There’s plenty to entertain kids and the family in Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale. Rain, hail or shine, something on this list will keep your crew out of trouble for an arvo.

The best family time is when everyone’s having fun.

Geelong and the Bellarine region is well known for having dozens of events and attractions to enjoy all year round. No matter your age, our beautiful region has something fun and fascinating for you and your family – even the ones under 18.

Whether your family has lived in Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale your whole life or you’re here on holiday, we’ve scoped out some of the best activities around this side of the Bellarine to keep your kids occupied and engaged and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Searoad Ferries

For a day trip the kids will never forget, consider jumping on Searoad Ferries, which operates two all-weather car and passenger ferries between Sorrento and Queenscliff.

Not only is it the most scenic way to get from the Bellarine to the Mornington Peninsula for a day of exploring, but the 40-minute sail between Sorrento and Queenscliff is pretty cruisey compared to the over three-hour drive around. This saves time and offers more sightseeing and a Bay cruise.

Along the way, kids can spot dolphins and pass golden sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, and clifftop mansions. The well-deserving parents can relax with coffee, wine, or beer. There is plenty of fresh sea air, viewing decks inside and out, and large windows to indulge in all the views. Once you arrive at your destination, day-trippers can travel as a foot passenger to enjoy the charming seaside villages just a short walk from the terminal or travel over with a car to explore further to the Peninsula Hot Springs, Arthurs Seat Eagle, St Andrew Beach Brewery and Portsea on the Mornington Peninsula.

As a bonus, because of the large stretch of coastline around Queenscliff, travellers have a better chance of seeing a whale than in other coastal towns, which would be an exciting experience for any traveller, young or old. Each year from May until early October, our region’s spectacular coastline is renowned as being prime spotting territory for humpback whales, southern right whales, blue whales and orcas as they make their annual pilgrimage from the feeding grounds of Antarctica to give birth and raise their calves in Australia’s warmer waters, so keep an eye out if you’re travelling during this time.

Queenscliff Harbour

Take a trip down to Queenscliff Harbour for a super affordable activity with the kids. Established in an authentic Victorian working harbour, there is always something to see and do at this iconic destination. The 250-berth marina is home to historic couta boats, yachts, and powerboats and is a popular destination for local and interstate visiting vessels.

A simple walk along the boardwalk will reveal a dynamic retail precinct that includes charter/dive operators, eco-tours, men’s and ladies’ fashion, nautical gifts, giftware, hairdressers, and a day spa. You can also indulge in several foodie options that can be enjoyed alongside the fantastic water views—from fine dining to fish and chips to seafood to ice cream, there’s something to please every taste.

Whether you’re watching the Pilot boats returning from their trips into the infamous Rip or taking a boat trip to spot the seals and dolphins, make sure you take time to climb or catch the lift to the top of the 42-metre observation tower. This tower offers stunning 360-degree views of Queenscliff, Port Philip, The Rip, Bellarine Peninsula, Swan Bay, Mornington Peninsula, or pilot boats entering the bay.

Fresh fish is also available to purchase off the boat on weekends, and the kids will love looking into the water to spot the stingrays that frequent the area. It is a little piece of paradise.

Queenscliff Dune Walk

With the kids in tow, there’s no better time to explore the region’s diverse coastline of sand, rugged cliffs, dense bush and lush rainforest by foot with an excellent coastal walking track.

The Queenscliff Dune Walk is an easy family walk along a winding track through the dunes and back along the beach. Kick it all off at the carpark next to the Cottage by the Sea, and take to the bush track that heads towards Point Lonsdale. Follow the winding track to an old fort/defence structure which is super fun for the kids to play on and in (if restrictions allow of course).

Continue your way through the tall trees – it’s almost like a tree tunnel and is truly beautiful – and continue on to the Point Lonsdale rock wall to access the beach. Once you hit the beach, that’s when you’ll be able to indulge in the beauty of the ocean right up until you reach the stairs that lead you back to the carpark. This walk has the best of both worlds!

