Anglesea, a beautiful coastal town on the famous Great Ocean Road, is a top holiday destination for locals and visitors. Just a short drive from world famous Bells Beach, this beach town is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities and community spirit. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway or an escape to nature, Anglesea is a slower pace of life and an ideal spot to relax and explore.
If you’re doing a Great Ocean Road tour, make sure to stop in Anglesea – it’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Many people also choose to visit this area as part of a 2 day Great Ocean Road tour so they can see all the highlights of Victoria’s Surf Coast.
Visit Anglesea on Your Great Ocean Road Adventure
Beautiful Beaches
Anglesea Beach is a beach beauty with a sandy shore, calm water and rock pools to fossick. This sheltered beach is perfect for families and surfers. During school holidays it’s a busy spot for holidaymakers looking for sun, surf and sea. Nearby Bells Beach and the Surf Coast attract surfers from around the world and Bells Beach Brewing is the perfect post-surf hangout.
Anglesea is a scenic stop on a Great Ocean Road tour that will surprise you with all the attractions and beautiful coastal views.
Wildlife – Spot Koalas in the Wild!
Anglesea’s natural environment is teeming with wildlife. Drive slowly through Anglesea Heath and you might see a koala in the healthy woodland canopy. In Coogoorah Nature Reserve, in the middle of town, you’ll find peaceful walking trails, wetland ecosystems and maybe even some Eastern Greys grazing on the open grazing land.
Many people like to visit Otway National Park after Anglesea to continue their nature journey along the Great Ocean Road making it a dream journey for nature lovers.
Kangaroos on the Golf Course
The Anglesea Golf Club is famous not only for its golf courses and driving range but also for the large population of kangaroos that inhabit the greens. These Eastern Greys are a major attraction with guided kangaroo tours that show their behaviour and the unique vegetation community. It’s a hit with nature lovers and families.
Hiking Trails and Coastal Walks
The Surf Coast Walk goes through Anglesea and provides access to coastal views, natural formations Eagle Rock and the Aireys Inlet Lighthouse. Hike through the Anglesea Heath, or explore the Distillery Creek Picnic Area and Moggs Creek region for immersive walking through natural landscapes. Whether you’re doing a long hiking trail or short walking trails this is the place for adventure seekers.
Many Melbourne tours include walking stops in Anglesea to showcase the amazing natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road.
Mountain Biking and Adventure Sports
With purpose-built mountain bike trails and an Anglesea Bike Park, the town is a mecca for cyclers. Ride through bushland or challenge yourself at Jumpz Anglesea. For water lovers, Anglesea Paddle Boats on Anglesea River and kayaking through Swampy Creek is an adventure way to see the coastal scenery and beautiful views.
Anglesea River and BBQ Picnic Spots
Anglesea River and Coogoorah Park are perfect for family-friendly days out. Bring a picnic, fire up a BBQ or just sit back and enjoy the view. The adventure playgrounds and flood water viewing spots are educational fun for the kids and Fish by Moonlite is a great spot to try fresh seafood after a relaxing afternoon by the water.
Cafes, Coastal Vibe & Community Markets
The town has a great vibe with its cute cafes including the Ice Creamery for those with a sweet tooth and the post office turned coffee shop where the locals meet. Visit the Anglesea Visitor Information Centre to learn about the local history including the story of the iron clipper shipwreck or shop at the weekend markets featuring regional artists and handmade goods. The Surf City Plaza in Torquay also has great dining and shopping.
Conclusion
Anglesea is more than just a stopover on your way to the Aire River Heritage River or national parks beyond – it’s a place where nature, culture and adventure come together. Whether you stay at a caravan park, camp at Aire Crossing Campground, Hammonds Campground, or West Campground or just drop in for a late arvo swim, Anglesea welcomes everyone with its coastal charm and endless options to explore.
Add it to your next 2 day Great Ocean Road trip or explore as part of one of our many Melbourne tour packages that showcase Victoria’s famous coastline and natural wonders.
FAQs
What are the best things to do in Anglesea for families?
Families love Anglesea River, Coogoorah Park, the Anglesea Golf Club kangaroo tours, Anglesea Paddle Boats and kid-friendly walks in Anglesea Heath. It’s a family-friendly destination.
Where can I see wildlife in Anglesea?
You can see koalas in the healthy woodland near Anglesea Heath, kangaroos on the golf course and various bird and plant species in Coogoorah Nature Reserve.
Is Anglesea good for mountain biking?
Yes! Anglesea has great bike trails, the Anglesea Bike Park and mountain bike trails through the bush for all levels.
When is the best time to visit Anglesea?
Spring to summer is the best, especially during school holidays when the weather is warm and there are outdoor activities galore. But Anglesea is beautiful all year round.
Can I visit Anglesea on a day trip from Melbourne?
Yes! Anglesea is only 90 minutes from Melbourne making it perfect for a day trip or weekend away. It’s also a main town on the Surf Coast so it’s a great base to explore the region.