8 of the best Port Fairy cafes to add to your list

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From a casual beachfront cafe with cracking ocean views to a specialty roastery known for cranking out top-notch coffee, there’s a strong selection of Port Fairy cafes to choose from on your next visit.

When travelling on the Great Ocean Road, Port Fairy’s unique combo of heritage buildings and incredible food and wine options make it a must-visit town. Whether you’re after a veggie-packed brunch, quick coffee pitstop or a classic burger and shake combo, there are plenty of Port Fairy cafes to choose from.

1. Port Fairy Coffee Roasters

This speciality coffee roaster and retail store does a roaring trade all year long. Stop by for a takeaway latte, smoothie or cold pressed juice, or drop into the shop to grab a fresh salad or loaf of sourdough for later.

the exterior of Port Fairy Coffee Roasters

Stop by for a takeaway latte at Port Fairy Coffee Roasters.

If you love a dark roast, be sure to buy a bag of the Dead Man’s blend beans to take a little slice of Port Fairy goodness home with you.

roasting coffee beans at Port Fairy Coffee Roasters

Grab some takeaway beans at this specialty coffee roaster.

Address: 59a Bank St, Port Fairy

2. Bank Street + Co

The well-travelled owners of this popular corner cafe bring influences from around the globe to the menu of Bank Street + Co. You’ll see hints of Greek, Italian and Middle Eastern cuisine shine through in the dishes, whether it’s a Turkish bread toastie or seafood linguine. Open (early) for breakfast and lunch, this superb cafe doesn’t take bookings, so you’ll have to try your luck for a table. If you’re an early riser, you’ll be pleased to know that this place opens at 6:30am for all your caffeine and brekkie needs.

a plate of food with coffee at Bank Street + Co

Bank Street + Co. serves up Greek, Italian and Middle Eastern cuisine. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Address: 28 Bank St, Port Fairy

3. The Farmers Wife Harvest Cafe

Whether you’re after smashed avo on sourdough for breakfast, a filling panini for lunch, or a rich, chocolate brownie with a cup of Earl Grey tea in the afternoon, head to this comfy cafe tucked down an alley (look for the blackboard on the main street). In summer the courtyard is an especially great spot to bask in the sunshine while enjoying brunch or lunch.

coffee and pastries at The Farmers Wife Harvest Cafe

Head to The Farmers Wife Harvest Cafe for breakfast.

Address: 47 Sackville St, Port Fairy

4. The Mill

Open for breakfast, lunch and takeaway, this busy little cafe’s indoor and outdoor seating makes it a top option all year round. During summer, sit out the front and enjoy a chicken burger and milkshake in the sun. During winter, bunker down inside with a warming hot chocolate. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menu options make The Mill a winner for visitors with dietary requirements too.

Address: 42 Sackville St, Port Fairy

5. Home Grown

If you’re after a nourishing yet delicious feed, make a beeline for Home Grown. As a cafe that champions local, organic and homegrown produce, you’ll find plenty of healthy options here. For breakfast, you can’t go past Greens Galore, a poached egg dish topped with a generous serving of sauteed greens, smashed peas, Meredith feta and pepitas.

a close-up shot of food at Home Grown cafe, Port Fairy

Home Grown cafe champions local, organic and homegrown produce. (Image: Gunilla Forbes)

Fairtrade coffee, organic tea, chai, protein smoothies, fruit lassis, babyccinos and puppyccinos made with lactose-free milk means everyone in the family (including your four-legged friends) can enjoy a pitstop here.

a close-up shot of food at Home Grown cafe, Port Fairy

Opt for a nourishing yet delicious feed at Home Grown cafe. (Image: Gunilla Forbes)

Address: 2/32 Bank St, Port Fairy  

6. Rebecaa’s Cafe and Ice Creamery

It’s all about the sweet stuff at Rebecca’s Cafe. During summer, the freshly churned fruit sorbets fly out the door, while the house-baked biscuits, cakes and slices are popular all year round. Stop by to grab a takeaway coffee and slice of cake to enjoy on the road or pop in for an ice cream cone after a day at the beach. Looking for some gifts? Buy jars of mini Yo-Yo biscuits or slabs of rocky road for friends and family back home.

