Summer is finally here. A magical time where the sun shines all the time, and we've finally made it past that challenging year.
It's time to explore the best parts of regional Victoria once again.
So, no need to do any further research, here are the best beach-side Victorian towns you should visit over summer.
Apollo Bay
Distance From Melbourne: 3 Hours
Further along the Great Ocean Road from summer hot spot Lorne, Apollo Bay is a little bit quieter, but still sees plenty of visitors over the warmer months.
Apollo Bay is a great beachside town to base yourself out of if you're looking to explore the amazing sights along the Great Ocean Road. The Twelve Apostles are just 1-hour away, and the Californian Redwoods in Otway National Park are something that needs to be experienced to be believed.
Stop in at the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse for lunch and an ice-cold beer.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, try the Great Ocean Road Resort.
Metung
DISTANCE FROM MELBOURNE: 3 Hours 45 Minutes
If you turn off the Princes Highway before Lakes Entrance and follow the Tambo River south you'll end up right on the water in Metung.
Metung is a 25-minute drive from Lakes Entrance, or quicker by boat, and has a range of accommodation options available.
Take a break from watersports and bushwalking at the Metung Hotel, one of the best views from a pub in Victoria.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, try McMillans of Metung.
Cowes
DISTANCE FROM MELBOURNE: 2 Hours
No summer is complete without a trip to Phillip Island.
Cowes is the perfect spot to set up camp for some island exploration. You've got the Penguin Parade once it starts back up again, a visit to Churchill Island to see the highland cattle is never a bad idea, and the Phillip Island Wildlife Park is a great spot where you can see more than 100 different species of Australian animals.
Stop in at the Cheeky Goose Cafe for a good feed.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, try The Waves Apartments.
Inverloch
DISTANCE FROM MELBOURNE: 2 Hours
Inverloch sits right in the middle for those looking for a day trip, or a longer sojourn given it's just two hours from Melbourne.
Inverloch is a great place to surf, and explore the amazing sights along the Bass Coast. Wilsons Prom is also not too far away, we'd recommend checking out the Big Drift if you've got the time.
Stop in at The Local for a coffee and some great food.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, try the RACV Inverloch Resort.
Anglesea
DISTANCE FROM MELBOURNE: 2 Hours
Anglesea is another great spot that's worth spending some time in on the Great Ocean Road.
Explore parts of the Surf Coast through Torquay and Bells Beach, as well as the Otways. Head down the road a bit further and you'll find the Split Point Lighthouse, made famous by Round The Twist.
You can read up on the best lighthouse walks around Victoria here.
Unfortunately, Captain Moonlite has closed, but Fish By Moonlite is operating out of the town centre.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, try the Anglesea River Beach Apartment.
Queenscliff
DISTANCE FROM MELBOURNE: 1 Hour 40 Minutes
At the point of Victoria's other Peninsula, the Bellarine, you'll find the historic Queenscliff.
Queenscliff is one of Victoria's most beautiful towns, sandstone buildings line its streets, with pine trees littered along the foreshore.
You can grab a ferry across from Sorrento if you plan on winding your way around the bay.
Explore other towns like Ocean Grove, Portarlington from Queenscliff, or even jump on the Q Train.
Find breakfast or lunch at the historic Queenscliff General Store Cafe.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, try the Vue Grand Hotel.
Port Fairy
DISTANCE FROM MELBOURNE: 3 Hours 30 Minutes
Picturesque is the only way to describe Port Fairy.
Tucked away in a western corner of Victoria, Port Fairy is a historic port town that has a lot to offer anyone looking for some time away from the big city.
Stop by, or stay at the Merrijig Inn, an historic inn that is the perfect spot for a bite to eat.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, try Drift House.
For more inspiration on where to head in Victoria, head to our Local Escapes section.
Image credit: Rob Blackburn via Visit Victoria
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