Located southwest of Melbourne and nestled among some of Victoria’s most stunning coastlines, historical sites, and towns, Geelong makes for an ideal base for memorable day trips. Its location offers plenty of possibilities for an amazing day out. And the best part? Each destination is close enough to enjoy within a single day, yet diverse enough to cater to any traveller’s preferences. So, if you need a quick destressing trip and want a quick escape from the daily hustle and bustle, here are some of the best day trips that are all a short distance from Geelong.
1. Cruise Across the Bay to Sorrento
Hop aboard the Searoad Ferries ship from Queenscliff and set sail to Mornington Peninsula’s historic village, Sorrento. Known for its seaside charm and imposing limestone buildings, Sorrento makes for a great Geelong day trip destination across the bay. Just a 4-minute drive from the ferry terminal, you’ll be greeted by the scenic Sorrento Ocean Beach. Spend your morning sunbathing along its sandy shores or taking a dip in its myriad of rock pools. Then, go café hopping and try out the best coffee and pastries Sorrento has to offer—from the iconic vanilla slice of Baked in Sorrento to the infamous coffee and chicken burger of St. Pauls General Store.
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to take in the panoramic views of Sorrento on foot, you can take the Sorrento-Portsea Artists’ Trail. As you walk through this 1.5-kilometre trail, you’ll discover 14 replicas of paintings inspired by the landscapes of the Peninsula. When you’re ready to wrap up the day, indulge in a rejuvenating massage experience at Marlo Spa and let the calming ambience wash over you as expert therapists melt away the stresses of the day.
2. Embark on a Gourmet Adventure Aboard the Q Train
Experience a 3-hour gourmet journey unlike any other aboard The Q Train, where you can have the best of seasonal local produce in a moving restaurant. Starting at Drysdale, which is just a 20-minute drive away from Geelong, The Q Train takes you through some of the Surf Coast’s most scenic landscapes, all while indulging in a carefully curated menu that highlights the region’s finest cuisines.
Onboard, there are two dining options available: the Q Class and First Class, each with different experiences to offer. The Q Class takes you into the social dining carriage where you can enjoy a relaxed, communal atmosphere while savouring a 5-course meal. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy their meal with the company of family or friends, where conversation flows as easily as the drinks you’ll be having. For couples and groups seeking a more exclusive and intimate experience, the First Class carriage offers a luxurious setting with private booths, personalised butler service, and a 5-course meal paired with 5 complimentary drinks. It creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for a special occasion or a romantic date. Whichever carriage you board onto, the round-trip from Drysdale to Queenscliff is a quintessential experience that allows you to enjoy your meal with a view of the quaint countryside and rolling hills throughout the trip.
3. Explore the Historic Seaside Town of Queenscliff
A seaside town 37 minutes away from Geelong known for its Victorian-era heritage, Queenscliff is often overlooked as a day trip destination. But aside from its ferry terminal, which docks ferries connecting Queenscliff to Sorrento, the town has much more to offer to those who take the time to explore. Queenscliff Harbour provides the perfect spot to relax and soak in the maritime atmosphere with its bustling marina filled with boats, restaurants, cafés, and boutique shops. One of the must-try cafés in Queenscliff is the Wharf Street Pantry, where you revel in the harbour views with good coffee and pastry in hand. If a heavy meal is what you seek, TARRA Queenscliff offers nothing less than an unparalleled culinary finesse with Australian cuisine. Considered one of the best restaurants in Queenscliff, their breakfast and lunch menu features a diversity of flavours, from classic toasts to their signature chicken schnitzel, house-made potato gnocchi, and Tasmanian salmon fillet.
Near the harbour, you’ll see the two historical lighthouses that guide ships through the notoriously dangerous mouth of Port Phillip Bay: the Queenscliff High Light (Black Lighthouse) and Queenscliff Low Light (White Lighthouse). Between these two lighthouses stands Fort Queenscliff, a restored 19th-century fort that now houses military artefacts dating from the 1860s. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful coastal town, Queenscliff is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and discovery.
