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Let me help you plan your Great Ocean Road trip

I am here to help you explore the Great Ocean Road region, but I’m still learning and can make mistakes. For the best local advice, visit a visitor information centre. This is a large region, so plan for travel distances and your length of stay.

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Why Warrnambool is a Must Visit Destination

Where the Shipwreck Coast meets arts, nature, and family fun.

Warrnambool has been crowned Victoria’s Top Tourism Town for 2025, and it’s easy to see why. Set on the stunning Shipwreck Coast, this city blends coastal beauty with a vibrant mix of culture, history, and family-friendly adventure. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Warrnambool offers experiences that make it a standout destination all year round.

Here are five highlights not to miss on your visit:

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village

1. Step back in time at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village

Flagstaff Hill tells the stories of the Shipwreck Coast through its maritime museum and village. Wander through historic buildings, explore Australia’s largest shipwreck collection, and don’t miss the award-winning Tales of the Shipwreck Coast sound-and-light show by night.

Warrnambool Art Gallery

2. Explore creativity at Warrnambool Art Gallery

Developed specifically for Warrnambool, the internationally acclaimed artist Tamara Henderson’s new body of work delves into the dynamic interplay between the physical body, tantric energy and the more-than-human world. Her exhibition Spider with the Glass Legs is on display until 26 October. 

Lighthouse Theatre

3. Catch a show at the Lighthouse Theatre

The Lighthouse Theatre brings live performance to Warrnambool with an annual program of theatre, music, dance, and comedy. Whether it’s a touring production or a local showcase, there’s always something happening on stage.

Whale Watching in Winter

4. Whale watching

From June to September, southern right whales return to Warrnambool’s waters to calve. The Logans Beach whale watching platform offers a safe and accessible spot to see these giants of the deep up close — a natural spectacle that few places can match.

Eat & Drink

5. Taste Warrnambool’s foodie scene

Warrnambool is known for its laid-back but delicious dining. Start your day with locally roasted coffee and a hearty breakfast, then enjoy a classic pub meal in the afternoon. In the evening, you’ll find a mix of international cuisines to choose from — from Asian-inspired dishes to Italian favourites. With plenty of options for casual dining, Warrnambool’s food scene is all about good flavours and a welcoming atmosphere.

Discover More Warrnambool

Discover Your Next Adventure

Explore more places to stay, play, and reconnect with nature in Warrnambool and the Great Ocean Road Region