Spanning around 2.14km, it should take around an hour, depending on your pace. Check out walks here.

Gone Fishing Charters

Gone Fishing Charters offers a fantastic opportunity for families to spend quality time together while enjoying the thrill of fishing. With charters departing from Queenscliff, this family-friendly experience is perfect for those with kids aged six and above. It’s an ideal way to create unforgettable memories on the water.

The charters provide everything needed for a seamless experience. Rods, reels, tackle, and bait are all included, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm and maybe some snacks for the ride. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to assist with everything from baiting hooks to landing your catch, ensuring the experience is fun and stress-free for everyone.

For families, the bay fishing charters are an excellent option. Exploring the calm waters of Port Phillip Bay, you’ll have the chance to reel in species like snapper, whiting, and flathead. With expert guidance, even first-time anglers can enjoy the excitement of fishing and the satisfaction of catching something to take home. To make it even better, the team will clean, fillet, and bag your catch, ready for a delicious family feast.

Whether it’s a fun day out or a new adventure for the kids, Gone Fishing Charters offers an engaging and educational way to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while trying your hand at fishing.

Point Lonsdale Lighthouse

There’s something incredibly intoxicating about Point Lonsdale, or ‘Lonny’ as the locals affectionately call it.

Located at the tip of the Bellarine Peninsula just 90 minutes from Melbourne and marking the dreamy entrance to Port Phillip Bay, the headland is dominated by the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, which overlooks The Rip – a treacherous stretch of water where ships navigate the narrow gap between Point Lonsdale and Point Nepean.

Insta-famous for its striking skyline and the lofty views from the top, the iconic lighthouse is always a treat for kids and tourists alike. Appreciate the views of the beach, the shipping action in the Rip, and The Heads from the free platforms, and explore the lighthouse surrounds.

Just north of the lighthouse is the Point Lonsdale Pier which is a popular spot for fishing and a good vantage point for taking in views of the lighthouse and surrounding coastline so make sure to go for a wander.

Sea All Dolphin Swims

For those with kiddies that love sea life, you’d be stoked to know you don’t need to travel far to fulfil their dream (or yours) of swimming with the dolphins and seals! Located in Queenscliff, the award-winning Sea All Dolphin Swims is a family-owned business that offers a truly unique marine experience on Port Phillip Bay.

An adventure for absolutely anyone (you can be as young as 2 and as old as 86), you’ll get to swim with wild dolphins and seals and snorkel at the world-renown diving and snorkelling site Pope’s Eye marine park. The experience also includes some boom-net riding, boat-roof jumping, duck spa-ing and hot chocolates.

The friendly, qualified and knowledgeable team make it simply incredible, and if the kids are big fans of getting wet, there’s also wildlife sightseeing tours that offer a one in a lifetime experience in getting up close and personal with the dolphins and seals – without getting wet. Or, they even run surf lessons for little groms too.

It really is an amazing experience and we’re so lucky to have it right on our doorstep.

Bellarine Railway

One for all the mini-train conductors in the family. The Bellarine Railway is a volunteer-operated organisation offering heritage train rides and experiences between Queenscliff and Drysdale, featuring a unique collection of steam and diesel trains originating from around Australia.

Providing a scenic and memorable experience, The Heritage Train Service departs from Queenscliff most Sundays throughout the year and on public holidays, as well as extra days during the Victorian school holidays. Private carriage hire is available as part of the heritage service and perfect for children’s parties or groups – but bookings are essential.

Throughout the year, the Bellarine Railway hosts a number of experiences and special events include Steam and Diesel Train Driver Experiences, magic shows, Day Out With Thomas weekends, special occasion charters and group trips. Other family activities and specials held during the year include visits from the Easter Bunny, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Halloween Specials and Santa Trains so keep your eye out when planning future trips.