Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a serene escape, this guide on some of the best things to see and do in Geelong and The Bellarine has you covered.

How many will you tick off the list?

Ride the Carousel

Wandering the waterfront with the family? A must-do experience is a merry-go-round ride that’s more than just a simple whirl.

The Carousel is an Armitage-Herschell portable steam driven, hand-carved wooden carousel which was constructed circa 1892 and is one of only 200 in operation around the world. Geelong’s historic carousel boasts meticulously restored animals, charming music, and an atmosphere that transports you back in time. Gather your friends and family for a spin filled with laughter and nostalgia.

Swim at Eastern Beach

While dipping into the ocean might sound like a chilling feat, the serene beauty of Eastern Beach is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. The invigorating waters will give you the ultimate adrenaline rush and the sweeping views of Corio Bay provide a stunning backdrop for your aquatic escape. Plus there’s a fully fenced children’s pool, art deco boardwalk, floating islands and a magnificent diving tower!

Don’t forget to bring your camera, and if you’re not ready to leave, pop on into the Pavilion for a post-swim coffee.

Surf at 13th Beach

For those chasing a true adrenaline fix, the roaring waves of 13th Beach offer the perfect playground.

A popular destination for surfers in the know, this 4.5-kilometre stretch of picturesque coastline west of Barwon Heads is a must-visit. Readily accessible from the main road and patrolled without massive crowds, the waves are best tackled by experienced surfers. Beyond that, Thirteenth is also ideal for a refreshing walk, jog, sandcastle-making or ball play with the dog when you need a break from surfing.

Gather your gear and take on the challenge of conquering the surging waters – a quintessential Aussie adventure.

All aboard The Blues Train

All aboard the rhythmic journey of The Blues Train – where live music meets vintage rail travel.

Providing a unique way to enjoy live music on The Bellarine, Australia’s longest-running blues music venue boasts an experience that combines four carefully selected Australian blues acts, a Bellarine Railway heritage train, food and drinks.

An experience like none other, it’s a beauty, to say the least. And we’re not the only ones who think so either. The Teskey Brothers, C W Stoneking, Dallas Frasca and Ash Grunwald are just some of the big names that started their careers ridin’ these rails.

Go on, sip on local brews, sway to soulful tunes, and absorb the charming landscapes passing by your window.

Dive into the ocean with Sea All Dolphin Swims

For those that love sea life, you’d be stoked to know you don’t need to travel far to fulfil your dream of swimming with the dolphins! 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.

It’ll involve you jumping on a boat, taking a trip around the bay, and swimming with some stunning seals, dolphins and lots more at the world-renowned diving and snorkelling site Pope’s Eye (Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park). This’ll be one of the coolest experiences you’ll have.

Encounter playful dolphins and discover the captivating underwater world, making memories that will linger longer.

Embrace your inner maker

Sometimes the best mementos are the ones you've made yourself. And there are several experiences in Geelong and The Bellarine where you can get hands-on and embrace your creative heart to do just that.

At the Fyansford Paper Mill, Elizabeth Bell Ceramics will have you a master of the pottery wheel in no time, with options for taster, group or term classes available. You can also pick up some pre-made ceramics if you're short on time and prefer to leave the craft to the experts. For a different kind of clay-making, Hazy Tales runs hand-built clay workshops along with paint and sip events, polymer clay earring making, macrame, resin art and candle making.

Over in Newtown, Aysha Hansen Fine Fragrances offers an experience that you won't find too often. In an intimate two-hour masterclass, you'll craft a perfume that is uniquely yours. Led by perfumer Aysha Hansen, she'll help you navigate dozens of fragrance ingredients and learn about what makes a good perfume to help you craft your finished product to take home.

Indulge in a gastronomic railroad journey on The Q Train

Satisfy your palate aboard The Q Train, indulging in five gourmet courses while being mesmerised by the region’s ever-changing panorama.

A dining experience like no other, this award-winning restaurant travels along the historic Bellarine Railway between Drysdale and Queenscliff, serving up an iconic degustation menu and showcasing the best that The Bellarine and surrounds have to offer. With experience being equally as important as the food on this three-hour journey, The Q Train really does promise an immersive dining experience like no other.

Dive into a darkened history at the Geelong Gaol Museum

Delve into the eerie history of the Geelong Gaol Museum, where stories of convicts and life behind bars come alive. A spine-tingling experience that provides an insight into the region’s intriguing past.

Since its closure as a gaol in 1991 (it opened in 1853!), this heritage-listed penitentiary has been used as the location of a number of films and television series before transforming into The Geelong Gaol Museum. Visitors can experience the brutal conditions prisoners endured over its 138-year history along with displays telling the history of this three-story bluestone behemoth. Step back in history and view the exhibitions of Colonial Prisons, the Hulks, Stitched Up and Saga Behind the Armour to name a few.

