Known for its spectacular stretch of coastline and stunning ocean views, Warrnambool is one of the most popular seaside destinations along Australia’s Great Ocean Road.
Situated along the Shipwreck Coast, about 265km southwest of Melbourne, Victoria. Warrnambool boasts a breathtaking shoreline, with pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and stunning rock formations.
It’s also surrounded by lush farmlands and rolling hills, delivering a picturesque backdrop.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, Warrnambool offers a wide range of attractions and activities to suit every traveler.
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Warrnambool, here are my top suggestions to add to your bucket list.
From stunning coastal lookouts to watching the southern right whales, here are 12 top things to do in Warrnambool, Victoria.
Warrnambool, Victoria
Warrnambool is situated on Victoria’s far south-west coast between the towns of Port Campbell and Port Fairy.
The coastline surrounding Warrnambool and all the way down to Cape Otway is known as the Shipwreck Coast due to the large number of ships that sank here during the late 1800s from rough weather conditions.
Warrnambool is famous for its beautiful sheltered beaches, mild summers, cool winters, and whale nurseries, where many southern right whales come within meters of the shoreline to nurture their calves.
Where to stay in Warrnambool
Warrnambool has a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and travel budgets of all types.
If this is your first time visiting Warrnambool, then I highly recommend booking accommodation closer to the city centre. You’ll find it easier to explore the nearby beaches & attractions.
Places like the Lady Bay Resort, Deep Blue Hotel, and Surfside Holiday Park are all fantastic lodging options.
Henna House – Warrnambool Retreat
My sister and I stayed at the beautiful Henna House hosted by Warrnambool Retreat. There are two apartments to choose from the Henna and the Merri.
The Henna House has two rooms. The master has a luxurious king bed with a deep bathtub ready for unwinding and a spacious ensuite located to the right. The other sleeps a queen with a separate bathroom down the hall.
This beautifully decorated apartment is located in the heart of Warrnambool’s downtown area. All rooms are modern and comfortable and the Art Deco vibes make it super cozy and relaxing – it’s a great place to stay.
Where to eat in Warrnambool
Warrnambool offers a diverse culinary scene, with a range of dining options. Here are a few popular places to eat in Warrnambool.
Frolic Lane Cocktail Bar
If you’re looking for a cozy setting, Frolic Lane Cocktail Bar is a great spot. They offer a selection of wines, cocktails, and a menu featuring delicious tapas-style dishes & pizza.
The Spud Box
If you’re in the mood for a hot baked potato, The Spud Box is the perfect place. They serve freshly baked potatoes with a variety of toppings at a reasonable price – I recommend getting the bacon potato, a classic Aussie spud.
Allee Expresso on Dispensary Lane
This cute hidden gem is the ideal spot to grab your morning coffee. Allee Expresso has a great selection of cakes and pastries plus they also do a really good three-cheese toastie – So good!
The Whaler’s Hotel
Your classic Aussie pub! The Whalers Hotel offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. They have a rooftop courtyard, a family-friendly bistro, sports bar, and live music.
12 Top Things to Do in Warrnambool, Victoria
1. Logan’s Beach Whale Viewing Platform
The magnificent Southern Right Whales have been visiting Warrnambool’s beaches for hundreds of years! During the winter months, you can see these beautiful creatures swim within meters of the shore, to nurse their calves.
Logan’s Beach Whale Nursery is a wooden viewing platform that showcases an incredible coastline view making it the perfect spot for whale watching.
The best time to visit the Warrnambool whales is from June to September as they migrate to warmer waters around the southern areas of Australia.
Whale Viewing Tips
Stop in at Warrnambool’s Visitor Centre beforehand to see if the whales have been spotted in the area and the best locations to view them.
The best time of day to see the whales is in the morning or during the day. The whales will usually breach when the sun is shining. They are also easier to spot when it’s sunny out!
Sometimes, you can’t always see the whales from the viewing platform. So be sure to bring a pair of binoculars to increase your chances of spotting them.
2. Warrnambool Art Gallery
Rated as one of the top things to do in Warrnambool. The Warrnambool Art Gallery (WAG) is dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australian art, with a particular focus on Indigenous artists and those from the Southwestern region of Victoria.
The gallery’s collection includes more than 2,000 artworks representing both historical and contemporary periods.
It also includes a diverse collection of various art forms such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, printmaking, and photography.
The gallery is located at 26 Liebig Street, Warrnambool. It is easily accessible by public transport and offers parking nearby.
Admission to the gallery is generally free, although some special exhibitions may have an entry fee.
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3. Hopkins Falls
Hopkins Falls is a picturesque waterfall located about 7.5 miles (12k) south of Warrnambool. It’s one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria and is known for its impressive cascade and panoramic surroundings.
The waterfall drop is about 90 feet (28m) over a wide rock face, creating a beautiful water display, especially after a rainy day.
There is also a designated viewing platform that leads to an incredible view – from here, visitors can enjoy the panoramic sights of the waterfall and its surroundings.
The Falls also has many picnic areas with tables and benches, making it an ideal place to relax, enjoy your lunch and soak in the waterfall’s tranquil ambiance.
4. Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum
Another popular spot to add to your Warrnambool bucket list is the historic Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village & Museum. Flagstaff Hill provides a fascinating insight into Warrnambool’s historic maritime past.
It showcases the region’s rich maritime history, particularly during the 19th century when it was an important port for trade and shipping along the Shipwreck Coast.
The village is a living history museum that recreates a 19th-century coastal village, giving visitors a sense of what life was like during that era. The historic buildings and streetscapes are meticulously recreated, providing an immersive experience.
The live museum has more than 40 buildings to explore, including a fire station, blacksmith forge, school house, sweet shop, and historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of Lady Bay and the Southern Ocean.
Be sure to explore the Shipwreck Coast Gallery, which houses a collection of artifacts and displays related to the treacherous shipwrecks that occurred along the coastline.
One of Flagstaff Hill’s top highlights is its Shipwrecked Sound and Light Show. This enchanting multimedia experience uses audiovisual effects to recount the stories of shipwrecks and the difficulties faced by sailors and settlers.
The Flagstaff Hill area is also home to Middle Island, known for its local Little Penguins, aka (Fairy Penguins) These cute penguins are the smallest species of penguins in the world and use the island as a nearby nesting ground.
To find out more about Middle Island and the Little Penguin colony, you can join a guided tour or eco-boat tours offered by local businesses.
5. Deep Blue Hot Springs
Warrnambool’s Deep Blue Hot Springs offers its guests the opportunity to unwind, relax, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of geothermal hot springs.
Deep Blue Hot Springs is a relaxation and wellness retreat that features natural geothermal hot springs. It includes indoor and outdoor bathing areas, steam rooms, saunas, full-service spa rooms, hotel accommodation, and more.
The pools are filled with mineral-rich thermal water heated by the natural geothermal energy beneath the earth’s surface.
I highly recommend booking your hot springs experience in advance, as the retreat is only open on specific days, and spots fill up fast. Ticket prices are $45 AUD for an adult and $32 for kids aged 5-15.
Deep Blue Hot Springs is situated near the beach on Worm Bay Rd, just a short drive from Warrnambool’s city center. It’s the ideal spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery and the soothing sounds of the nearby ocean.
6. Warrnambool Botanic Gardens
Take a stroll around Warrnambool’s lush Botanic Gardens, a beautiful and serene public garden located in the heart of the town.
The Warrnambool Botanic Gardens were founded in 1879, making them one of the oldest surviving regional botanic gardens in Victoria.
The gardens themselves were designed by renowned landscape gardener William Guilfoyle, who was also responsible for the design of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne.
The botanical gardens are home to a diverse collection of plants, including both native and exotic species. You can also explore many themed areas, such as the Australian plant section, rose garden, fernery, and a range of ornamental and flowering plants.
The Botanic Gardens are also listed on the Victorian Heritage Register due to their historical, architectural, and botanical significance. The gardens are not only a place of beauty but also a reflection of the region’s history and heritage.
The Gardens are free to enter and are open every day of the year, with a few exceptions to special events where a small fee may be required.
7. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
If you only had time to see a few attractions in Warrnambool, make sure one of them is the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve. I absolutely loved this place. The park provides amazing opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Visitors can observe kangaroos and emus grazing nearby. You can also spot koalas resting in eucalyptus trees within meters of the car park. It’s a fantastic place to bring the kids and enjoy the nearby walking tracks.
Tower Hill Reserve is situated within an extinct volcano, which erupted thousands of years ago. The volcano’s cone has since collapsed, leaving behind a large crater that has evolved into a thriving ecosystem.
The reserve holds significant cultural importance to the local Aboriginal communities. It is known as “Worn Gundidj” and has been an important site for thousands of years, with evidence of Indigenous occupation dating back over 30,000 years.
The park offers a wide variety of walking trails that allow visitors to explore diverse habitats and scenic views. Popular activities in the park include cycling, trail running, camping, rock climbing, and more.
It’s free to enter, and the visitor center is open from 10 am – 4 pm every day. Tower Hill Reserve is located west of Warrnambool and can be accessed from the Princes Highway.
8. Thunder Point Lookout
If you’re looking for the best spot to watch the sunset, then Thunder Point Lookout doesn’t disappoint. Thunder Point Coastal Reserve is famous for its stunning natural scenery and panoramic views.
The reserve offers breathtaking vistas of the Southern Ocean, rugged cliffs, and the surrounding coastline. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy the natural serenity and capture memorable photos.
We came here during sunset on our last day, and just wow – The colors here were absolutely incredible. Thunder Point Coastal Reserve has several lookout points that offer exceptional views. You can even spot some of the whales here, which is fun to see.
Thunder Point is a must-visit destination in Warrnambool for nature lovers, photographers, and those who love watching a good sunset.
9. Warrnambool Foreshore Promenade
The Warrnambool Promenade stretches along the city’s coastline, providing a scenic and enjoyable waterfront experience. It’s centrally located and easily accessible from the city center.
The promenade is lined with beautifully landscaped parks and gardens. There are picnic facilities and kid’s playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for families to enjoy outdoor activities.
