn to surf than in the birthplace of Australian surfing? There are several licensed tour operators and qualified instructors who run learn to surf classes on beaches close to Torquay. Catering for individuals or groups, often equipment hire and transport can be included in the price.

Surf Torquay

Torquay lives and breathes surfing, and the region has a global reputation as an amazing surf destination. Bells Beach hosts the annual Rip Curl Pro, where the best surfers in the world compete each Easter. Nearby Winkipop is also popular with experienced surfers. Torquay and Jan Juc offer good conditions for those wanting to learn to surf, and several schools operate classes at local beaches. Surf conditions can vary greatly, check with the Visitor Information Centre or local Surf Life Saving Club.

Surf World Museum

The Surf World Museum in Torquay, Australia’s surfing capital, celebrates the story of surfing. It also charts Australia’s significant contribution to the development of surfing around the world. Through the colourful and exciting permanent displays and temporary exhibitions of important surfing artefacts and memorabilia, the museum commemorates Australia’s fantastic surfing heritage and rich beach culture. An unforgettable experience, Surf World provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Australia’s most popular pastimes. It’s a place where you can experience or relive, surfing’s sense of fun, and marvel at the changes that have taken place over the years. We look forward to welcoming you.

Enterprize - Melbourne's Tall Ship

Have you dreamt of coming to sea on a traditional tall ship? Melbourne's tall ship Enterprize has an all year round program of public sails from Melbourne and locations around Port Phillip within 50 kilometres of Melbourne. Suitable for people of all age groups with trips ranging from short one hour and one and a half hour early evening cruises, to overnight and full day trips. Also available for school, corporate and special occasion charters. In May Enterprize has sailings each weekend: Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May Enterprize is in Geelong for a Pirate Weekend. Both days crew and passengers dressed in pirate costume, with one hour sails on Corio Bay from 11am. Pirate games and best dressed pirate costume competition from 1.30 to 2.30 on Saturday. Drive to Geelong for the day or catch VLine train to Geelong and then 20 minute walk to Stony Pier, Geelong. Half day Port Transit trip on Enterprize Geelong to Melbourne Docklands leaving Geelong at 1pm on Monday 6 May. Friday 10 May Enterprize departs at 6pm from Melbourne Docklands for a full night/day Overnight Adventure sail. One hour sails and ship inspections from Melbourne Docklands on Sunday 12 May. On 18 and 19 May Enterprize will be at Williamstown. One hour sails and inspections from 11am each day, For June long weekend, 7 - 10 June, Enterprize will be in Portarlington for the National Celtic Festival. Performers on board daily one hour sails. Port transit Melbourne Docklands to Portarlington, with return on Monday 10th. Advance bookings recommended for Pirate weekend and longer trips. Tickets for shorter trips available from ship 30 minutes prior to sailing for shorter trips. Go to website or call for further information and online bookings.

Point Addis Marine National Park

The Point Addis Marine National Park features spectacular scenery with wide sandy beaches, crumbling limestone and sandstone cliffs, rocky platforms and copious small rocky reefs. The coastline is exposed to intense wave action from the southern ocean, a major contributor to the shaping of this rugged coastline. Visitors exploring the marine environment within this park may enjoy exploring the limestone reefs with abundant rockpools filled with marine life. The subtidal waters are recognised as supporting a wide range of fish and algae species as well as seals, dolphins, brilliantly coloured sponge gardens and extensive rhodolith beds. Offshore, and often difficult to access due to tides and swell, Ingoldsby Reef is a particularly popular destination for divers to explore and search for such creatures. Aboriginal Traditional Owners Parks Victoria acknowledges the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Victoria - including its parks and reserves. Through their cultural traditions, Aboriginal people maintain their connection to their ancestral lands and waters. Indigenous tradition indicates that this park is part of the Country of the Wathaurong people and that Indigenous people have a long association with this region. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.
 

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Packages & Offers

See, Do, Stay & Save

Welcome to goTravlr, your passport to great deals in Geelong, the Bellarine and the Great Ocean Road.

Whitecrest Winter Indulgence Package

A special romantic experience.

Golf Getaway on the Bellarine

$225 per person twin share.

Otway Fly - Friday Fly Day

Friday Fly Day - activate your winter!

Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant & Villas Winter Warmer Getaway Package

Package for two from $350.00.

Stay & Save at Cumberland Lorne Resort

From $411 for a three night stay.

BIG 4 Beacon Resort Blues Train Package

A unique musical experience! Toe tapping entertainment, a cool drink and a good laugh. Rock your stay in Queenscliff with Blues Train tickets and award winning accommodation at BIG4 Beacon Resort.

Seahaven Village - Taste of The Bellarine $495

Relax at stunning Barwon Heads Friday and Saturday night in a cosy 4.5 star one bedroom spa suite.

