Top 5 days out for families on the Great Ocean Road
Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre & Café
1. The Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre
The Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre is located inland from both Portland and Port Fairy a short 40-minute or 50-minute drive respectively. Explore the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre, where you can learn about the sustainable fishing practices of the Gunditjmara people with a tour on country with Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism.
Take a walk along the boardwalk onto Tae Rak (Lake Condah) and listen to the sounds of the abundant birdlife, check out the kooyang (eel) holding tank, retail space, and gallery but before you leave be sure to try the eel-tasting plate at the cafe.
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
2. Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum & Village, Warrnambool
When in Warrnambool head to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village to step back in time and experience life as a 19th-century sailor. Walk along the cobblestoned streets of the village which is home to hundreds of relics from times gone by including an old-time school, and blacksmiths forge. There are even in-character volunteers making this a truly unique experience. The museum houses Australia’s largest collection of shipwreck artifacts including the spectacular Loch Ard Peacock, a priceless relic from the shipwreck of the Loch Ard lost in 1878. Looking for a nighttime activity? The recently upgraded Sound and Light show titled “Tales of the Shipwreck Coast” is a must for all ages.
Wildlife Wonders Tours
3. Wildlife Wonders, Apollo Bay
For wildlife lovers, you can’t miss the chance to visit Wildlife Wonders and hang out with koalas, wallabies, and kangaroos! Take a guided tour and discover some of the lesser-known species native to the area like long-nosed potoroos. Your conservationist guide will be able to tell you all you need to know about the plants and animals that call the Otways home. As an added bonus this 1.4km all-abilities path makes for an experience you can bring the whole family along to and is one of the few wheelchair-friendly walks along the Great Ocean Road.
Apollo Bay Surf and Kayak
4. Apollo Bay Surf & Kayak
Also in Apollo Bay check out Apollo Bay Surf & Kayak for older kids (or kids at heart!). Not only can you book a surf lesson with qualified coaches who aim to have you standing in your first lesson but you can also hire surf and paddleboards. For those seeking a bit more adventure, you can book a guided experience and kayak out to the seal colony at the Marengo Reef Marine National Park which is home to over 150 seals!
5. Otway Fly Treetop Adventures
Otway Fly Treetop Adventures offers a unique way to experience the rainforest from above. Walk along the elevated paths or zipline through the trees for a fun, active day out. It’s a great way to see the Great Otway National Park from a new perspective and enjoy the outdoors.