Address: 70/72 Sackville St, Port Fairy

7. Gregory’s Cafe Restaurant

Open for both lunch and dinner on the weekends, Gregory’s straddles the line between cafe and restaurant. Whether you want a light lunch of toasted paninis or something more substantial like lamb shanks with mashed potato and gravy, Gregory’s Cafe Restaurant can do both! Bookings recommended.

a food plate at Gregory’s Cafe Restaurant, Port Fairy

Gregory’s is perfect for brekkie, lunch or dinner.

Address: 1/32 Bank St, Port Fairy

8. Charlie’s On East

This casual, kid-friendly spot right on the beach is perfect for a no-fuss post-swim brekkie, lunch, coffee or snack. No need to dress up here – just rock up in your flip-flops and boardshorts and perch yourself at a table out the front. Spending a leisurely morning enjoying a coffee and a plate of Eggs Benedict with ocean views is the rare type of simple pleasure this no-frills cafe gets right.

Address: 4 Hughes Ave, Port Fairy 

Now read our guide to the best restaurants in Port Fairy.

Jo Stewart is a freelance features writer who pens stories about nature, pop culture, music, art, design and more from her home in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria. When not writing, you can find her trawling through vinyl records and vintage fashion at op shops, antique stores and garage sales.
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Your guide to the best Port Fairy accommodation

    By Jo Stewart
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    Charming inns, bell tent glamping, stylish holiday homes, heritage pub stays and cruisy caravan parks, there’s a wealth of Port Fairy accommodation options to choose from.

    Any Great Ocean Road trip needs to include a visit to Port Fairy. Home to a wealth of well-preserved heritage buildings, this historic fishing village honours its past while also welcoming the new. When choosing where to stay, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re splashing out on a celebratory weekend to remember or planning a budget family break by the sea, there are lots of Port Fairy accommodation options to suit you.

    Hotels

    1. Merrijig Inn

    Best for: Food and wine lovers

    A little microcosm of magic, the Merrijig Inn is one of those inviting places with a special aura of its own.

    the exterior of Merrijig Inn in Port Fairy

    The Merrijig Inn is said to be Victoria’s oldest inn. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Laying claim to being Victoria’s oldest inn, a stay in one of the charming suites or compact attic rooms (not recommended for tall folk) includes a smorgasbord breakfast of house-made delights.

    a dining room with a fireplace at Merrijig Inn in Port Fairy

    Keep warm by the fireplace. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    No visit is complete without a tipple at the convivial front bar and dinner at Merrijin Kitchen – food is an important chapter of this hospitality legend’s story.

    the entrance to Merrijig Inn, Port Fairy

    Step into the Merrijig Kitchen next door. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Address: 1 Campbell St, Port Fairy

    2. Seacombe House

    Best for: History lovers

    From motor inn suites to historic cottages and rooms in a heritage-listed guesthouse, Seacombe House has lots of different styles of accommodation to choose from.

    the exterior of Seacombe House, Port Fairy

    Stay in a heritage-listed guesthouse.

    Like many other buildings in this storied town, Seacombe House is listed on the National Trust, so when you stay here you’ll be walking in the footsteps of the traders, sailors and merchants who earned a crust living or visiting Port Fairy in centuries gone by.

    the living room interior of Seacombe House, Port Fairy

    Seacombe House offers a cosy spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

    Address: 22 Sackville Street, Port Fairy

    3. The Victoria Apartments

    Best for: Travellers who prefer self-catering holidays

    If you love having all the creature comforts of home while you’re away, try Victoria Apartments. Book a 2-bedroom apartment or 3-bedroom townhouse here and you’ll enjoy access to a range of amenities that will make you feel right at home. Use the large, well-equipped kitchen to cook meals, do a load of washing in the laundry, relax in the spacious lounge room while watching movies on the flatscreen TV and park your wheels in a lock-up garage – these apartments have everything you need for a comfortable break.