4. Set Sail and Reel in a Catch with Gone Fishing Charters at Queenscliff
From seasoned anglers to novices looking to reel in their first catch and travellers seeking a new experience, Gone Fishing Charters caters to everyone. Drive 37 minutes to Queenscliff Harbour and experience 8 hours of deep-sea fishing, where you’ll have the chance to reel in and take home gummy sharks, King George whiting, snapper, yellowtail kingfish, mako shark, and more. With all the equipment and guidance provided by the skilled crew, you’ll be able to focus entirely on the fun and excitement of the experience, no matter what your fishing skill level is.
Beyond the fishing, the boat trip itself offers a unique perspective of Queenscliff’s stunning coastline. As you sail through the waters, the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views create a relaxing backdrop to your day. By the end of the day, whether you’ve caught the big one or simply enjoyed a peaceful day trip from Geelong, you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories of your time at sea.
5. Enjoy a Day of Water Fun at Adventure Park Geelong
If you’re an adrenaline junkie who can’t get enough of water fun, there’s no need to travel far because Adventure Park Geelong is just right around the corner. Located just a 22-minute drive from Geelong and 20 minutes from Queenscliff Searoad Terminal, this waterpark is packed with thrilling rides that will have your heart racing. Make a big splash on the adrenaline-pumping Tsunami, Tornado, and Six-Lane Aqua Racer waterslides or take the plunge on a two-seater raft on The Gold Rush Rapids and Wild West Canyon.
However, Adventure Park isn’t just for thrill-seekers—it’s also a fantastic place for families and little ones. Kids (and kids at heart) can play and splash around at the Tiny Tots Splashzone or take a relaxing cruise on the Lazy River. Families can also take a break and recharge at the picnic spots around the waterpark, where they can bring their own packed lunches or just grab a bite from the park’s on-site dining outlines. This waterpark has plenty of attractions for everyone of all ages to explore that your Geelong day trip will surely be filled with non-stop fun.
6. Indulge in a Foodie Tour Around Portarlington
Located 33 minutes from Geelong and right in the stomach of Port Phillip Bay, Portarlington is a haven for foodies looking to indulge in fresh, local flavours. The famed Portarlington Pier is surrounded not only by stunning seaside views but also by a collection of culinary delights. Start your foodie tour with something light on the stomach yet packed with flavour, like a pie, cheese toastie, focaccia, or vanilla slice from The Portarlington Bakehouse. Then, head to the nearby Staple Eatery and Deli for some slice of wood-fired pizza.
Of course, a foodie tour at Portarlington isn’t complete without the seafood. Pier Street has some of the freshest mussels, prawns, and calamari salad you can find in town. The waterfront view adds a picturesque backdrop as you savour the seafood caught straight from the surrounding waters. Just a little walk from Pier Street, you’ll see the humble yet inviting Fine Aromas Café. This rustic café has a welcoming atmosphere that invites casual conversations over coffee or chips. And if you want something exotic to wrap up the day, HelloFoody at Portarlington serves Indian cuisine for dinner. From samosa to butter chicken, garlic naan, and vindaloo, this humble food truck serves the most flavourful dishes that will fill your tummy.
7. Take a Sip of the Surf Coast’s Finest Wines
The Surf Coast or Bellarine Peninsula produces some of the most distinctive cool-climate wines in Victoria, thanks to its maritime climate and strategic location sheltered by Port Phillip Bay. Just a short 21-minute drive from Geelong, boutique wineries and large estates are peppered around the region, making it an ideal destination for day trips.
Start your winery journey at the Bellarine Estate, where you can spend lunch or an afternoon looking over the sprawling vineyards next to the cellar door. Their curated selection of wines ranges from chardonnay, pinot noir, merlot, pinot gris, and sparkling, all of which carry the signature local flavour of The Otways.
