Get swept away by the historic charm of this quaint coastal town (population 3,340). Located right at the end of the Great Ocean Road, Port Fairy isn’t quite as overrun with tourists as other parts of the famed region can be. But those who turn around and drive straight home after visiting the 12 Apostles are missing out: this tiny town has so much to offer from picturesque beaches to world-class food.
Whether you’re travelling en masse with the family and searching for a wholesome, upmarket break, or looking to set aside some time for a romantic getaway with your other half, Port Fairy almost certainly delivers.
Port Fairy is located some 290 kilometres west of Melbourne (approximately a three-and-a-half-hour drive). Public transport options are extremely limited, so driving is really the only way to do it. Melbourne’s Avalon Airport is the closest to the coastal town, at 236 kilometres away, but few choose to drive direct; instead take to the Great Ocean Road, a 664-kilometre feat of engineering that traces Vic’s rugged coastline from Torquay to Port Fairy.
The ocean winds keep winters warm and summers cool on the Great Ocean Road. Port Fairy is typically at its hottest between January and March, with March arguably providing peak conditions: not only is the weather rather lovely, but with kids back at school it’s a lot less busy. The Port Fairy Folk Festival, one of Australia’s largest music festivals, is also on in March. For whale watching, head to the Victorian coastline between May and October.
From glorious sweeps of white sand to a swathe of beautiful bluestone buildings, a rich food and drink scene, plenty of local maritime history, a first-class golf course, and an abundance of waves to catch. And that’s just the start for Port Fairy.
Read our guide to the best things to do in Port Fairy to make the most out of your seaside break or our itinerary of what to see, eat, and do.
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Maritime history meets coastal cool at the old sealing and whaling village of Port Fairy, writes Jo Stewart. Discover why Port Fai...
There is a range of different accommodation options in Port Fairy including charming inns (one of which is Victoria’s oldest), chic glamping, and heritage-listed hotels. Whether you prefer camping or a more high-end experience, our list of Port Fairy accommodations will help you find the perfect place to stay while enjoying all that this beautiful coastal town has to offer.
The town’s charming ambience and vibrant culinary scene are perfectly reflected in its many eateries and watering holes. Visitors can find something to satisfy their palate be it fresh seafood, heartwarming pub fare, or a fine dining experience with an elevated wine list.
To kickstart your day there are also a number of wonderful cafes serving top-notch breakfasts and good Aussie coffee.
The beauty of Port Fairy is that most of this little town’s treasures can be unearthed without the need for a tour or package. But one option for further exploration is to take to the waters of Port Fairy Bay for a chance to spy pods of dolphins, or humpbacks and southern right whales along this so-called ‘whale corridor’. Head to the Port Fairy & Region Visitor Information Centre for details on local boat operators.
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