Our Tips for Family Events on the Great Ocean Road
Make lasting memories with our expert advice on where to stay, what to do, and how to organise a family event in this breathtaking region.
Whether it’s a special birthday, reunion, or you’re simply seizing the opportunity to bring your loved ones together, our top tip is to gather them in a beautiful place! For easy access within 2 hours of Melbourne, the Surf Coast is ideal for great scenery, walks and outdoor activities in nature, plus an array of excellent dining options.
Selecting a place for everyone to stay in comfort can be challenging, and sometime cost-prohibitive, but with everyone pitching in, the most luxurious and spacious holiday homes suddenly become budget friendly. Pick a coastal dream home, split the costs, and your whole crew will have an unforgettable time doing as much or as little as they like. Winter is an even better time, when it’s more peaceful and off-peak rates are available.
Explore the local shopping strips, walk the beaches or bush trails, grab coffee at local cafes, or just relax and reconnect. Sunnymead Beach, between Anglesea and Aireys Inlet can be accessed from Aireys Inlet or makes for a stunning section of the Surf Coast Walk.
Lorne boasts some excellent dining venues, with an option for any occasion. Restaurants like Totti’s at the Lorne Hotel, and the freshly refurbished Grand Pacific Hotel are among those we recommend.
What are you waiting for? Hit the group chat and start planning today. Here’s four luxurious homes, all within 2 hours of the city:
Janacwal
1. Janacwal, Bells Beach
Be among the first to experience Janacwal – a brand-new retreat set on 7.5 acres of tranquil bushland near Anglesea, just 75 minutes from Melbourne. Perfect for group getaways or extended family stays, this spacious property comfortably sleeps up to 11 guests. Spend your days unwinding by the swimming pool, enjoying a game on the private tennis court, or simply soaking in the peaceful surrounds of the Surf Coast.
2. Serendipity, Lorne
Gather the family or bring a group of friends to Serendipity – a warm and welcoming retreat nestled among the gum trees above Lorne. With a roaring wood fire and panoramic views over Loutit Bay, it’s the perfect place to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road.
Casa Lux
3. Casa Lux, Aireys Inlet
Right in the heart of Aireys Inlet, Casa Lux is a stylish and spacious escape designed for easy group living. Sleeping up to 16 guests, it’s ideal for extended families or friends holidaying together. Enjoy effortless entertaining with features like a theatre room, gym, and sauna—or make the most of your coastal surroundings with complimentary e-bikes and kayaks included in your stay.
Windform House
4. Windform House, Moggs Creek
Tucked into a peaceful bush setting near Fairhaven Beach, Windform House is a spacious retreat designed with large groups in mind. Sleeping up to 18 guests, it’s perfect for multi-family holidays, reunions, or group getaways. There’s no shortage of entertainment here—with a private tennis court, bocce pitch, in-ground trampoline, and dedicated kids’ play area all on-site.
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