Things to do in Geelong

* Begin your day with a refreshing morning break by the Anglesea River, a delightful start to your journey. * Visit the Iconic Split Point Lighthouse Stop by the historic Split Point Lighthouse, affectionately known as the "Red Hat Lighthouse." This striking structure has been guiding ships since 1891 and offers visitors a glimpse into maritime history. Take a leisurely stroll around the lighthouse and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding coastline. * Capture Memories at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch Pause at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch, a symbolic gateway marking the start of this scenic drive. This iconic landmark is perfect for photo opportunities, commemorating the soldiers who built the road as a tribute to their service. * Explore Vibrant Coastal Area As you continue your journey, you'll pass through the vibrant surfing location of Lorne, known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. * Delight in Lunch at Apollo Bay Arrive in the picturesque town of Apollo Bay, where you can relax and enjoy a delightful lunch. This seaside town offers a variety of dining options, from fresh seafood to local specialties, all set against the backdrop of stunning coastal views. * Encounter Wildlife near Barham Reserve Make a stop near Barham Reserve. Here, you can spot adorable wild koalas in their natural habitat, observe these cuddly creatures as they lounge and munch on leaves. * Marvel at Natural Wonders of Loch Ard Gorge and Twelve Apostles Conclude your journey with a visit to the awe-inspiring Loch Ard Gorge and the Twelve Apostles. These natural rock formations are some of the most photographed landmarks in Australia. Marvel at the towering limestone stacks rising majestically from the ocean and learn about the dramatic shipwreck history that adds to the allure of Loch Ard Gorge. * Stop at Winchelsea (may opt to other location according to actual situation on the day) for a short break before heading straight back to the city.

Soar above the stunning Great Ocean Road, one of Australia's most beloved tourist destinations, with a tandem skydive in Barwon Heads, with optional transfers from Melbourne. Feel secure with a skilled skydiving team, dedicated to your safety as you venture beyond your comfort zone and explore new heights. Sky dive from the highest altitude in Australia, reaching up to 15,000 feet. Experience the thrill of freefalling at speeds exceeding 200km/hour for an unforgettable 60 seconds. Then, as you glide under the canopy for 5-7 minutes, savor breathtaking views of Barwon Heads, Torquay, Bells Beach, and Geelong.

Leave the city heading over the Westgate Bridge bright and early to maximize your time on the Great Ocean Road. After just over an hour’s drive, stop on a popular surf beach near the town of Anglesea for a rest break. Take a short drive before stopping at Memorial Arch, which commemorates the returned soldiers who worked on the construction of the 151–mile stretch of road following World War I. Continue along the Great Ocean Road taking in the spectacular ocean, beach and cliff views. Your guide will help you spot koalas among the eucalyptus trees, as you journey along this famous coastline. After stopping for lunch at Apollo Bay, the road and the ocean part ways for the next few hours as you head into the Otway Rainforest. (lunch is at the guest's own expense) Take a short 30-minute guided walk right into the heart of the rainforest. Feel dwarfed by some of the largest tree species in the world. Wind further through the forest and return to the ocean, making a stop at the mighty Shipwreck Coast. Here, spend a large portion of the day exploring the 12 Apostles, and Loch Ard Gorge, all a short drive from one another. Your guide will share the tales of disaster, destruction, and survival. After a long day, relax on the drive back to Melbourne and reflect on a great day spent on the Great Ocean Road.

Begin the day with an early start leaving Melbourne city where you will drive over the Westgate Bridge towards the Great Ocean Road - one of the few places where the destination and the journey are the same things. Once you arrive at the Great Ocean Road, enjoy morning tea along the Surf Coast at your first stop, a perfect way to meet your fellow travelers and your guide for the day. As you wind along this iconic road, each twist and turn reveals new spectacular views of the rugged coastline and into the Otway Ranges that lie inland. To hear the history of the road and its workers as you make a stop at Memorial Arch, also known as the Great Ocean Road sign. Keep your eyes peeled for Australian Native Wildlife as we pass through quaint yet popular holiday resort towns. Make your way to the historical town of Apollo Bay for a bite of lunch. Stroll the streets, meander the main beach, or try some unique and award-winning ice cream. After lunch, the road ventures away from the coastline and into the heart of the Otway National Park. Embark on a guided walk through the crisp, fresh air of an ancient rainforest. A truly magical part of the day as you're immersed among ferns and the world's second-tallest species of tree. The journey continues through the rainforest before reaching the Shipwreck Coast, where you will find some of the biggest attractions for the day. Hear about the coastline's most famous shipwreck before stepping down into the gorge at the center of the story of the Loch Ard ill-fated journey. Be towered by the sheer limestone cliffs that form the gorge as you stand on the beach or step into the cold waters of the Southern Ocean at the bottom before reaching the major attraction - the 12 Apostles. View these ginormous limestone monoliths formed by hundreds of years of erosion as they stand high and strong against the forces of nature. A true sight to behold and a perfect way to cap off the day before making your way back to Melbourne for the night. 

