One of the quintessential things about Australia travel packages is the beaches and the golden beaches of Australia’s south coast are definitely some of the most impressive in the whole country. In particular, the Great Ocean Road stretch in the state of Victoria and just a short drive away from the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne is known for its stunning shorelines. These beaches are not just home to indigenous wildlife and stunning attractions like the Twelve Apostles, but they also boast great surf and water-sports. Start your journey in Victoria’s capital and make the most of the fantastic range of Melbourne travel deals available to visitors.

Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula:

The Eastern Beach at Geelong is known for its art-deco sea-bathing complex which includes a swimming pool and expansive promenade. A good choice for families, there is a children’s pool and park, plus a playground and picnic facilities. More family favourites along the coast include Portarlington and the historic resort town of Queenscliff, which also offers picnic and play facilities. Meanwhile, excellent ocean swimming and surfing can be found at Ocean Grove beach, while diehard surfers can head to 13th Beach at Barwon Heads for year round thrills.

Torquay to Lorne:

The legendary Rip Curl Pro Surfing event is held at the famous Bells Beach located between the stretch of Torquay and Lorne. This area is better suited to experienced surfers, but beginners and intermediates can still enjoy plenty of action when they stop off at spots along the coast such as Anglesea and Fairhaven. Fisherman’s Beach in Torquay is a favourite for boating, sailing and windsurfing, while those looking for a good all-round choice can head to Jan Juc, just to the west of Torquay, which is a cliff-lined beach offering opportunities for swimmers, surfers and fishermen alike. Alternatively, Point Roadknight is a popular location for those keen to try their hand at kite-surfing.

Lorne to Apollo Bay:

With gentle surf and considered suitable for both surfing and swimming, it’s no wonder that Lorne remains one of the most popular resort towns on the Great Ocean Road, with many flocking to Loutit Bay. Further along the coast, those seeking an extra dose of greenery will enjoy the lush forest backdrop of the beach at the mouth of Wye River, while further safe swimming and surfing is offered at Kennett River’s beach.

Apollo Bay to Warrnambool:

Home to the famous Australia travel icons, the Twelve Apostles, the well-known Port Campbell National Park can be found roughly half-way between Apollo Bay and Warrnambool. Port Campbell Bay offers excellent swimming and surfing near the famous rock formations. Apollo Bay itself, meanwhile, offers protected waters that are ideal for swimming and popular with families. Along the coast, children will love exploring the rockpools of Blanket Bay in Otway National Park, although the waters come with a warning as they can get choppy. Alternatively, for experienced surfers, the picturesque sandy beach at Johanna offers excellent conditions. The location has even been chosen as an alternative to Bells Beach for the Rip Curl Pro event.

Warrnambool to Nelson:

Lady Bay is one of the top attractions of the city of Warrnambool and offers holidaymakers a combination of surfing, swimming and sailing. Great surfing can also be found at Hopkins River mouth and Logan’s Beach. Port Fairy’s East Beach, meanwhile, is another safe swimming and surfing spot. The wide, sandy shore makes for an attractive sight, as does the sweeping shoreline of Nuns Beach and the long, sandy beach of Bridgewater Bay – which is set against the rugged Cape Bridgewater headland.