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Family Friendly Things To Do In And Around Port Fairy

The Port Fairy region is most definitely family friendly, the area has a natural and laid-back vibe that’s entirely conducive to a fun filled family holiday. There are all kinds of great activities to choose from

1. Swim, Swim, Swim…

Nothing says Australia like a holiday at the beach. Add a spot of beach cricket or frisbee, and you just might find yourself in heaven. And what better beach to enjoy your weekend than East Beach, Port Fairy? Stretching 5.8 km in a broad, curving arc and protected from the westerly wind, the beach is composed of fine, white sand. It receives waves that average 1 m high and 150 m wide over two sandbars. The area is fantastic for surfing, with numerous beach breaks in the wide, shallow surf zone, where conditions depend on the waves, sandbars, and wind. A popular spot called Oigles, just south of the surf club, is ideal in a big swell as it breaks over an old shipwreck.

2. Rockpool Ramble at Pea Soup

Kids are naturally captivated by the sea—a realm brimming with discovery. The rockpools at Pea Soup offer an ideal introduction to ocean exploration for little adventurers. No scuba gear or snorkels are required—just curiosity and a touch of care to safely navigate these fascinating marine habitats.

3. Big Nature

With Budj Bim National Park and Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve nearby, there’s no shortage of opportunities for picnicking, bushwalking, and spotting native wildlife. Both locations are home to healthy populations of koalas, while Tower Hill also features plenty of kangaroos and emus. Guided tours can be booked at Tower Hill, offering fascinating insights into the area’s cultural and natural heritage. You’ll also find walking tracks, picnic facilities, and scenic lookouts to explore.

4. Hire a bike

An enjoyable activity that everyone can enjoy. A bike ride around town is a great way to view the history and cottages and enjoy and afternoon ice-cream or coffee and many of the cafes or ice-cream shops. Bike Hire (including helmets) is available from the Port Fairy and Visitor Information Centre and Port Fairy Surf Shop so there is no excuse to not enjoy a leisurely ride.

5. Moyneyana Festival

The Moyneyana Festival, running from Christmas Eve to Australia Day, is packed with free family-friendly events. It starts with kids’ activities, Santa’s arrival, live music, and a community BBQ at Fiddlers Green on Christmas Eve. The New Year’s Eve parade draws around 10,000 people, with floats, live music, street stalls, a backwards race, a Retro Sprint, and fireworks. On Australia Day, enjoy a free breakfast, ceremonies, kids’ entertainment, lunch, and a movie. Highlights throughout the festival include the Duck Derby, classic wooden boats, and more.

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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.