    Address: 48/50 Bank Street, Port Fairy

    4. The Oak & Anchor Hotel

    Best for: Couples and solo travellers looking to enjoy an adults-only break

    Although this heritage-listed hotel dates back to the mid-1800s, you’ll bed down in supreme comfort. Choose from seven stylish suites (most with freestanding bathtubs and Euro-style walk-in showers) ranging from the ground-floor Anchor Suite all the way up to the luxurious Bridal Suite.

    a Euro-style walk-in shower with tub at The Oak & Anchor Hotel, Port Fairy

    The stylish suite boasts spacious, Euro-inspired bathrooms. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    If you’re after an adults-only retreat, you’ll be pleased to know this boutique accommodation is just for grownups.

    the bed at The Oak & Anchor Hotel, Port Fairy

    Experience ultimate comfort and relaxation in the beautifully designed beds. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Address: 9 Bank Street, Port Fairy

    5. Central Motel

    Best for: Visitors who value convenience and affordability.

    Located right in the centre of town just 25 metres or so from some of Port Fairy’s best restaurants and cafes, you can’t beat Central Motel for convenience. If you’re watching your pennies, this neat and tidy motel has all the basics covered at an affordable price point. Looking for accessible accommodation? There’s a ground-floor, wheelchair-friendly room perfect for travellers with special needs.

    Address: 56 Sackville Street, Port Fairy

    6. YHA Port Fairy

    Best for: Budget-conscious travellers who are happy sharing communal spaces

    If you love meeting other people and staying in places with a more communal vibe, YHA Port Fairy is just the place for you. This warm and welcoming heritage accommodation has shared ‘co-living’ rooms with bunk beds, family rooms and private rooms as well as shared spaces like a self-catering kitchen, communal lounge room, laundry, pool table and outdoor courtyard with a barbecue. Perhaps the best part is you’re just one block away from some of Port’s Fairy best eats, including killer cocktails and pizza at Coffin Sally on Sackville Street.

    Address: 8 Cox Street, Port Fairy

    Guesthouses and Airbnbs

    7. Cherry Plum Cottages

    Best for: People seeking a secluded break in the countryside.

    This collection of cute, self-contained cottages surrounded by greenery is the ideal spot to get away from it all.

    the living room interior at Cherry Plum Cottages

    This rustic abode is designed with a cosy interior.

    Take a wander through the gardens (don’t forget to say hi to the alpacas), prepare dinner on the barbecue and sit on the veranda in the morning and listen to the birdlife with a cup of tea in hand – this is the perfect place to enjoy living life in the slow lane.

    breakfast by the garden at Cherry Plum Cottages

    Spend early mornings in quiet contemplation.

    Address: 37 Albert Road, Port Fairy

    8. Sweet Tide O Moyne

    Best for: Groups, families and pet owners.

    If you want to plan a private break with your nearest and dearest, look no further than this well-appointed holiday house.

    the outdoor deck at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy

    This charming beach-style cottage is just steps from East Beach.

    Sleeping up to nine guests, this comfy home right by East Beach has all the mod cons needed for an independent, self-catered break.

    a painting mounted on the wall with a vase below at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy

    The walls are adorned with paintings of the beach.

    Use the Nespresso machine to make your morning coffee, cook up a banging lunch in the kitchen and use the barbecue to prepare dinner each night while everyone gathers around the firepit.  Board games, books and a travel cot make this holiday house perfect for a family getaway.

    a close-up shot of the bed at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy

    This chic accommodation is a holiday haven for families.

    Address: 1 Moyne Court, Port Fairy

    9. Clonmara Country House & Cottages

    Best for: Couples and small groups looking for a quiet and cosy country retreat full of charm.

    Soak up the serenity at this historic country house and cottages located just outside the historic town centre. If you value the classic ‘cottage-core’ aesthetic and love wandering in country-style gardens, you will be in your element here. A top spot for a quiet, gentle break where you can truly relax, Clonmara Country House & Cottages is the type of place to enjoy lazy afternoons reading a paperback in the shade and cosy nights drinking wine by the warmth of the gas log fire. Bliss!

    the Clonmara Country House & Cottages in Port Fairy

    Settle into a cosy country retreat.