Start the day early from the Melbourne CBD and settle in. Go inland for the morning, which is going to bring you out on the Shipwreck Coast before the rest of the tour buses. Here is where you will find the infamous 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge. Take in these world-renowned sites without being caught in the hustle and bustle of the masses. Getting to the 12 Apostles in the morning provides additional colors in the large limestone stacks not seen in the afternoon. Hear the story of Loch Ard and step down into the gorge that has been carved away by the Southern Ocean over hundreds of years, arguably more stunning than the Apostles themselves. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of these breathtaking spots. After taking in this spectacular coastline, drive back along the Great Ocean Road. Wave at all the other buses as they all pass by in the opposite direction as the road begins to run away from the coastline through the Otway ranges. It is now time to stretch your legs on a magical guided rainforest walk amongst some of the tallest tree species in the world. Next, a short drive sees the road and ocean meet once again in the seaside town of Apollo Bay. For the rest of the journey, the road will twist along the coast, offering spectacular ocean, beach, and cliff views. Along this beautiful section of the Great Ocean Road, you’ll stop to spot wild koalas in their natural habitat amongst the eucalyptus trees. Pass through small seaside towns as you continue and make a stop at Memorial Arch, also known as The Great Ocean Road sign, commemorating the workers that built the road. From here, we sit back, relax and enjoy the drive back into the dynamic and cosmopolitan city of Melbourne

Meet at a Rydges hotel in Geelong where you can park easily. From here, you will climb into one of the minibusses or 4x4 Troop Carriers. Hot air balloons float in the wind, so you will therefore begin by heading upwind to one of the various launch sites, where you can prepare the balloon for your flight. Preparations take around half an hour, throughout which passengers are welcome to help out if they are able and wish to. Following a safety briefing by your pilot after the balloon has been fully prepared, it will be time to take to the skies. It never stops amazing passengers how gentle ballooning is as an experience. When you go ballooning, you are not participating in an adrenaline sport, but are rather participating in what your guides like to refer to as "the gentle adventure of floating in the wind". Admire majestic views of Geelong and its surrounding area, the bay, the Barrabool Hills to the West, and the Barwon River. After packing the balloon away following your activity, you will be driven back to your original meeting place, where you will have the option of enjoying a delicious breakfast with the rest of the passengers and crew if you so wish.

Travel from Drysdale -> Queenscliff -> Drysdale Savour a degustation of exquisite local produce and scenic views in a relaxed atmosphere onboard Geelong’s restaurant train beginning at Drysdale Railway Station. When it’s time to depart, staff will welcome you onboard and show you to one of The Q Train’s restored Dining Cars. Once comfortably onboard, relax while perusing the beverage list that offers local, independent wines, beers, and ciders from the Bellarine and across Geelong and the Otways.

Your half-day tour starts with a snorkel at Popes Eye at the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park. Hone your snorkeling skills in its calm, shallow waters and swim with colorful fish.  After your confidence boost, take your snorkeling up a level to Chinaman’s Hat. Get to know the locals, around 40 young Australian fur seals, and explore their habitat with them. Continue to navigate the bay in search of dolphins. In keeping with regulations and respecting these elegant creatures, your instructor will ensure that both dolphins and snorkelers have a fun and safe experience. As you sail from spot to spot, keep lookout from the boat's rooftop viewing platform and watch the seals and dolphins at play. Relax in a hammock and listen to the expert crew as they describe and point out the remarkable marine wildlife.  To make the most of your day on the Bellarine Peninsula, opt for the round-trip transfer options from Geelong Station. Take the hassle out of navigating public transportation and relax on your ride in a tour bus to and from the national park. Suitable for all ages, sizes, and abilities, this swimming with dolphins experience is a perfect group activity for families or friends. Choose the snorkeling option for a thrill or the sightseeing option to just come along for the ride.  After your half-day snorkeling adventure is over, you will also have a few hours to explore the town, sample the local produce at the gourmet restaurants, and relax at one of the many beaches and parks which are within walking distance.

