Australia is filled with beautiful beach destinations with spectacular landmarks. With thousand kilometers of coastline, you certainly can find the perfect destination for your new next holiday. Metropolitan famous cities, beach towns, or fishing villages, here there’re plenty of options to choose from. And Apollo Bay, in my opinion, is one of the most epic coastal towns to go to in southwestern Victoria.
Looking for spectacular things to do and pristine landscapes in Apollo Bay? Search no more! Here are The Best & Unique Things To Do In Apollo Bay, a perfect balance between secret spots, majestic beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
The Apollo Bay beach town is definitely blessed with two spectacular worlds, Great Otway National Park and the breathtaking coastline of The Great Ocean Road.
Whether you want to go hiking in the picturesque Otway Ranges, photograph the iconic 12 Apostles, admire the thriving wildlife, and explore nature, this place pulls you in, and you can’t help but be drawn by the beauty of it all.
The town plays host to some of the most vibrant events and festivals in Australia, with unique local cuisine, besides the spectacular scenery making this an ideal travel destination.
One thing is for sure, Apollo Bay it’s a spectacular town in every way!
Whether you visit Apollo Bay for the first time, on a solo trip, on a city break, or traveling with all your family and kids, you’ll be sure to find something unmissable to do in this list!
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Iconic Sights in Apollo Bay
Here are the must-do things if this is your first time in Apollo Bay!
Visit the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge
Witness the rugged splendor of the famous Twelve Apostles. These imposing offshore limestone are magnificent rock stacks that rise up from the Southern Ocean. There are countless ways to visit the region and make the most of your coastal exploration. Whether you choose a self-guided walk, a cruise, a boat trip, or a helicopter tour, this is definitely one of the landmarks you must visit in Apollo Bay.
Apollo Bay Beach
Delight in crescent-shaped beach golden sand with breathtaking scenery along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. Depending on the time you travel, you can explore the beach on a full sunny day, swimming and laying on the beach. For those who decide to visit the town’s greatest asset in the winter season, walking on the beach is a perfect way to relax and admire the beauty.
Kayak with Fur Seals or explore the rockpools at Marengo Reef Marine Sanctuary
Looking for one of the best-kept secrets of the Great Ocean Road and one of the best things to do in Apollo Bay? Then head straight to Marengo Reef Marine Sanctuary The reef is home to a large fur seal colony and a kayak tour is a great way to explore this scenic sight.
The Great Ocean Walk
For avid hikers, and not only, a fantastic way to explore the stunning coastline, is going on a trip to Great Ocean Walk. Officially starting in Apollo Bay and ending in Twelve Apostles, with almost 100 km in length, the trail may take you 8 days to complete. Of course, you can do sections based on your times.
History and Culture in Apollo Bay
There are some impressive places and spectacular traditions you should experience in Apollo Bay!
Explore Cape Otway Lighthouse
Build in 1848, Cape Otway Lighthouse is the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia. All over the country is considered the most significant one so, prepare to be surprised at the Cape Otway Lightstation where the Lighthouse is only one of the attractions. You will also find the Telegraph Station, a WWII Radar Station, and an Indigenous Cultural Centre.
Winter Wild Festival
To embrace the beauty and rawness of winter along the Southern Ocean, the locals created this vibrant festival in 2017. The annual Winter Wild Festival is one of the most spectacular so you can expect a varied program of music, arts, workshops, and self-discovery.
Apollo Bay Seafood Festival
Depending on the dates of your trip, you may coincide with one of the most famous festivals in Apollo Bay. Although there are many music events, the most important remains Apollo Bay Seafood Festival. Staged on the picturesque foreshore, the festival is held in the month of February. Is a great occasion to taste the finest seafood local cuisine.
Apollo Bay Surroundings
Discover more by visiting the countryside, and some of the most breathtaking landmarks.
Otway Fly Treetop Walk
Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is the ultimate outdoor nature experience in the stunning Apollo’s Bay rainforest. The Otway Ranges, part of the Otway National Park are home to waterfalls, lakes, and rainforests. While the Otway Fly Treetop Walk gives visitors an opportunity to explore the forest from the canopy.
Spot the Shipwreck from The Mariners Lookout
Located on the outskirts of Apollo Bay, you will find The Mariners Lookout, a beautiful viewpoint. The place is ideal for those looking for incredible vistas of the town, harbor, and shore.
Shopping And Food In Apollo Bay
Enjoy some shopping sessions while experiencing the food and the tea tradition!
Stop for a treat at The Great Ocean Road Lolly Shop
This is guaranteed to be a favorite stop-in at Apollo Bay! A family-run confectionery shop with delicious traditional English sweets, Australian lollies, gourmet chocolate, even slushies, delicious hot chocolate, and locally roasted coffee.
Apollo Bay Farmers Market
Shopping should be an essential part of any trip, and Apollo Bay is no exception! If you happen to be in the town on the third Sunday of the month then make your way to the Scout Hut. The farmers and local business vendors offer handmade goods and local produce. It is a small market but a great way to experience the culture, taste the traditional dishes and enjoy the good vibe.
Try Award-Winning Ice Cream
You may not know by Dooley’s Ice Cream is a multi-award-winning ice cream shop located on the main street in Apollo Bay. You don’t want to miss a delicious experience of ice cream fully produced on-site, and some unique creations like chili chocolate or lemon curd.
Top Fun Activities In Apollo Bay
Fun activities may not be your major reason to visit Apollo Bay however there are a few things you definitely should do.
Relax On The Beach At Mounts Bay
The beach at Apollo Bay is gorgeous, but it can get incredibly busy in the summer months. If you want to enjoy a quiet day at the beach, head round the corner to Mounts Bay where you will find a perfect picnic spot with spectacular pristine views.
Marvel at the Waterfalls
Who could help but be enchanted by a waterfall? Perhaps it is the pristine beauty of them, the scenic walk, and the viewing platforms. Here you will find three options perfect to be explored!
Go Wildlife spotting at Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
Take the self-guided rainforest boardwalk at Maits Rest and you will see unique beautiful gardens, with giant rainforest trees up to 300 years old. It is an 800 m circular walk that takes you to one of the most spectacular scenery.
Things To Do At Night In Apollo Bay
If you want to make your holiday in Apollo Bay unforgettable, be sure to include the following night experiences on your itinerary.
Immerse in a Sunset Cruises
If you are looking for a perfect evening, try a sunset cruise tour and explore the region. You will find many options, and great sights to see while cruising. Just check with locals for the best deal.
Visit the Apollo Bay Distillery
Whether you are a gin lover or not you may want to explore the complete preparation process besides tasting it. The distillery is located in one of the oldest buildings in the town. This is a great tour of history, culture, and heritage.
Apollo Bay’s Retro Cinema
Located in the Main Hall of the Mechanics Institute, his place is a great way to experience a movie night in a retro cinema. Check the listed hours and showings on their website before going.