Get off the beaten track and experience Victoria's beautiful beaches and coastlines that stretch out for almost 2000 kilometres. Take in pristine landscapes ranging from sandy beaches, wetlands and heathland to forests, sheer cliffs and rocky shores. National, state and coastal parks cover much of the coastline, with more than 20 marine parks and sanctuaries protecting the waters up to 5.5 kilometres offshore.
Life by the sea
Explore Gippsland's Ninety Mile Beach and stay at Lakes Entrance to enjoy the golden sands – ideal for swimming, beach fishing or just lazing about in the sun. Prefer a bayside holiday? Spend your summer at one of the many family-friendly beaches on the Mornington Peninsula. For a fun day trip, take the ferry from Sorrento to Queenscliff for some beachside cycling and barbecued seafood.
Seaside hamlets and rugged landscapes
Travel the rugged Great Ocean Road, where the 12 Apostles stand guard on the edge of the Southern Ocean. Visit the seaside towns of Torquay, Lorne and Apollo Bay, stopping by the famous Bells Beach, which plays host to the annual Rip Curl Pro surf tournament. Alternatively, take in the sights at The Nobbies in Phillip Island. Watch seals play at Seal Rocks or catch the sunset at Cape Woolamai, where the pink granite offers a stunning backdrop to the wild Bass Strait.
Lifeguards and lifesavers patrol beaches during peak holiday times – swim only between the red and yellow flags. To find patrolled beaches, check the beachsafe.org.au website or download the BeachSafe app.