Start the day off with a walk along the spectacular Geelong Waterfront on Bellarine Peninsula. Take the opportunity to breathe in the fresh sea air and scenic views with the locals. After that, you’ll head to the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre to discover Victoria’s largest collection of Aboriginal art and artifacts and greet the local emus and wallabies in a native garden. The next stop along the Bellarine Peninsula will be a stroll around the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse for a fantastic photo opportunity before boarding the ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento. Savor the moment of sailing on the bay while enjoying a regional produce picnic lunch onboard. Observe some of the most serene bay views that the coastline has to offer. Set upon the pristine Portsea Surf Beach, you’ll see the London Arch, a unique rock formation and impressive natural wonder. The tour continues after lunch with a visit to Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm (November to April). Wander through lush strawberry fields and enjoy the unique opportunity to pick your own sweet, juicy strawberries. A delightful way to savour the season’s freshest produce!The tour continues after lunch with a visit to Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm (November to April). Wander through lush strawberry fields and enjoy the unique opportunity to pick your own sweet, juicy strawberries. A delightful way to savour the season’s freshest produce! Next stop at Arthurs Seat to admire the panoramic views from Murrays Lookout across the bay to the city. Finally, take a glimpse into local heritage-protected history and the world-renowned Mornington Peninsula beach boxes. Situated along the coast, these iconic bathing boxes are the area’s symbol of summer and a popular tourist attraction. Enjoy the return trip back to Melbourne after a full day of sightseeing and exploring some of the greatest destinations around the bay.

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day adventure through Australia’s most iconic landscapes, from stunning coastal cliffs to charming towns filled with history and culture. This tour offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement, with opportunities to enjoy local food, wine, and wildlife, all while traveling in comfort on our attractive reclining seats small group vehicles. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to unwind, this tour lets you explore at your own pace and experience the best of Australia’s natural beauty on this most epic small group tour. Day 1: Melbourne to Port Campbell** Begin your journey in Melbourne, crossing the West Gate Bridge and traveling through volcanic plains to Geelong. Stop in Torquay for breathtaking coastal views and a visit to the famous Bells Beach. Continue along the Great Ocean Road, stopping at Kennett River to see koalas and colorful native birds in the wild. You’ll also spot Eastern Grey Kangaroos grazing freely. In the Great Otway National Park, take a guided walk through a temperate rainforest filled with towering trees and lush ferns. Arrive at the Twelve Apostles in the afternoon after the crowds have left, and marvel at these iconic rock formations. For a thrilling experience, take an optional helicopter ride along the coastline. End the day at Loch Ard Gorge, where you’ll hear the gripping story of the famous shipwreck. **Day 2: Port Campbell to Port Fairy** Start your day with another visit to the Twelve Apostles in the soft morning light, then head to Loch Ard Gorge. Next, travel to Warrnambool for a delicious lunch before visiting Tower Hill Wildlife Park, where you’ll learn about Aboriginal culture and meet native wildlife on an interactive tour. Spend the evening in the charming seaside village of Port Fairy, where you can relax and enjoy the local atmosphere. **Day 3: Port Fairy to Naracoorte** Today, cross into South Australia, stopping in Portland for panoramic views from Cape Nelson Lighthouse. Continue through pine plantations to the riverside village of Nelson for a lovely lunch. Afterward, head to Mount Gambier to explore the famous Blue Lake and the dramatic Umpherston Sinkhole. Arrive in Naracoorte in the evening for an overnight stay. **Day 4: Naracoorte to Adelaide** Start the day with a guided tour of the Naracoorte Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fossil discoveries. Enjoy the open countryside as you travel toward Adelaide, crossing the Mighty River Murray by ferry. Visit the Coonawarra wine region, famous for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, and enjoy lunch and wine tasting at Bremerton Winery in Langhorne Creek. Then, visit the German village of Hahndorf, where you can take a 20-minute stroll through its historic streets. Your adventure concludes with sweeping views of Adelaide from Mount Lofty, before being dropped off at your hotel, ending your Great Ocean Road and Beyond experience with memories to cherish forever.