If you want to just sip back and relax in a casual atmosphere, stop by Flying Brick Cider Co. Here, you’ll be welcomed by the sound of live music and the refreshing taste of their ciders and cool-climate wines. Pair your drink with one of their share platters, fine cheese, burgers, chicken, or calamari, and you’ve got yourself a relaxing afternoon full of flavour and fun.
For those who want a change of pace and would like to switch up to some fine dining experience, Jack Rabbit Vineyard is the place to be. This award-winning vineyard restaurant has made its reputation as a gastronomic showpiece on the Peninsula, serving seafood platters, mussels, and pork belly that are best paired with cocktails and wine. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just looking for a relaxing day out, the Bellarine Peninsula has something to offer everyone.
8. Explore the Underwater with Scubabo Dive Victoria
Victoria’s waters are teeming with marine life, and a vibrant underwater world awaits you just off the coast of Queenscliff, a 34-minute drive from Geelong. Scubabo Dive Victoria takes you on an unforgettable underwater adventure where you’ll have up-close encounters with vibrant coral reefs, sea creatures, and historic shipwrecks.
With Scubabo, you can choose which diving site to explore depending on your interest and experience level. For beginners, there are shallow reef drives where you can say hi to colourful fish and Australian fur seals in their natural habitat. More experienced divers may opt to explore deeper waters, where shipwrecks like the HMAS Canberra lie in eternal rest on the ocean floor. Those with fishing licences can even catch scallops and bring home a fresh, delicious haul after a day on the water. Scubabo Dive Victoria offers a unique way to experience Victoria’s underwater wonders, making it an unforgettable day trip for adventure seekers.
Time to Hit the Road for Your Next Adventure
Geelong’s proximity to so many fantastic destinations means that the opportunities for day trips are endless. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager to dive into new adventures, a foodie ready to indulge in local flavours, or someone who enjoys a relaxed day of exploring the coastline, day trips from Geelong ensure there’s something for everyone.
If you want to escape the busy roads and cruise the bay in style, Searoad Ferries offers a scenic and relaxing way to travel between Queenscliff and Sorrento. This ferry journey isn’t just a mode of transportation—it’s an experience in itself. Take in the coastal views, breathe in the fresh sea air, and sip on a glass of coffee, beer, or wine on board. Searoad Ferries invites you to an experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get to Phillip Island from Geelong?
Depending on which route you take, the trip from Geelong to Phillip Island might take from three to four hours. The most straightforward route is driving to Phillip Island via M1, which passes through Melbourne and takes approximately 3 hours.
Alternatively, you take the Searoad Ferries ship from Queenscliff to Sorrento, adding a relaxing coastal leg to your trip. From Sorrento, you can either drive to Phillip Island via M420 or take a ferry from Stony Point via Westernport Ferries.
2. Are there any family-friendly day trips from Geelong?
Yes! Adventure Park Geelong, Portarlington’s food scene, and Queenscliff’s harbour all make for excellent family-friendly trips.
3. What is the best time of year for day trips from Geelong?
Depending on your destination, the best time of year can vary. Generally, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) seasons offer the most pleasant weather for exploring outdoors due to mild temperatures. If you’re planning on a beachscape in Sorrento or Queenscliff, summer (December to February) might be ideal for water-based activities.
4. Can I combine multiple day trips into one?
Yes, Queenscliff and Portarlington day trips can be combined into one as they are only about a 22-minute drive from each other. You can also take a maritime Queenscliff morning trip, take a scenic ferry to Sorrento, and then go on an afternoon beach trip to Sorrento’s famed ocean beach.
5. What should I bring on a day trip from Geelong?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, water, and snacks are a must. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views!
6. Are there any scenic walks near Geelong?
Yes, the Bellarine Rail Trail and Barwon River Trail offer scenic walking routes close to Geelong.