SUP on Barwon Heads River

Barwon Heads is a much-loved summer escape and a popular spot for all kinds of water-based activities. Our pick? Stand-up paddleboarding. Dust off your board, or hire one at the surf shop in town, and float along the Barwon River taking in the sights of the bridge, At the Heads and the stunning rocky coastline.

Stay close to the river's edge and be mindful of other water users, this river can have a strong current so always check conditions before getting in.

Pedal through picturesque landscapes along the Bellarine Rail Trail

For the explorers on two wheels, the Bellarine Rail Trail offers a picturesque path to pedal along. It’s a 35 kilometre trail that links South Geelong to Queenscliff and is super popular with weekend recreational cyclists as the length one way makes for a decent ride with the added bonus of excellent views of the surrounding farmland and coast.

Starting at the showgrounds on the outskirts of Geelong, at the half-way point of Drysdale you'll be rewarded with fine views back over Geelong and north to Corio Bay and the You Yangs. From the restored Drysdale railway station, the trail runs alongside the historic Bellarine Peninsula Railway, with vintage trains operating regularly. It’s an easy ride through areas rich in wildflowers and native bird life to Queenscliff.

There’s also plenty of stops for coffee and local fare along the way.

Tour the Bellarine Taste Trail

Fancy an epicurean tour of The Bellarine? With dozens of wineries (many boasting bay views), distilleries and producers dotted along the peninsula, the Bellarine Taste Trail is one of the best ways to explore the region.

Here you can experience everything from a boutique bay cruise eating fresh mussels through to blueberry picking and tasting hand-crafted butter. There's something for all tastes.

Grab the map and drive (and eat) your through the trail, or book a tour and let them take you to the best spots.

An enchanting all-ages adventure at Fairy Park

Fairytales come to life at Fairy Park, a whimsical wonderland that transcends age. Dedicated to tales, myths and legends, the park features more than 30 scenes housed in awe-inspiring castles, cottages and caves set among expansive gardens which guests will be able to explore.

Stories include all the classics that we know and love, ranging from Red Riding Hood to Rumplestiltskin. Visitors can witness Cinderella at the Grand Ball, see Jack in his beanstalk, join the Teddy Bears at their Picnic and hear the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, among many others. There’s even a medieval Camelot Playground that children can explore secret passages, climb daring towers and meet mythical creatures, and the park features one of Australia’s largest collections of rare Marklin (gauge1) model trains. Even if you’re not into the tales and myths, the breathtaking 360 degree panoramic views of Mt Anakie’s extinct volcano and the rich landscape that can be seen from the summit is reason enough to go check it out.

Visit a local market for handcrafted delights

Embrace the community spirit and vibrant creativity of Geelong and The Bellarine by visiting one of the local markets. From fresh produce to handmade crafts, these markets offer a sensory feast and a chance to connect with the locals who make the area special.

There’s special monthly markets like the Piccadilly Market, or the many farmers markets worth checking out on Sundays across the region. Explore more markets on in the region here.

Take in the views on a hike through the You Yangs

Lace up your hiking boots and venture into the You Yangs Regional Park – a haven for nature enthusiasts. Situated only 22km north of Geelong the 340-metre high granite peaks of the You Yangs prove themselves to be one of the best activities in the region.

With magnificent views and birdlife, you’ll find a diverse range of landscape and scenery. Towering with native trees and eucalypts, you may even spot a koala and other wildlife along your voyage. As this area is part of a Aboriginal cultural landscape significant to the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, ensure to respect the land on your visit and keep dogs on leash at all times.

Hot tip: the hike is incredible at dawn or dusk so you can see the stunning golden sky over the entire bay. If you’re with the kids, we recommend also checking out this You Yangs Big Rock walk.

Watch a Geelong Cats game

Immerse yourself in the fervour of AFL and AFLW by catching a Geelong Cats game at the iconic GMHBA Stadium. Join the local crowd as they passionately support their team and revel in the electric atmosphere that only a live match can offer. Don’t forget to pick up some jam donuts!

The AFL season runs from March to September and the AFLW season runs from September to December, so there are games happening nearly all year round.

Explore the city’s street art

Geelong is bringing their A-game to street art in recent times. It’s an absolute treasure trove of unique and vibrant street art to explore, whether you’re in the CBD, on Pakington Street or out in North Geelong there's likely to be a piece of art around the corner.

Venture out across the region to marvel at some of the most impressive large-scale murals. We’ve come up with a non-exhaustive list of some stellar works you can see right now. Don’t forget to take some snaps!

Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or simply the chance to unwind, Geelong and The Bellarine offers an escape that transcends expectations. From nostalgia-inducing carousels to gastronomic train journeys, this region seamlessly fuses iconic attractions with charm year-round. So, round up your crew and explore this captivating coastal wonderland.

This article was originally published on Forte Magazine and has since been updated.