Geelong
Located on the shores of Corio Bay in Victoria, Geelong also known to the local indigenous population as Wathawurrung offers a mix of coastal attractions, parks and experiences for families. The city combines historic charm with modern amenities, making it a convenient stop for both short visits and longer stays.
The waterfront is a central feature of Geelong, with wide promenades, playgrounds, a ferris wheel during the warmer seasons and picnic areas along the bay. Families can explore the area on foot or by bike, enjoying the views of the harbour and yachts.
A popular pastime for locals and visitors are fishing, eating local fish and chips or grabbing an ice cream. The waterfront also has a mini train that takes kids and adults on a tour of the waterfront for a fee, making it a fun and exciting option for those with younger kids.
One of the highlights of Geelong is Eastern Beach Reserve, which features an enclosed swimming area which was built in the 1930s, encasing Eastern Beach Reserve Main Pool. It is the perfect location for cooling off on those hot, sunny days. The sea bath is protected from strong currents and provides a large diving tower and several islands providing a safe place for kids and families to swim.
There is also the Eastern Beach Children’s Pool specifically for the much younger kids. Both areas are supervised by lifeguards at certain times of the day between November and April however parents must still supervise kids under 10 years and accompany kids under 5 years in the water.
Beyond the waterfront, Geelong has a range of parks and gardens. The Botanic Gardens offer shaded walking paths, picnic spots and areas to explore native plants. Playground areas such as the brand new Rippleside Park are spread throughout the city, making it easy to find parking close to the play space whilst accessing BBQ’s and other useful facilities.
The city also has a thriving arts and culture scene with street art throughout Geelong as well as art galleries that showcase local and national artists. For lovers of art, the public art sculpture trail could be a great option taking in various creations such as Furl, a steel piece of art by Robbie Rowlands, Me Myself & iPhone by Anne Anderson made from steel and bronze or Scouts, a painted concrete structure by artist Mark Cuthbertson. Other amazing instalments include the iconic Baywalk Bollards which were created by artist Jan Mitchell beginning in 1995. There are over 100 bollards placed around the waterfront each representing a different historical era or figures.
Historical architecture also adds character to the streets, from the recognisable T & G Building to the heritage listed buildings. Geelong City Hall and Geelong Customs House are two buildings that reflect the city’s rich past, when goods including wool were exported from the port, during the gold rush era. Regular markets and community events bring a lively atmosphere, providing additional opportunities to explore local produce, crafts, and entertainment.
If sport is what you seek, GMHBA Stadium also known as Kardinia Park (Kardinyu), home to Geelong Football Club, is situated in the centre of Geelong and hosts many sporting events such as AFL, cricket, soccer, and rugby.
Geelong is also a gateway to the Great Ocean Road, with easy access to coastal drives, beaches, and nearby towns. Whether strolling along the waterfront, enjoying a swim at Eastern Beach, exploring gardens, or discovering local art and history, Geelong offers a mix of experiences that highlight the charm of Victoria’s coastal cities.
