Experience the quintessential Aussie summer pastime by unwinding in a lively beer garden along the stunning Great Ocean Road. From Torquay to Port Fairy, these venues offer refreshing drinks with an incredible vibe, perfect for any occasion – be it a romantic date, a family gathering, or just a catch-up with mates.
A standout among Apollo Bay bars, the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse is a haven for craft beer lovers. Enjoy a family-friendly menu and Prickly Moses beers, brewed with rainwater that comes straight from the lush Otways rainforest. The vibrant atmosphere of the beer garden goes up a notch on weekends when locals and visitors are treated to live music by quality performers.
Last One Inn is a summer hotspot, differentiated from other Anglesea pubs by its exciting menu and immaculate vibes. With an eclectic mix of beers, wines, and signature cocktails, it’s ideal for a fun night out with friends. Enjoy live music and DJs in a setting that’s perfect for letting your hair down.
Savour classic pub fare at Aireys Pub, where in-house Pale Ales complement hearty meals. With SALT Brewing Co providing bevs for every beer lover, the expansive beer garden offers breathtaking coastal views, making it a prime spot for an afternoon chill with friends.
One of the best pubs in Port Fairy, I’ve been visiting the Merrijig Front Bar for years. In summer, you can sip on one of their original cocktails whilst sitting in their beer garden under Port Fairy’s famous Norfolk Pines and overlooking the beautiful Moyne River. The wine list is carefully chosen to align with their flavoursome, rustic-style food. You’ll find an impressive mix of local, regional and international wines; mainly crafted by smaller producers who use sustainable practices. And, the beer and spirits menu is always changing, allowing you to try some exciting artisan liquor from around the world, too.
Nestled in a historic building, Apollo Bay Distillery offers ocean terrace views and a rich history, including a recovered shipwreck anchor. Sample their in-house gin made with local botanicals, craft beers, local wines, and wood-fired pizzas.
The Hampden Hotel is a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury. Located in a beautifully restored building, this hotel offers guests a chance to step back in time while enjoying contemporary comforts including a well-appointed bar, bistro, and beer garden.
Perched by the sea, The Gordon Hotel in Portland makes use of its historic space with dining areas, TAB facilities and a beer garden. Enjoy the sea breeze with a refreshing drink in hand and live sport on their big screens, making it a perfect space for catching up with some mates.
Relax and enjoy the warmer months with some of the Great Ocean Road’s best beer gardens. Take advantage of the coastal ambience and great local produce, this list is just the beginning, discover more of the Great Ocean Road’s relaxing restaurants and bars and make the most of your holidays.
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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.