The Foreshore leads to the Breakwater, where you can find the historic Warrnambool Breakwater Lighthouse. This iconic lighthouse was the leading lighthouse for many years but soon became ineffective due to a lack of elevation.
You can climb to the top for panoramic views of the ocean at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum.
The Warrnambool Foreshore Promenade is often a hub for community events and activities. It’s definitely worth checking out the local event calendar to see if there are any special happenings during your visit.
10. Fletcher Jones Market
Located in the former Fletcher Jones factory, the Fletcher Jones Market displays 60 stalls spread over two floors packed with antiques, old books, collectibles, vintage clothing, and loads more.
The Market was named after the Fletcher Jones Company, which was established in 1924 by David Fletcher Jones, a Warrnambool local. It was an iconic Australian clothing brand selling men, women & children’s clothing.
The Fletcher Jones company no longer exists. However, its factory and gardens still remain open for visitors to stop by and take a look around.
I’ll be honest I didn’t really love this place. I found a lot of their items to be overpriced, there was no real order to things, and the whole place gave off this abandoned vibe.
That said, If you’re really into collecting antique items, then I would recommend taking a peek. But I don’t rate this very high on my must-see spots in Warrnambool.
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11. Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground
Lake Pertobe is a popular, family-friendly parkland/lake located in the heart of Warrnambool.
It has an expansive outdoor recreational area spanning approximately 20 hectares (49 acres). It is situated adjacent to the Warrnambool Foreshore, providing beautiful views of Lady Bay.
The playground is centered around Lake Pertobe, a beautiful man-made lake where visitors can rent paddleboats, canoes, or rowboats to explore the surroundings of the lake.
It has loads of walking and cycling paths, picnic tables, and a chic coffee shop adjacent to the park called the Beach Kiosk Cafe.
Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground is a vibrant and engaging outdoor area that provides endless fun and entertainment for everyone.
12. Port Fairy
Lucky last, we have the amazing coastal town of Port Fairy. Located just 22 mins from Warrnambool, Port Fairy is known for its rich maritime history and has a well-preserved historic town center.
It was one of Victoria’s busiest ports during the 19th century, and many of the original buildings and cottages from that era still stand today, giving the town its unique vibe.
Located near Port Fairy is Griffith Island, a scenic nature reserve accessible via a causeway. It is home to a colony of Australian fur seals and is a popular spot for bird-watching, walking trails, and enjoying the coastal views.
Take a walk out to the iconic Griffith Island lighthouse and soak in the ocean views. The lighthouse was built in 1859 to assist ships navigating the rough coast.
It also played a crucial role in guiding vessels safely into the port of Port Fairy during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Port Fairy is absolutely beautiful. I highly recommend taking a day trip over there from Warrnambool and exploring the sights. The town also boasts a bunch of cozy cafes and historic pubs, which are certainly worth checking out also.
Day Trips from Warrnambool
Portland
Situated along the western coastline of Victoria, Portland is about an hour’s drive from Warrnambool.
This cute town offers incredible ocean views with beautiful sandy beaches. Nuns Beach, Dutton Way Beach, and Bridgewater Bay are all popular spots during the summer months for swimming, surfing & fishing.
The town’s top highlights include Cape Nelson Lighthouse, The Cape Bridgewater Petrified Forest, The Glenelg River, and The Great South West Walk.
Port Campbell
Port Campbell is situated along the iconic Great Ocean Road, approximately 140 miles (230km) southwest of Melbourne. It is nestled along the scenic coastline of the Shipwreck Coast and is about 50 mins from Warrnambool.
Port Campbell is well-known for its rugged coast and beautiful beaches. The town’s main beach, Port Campbell Bay, offers quite a unique setting for swimming & sunbathing.
Port Campbell’s top highlights include Shelley Beach, Port Campbell National Park, London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge, The Twelve Apostles, and The Gibson Steps.
Warrnambool via the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is a world-famous scenic drive in Victoria. It stretches along the southwestern coast for 151 miles (243km) and is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, stunning ocean views, and iconic natural landmarks.
It winds along the rugged coastline, passing through lush rainforests, towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming seaside towns. If you plan to road trip to Warrnambool from Melbourne, then you will definitely want to go via the Great Ocean Road.
I’ve been down the Great Ocean Road a few times now, and I absolutely love it. It’s one of my favorite places in Victoria.
However, on this trip, we only had a few days booked, so we decided to drive straight to Warrnambool and come back to Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road.
I highly recommend doing this if you’re short on time. If you want to get straight there, you will want to go via Hamilton Hwy/B140. It should you around 3 hours.
If you want to go via The Great Ocean Road, then you will need to go the scenic route via HwyB11/The Great Ocean Road. My plan this summer is to do a detailed blog post on The Great Ocean Road and all the highlights, so stay tuned for that post.
That’s it! Those are my 12 top things to do in Warrnambool, Victoria. I hope you found this post helpful. Warrnambool is such a fun place to visit, especially during the winter with the whales migrating through.
Let me know in the comments below if you have visited Warrnambool or been down the Great Ocean Road before. What was your favorite highlight?
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