Accessible Travel

Accessible travel around Geelong and The Bellarine is improving all the time. With more access-friendly cafes, attractions and accommodation than ever before, there’s even more reason to visit these parts.

Geelong and The Bellarine welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy this beautiful corner of the world.

Whether it's by boat, air, rail or road, there are many ways to get to Geelong and The Bellarine.

When flying with Avalon Airport, flight assistance can be provided direct through the airlines. When landing at the airport, it's easier to navigate all on one-level, there's hearing augmentation and hearing loops for announcements and the friendly team are on hand to help.

Searoad Ferries offers accessible travel between Sorrento and Queenscliff. If arriving by car, please notify the team for suitable parking with close access to the lift to the upper decks. Boarding support, including a wheelchair, can also be provided by the team.

If arriving to Geelong or Portarlington via Port Phillip Ferries, they are proud to partner with Travellers Aid who can support you from Southern Cross Train Station to arrive at the Docklands ferry terminal and throughout your journey.

The Travellers Aid companion is able to travel free, Port Phillip Ferries must be notified of the arrangement.

When looking for public toilets, there are several Changing Places toilets dotted throughout the region. These toilets are designed for those with high support needs while travelling, and include things like a ceiling track hoist system and a height-adjustable adult-sized change table.

You can find some at Geelong Library and Heritage Centre, Geelong Arts Centre and at Portarlington Beach, or browse the interactive map to explore more.

The Access Map Central Geelong and Waterfront outlines accessible parking, gradients, seating, telephones, local landmarks and accessible travel routes in central Geelong and the Geelong waterfront through a virtual and interactive map.

It'll help in planning your trip and navigating central Geelong before you arrive.

One of the most access-friendly parts of Geelong is the stunning north-facing waterfront.

With paved and concreted path, ramps and disability toilets, the waterfront is a scenic spot for a relaxed stroll or roll by the bay.

Victoria Walks has undertaken a review of this 3.49 kilometre trail with imagery of the accessible features along the way.

Another scenic option is the flower-lined path of the Geelong Botanic Gardens. It'll take you around 30 to 45 minutes to really take it all in. Seats are spread out along the path to take breaks or simply admire the view.

Victoria Walks has also reviewed this trail with a five-star rating.

Love the beach? There's still the opportunity to experience the salty waters in these parts. At Eastern Beach Reserve, there is a beach wheelchair (known as a mobi-chair) available. It has all terrain wheels for navigating the sandy beach and floating armrests for in the water use.

Also at Eastern Beach is rubber beach matting from the car park and footpath to the water’s edge at the outdoor swimming enclosure. It's perfect for those with mobility challenges and prams to make navigating the sand a bit easier.

Find out more info on both at the City of Greater Geelong's website.

There are a growing number of accessible options in and around Geelong to rest your head.

At prime position on Geelong's waterfront, Novotel Geelong offers three queen rooms and two twin rooms that are accessible. Each feature bed risers, a roll in shower, shower seat, handrails and a lowered basin.

Quest Geelong Central is another great accessible option. Choose from three accessible queen rooms, with the added option to interconnect a room or split the bed to two king singles. Rooms feature accessible toilet seats, grab bars, wall-mounted shower seats, room for hoist under the beds and more.

Closer to the coast and Lonsdale Palms is a home away from home that was purpose-built to cater for people of all abilities. Here you'll find a ramp entry and roll-in shower with rails and an accessible toilet inside.

BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon has an Accessible Studio Cabin with wheelchair entry and bathroom kitted out with roll-in entry, wall-mounted shower seat and grab rails.

Newly renovated and onsite at one of the region's most revered golf courses, Accommodation @ Curlewis has two accessible suites with accessible bathroom features, glide-under vanity and onsite disability parking. There's a restaurant and bar onsite along with a para-golfer (sit-to-stand power chair) for a few swings at the driving range.

Accessible Accommodation is the go-to for finding access-friendly stays with detailed information on added facilities.