Christmas shopping always creeps up fast.

If your list is looking a bit chaotic this year, you’re in good company. Geelong and The Bellarine is full of gifts that come from real people and small businesses who pour their hearts into what they make and do.

Mix in experience vouchers, creative workshops, foodie favourites and you can sort most of your list without losing the plot.

This guide keeps things easy so you can enjoy December instead of panicking in the gift aisle.

Gifts for the person who has everything

There is always one. They say they want nothing, they already have everything and they’re impossible to shop for. Go straight for something they’ll enjoy doing.

Lon Retreat voucher, Point Lonsdale. Perfect for someone who deserves something special, with the choice of an accommodation voucher or a treatment at their spa, number one in Australasia.
Sensori Head Spa experience voucher, Portarlington. A Japanese style head spa with massage, steam therapy and deep relaxation.
Harvest Experience cooking class, Drysdale. A hands-on day in beautiful gardens, harvesting fresh ingredients and cooking seasonal dishes.
Portarlington Grand Hotel voucher, Portarlington. A seaside escape with boutique rooms or a laid-back lunch overlooking the bay.
Adventure Park Season Pass, Wallington. If they have kids. You will look like a hero with a season pass to Victoria's largest water theme park.
Local drops from premium wineries, distilleries and breweries across Geelong and The Bellarine.

Gifts that are all about the experience

They feel personal, they’re easy to organise and they don’t take up space in someone’s home, perfect!

Portarlington Mussel Tour voucher, Portarlington. A relaxed cruise on the bay with fresh mussels cooked onboard and views across the water.
Aysha Hansen workshop, Newtown. A hands on perfume making session where guests blend their own scent and take home a finished bottle.
Elizabeth Bell Ceramics workshop, Fyansford Paper Mill. A hands on ceramic class where guests learn simple techniques and create a perfume to take home.
Ragged Edge 4x4 drive, Lara. Get behind the wheel of a custom built V8 buggy with four wheel steering and huge tyres, tackling purpose built tracks in Lara with one on one guidance. You can even bring passengers along for the ride.
The Blues Train voucher, Queenscliff. For that music-loving friend, chances are they haven't had an experience quite like this. Join a moving concert onboard a heritage train, with four carriages showcasing four different live music acts.
A Geelong night out package. Book a dinner at places like Alma, Frankie or The Arborist (or plenty more) for someone who loves good food and a fun night in the city.

Christmas gift ideas for food lovers

Great for anyone who plans their whole day around what to eat next.

Local hampers packed with Bellarine Taste Trail produce.
Pantry favourites from spots like Wildings Pantry, Annie’s Provedore and Griggs Creek Providore.
Sweet treats from Freckleberry Chocolate for something fun and easy.
A visit to Yummy Mummy Lolly Shop for the friend with a serious sweet tooth.

Christmas gifting does not have to be a slog. Shopping around Geelong and The Bellarine makes it easy to find something local, thoughtful and genuinely useful. Wrap up something they’ll remember, then treat yourself to a coffee or a wine once the job is done. You’ve earned it.