Barwon Heads Golf Club Winter Escape

$240 per couple per night

See, Do, Stay & Save

Welcome to goTravlr, your passport to great deals in Geelong, the Bellarine and the Great Ocean Road. Accommodation, activities and dining specials are available at up to 66% off.

Visit goTravlr now.
 

Whitecrest Winter Indulgence Package

What a time for a special romantic experience, a cosy three days by the fire in isolation by the ocean and available from 1 May until 31 July each year?

Pay for two nights and stay for three in a studio, one, two or three bedroom self-contained apartment with your own private balcony and spectacular views overlooking the ocean. Listen to the waves, warm by the gas log fire and enjoy everything that the Whitecrest Great Ocean Road Resort has to offer, including a selection of fine handmade chocolates waiting for you on arrival.

What's included?

  • three nights accommodation for the price of two
  • a complementary gift box of locally handmade chocolates waiting for you on arrival
  • a late checkout (up to 2pm)
  • optional romantic seafood dining experience at Apollo Bay's La Bimba restaurant

Offer is for off-peak periods with bookings required 7 days in advance.

Book here.

Contact Us

5230 Great Ocean Road, Wongarra,
Apollo Bay 3233, Victoria Australia
T. +61 3 5237 0228, F. +61 3 5237 0245
Email: info@whitecrestonline.com.au

 

Golf Getaway on the Bellarine

The BIG4 Beacon Resort makes the perfect base for exploring all the attractions of beautiful classic Queenscliff and with this package you can enjoy the best of classic Queenscliff and one of the best Greens around. Secure this decadent deal by calling now!

  • 2 nights accommodation in a Bellarine King Room (twin share)
  • Breakfast Pack Daily
  • 27 Holes of Golf at the Lonsdale Golf Club
  • 6pm Late Check-Out
  • You may choose to swap golf for a day spa treatment (to the value of $65)

Conditions and availability apply. This great getaway is valid from 15th May 2013 to 20th December 2013. Quote "Golf Getaway" when booking.

Ph: 1800 351 152 to book.

 

Otway Fly - Friday Fly Day

Book a Zip Line Eco-Tour for any Friday over Winter online at 10% off and also receive:

  • A Free Otway Fly Beanie
  • A Free Bowl of Soup or Devonshire Tea from the Black Snail Café.

Zip Line Eco Tour includes:

  • Guided 2.5 hour zip lining experience up to 30m high in the rainforest
  • Admission to the breathtaking Otway Fly Treetop Walk.
  • Safety briefing and harness

Book online at www.otwayfly.com.au

 

Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant & Villas Winter Warmer Getaway Package

Package for two includes:

  • Accommodation for two in a Queen Studio or Villa
  • A continental a la carte breakfast
  • A three course dinner for two from our a la carte menu
  • Free parking
  • Free Internet in the lounge

Offer excludes alcohol and market price menu items.

From $350.00

Valid until October 31st.

To book call 03 5237 6411
or book online at www.chriss.com.au

 

Stay & Save at Cumberland Lorne Resort

Take a short break down the Great Ocean Road at Cumberland Lorne Resort with this terrific value package from $411 for a three night stay!

  • Self Contained Apartment located in the heart of Lorne
  • Private balcony, Corner Spa Bath and modern spacious living
  • Complimentary use of all facilities including indoor heated pool; spa; gymnasium; tennis and squash courts

Terms and conditions apply.

Valid until 6th June 2013.

To make a reservation call 1800 037 010 or email res@cumberland.com.au

 

BIG 4 Beacon Resort Blues Train Package

A unique musical experience! Toe tapping entertainment, a cool drink and a good laugh. Rock your stay in Queenscliff with Blues Train tickets and award winning accommodation at BIG4 Beacon Resort.

Phone: 1800 351 152 or visit BIG4 Beacon Resort Website for more information.
 

Seahaven Village - Taste of The Bellarine $495

Relax at stunning Barwon Heads Friday and Saturday night in a cosy 4.5 star one bedroom spa suite. Enjoy fabulous bonuses including:

  • A $70 dinner voucher
  • Welcome pack including wine, chocolates and a breakfast basket
Stay between Sunday and Thursday nights and receive THREE nights accommodation for the same price.

T: 03 5254 1066
 

Barwon Heads Golf Club Winter Escape

Embrace the cooler temperatures, avoid the crowds and be warmed by the hospitality and open fires at Barwon Heads Golf Club. Stay on our B&B package to enjoy a fully cooked breakfast, complimentary three-course dinner and golf at our guest green fee rate.

  • Accommodation in a standard room with ensuite at Barwon Heads Golf Club
  • Fully cooked breakfast
  • Three course dinner
  • Golf available at our guest green fee rate

Address: Golf Links Rd, Barwon Heads, Victoria 3227

To book:

Phone: 03 5255 6255
Fax: 03 5255 6266
Website: www.bhgc.com.au
Email: reservations@bhgc.com.au

T&C's: Valid Monday to Thursday inclusive. Dress requirements apply.