Family Activities

1. 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! 

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.

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.

Munch on lunch at the Emu Cafe and let the kids run wild outside or dine inside and enjoy the views of the bushland.

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!

Note this is seasonal and dependent on ocean conditions.

5. Live Wire Park, Lorne

For all the thrill-seekers out there, Live Wire Park is the ultimate destination for zip-lining, tree-top walks, and high-ropes courses! Located a mere 1.5km from the centre of Lorne you will be soaring through the canopy of native Blue Gums in no time at all.

The roller-coaster zipline offers an accessible adrenalin-pumping ride, and the spring circuit of elevated trampolines and ball pits is a great activity for the littlies.

So gather up the troops and plan your next family day out in the Great Ocean Road region today!