    Address: 106 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

    Camping Grounds

    10. Port Fairy Glamping

    Best for: Couples and friends looking for a whimsical weekend away.

    If you love the idea of camping but don’t want to truly rough it, enjoy the best of both worlds with Port Fairy Glamping. Forget struggling to pitch a tent, this local outfit will set up a romantic bell tent in a grassy area of one of Port Fairy’s caravan parks for you.

    Inside you’ll find plush bedding, towels, lamps, rugs and cushions to ensure you’ll enjoy a comfy stay. An outdoor table setting means you’re set to enjoy sundowners and snacks after a day exploring Port Fairy’s historic buildings and windswept beaches.

    a Port Fairy Glamping tent

    Spend a whimsical weekend in a Port Fairy Glamping tent.

    Caravan Parks

    11. Gardens Caravan Park

    Best for: Visitors who value access to the river, beach and town centre.

    When it comes to convenience, this caravan park’s location can’t be beaten. Sitting on the banks of the Moyne River, it’s just 600 metres from the centre of town and also right near East Beach and the botanic gardens.

    the Gardens Caravan Park at sunrise

    Gardens Caravan Park is spread along the banks of the Moyne River.

    Check in to a cabin to enjoy some creature comforts or roll into a powered or unpowered site if you’re travelling with a motorhome or caravan.

    two women walking along the Tower Hill Reserve, Port Fairy

    Be at one with nature as you walk along through the coastal landscape.

    Address: 111 Griffiths St, Port Fairy

    12. Southcombe Caravan Park

    Best for: Beach lovers and families

    If being near the beach is your number one priority this family-friendly caravan park near Southcombe Beach is a winner.

    a boat sailing at Southcombe Caravan Park

    Go fishing by the river near Southcombe Beach.

    Stay in a one-, two- or three-bedroom villa or set up your tent, motorhome or van on one of the powered or unpowered sites. Stroll into town for dinner or use the free barbecues or camp kitchen to whip up dinner each night – the choice is yours.

    a girl lying on a blanket while reading a book

    Or lie on a blanket with a book in hand.

    Address: James St, Port Fairy

    13. Big4 Port Fairy Holiday Park

    Best for: Families and groups

    Sure, there’s plenty to do in Port Fairy but this modern holiday park has heaps of amenities to discover too. Big kids and little kids alike will love navigating the mini golf course while the indoor heated swimming pool provides an option for wet weather days.

    a group of travellers gathering outside a caravan at Big4 Port Fairy Holiday Park

    This modern holiday park is an ideal retreat for those travelling in groups.

    There’s even a purpose-built cycling track. This holiday park’s three-bedroom cabins sleep up to eight people making it a top spot for a group getaway or intergenerational holiday.

    Address: 115 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

    14. Gum Tree Caravan Park

    Best for: People travelling with pets

    There’s no need to leave your four-legged friends at home as they’re welcome to stay at this dog-friendly caravan park. Guests are well taken care of here with a range of items for hire, including baby chairs, cots, bikes, surfboards and wetsuits.

    Address: 8 Amble Lane (off Toolong Rd) Port Fairy

    15. Port Fairy Holiday Park

    Best for: Visitors who love active breaks

    If you like staying active during your holidays, then this holiday park’s facilities are sure to impress.

    the caravan site at Port Fairy Holiday Park

    Port Fairy Holiday Park is perfect for campers and caravanners.

    There’s an indoor heated swimming pool, a full-sized tennis court, a playground and a giant jumping pillow for the little ones.

    a deep-soaking tub inside a safari tent at Port Fairy Holiday Park

    The outdoor tub is the perfect way to end the day.

    There are also lots of different accommodation styles ranging from safari tents with deep-soaking, clawfoot baths, deluxe villas and cabins, holiday units and powered and unpowered sites for campers and caravanners.

    the safari tent at Port Fairy Holiday Park

    Seek comfort in a safari tent.

    Address: 139 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

    Discover the best things to do in Port Fairy.